Student Affairs
The administration of West Chester University is committed to providing a comprehensive educational experience for students. To accomplish this mission, the Division of Student Affairs provides a variety of services and programs to complement the classroom experience. The goal of the division is to assist students in their intellectual, social, and psychological growth and to contribute to developing a campus community where knowledge, citizenship, critical thinking, and social concerns are basic values.
Offices within the Student Affairs Division include Athletics, Campus Recreation, Career Development, Counseling and Psychological Services, Fraternity and Sorority Life, Office of Student Conduct, Multicultural Affairs, New Student Programs, Residence Life and Housing Services, Service-Learning and Volunteer Programs, Student Health Services, Student Leadership and Involvement, Sykes Student Union, and the Women’s Center. The Division of Student Affairs also offers services for commuter and off-campus students and for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender students.
The administration believes that students should share the responsibility for governing their community and should have a voice in shaping the objectives of the University. Through a democratically constructed student government and committee structure, the administration, faculty, and student body seek to work together on behalf of the general welfare of the University.
Classification of Students
Students who attend West Chester University are classified for administrative purposes into two categories.
(1) RESIDENT STUDENTS
These students live in housing facilities operated by the University or by arrangements made through University Student Housing LLC, a subsidiary of the West Chester University Foundation. Residents of North Campus residence halls are required to choose from four University meal plans. (See "Meal Fee" on pages 10-11.) Those residents living in the South Campus apartment communities and the College Arms Apartments are not required to purchase a meal plan; however, they may choose any meal plan option if they are interested.
(2) OFF-CAMPUS STUDENTS
This classification covers students who travel or commute to and from their legal residences, as well as students who live away from the homes of their parents or legal guardians in a dwelling that is not supervised or approved by the University.
Services
Residence Life and Housing Services
The Office of Residence Life and Housing Services is responsible for creating and maintaining an environment in each housing facility that encourages academic, social, and emotional growth. Each facility is staffed with trained personnel who are available 24 hours a day to provide services, assistance, and a variety of information. All resident students are encouraged to read The Guide to Residential Living, which contains valuable information on all services, policies, and responsibilities pertaining to all housing facilities. The Office of Residence Life and Housing Services is located in 202 Lawrence Center, 610-436-3307.
On-Campus Housing
The University-owned residence halls on the North Campus provide accommodations for approximately 1,600 students in primarily double-occupancy accommodations. In addition, the University-owned South Campus apartment complex houses almost 500 residents in four- or five-person, fully furnished units with each bedroom having either single or double occupancy. The University also operates the College Arms Apartments which have units for one to four people. Arrangements for all housing options are made for the academic year.
The University, through University Student Housing (USH), also offers other housing options on campus that are referred to as affiliated housing. Suite-style residence halls on North Campus, including University, Allegheny, Brandywine, and Commonwealth halls, as well as The Village and East Village, which are apartment communities on South Campus, provide accommodations on a space-available basis. These facilities offer all the same opportunities found in University-owned housing, but are managed by USH.
Housing Assignments. The Office of Residence Life and Housing Services makes the housing assignments for all students living in all University-owned housing. University Student Housing handles assignments for all six affiliated-housing communities. All assignments are made without discrimination. Only individuals of the same gender will be assigned as roommates, suite mates, or in the same apartment unit. Each room has basic furnishings for comfortable living, and the students may make them more homelike with their own accessory additions. During orientation, students are informed about the services and equipment furnished by the University and those necessities that they must supply for themselves. Lounge and recreation areas, television, and a variety of other facilities and conveniences provide a pleasant setting for student life in each residence hall. Services are also available in a central location in the apartment communities.
Transfer Students: Transfer students are admitted both as resident students and as commuting students. Those transfer students who desire on-campus housing should indicate this at the time they apply for admission to the University.
Married Students: The University has no housing facilities for married students with their spouses or for students with children or dependents. Prior to registration, they will need to secure their own accommodations in the community.
Readmitted Students: Students readmitted to the University are eligible for on-campus housing as space permits unless a specific disciplinary sanction would prohibit such occupancy. Interested students should contact the Office of Residence Life and Housing Services for specific information about the application process.
Policy for Withdrawals: Resident students must vacate their University-owned residence hall or apartment within 24 hours of completing the withdrawal form in the Office of the Registrar. Resident students must secure the signature of the assistant director of housing prior to vacating their residence hall or apartment. Information regarding withdrawals from affiliated housing may be obtained by calling 610-430-4988.
Students with Disabilities: Students must be able to care for themselves independently or arrange for services that will allow them to perform normal life functions in the context of a residential setting, including, but not limited to, bathing, dressing, and other personal-care issues. This requirement may be met by having a personal-care attendant either live in or live off the premises, within certain restrictions. Some accommodations are also available for students who have special needs. Additional information, including available services and penalties for noncompliance, can be obtained by contacting the assistant director of housing at 610-436-3307. The full text of the policies and procedures are found in the WCU Handbook on Disabilities, "The Guide to Residential Living," or on the University web page at www.wcupa.edu/_services/stu.lif/.
