The central purpose of the Division of Student Affairs is to complement and enhance the academic mission of the University by developing and implementing diverse programs and activities that support the academic enterprise. As a catalyst in the student development process, Student Affairs addresses the various interpersonal and affective issues associated with learning inside and outside the classroom. Toward this end, the Division of Student Affairs provides a full spectrum of services aimed at enriching the student’s total Old Westbury experience. The University encourages student participation in the greater campus community and promotes opportunities that enable students to grow personally, socially, physically and culturally.
The highly qualified and diverse Student Affairs staff helps students in achieving their personal and professional best by encouraging involvement in athletics, social and cultural activities, career exploration and leadership opportunities. Given the diversity at Old Westbury, the Division is committed to creating an environment in which students feel valued, respected, and appreciated. The goal of the Student Affairs staff is to inspire students to pursue activities both inside and outside of the classroom that will ensure their full and responsible participation in campus life and in the greater community.
Administered by the Vice President for Student Affairs, the Division of Student Affairs consists of the following units: Dean of Students, Athletics, Career Planning & Development, Center for Student Leadership & Involvement, Counseling & Psychological Wellness Services, Student Conduct, Residential Life, Student Health Services, and the Office of Services for Students with Disabilities. Many of these offices have scheduled evening hours and all offices will arrange evening appointments by request.
The Division of Student Affairs oversees and advises the Student Government Association and its recognized clubs and organizations. The Division is also responsible for administering the University’s Code for Student Conduct which can be found in it’s entirety at www.oldwestbury.edu.)
Vice President for Student Affairs
The Vice President for Student Affairs provides executive-level leadership and vision in the administration of a comprehensive range of services, policies and procedures related to student affairs programming, planning and strategically-related functions. As a member of the President’s senior leadership, the VPSA assists in creating a campus culture that promotes the academic achievement and personal development of all students, assists with crisis response and institutional initiatives, advocates on behalf of students; and fosters collaborative relationships among students, faculty, and staff. The Vice President for Student Affairs responsibilities also include coordinating efforts to establish “Diversity” and “Inclusive Excellence” as core values through diversity-oriented programs and initiatives, including the development and implementation of a strategic plan for diversity in line with the University’s social justice mission. The Vice President for Student Affairs participates in all aspects of institution-wide planning in support of the University’s mission and goals, including meeting the needs of a diverse student population and creating a learning environment where all students have the opportunity to succeed.
The Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs is located in Campus Center, Suite H-418. Tel: (516) 876-3175.
Dean of Students
The Dean of Students functions as a member of the University’s senior management team. The Dean of Students seeks to facilitate the integration of the academic experience of students with all aspects of the University and student life. The Dean of Students facilitates interactions among students, faculty and staff to promote a campus climate which supports students’ academic success and their personal and professional development. The Dean of Students works to educate the entire campus community, including faculty and staff, about relevant policies and ways of responding to student-related matters. The Dean of Students serves as a point of reference for students who have concerns about their campus experience. The services and practice of the office are broadly characterized as advocacy, support, programming, and administration. The Dean of Students oversees the Center for Student Leadership & Involvement, and Student Conduct.
The Office of the Dean of Students is located in the Student Union, Suite 303. Tel: (516) 876-3067.
Athletics
The goal of the Athletic Department is to provide students with the opportunity to compete successfully in NCAA Division III sports as an integral part of their educational experience. Through athletic competition, student-athletes will acquire personal achievement, social responsibility and academic excellence. Old Westbury’s athletic teams include: baseball, softball, men’s and women’s basketball, men’s and women’s swimming, men’s and women’s cross country, men’s and women’s soccer, women’s volleyball, men’s golf and women’s lacrosse. The close relationships, mentoring by excellent coaches and participation in athletic competition in our Skyline Athletic Conference is a character-building and enriching opportunity for our student-athletes.
The Athletic Department also seeks to establish a campus community characterized by physical wellness. The Clark Athletic Center includes a full array of free weights and fitness machines. Fitness classes, such as cardio core workouts, are offered every term. Additionally, the Athletic Department responds to student interest in intramural sports by sponsoring a variety of intramural sports competition opportunities.
For those who seek to use the recreation facilities to work out or to participate in intramural sports, call (516) 876-3241 or check for updates on the Athletics website: http://www.oldwestburypanthers.com.
Student Health Center
The Student Health Center is located on the first floor of the Campus Center, I-Wing, Room I-109. Tel: 516-876-3250. The primary function of the Student Health Center is to promote wellness and educate students about the role health prevention plays into attaining a high-level of well-being.
Students taking 6 or more credit hours need to comply with the New York State Public Health Law (section 2165 & 2167) requiring proof of measles, mumps, rubella and meningitis vaccines. (For more information, see the catalog under Laws, Policies and Regulations Governing Campus Life.)
