Campus Policies

Campus Access + Extended Hours

RMCAD recognizes that, for academic purposes, students occasionally need to remain on campus, and use campus facilities after established campus hours of operation (Monday-Friday 7am to 10pm; Saturday and Sunday 10am to 7pm.)

A student needing to remain on campus after established campus hours of operation must get approval from RMCAD administration by completing the Extended Hours on Campus Request Form. (Students must be logged in to your @rmcad.edu email to access this form. Or, it may be obtained from the Office of Student Affairs.)

All requests must be submitted 48 business hours in advance of the request date. Requests will be reviewed within 24 hours of receipt. Only students with officially approved requests for extended hours on campus may be on campus after established campus hours.

Please note that:

• Students must have a copy of the approved request form in their possession on the day(s) they have requested to remain on campus and use campus facilities after established campus hours of operation.
• Any alteration or fraudulent use of an Extended Hours on Campus Request Form will result in disciplinary action.
• Students should not prop open classroom doors or exterior building doors while on campus during extended hours.
• Students are expected to clean up after using a facility and to report any issues related to facility resources or equipment immediately to the Office of Student Affairs.
• Students found in a campus building after regular hours without proper authorization or who violate the conditions of these access regulations shall be subject to institutional discipline and/or criminal prosecution for unlawful entry or trespassing.
• Students on campus after RMCAD’s hours of operation and with an emergency or safety/security concern should contact 911.
• Students on campus after RMCAD’s hours of operation and with a non-emergency or concern should contact facilities at 303.567.7271.

Procedure

1. A student seeking to remain on campus, and use campus facilities, before or after established campus hours of operation must complete the Extended Hours on Campus Request Form.
2. The completed request form will be sent first to their course instructor for approval and then to the Office of Student Affairs.
3. The Office of Student Affairs will review and approve or deny the request within 24 hours and communicate the decision to the student.
4. The Office of Student Affairs will provide a copy of the approved request form to the student and course instructor.
5. A copy of the approved request form will also be sent to the Facilities Department and the Safety and Security Department.
6. The Office of Student Affairs will keep a copy of all request forms and decisions made on each request.

Review of Extended Hours Request

The Office of Student Affairs may deny a student’s extended hours on campus request for the following reasons:

• An incomplete Extended Hours on Campus Request Form
• Campus is closed due to holiday or weather issue
• A request made without a minimum of 48 hours’ advance notice
• Extended hours request reason is not academic in nature
• Student has previously documented disciplinary sanctions or conduct issues
• Student has previously failed to adhere to the Extended Hours on Campus Policy

Emergency Closings

Notices of campus closures will be placed on the College’s website. In the event that inclement weather, power/utility failure, fire, flood or some other “Act of God” keeps the College from operating, the College’s website and voice mail recording will be updated to reflect closures. Students are encouraged to attempt contact with the campus in one of the following ways:

• to call the campus, 303.753.6046
• check the website or RMCAD social media outlets for updates
• check texts, phone messages, or RMCAD email for closure related updates (if opted in)
• check RMCAD mobile push notification within the RMCAD Mobile application (if installed and logged in)

Parking

RMCAD, one of the most intimate campuses in Colorado, provides free student parking in three designated lots.

Tickets are issued for unauthorized vehicles and for vehicles parked in unauthorized areas, parking lots or parking spots. Parking areas designated as “reserved” or “faculty/staff” are reserved for faculty and staff only. RMCAD visitor parking areas are also off limits for student parking. Work Study participants do not qualify for parking in faculty/staff lots.

All student vehicles must display a valid RMCAD student parking pass hanging from the rear-view mirror. Student parking passes do not expire.

Students must stop by the Reception Desk in the Texas Building during the first week of each fall term, or the term in which they begin at RMCAD, to complete a vehicle registration form and to pick up their RMCAD student parking pass. Students must update their vehicle record when they change vehicles. Students may register up to two vehicles. The vehicle may be towed off campus at the owner’s expense by a third-party towing company unless the parking tag is visible.

Temporary, date-specific “visitor” passes are available for RMCAD guests. RMCAD visitors should pick up and display a date-specific visitor parking pass at the Reception Desk when they arrive on campus and sign in. Visitors to the Philip J. Steele Gallery and the Rotunda will receive special visitor parking pass that are valid for that lot only.

Any vehicle parked in the fire lanes will be towed. Any vehicle parked in handicapped spaces not displaying a handicapped placard is strictly prohibited. Vehicles will be towed at owner’s expense.

Bicycles and Other Modes of Transportation

Without RMCAD prior approval, bicycles, skateboards, scooters, and other modes of transportation with an outside use purpose are not permitted inside College buildings. The College encourages those who bring these items to campus to lock them on the racks provided. The College is not responsible for lost and/or stolen bicycles, skateboards, scooters or other modes of transportation. Individuals with mobility restrictions or concerns that require use of such modes of transportation in College buildings are required to self-identity as a person with a disability and request accommodations through the Office of Student Accessibility Services (sas@rmcad.edu).

Attire

Shoes and shirts must be worn at all times. Shoes with wheels may not be worn in any part of the College.