Dining Accommodations
All students residing in the North Campus residence halls must be on the University meal plan as a condition of occupancy. Students with medical problems who cannot meet this requirement may request a meal waiver. Residents of the South Campus Apartment Complex, The Village and East Village Apartments, and the College Arms Apartments, as well as off-campus and commuting students, may purchase any meal plan offered or obtain meals at the transient rates.
A number of variable and flex-only meal plans are available. Details of these plans, as well as the costs, are on page 10 of the "Fees and Expenses" section of this catalog.
All meal plans may be used in the following locations: Lawrence Dining Hall; the Diner; C-Stores/Grill operations; Java City and the Ram’s Head Food Court; and with national brands, such as Chick-fil-A, Einstein’s Bagels, and Starbucks.
Off-Campus and Commuter Services
Services to Off-Campus and Commuter Students, which are coordinated by the director of off-campus and commuter student services, include the Off-Campus Housing Listing Service, through places4students.com, advising the Off-Campus and Commuter Association, and serving as a community resource agent in areas related to off-campus and commuting students.
Additional services provided to off-campus students include landlord/tenant legal aid information and development of long-range plans and research on the profile and needs of off-campus students.
The director of off-campus and commuter student services is located in 238 Sykes Student Union, 610-436-2984.
Off-Campus Housing
Students who choose to live in the community must secure their own living accommodations. Off-Campus and Commuter Services will assist students in finding housing by providing up-to-date listings of available housing. These listings are available on the web at www.places4students.com. Additional information about living off campus can be found on the web at www.wcupa.edu/och/.
Bookstore
The Student Services, Inc. Bookstore is located on the ground floor of Sykes Student Union. The bookstore has new and used textbooks for all WCU courses, with select courses offering a digital and textbook rental program. Textbooks may also be purchased on the store’s website. The SSI Bookstore also stocks best sellers and a wide selection of reference books, as well as study and teacher aids. The bookstore has a wide selection of school and art supplies. SSI Bookstore offers a complete line of official WCU imprinted clothing and an array of gifts that can be purchased on the store’s website. Greeting cards, groceries, snacks, and laundry supplies are also available in the bookstore. Services offered include special orders for computer software and general interest books (at no extra cost), UPS shipping, and daily book buybacks. All major credit cards and personal checks, accompanied by a valid ID, are accepted. The bookstore hours are as follows: Monday – Thursday, 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.; Friday, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.; and Saturday, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. (hours are subject to change). For additional convenience, the store offers extended operating hours at the beginning of each semester. For more information call 610-436-BOOK or visit the bookstore website.
Bus Transportation on Campus
The University provides bus service from North to South Campus (and return) during the spring and fall semesters. The buses run from 7:15 a.m. to 2 a.m. on weekdays, and from 10 a.m. to 2 a.m. on weekends. On North Campus, the buses stop in front of Ehinger Gymnasium on Church Street and in front of Wayne Hall. On South Campus the buses stop at the Sturzebecker Health Sciences Center, South Campus Apartments, The Village, East Village, and Q and R Lots (upon request). Bus schedules are available at residence hall desks, Public Safety, Sykes Student Union Information Center, or on the web. Limited bus service also is available during the first and second summer sessions (see schedule for dates and times). There is no bus service during the winter session.
Students using the bus service should be advised that it is impossible to provide timely transportation between North and South Campus within the standard 10-minute class break. Therefore, students should plan and develop class schedules that allow time to be transported between the two through the use of open class periods.
An accessible bus containing a wheelchair lift is available for mobility-impaired students. Details on how to access this service are available on the website, https://www.wcupa.edu/shuttebus or search "accessible bus".
Campus Recreation
A new Student Recreation Center, located at the corner of North Campus Drive and South New Street, opened in fall 2012. The 72,575 square-foot facility provides students with a wide variety of recreational activities promoting health, fitness, and wellness. The building features state-of-the-art fitness equipment with cardio and strength-training pieces on a two-level, 12,000 square-foot area. Other features include an elevated three-lane walking/jogging track; two gyms for basketball, badminton, and volleyball; a multiactivity court for indoor soccer, floor/roller/field hockey, basketball, volleyball, and tennis; three fitness studios; two assessment rooms for personal training; racquetball/squash courts; a three-story climbing wall; a café; and a social lounge.
The Student Recreation Center is also the site for several intramural sports and sport club events as well as a venue for open recreation – a time for students to just stop by to play “pick-up” games.