All currently enrolled students (full time/part-time, residents/commuters) are eligible to use the services of the Center. Students under 18 years of age must have a parent/guardian consent on file. The Center provides services such as screening for the diagnosis and treatment of common health problems or provides referrals for problems requiring specialized care. All medical records are kept confidential and not released without the student’s permission except as required by law.
The Center is open Monday through Friday with registered nurses always in attendance. The physicians, nurses and nurse practitioner provide primary care in the event of illness or injury. Sexual and reproductive health services are available to all genders. A complete list of clinical and special services and doctor’s hours are available on the Center’s webpage. Students referred to off campus facilities such as hospitals, medical specialists and laboratories are responsible for any charges incurred.
Students seeking private medical and dental insurance are encouraged to visit the New York State of Health Insurance Marketplace. International students should contact the University’s International Student Advisor, located in the Office of Enrollment Services, for information about mandatory Foreign Student Health Insurance (see the Tuition and Fee Information section of this catalog)
The SUNY Board of Trustees requires all students pay a health fee which funds the campus Student Health Center and the Office of Counseling and Psychological Wellness Services. The Student Health Advisory Committee, comprised of students, faculty, and staff members, acts in an advisory capacity making recommendations to the VP of Student Affairs regarding improvements or changes in programs, policies, and procedures governing the Student Health Center and the Office of Counseling and Psychological Wellness Services.
Career Planning & Development
Career Planning & Development serves to educate and promote professional growth and skill development. Through one-on-one counseling, participation in educational, informational and recruiting events and the utilization of career related resources, students will gain an understanding of their career goals.
Individual Career Counseling: Career counselors are available to see students one-on-one in order to discuss and explore concerns regarding a student’s major and career options, graduate school advisement, job search or other topics related to career matters.
Career Assessments: If you are confused or uncertain about the major you would like to declare, a career counselor will meet with you and, if necessary, will administer a career assessment. Assessments point out an individual’s skills, interests and personality type in relation to various occupations.
Workshops: Throughout the semester, career workshops are offered in order to provide students with essential tips and advice needed as they transition from student to budding professional. The Backpack to Briefcase series includes resume and cover letter writing, interview preparation and skills, business etiquette and networking. Other workshops include job search strategies, body language, appropriate dress, etc.
Career Planning & Development Events: During the academic year, there are several events that take place, including the Career Expo/Graduate School Fair, Path to Academic & Career Excellence (P.A.C.E.) programming, Spring Career Fair, employer information sessions, guest speaker workshops, recruitment events, and more.
Resources: There are a variety of resources available when you visit the Office of Career Planning & Development. Our online career management system, Panther Career Link, allows students to set up a professional profile, upload their resume, and search for jobs and internships, and more. Students can also take advantage of Interview Stream which is an online practice interviewing tool consisting of over 7,000 potential interview questions.
Students will also find information pertaining to graduate school admission and testing.
The Office of Career Planning & Development is located in the Student Union, 301L. Tel: (516) 876-3158.
Center for Student Leadership & Involvement (CSLI)
TThe Center for Student Leadership and Involvement (CSLI) provides for co-curricular student engagement outside of the classroom. Overseeing the Student Government Association (SGA), Fraternity & Sorority Life, Leadership Honor Societies, (LEAD) the Leadership Development Certificate Program, Commuter Outreach, Diversity and Inclusion programming and student-led clubs, CSLI provides an enriched and quality opportunity and experience for all students. The CSLI experience helps to develop strong, prepared leaders with purpose and promise, who are poised for success in their selected future careers.
Student Government Association (SGA): SUNY Old Westbury SGA is the student-run representative body for the University. SUNY Old Westbury’s Student Government Association is the student representative body for the University. Composed of the Executive Board, Student Senate, Student Court, House of Representatives and Campus Activities Board, this organization exists to advocate for the needs of the students in their academic pursuits, professional development and social outlets. Students are strongly encouraged to meet their academic senator and their class representative to learn more about what SGA can do to enhance their college experience at SUNY Old Westbury.
Honors Societies: CSLI initiates students each year into the following nationally recognized honor societies: Omicron Delta Kappa Leadership Honor Society, and Order of Omega. CSLI also supports Tau Sigma Transfer Student Honor Society and recognizes the outstanding achievements of our transfer students.
Fraternity & Sorority Life (FSL): Our fraternities and sororities pride themselves on making the Old Westbury community flourish by striving for excellence through academic achievement, leadership development, philanthropic and community service, and student/community-centered programming.
Commuter Outreach: Commuter students are a significant population at SUNY Old Westbury, comprising more than 80% of the student demographic. Commuter students are encouraged to meet with our student staff of Commuter Assistants who are responsible for the dissemination of information about upcoming programs and events, as well as answering questions pertaining to the University and student engagement opportunities. “Commuter Related” programs are hosted throughout the fall and spring semesters in various locations on campus. Our Commuter Appreciation Week takes place in the fall and spring semesters, offering various social programs and services for fostering and encouraging commuter student engagement with each other and our entire Old Westbury community.