The Student Recreation Center is just one of several sites on campus used for intramural sports and sport club events. Campus Recreation works closely with WCU’s Athletic Department, Health Sciences Center, and aquatics manager to schedule intramural sports, sport club events, open recreation and recreational swimming in various facilities across campus. The website gives hours of operation, intramural sports and sport club schedules, and open recreation and recreational swimming, www.wcupa.edu/campusrec/.
For more information, please contact the Department of Campus Recreation at 610-436-2131.
Career Development Center
The staff of the Twardowski Career Development Center assists students with defining career goals, exploring and choosing majors, developing job-search skills, and securing internships and full-time career opportunities. These services are available throughout the entire calendar year in Lawrence Center, second floor. A career information library is available for browsing and research; graduate school reference material is maintained for students considering graduate school. Other activities of the Twardowski Career Development Center include special events and programs, on-campus interviews and job fairs with potential employers, resume-writing assistance, mock interviews, an electronic resume database, and a job vacancy/database system.
Additional information is available at www.wcupa.edu/cdc/.
The Twardowski Career Development Center is located in 225 Lawrence Center, 610-436-2501, or e-mail cdc@wcupa.edu.
Department of Couseling and Psychological Services
The Department of Counseling and Psychological Services (the Counseling Center) is located in Commonwealth Hall (610-436-2301). All currently enrolled undergraduate and graduate students may walk in for a brief, triage assessment at which time a determination is made to help the student receive the most appropriate mode of treatment (e.g., individual, group, or a referral off campus). The Counseling Center includes licensed psychologists, consulting psychiatrists, and graduate-level trainees with whom students may discuss their concerns in strict confidence.
COUNSELING SERVICES
Since the Counseling Center provides services for a wide range of concerns, each student’s experience will be tailored to his or her needs. Students may wish to improve their interpersonal skills, resolve personal conflicts, or clarify their educational or vocational choices. Any of the following approaches may be implemented to address a student’s concerns:
1. Individual psychological counseling consists of a brief form of treatment in which the counselor and the student engage in a one-to-one experience. The focus is typically on resolving personal or interpersonal conflicts. The goal is to improve the student’s expertise at making meaningful choices and recognizing patterns of behavior that can be changed for the better. Counseling also may help students avoid choosing behaviors that restrict personal growth and undermine their well-being.
2. Group counseling consists of a small number of peers and one or two co-leaders. Such groups meet weekly with a goal of improving interpersonal relationships. In addition, some groups have a very specific focus. Past groups have included students who have experienced the death of a parent or family member, an examination of bad habits that block personal growth, eating disorders, and assertiveness training. An updated list of ongoing groups can be found on the Counseling Center’s web page (www.wcupa.edu/counselingcenter).
3. Individual career counseling consists of a one-to-one experience that focuses on clarifying the student’s interests and career aspirations. Career choice is most solid when it is an outgrowth of better understanding oneself. Such understanding is advanced by the thoughtful exploration of values, interests, and abilities.
4. Testing may include psychological or vocational interest tests which can help clarify educational choice and career planning. The student and counselor can determine whether such testing might be helpful. The Counseling Center does not offer disability testing; please contact the Office of Services for Students with Disabilities (OSSD) for off-campus sites.
5. Consultation services for staff and faculty are available on a limited basis. Psychologists may be able to assist with crises, program planning, group and interpersonal communications, and referrals to other agencies.
Fraternity and Sorority Life
The Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life coordinates West Chester University’s fraternity and sorority community, comprising 1,400 students and 30 (inter)national chapters on their service projects, community activities, scholarship support programs, recruitment and new member programs, and leadership development. In addition, the office works with four governing/programming councils, and the Camp Dreamcatcher fund-raiser. Fraternity and Sorority Life is located in 238 Sykes Student Union, 610-436-2117.
Health Services
Student Health Services seeks to meet the health and wellness needs of WCU students by utilizing the services of physicians, nurse practitioners, nurses, and wellness educators. Care provided by Student Health Services includes the following:
1. Acute medical care, including sore throat, cold, flu, and other illnesses
2. Minor surgical care, including suture placement and removal, and abscess care
3. Sexually transmitted infection (STI) and HIV testing, treatment, and referrals
4. Gynecological services, including routine examinations, contraceptives, and pregnancy testing
5. General preventative care, including immunizations, nonathletic general physicals, and allergy injections
6. Wellness promotion, including general wellness, nutrition, and alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs (ATOD) education and resources
7. First-aid
Students will be referred off campus for additional services such as x-rays, surgical services, or hospitalization. A health service fee is included in the general fees paid by students each semester. Visit fees and any additional costs incurred as a result of an office visit will be billed automatically to the student’s account and are paid through the Office of the Bursar. Many medications also are available for purchase.
During the fall and spring semesters, Student Health Services is open Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-6 p.m., and Saturday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Hours of operation during summer and winter sessions are 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Visits are by appointment, except for emergency situations. All Student Health Services practitioners have received training to meet the unique needs and situations of the LGBT community. Student Health Services is located in Commonwealth Hall. For more information, call 610-436-2509 or visit www.wcupa.edu/health/.
Physical Examination Requirements
Each semester, new students receive e-mail information about Student Health Services which includes instructions on how to submit health history and immunization information electronically via the web portal at http://stuhealth-web.wcupa.edu/. No physician signature is required. Electronic submission of this form is requested by the start of classes.
A physical examination is no longer a general University requirement and is only necessary if needed by a specific academic major or athletic group. The professor or coach will provide the student with this information.
Insurance Programs
Because of the unpredictable nature of medical and surgical emergencies, all students are encouraged to be covered by a health insurance program. Information on insurance health programs is e-mailed to students prior to registration or may be obtained directly from the Student Health Services website .
Insurance requirements may be mandated by specific departments and/or athletic programs. For example, there are special liability insurance requirements for students in the nursing program. Refer to the appropriate section (e.g., academic department, athletic program) in the catalog for further information on these requirements.
Communicable Diseases
A current report of a negative tuberculin test or chest X-ray showing no active tuberculosis (TB) is mandated by the Pennsylvania Department of Education for all student teachers and students participating in a field experience in the public schools. The TB test can be given at Student Health Services for a nominal charge.
Pennsylvania state law requires the meningococcal vaccine, or a signed waiver, for all students living in University housing. Guidelines published by the Centers for Disease Control and the American College Health Association will be adhered to and revised as appropriate to protect the health of those in the University community.
Because of the potential for transmission of several infectious diseases, all students utilizing injectable medicines will be required to show evidence of satisfactory disposal of needles and syringes. Student Health Services will provide free disposal of medical waste.
Office of Student Conduct
Coordination of West Chester University's judicial system is overseen by the director of Office of Student Conduct. In accordance with the University's Mission and Values Statements, the University is committed to providing a sound educational environment for intellectual pursuits.
Accordingly, a set of behavioral standards has been created to maintain a safe and secure campus environment.
The West Chester University Student Code of Conduct, found in the Ram’s Eye View Student Handbook (http://www.wcupa.edu/_services/stu/ramsEyeView/codeOfConduct.aspx), translates those acts that constitute unacceptable behavior for the University’s students and student organizations. . Students and student organizations accept the responsibility to abide by all University rules and regulations. In addition to these rules and regulations, students are expected to obey federal, state, and local laws. The University, for educational purposes, has the right to review any action taken by local law enforcement agencies regarding students. Disciplinary action may be imposed when a student engages in behavior, on or off campus, that is not consistent with University community standards as defined by the West Chester University Student Code of Conduct.
As members of the University community, students have the right to
- participate in all activities of the University, free from any form of harassment or discrimination;
- personal privacy except otherwise provided by the law; and
- to procedural due process in all action arising from violations of University regulations.
Along with those rights, students have the responsibility to
- respect the rights and property of others;
- become fully acquainted with the published University regulations and to comply with them; and
- recognize that their actions reflect on the entire University community.
The Office of Student Conduct works collaboratively with administrators, faculty, staff, students, and community constituents to address student behavioral issues that impact the University community.
The office also can assist students who are away from the campus for medical, personal, or family emergencies. The Office of Student Conduct is located in 238 Sykes Union, 610-436-3511.
Mail Service
The University has an on-campus post office located at 887 South Matlack Street, 610- 436-2744.
Resident students receive their mail at their residence halls. To ensure prompt delivery, the complete and correct addresses for the facility should be used. Please refer to the Office of Residence Life and Housing Services website, http://www.wcupa.edu/_services/stu.lif/mailService.aspx, for specific details.
Multicultural Affairs
The mission of the Office of Multicultural Affairs is to help provide and maintain a supportive environment that promotes the academic achievement and personal development of multicultural students at the University. This is accomplished by providing a wide range of services, programs, and activities aimed at meeting the educational, social, cultural, and developmental needs of multicultural students. In addition, the office collaborates with other offices, organizations, and departments to improve awareness of and appreciation for racial and cultural diversity for the University community.
The office is housed in the Multicultural Center, located in 003 Sykes Student Union. The purpose of the center is to provide a "home base" for multicultural students and their organizations, and to serve as a diversity and multicultural resource center for all members of the University community. The Office of Multicultural Affairs and Multicultural Center can be reached at 610-436-3273.
New Student Programs
The Office of New Student Programs coordinates orientation and outreach programs for freshman (first-year) and transfer students. Orientation programs include summer, fall, and January sessions.
West Chester’s orientation programs are designed to introduce new students to the University and acquaint them with the academic, student services, and social aspects of college life. Attendance at orientation is mandatory for all freshmen and for those students transferring with 59 credits or less.