Student Clubs & Organizations: Student led clubs are the heart of the Center for Student Leadership and Involvement. We welcome over 50 student-led clubs-both returning and newly created-each year. Ranging from academic, cultural, spiritual, and many other groups, there is certainly something for everyone! Students are strongly encouraged to join various clubs. CSLI offers a myriad of opportunities for leadership development, in such areas as facilitating group dynamics, conducting meetings, and many other “real world” applicable skills and experience.
The Center for Student Leadership & Involvement is located in the Student Union, Suite 309. Tel: (516)-876-6975.
Counseling & Psychological Wellness Services
The mission of the Counseling and Psychological Wellness Services is to facilitate the emotional, social, and academic development of Old Westbury students. Our staff of highly skilled and licensed mental health professionals provides quality counseling and care to Old Westbury students, and serves as consultants to the campus community as a whole. Counseling and Psychological Wellness staff assists students in resolving personal difficulties and in acquiring those skills, attitudes, and resources necessary to both succeed in the college environment and pursue healthy, productive and satisfying lives.
Many students encounter a variety of challenges throughout their time in college. These challenges may include life problems, such as difficulties in relationships, personal obstacles, or stress due to a myriad of reasons. Those issues may even be bigger, such as depression, anxiety, eating disorders, or substance abuse. To help with those difficulties, we offer individual counseling, individual psychotherapy, group counseling, workshops, family consults, psychiatric services, crisis interventions and psychodiagnostic testing. All of our services are entirely FREE and CONFIDENTIAL, and available to all Old Westbury students, whether full-time or part-time, undergraduate or graduate, residential or commuter. We respect the diversity of our students in all aspects of their lives, including race, ethnicity, religion, spiritual beliefs, sexual orientation, and ability levels.
Counseling and Psychological Wellness Services offers consults to faculty and staff. Such consults may be regarding the nature and availability of our services, ways to identify students who may be in need of help, and strategies to help them connect to supportive services available on campus. We also welcome consultations by others who care for our students, such as family members, romantic partners, roommates and friends. We offer outreach services regarding mental health and wellness, and are happy to coordinate our services with other campus-based organizations, such as Academic departments, Student Affairs departments, residential and commuter services, student clubs and organizations.
The Counseling and Psychological Wellness Services is open Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm. To make an appointment, please call us at 516-876-3053 or come to our offices during normal business hours.
Residential Life
The Office of Residential Life houses approximately 800 residents on campus. The Residence Halls offer varied housing options in two (2) distinct communities. The Woodlands Halls houses First-Year and upper-level residents, the Social & Environmental Justice Institute, and OW STEAM. The Academic Village Halls (suite style) are designed for our upper-level residents only.
The residence halls are where the students transform their living environment: they study, make friends, hang out, celebrate with each other, and much more. In addition, there are trained Resident Assistants (RAs) supervised by Residence Hall Directors (RHDs), whose job is to provide our residential students with information, support, and advice. The RA staff works to provide educational and social activities through which residents can meet new people and create a sense of community. The residence halls allow students to grow both personally and academically.
The Office of Residential Life is in the Student Union Building, Room 303 (Dean’s Suite). Tel: (516) 876-3210.
There are also six community offices, one in each hall, along with the Residence Hall Directors’ offices. These offices are staffed (staffing schedule is posted at each office) Monday through Friday, 9:00 am through 8:00 pm. Resident Assistants are available in their hall duty offices between 8:00 pm and 10:00 pm, Friday through Wednesday, and between 12:00 am and 3:00 am on Thursday. The hall duty offices are also staffed by Desk Attendants (DAs) between 10:00 pm and 2:00 am, Friday through Wednesday, and between 10:00 pm and 3:00 am on Thursday.
*To be eligible for campus housing, a student must be enrolled full-time (at least 12.0 credit hours).
Student Conduct
All SUNY Old Westbury students commit to upholding community values defined in the Code for Student Conduct.
The Office for Community Standards promotes personal responsibility and integrity throughout the student conduct process. As an integral part of the educational mission of Student Affairs, the office practices and remains committed to an educational and developmental approach when working with our student community. Through our collaborative environment, students are held accountable for violations of the Code for Student conduct and given an educational outcome to provide them with an opportunity for growth and development.
The Office for Community Standards can provide assistance for students experiencing difficulties during their time at Old Westbury. Our staff assess mandated students regarding alcohol and other drug use, anger management and conflict resolution. Additionally, we provide assistance in the area of identifying housing and other services for housing insecure students. A staff of graduate interns and trained student Peer Educators assist with the planning of facilitation of health and wellness education programs.
The Office for Student Conduct is located in the Student Union, Suite 303 and can be reached at studentconduct@oldwestbury.edu or (516) 876-3372.
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