Outreach efforts include participation in Welcome Week, New Student Program efforts, and Family Day. The staff from New Student Programs are available to serve as a resource and help incoming students, both first-year and transfer, make a successful transition to West Chester University.
The Office of New Student Programs is located in 202 Lawrence Center, 610-436-3305.
Public Safety
West Chester University is concerned about the safety and welfare of all campus members and is committed to providing a safe and secure environment. Campus security is the responsibility of the University’s Department of Public Safety. Because no campus is isolated from crime, the University has developed a series of policies and procedures to ensure that every possible precautionary measure is taken to protect members of the University community while they are on campus. A link to the annual security and fire safety report is available on the web at https://www.wcupa.edu/dps/documents/clery19.pdf. Printed copies are also available upon request from the Department of Public Safety.
Emergency Alert Notification
http://www.wcupa.edu/dps/emergency/notificationsystems.asp
In an emergency, the University will communicate key information as quickly and to as many people as possible using the following communication channels:
- Text message to WCU Alert subscribers, via e2campus service, http://www.wcupa.edu/wcualert/
- Mass e-mails to faculty, staff, and students via WCU-assigned e-mail accounts
- Postings on the University’s homepage
- Recorded message on the University’s Information Line, 610-436-1000
While the University has a wide variety of methods to communicate with the campus community, the text messaging service makes use of the latest technology to reach students, faculty, and staff in the event of any emergency. The University’s homepage at http://www.wcupa.edu will be the primary source for all up-to-date, official information concerning emergencies.
Emergency Preparedness
The University continues to review its safety policies and procedures and has developed initiatives to address the issues raised by national tragedies. Although no college campus is completely safe, West Chester University has taken positive steps to enhance the safety of the campus community. It is important that all University community members understand how the institution will proceed and respond in case of a campus emergency. All students and employees should learn where to find emergency information and instructions, and be familiar with evacuation procedures for buildings where they live or work, as well as those they visit during the course of a day. The preparation people take now to learn, be aware of, and practice their own personal emergency plan is vital.
Information about emergency preparedness and planning, as well as the University Threat Assessment Policy, is available at http://wcupa.edu/dps/crisisresponse.asp/.
Vehicle Registration
All University parking lots require a current University parking permit or pass to be displayed on all vehicles. Visitors to campus are asked to park in the Sharpless Street Garage located at Sharpless and Church streets. All employees and eligible students desiring to use designated parking lots must register their vehicle with the Department of Public Safety Parking Services Office and purchase/obtain a parking permit. Parking permits are nonrefundable and may only be used by the registered purchaser. Permits are not transferable between individuals nor may they be resold. All West Chester University parking permits are the property of West Chester University.
Resident students with 60 credits or more and commuter students with 30 credits or more are eligible to purchase a North Campus permit. Residents of the South Campus apartments with 30 or more credits are eligible to purchase a permit for that area only. Freshman resident students are not permitted to bring cars to campus. A freshman is defined as one having earned fewer than 30 credits prior to the fall semester. Other students must park at South Campus Q and R lots. Shuttle bus service is provided between South and North campus.
A valid student ID, nonsuspended operator's license, and vehicle registration card must be presented at the time the vehicle is registered. The annual registration fee is established by the Council of Trustees. Please contact the Department of Public Safety Parking Services Office for the current cost. Specific registration procedures will be announced yearly.
The parking permit should be placed in the vehicle immediately. Instructions on placement are on the reverse side of the permit. Mutilated or defaced parking permits must be replaced. The operation and registration of a vehicle must conform to commonwealth vehicle law and University regulations. For complete information regarding motor vehicles and registration, refer to the Motor Vehicle Regulations pamphlet available at the Public Safety Office and the Public Safety website at www.wcupa.edu/dps/parkingregulations.asp/.
Any change in the vehicle registration number must be reported to the Department of Public Safety immediately.
Persons in violation of the parking rules and regulations are subject to ticketing and towing. Parking fines are $20 except for violations in handicapped spaces, which are $40. The towing fee set by contract is for the initial tow.
Service-Learning and Volunteer Programs
The Office of Service-Learning and Volunteer Programs promotes community service within academic courses and as co-curricular activities. The office provides assistance to faculty who use community service as a teaching method and to students in need of service placements. Working directly with more than 100 local agencies, the office coordinates and provides a listing of volunteer opportunities for the University’s students. Throughout the year special events are planned, and the entire campus is invited to participate. West Chester University is a member of Pennsylvania Campus Compact and a recipient of “The President’s Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll.” In 2010 West Chester University was selected to receive the “Community Engagement Classification” from the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching.The Office of Service-Learning and Volunteer Programs may be contacted at 610-436-3379. The website is www.wcupa.edu/_Services/stu.slv/.
Student Leadership and Involvement
The Office of Student Leadership and Involvement is responsible for the registration and coordination of more than 250 recognized student clubs and organizations on campus. In conjunction with the Student Leadership Project Team, the office also creates and implements a multidimensional student leadership program. Please see the website at www.wcupa.edu/involvement/. The office is located in 238 Sykes Student Union, 610-436-2117.
Student Services, Incorporated (SSI)
Student Services, Incorporated (SSI) is a not-for-profit organization primarily designed to serve the students of West Chester University. The objective of this corporation is to initiate, regulate, and operate the financial matters of all co-curricular student activities. Such activities include the management of the RAMeCARD, campus bookstore, student publications, student organizations, check cashing/ticket service, student programming, intercollegiate athletics, and the graduate student association.
In fiscal matters and in various policy-making areas, the final authority rests with the president of the University.
The SSI Business Office, 610-436-2955, is located in 259 Sykes Student Union.
Sykes Student Union Building
The Earl F. Sykes Student Union first opened in 1975 as the community center for West Chester University. Major renovations and a building expansion was completed in 1995 providing students with a new 102,000-square-foot facility.
Sykes Student Union, as a facility and an operation, is designed to encourage all members of the campus community to participate in a wide variety of cultural, social, educational, and recreational programs. The multipurpose building features a 350-seat theater, SSI Bookstore, SSI Service Center, and the Multicultural Center/Office of Multicultural Affairs, all on the ground floor. The first floor offers a dining area with seating for 350, an outdoor terrace, and a large food servery. Also included on the first floor is a 5,000-square-foot multipurpose room designed for dances, concerts, banquets, and lectures, as well as the union administrative office and Information Center.
The second floor houses the Student Affairs offices of the Vice President, Assistant Vice President, Office of Student Conduct, Fraternity and Sorority Life, Student Leadership and Involvement, Off-Campus and Commuter Services, and LGBTQA Services. The Student Services, Inc. Business Office and Student Activities department, along with student clubs and organizations, are also located on the second floor.
The third floor penthouse features a 22-unit computer lab, the Frederick Douglass study lounge, and seminar space. Sykes Union has 20 meeting rooms located throughout the building on all floors accommodating groups from five to 500.
For information concerning Sykes Student Union, call the Information Center at 610-436-3360/2984.
Women's Center
The Women’s Center promotes a campus community that values the safety, equality, and intellectual advancement of women at West Chester University. The Women’s Center serves the diverse needs of WCU women and their male allies by providing
- Confidential support, assistance, and safe space for WCU women in crisis
- Educational programs that address a wide range of social-justice issues that affect the success, well-being, and empowerment of women worldwide
- Leadership and volunteer opportunities for women that build confidence and enhance career goals
- Information and referrals about issues that disproportionately impact women, such as sexual assault, relationship violence, sexual harassment, unplanned pregnancy, and disordered eating
- Special events, workshops, and training that promote awareness of the ways in which gender bias intersects with racism, classism, homophobia, and other forms of oppression.
The Women’s Center is located at 220 Lawrence Center. For more information, including opportunities for student volunteers, call 610-436-2122.
Activities
Student Activities on Campus
Student activities at West Chester University encompass a wide range of cultural, social, educational, and recreational programs for a diverse student population.
The Student Services Inc. (SSI) Office of Student Activities takes a leadership role in organizing and sponsoring joint or individual programs as part of its mission. The coordinator of student activities oversees the Student Activities Council (SAC), the leading campus activities organization which coordinates current movies, concerts, trips, national and cultural entertainment, and special events. In addition, the coordinator of student activities oversees the Major Entertainment and Homecoming Weekend Committee and also serves as the co-coordinator for the “Sykes After Dark” late-night programming series. The Office of Student Activities is located in 236 Sykes Union; the phone number is 610-426-3037.
Student Organizations
Each summer, an updated “Directory of Student Organizations” is printed that includes the names, addresses, and telephone numbers of all presidents and advisers of more than 250 campus student organizations. For a comprehensive description of WCU student organizations, refer to http://wcu.orgsync.com/ or contact the Office for Student Leadership and Involvement, 238 Sykes Student Union, 610-436-2117. The following is the official list of all student organizations that were registered during the 2013–2014 academic year:
Student Governing Organizations
Black and Latino Greek Council
Graduate Student Association
Interfraternity Council
Off-Campus and Commuter Association
Panhellenic Council
Residence Hall Association
Sports Club Council
Student Government Association
Sykes Union Advisory Board
Academic/Professional Organizations
Accounting Society
Adapted Physical Education Club
Alchemist Club
American Institute of Graphic Arts
American Marketing Association
Anthropology Club of WCU
Art Club
Athletic Training Club
Chinese Club
Computer Science Club
Council for Exceptional Children/Special Education
Criminal Justice Association–Sigma Tau Omicron
Darlington Biological Society
Earth Space and Science Club
Economics and Finance Society
English Club
Environmental Health Club
Exercise Science Club
Forensics Speech and Debate Team of WCU
French Club
Gender Studies Club
Geography Club
German Club
Graduate Social Work Student Association
Health and Physical Education Club
History Club
Honors Student Association
Institute of Management Accountants
Italian Club
Linguistics Club
Military History Club
National Association of Black Accountants
National Council of Teachers of English
National Student Speech, Hearing and Language Association
Pharmaceutical Product Development Club
Philosophy Club
Philosophy Graduate Student Association
Political Science Club
Pre-Law Society
Pre-Med Club
Psychology Club
Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA)
Rhetoric Society of America
Russian Club
Social Work Club
Society of Physics Students
Sociology Club–Delta Alpha Tau
Spanish Club
Student Dietetic Association
Students in Communication
Student Nurses’ Association of Pennsylvania (SNAP)
Student Pennsylvania State Education Association, WCU
University Avenue Math Club
University Dance Company
University Theatre
Women in Science
Special Interest Organizations
Active Minds
Animal Behavior Club
Anime Club
Astronomy Club
BODY Peace (Be One Desired You)
Breakdancing Club: Heavy Rain Crew
Campus Recreation Club
Chess Club
ENACTUS
Feel Good, WCU
Homecoming
Improv Club
KSTAN Bollywood Dance Club
LEAD (Leadership, Empowerment, and Development)
Major Entertainment
Mock Trial Club
Net Impact
Poesis
Precise
Public Health Club
Purple and Gold Club
SlowFood, WCU
Student Activities Council
Students Actively Moving Forward (SAMF)
Student Athletic Advisory Committee
Student Veterans of America, WCU
Tai Chi Club
Video Came Club
Social Equity/Diversity
AFRISA (African Student Alliance)
Asian Student Association
Association for Women’s Empowerment
Black Men United
Black Student Union
C.A.L.Y.P.S.O.
Hillel Jewish Student Union
INDO (Indo-American Association)
LASO (Latino American Student Organization)
LGBTQA (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Questioning, and Ally)
Sisters United
Political/Activism
College Democrats
College Republicans
EARTH (Environmental Association for Repairing the Habitat)
Students for a Sensible Drug Policy
Students for Liberty
Students for Life
Religious Organizations
Campus Crusade for Christ/Christian Impact
Catholic Newman Student Association/Center
Covenant Campus Fellowship
CrossSeekers
Gospel Choir
Hillel Jewish Student Union
Impact Movement
International Justice Mission
Lutheran Student Association
Muslim Student Association
Young Life
Service Organizations
The Abbé Society
Alpha Phi Omega
Autism Speaks
Best Buddies
Circle K Club
Colleges Against Cancer
Emergency Medical Services
Friars’ Society
Habitat for Humanity
Invisible Children at WCU
Phi Sigma Pi
Rotaract
Student Outreach to Urban Schools
University Ambassadors
Greek Letter Organizations
Inter-Greek Council
Sister-to-Sister Peer Mentor Program
Fraternities
Alpha Epsilon Pi
Alpha Phi Alpha
Delta Chi
Kappa Alpha Psi
Kappa Delta Rho
Lambda Alpha Upsilon
Phi Beta Sigma
Pi Kappa Alpha
Pi Kappa Phi
Sigma Alpha Epsilon
Sigma Lambda Beta
Sigma Phi Epsilon
Sigma Pi
Sororities
Alpha Delta Pi
Alpha Kappa Alpha
Alpha Phi
Alpha Sigma Tau
Alpha Xi Delta
Chi Upsilon Sigma
Delta Phi Epsilon
Delta Sigma Theta
Delta Zeta
Phi Mu
Phi Sigma Sigma
Sigma Gamma Rho
Sigma Lambda Gamma (Eminence)
Zeta Phi Beta
Zeta Tau Alpha
Publications and Media Organizations
Daedalus
Media Advisory Board
The Quad
The Serpentine
Undergraduate Research Journal Board
WCUTV 5–West Chester University Television
WCUR–West Chester University Radio
Sports Clubs
Bowling Club
Dance Team
Equestrian
Fencing
Field Hockey
Ice Hockey–Men
Ice Hockey–Women
Lacrosse–Men
Lacrosse–Women
Outdoor Club
Roller Hockey–Men
Rugby–Men
Shotokan Karate
Ski and Snowboard Club
Soccer–Men
Soccer–Women
Swim Club
Ultimate Frisbee Club
Volleyball–Men
Volleyball–Women
Water Polo–Men
Water Polo–Women
Wrestling
Musical Organizations
American Choral Directors Association
American String Teachers Association
Brass Ensemble
Cantari Donné
Cello Ensemble
Chamber Choir
Chamber Winds Ensemble
Collegium Musicum
Concert Band
Concert Choir
Criterions Jazz Ensemble
Flute Ensemble
GraceNotes
Guitar Ensemble
High Street Harmonix
Kappa Kappa Psi
Marching Band–“Golden Rams”
Mastersingers
Men’s Chorus
Music Educators National Conference–Chapter 21 (PCMEA)
Music Teachers National Association (MTNA)
New Music Society
Opera Theatre Ensemble
Percussion Ensemble
Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia
Saxophone Ensemble
SIGMA (Swope Inter-Greek Music
Association)
Sigma Alpha Iota
Statesman Jazz Ensemble
Suspensions
Swope Ensemble Association
Symphonic Band
Symphony Orchestra
Tau Beta Sigma
Trumpet Ensemble
Wind Ensemble
Women’s Choir
Honor Societies
Academic Development Program–Chi Alpha Epsilon
Accounting–Beta Alpha Psi
Communication Studies–Pi Kappa Delta
Communications–Lambda Pi Eta
Counseling–Chi Sigma Iota
Criminal Justice–Alpha Phi Sigma
Economics–Omicron Delta Epsilon
Education–Kappa Delta Pi
English–Sigma Tau Delta
Foreign Languages–Alpha Mu Gamma
French–Pi Delta Phi
Geography–Gamma Theta Upsilon
Geology–Sigma Gamma Epsilon
Hispanic–Sigma Delta Pi
History–Phi Alpha Theta
Kinesiology–Phi Epsilon Kappa
Leadership–Omicron Delta Kappa
Literacy (Reading)–Alpha Upsilon Alpha
Management–Sigma Iota Epsilon
Mathematical Sciences–Pi Mu Epsilon
Music–Pi Kappa Lambda
Nursing–Sigma Theta Tau
Physics–Sigma Pi Sigma
Political Science–Pi Sigma Alpha
Psychology–Psi Chi
Social Science–Pi Gamma Mu
Social Work–Phi Alpha
Sociology–Alpha Kappa Delta
Students with Disabilities–Delta Alpha Pi
Intercollegiate Athletic Program
West Chester University's Department of Athletics affirms academic excellence as the cornerstone in the life of the student-athlete, placing the highest priority on the overall quality of the educational experience. By strengthening the integration of athletic program objectives with academic and developmental goals, athletics support the University's mission to meet student needs and interests.
Participation in athletics can serve to strengthen the student's integrity, sense of fairness, respect for others, and dedication to goals. It also can provide the opportunity for enhancing interpersonal leadership skills. Both men and women can choose from a broad variety of team and individual sports. In addition, academic support services are available for student-athletes, underscoring the commitment to scholastic success.
The women's intercollegiate athletic programs include basketball, cross country, field hockey, golf, gymnastics, indoor track, lacrosse, rugby, soccer, softball, swimming and diving, tennis, outdoor track and field, and volleyball. The men's intercollegiate athletic programs include baseball, basketball, cross country, football, golf, indoor track, soccer, swimming and diving, tennis, and outdoor track and field.
West Chester University is a Division II member of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), the Eastern College Athletic Conference, and the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference. The women's rugby team (the first NCAA Division II program in the country) is part of the Mason-Dixon Conference.
The Department of Athletics is located in the Sturzebecker Health Sciences Center on South Campus, which has won national acclaim for the quality and extent of its teaching, performance, and research facilities. Of special note is the one-acre gymnasium, and a natatorium with two full-size swimming pools connected by a diving well.
This center is surrounded by John A. Farrell Football Stadium, Serpico Baseball Stadium, South Campus Softball Complex, practice and playing fields, and tennis courts. A new lighted artificial surface athletic field was completed in the fall of 2004 and was dedicated in 2008 as Vonnie Gros Field. It serves as the home of the field hockey program as well as the women's lacrosse team. It also is used as practice space for other varsity teams, and as a center for recreation and intramurals. In the fall of 2006, a new state-of-the-art turf football field and outdoor track were installed at Farrell Stadium.
Alumni Association
The West Chester University Alumni Association is an organization of more than 80,000 graduates of the University.
The purpose of the Alumni Association is to promote the interests of West Chester University in all areas of academic, cultural, and social needs, to strengthen the Alumni Association through a strong network of graduates, and to increase the awareness of the University's needs.
The Alumni Association sponsors many activities on campus each year: Welcome to West Chester Day and Homecoming in the fall, Alumni Weekend in the spring, and Senior Days in December and May. The West Chester University Magazine, published three times each year, provides alumni with information on their classmates and events of interest.
The WCUAA also provides an Alumni Online Community with easy access to calendars, event registration, news, updates, and an alumni directory. The website is www.wcualumni.org/.