Visitors

Visitors are an important aspect of the College’s daily operations. In keeping with RMCAD’s commitment to preserve a safe and academically focused environment, we ask that visitors — including RMCAD alumni, members of the media, contractors, service and maintenance personnel and vendors making deliveries to campus — observe the following policy:

• Access to the RMCAD campus and its facilities is granted via valid RMCAD identification cards for currently enrolled students, faculty and employees. Buildings may require the use of the identification card for entry.
• Non-registered students, guests and visitors are required to sign in at the front desk on the first-floor entrance of the Texas building; present a valid government-issued photo ID and vehicle make, model and license plate number and provide a legitimate purpose for visiting the campus.
• Visitors will be issued a campus ID and Vehicle Tag. Campus ID’S shall be worn and visible at all times. Vehicle Tags shall be placed on the front windshield of the registered vehicle.
• The conduct of a guest or visitor shall not interfere with the educational process or learning environment. Guests and visitors to the College are expected to abide by all operational regulations and guidelines, including safety and access restrictions. RMCAD reserves the right to remove or restrict guests and visitors from its facilities who violate guidelines or who cause disruptions to programs, activities, services and/or classes, or for any other reason deemed necessary by the College.
• Presence in the classrooms is restricted to enrolled students and/or visitors with a legitimate academic purpose.
• Visitors seeking to participate in, or observe, an active classroom require written authorization from (1) Program Chair of the class the visitor is seeking to observe and (2) the Office of Student Affairs. The authorization should then be directed to (3) the Director of Campus Security for awareness within 24 hours.

Visitors to Large Scale Events

Visitors reporting for an event will check in at the event location with the event organizer and/or staff. The event organizer and/or staff member will record the visitor’s name and provide the visitor with the appropriate visitor badge or lanyard that permits campus access during the time of the event. Visitors under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult chaperon at all times.

Children

• Children can be exposed to numerous potential safety and health hazards within the College. These hazards can involve paints, solvents, chemicals, falling or sharp objects, power tools, welding, dust, fumes, and exposure from the art medium being created.
• In addition, studios and classrooms could contain figure models and educational content that may be inappropriate for children.
• Given these risks, it is the policy of RMCAD to not allow minor children in the studios, shops, and other departments such as power saw shops, sewing and cutting, etc. where they could be exposed to increased risk of injury.

Individuals Engaged in Solicitation

For the safety and privacy of all members of the RMCAD community, solicitors, peddlers and door-to-door solicitation are not permitted on campus, including in campus buildings.

Administrative Safety Protocol

• Guests will not be given the location of any student, faculty or staff member by College Agents, unless administration has been previously informed via email or in writing.
• For guests requesting a student(s), the name and reason for guests’ visit will be taken by College Agent (reception/administration) who will inform Security and/or the Dean of Students. The guest will wait in a public, common area.
• the Dean of Students and/or the Director of Health and Wellness will find the student’s location on campus, approach the student, inform them of the guest and ensure they are approved for campus visit.
• the Dean of Students and/or the Director of Health and Wellness will escort student back to common area after guest has been properly vetted, or, if the student does not clear the guest and the Dean of Students and/or the Director of Health and Wellness will return to the guest and inform them that the student will not be accessible on campus.

Campus Hours of Operation + Extended Hours

• Please see the RMCAD website, located at www.rmcad.edu, or Campus Access information above for campus hours of operation.
• As a rule, persons authorized for overnight access are not permitted to have visitors with them after closing.
• Persons authorized to be on campus after closing and wishing to have a visitor (or visitors) after closing, should obtain written authorization (48 hours in advance of the requested date to extend visitation after closing).
• The written request should include details explaining the reason for the request to have a visitor (or visitors) on campus after closing hours.
• This written authorization must come from (1) their Program Chair and (2) the Office of Student Affairs. The authorization should then be directed to (3) the Director of Campus Security for awareness within 24 hours.
• The policy does not apply to special events, involving visitors, that might extend beyond the designated time of campus closure.

Models in the Classroom

Models being utilized or photographed on campus, including use in classrooms, and/or studios must be 18 years of age or older and are required to complete a RMCAD Model Release Form prior to the campus event, session or photo shoot. All models must have a government issued ID on them at all times. This policy also applies to RMCAD student models. For sensitive material (such as nudity) a ” Model in session. Do Not Enter” sign must be displayed on the exterior of the studio door. For models under 18, the parent or guardian must complete the release form and must be present for the duration of the model’s utilization on campus.

Pets + Assistance/Support Animals

A “pet” is any animal kept for ordinary use and companionship. Assistance animals (service and support), as defined below, are not considered pets. RMCAD specifically prohibits pets anywhere on campus with the exception of approved assistance animals for individuals with disabilities.

Assistance Animals
This policy applies to assistance animals that may be used by individuals with disabilities. The term “assistance animal” is the overarching term that refers to both service animals as well as support animals as defined below. Therefore, an assistance animal is an animal that either (1) works, provides assistance, or performs tasks for the benefit of a person with a disability; or (2) provides emotional or other type of support that alleviates one or more identified symptoms or effects of a person’s disability.

Service Animals
A “service animal” means any dog that is individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of a person with a disability, including a physical, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual, or other mental disability. The work or tasks performed by a service animal must be directly related to the person’s disability. The provision of emotional support, well-being, comfort, or companionship does not constitute work or tasks for the purpose of this definition. Species other than dogs or, in some cases, miniature horses, are not considered service animals for the purpose of this definition of a service animal. Additionally, RMCAD cannot ask about the nature of extent of a person’s disability to determine whether a person’s animal qualifies as a service animal. However, when it is not readily apparent that a dog is a service animal, RMCAD employees may make two inquiries to determine whether the dog qualifies as a service animal, which are:

• Is the dog required because of a disability?
• What work or task has the dog been trained to perform?

A service animal must be housebroken (i.e. trained so that it controls its waste elimination, absent illness or accident) and must be kept under control by a harness, leash, or other tether, unless the person is unable to hold those, or such use would interfere with the service animal’s performance of work or tasks. In such instances, the service animal must be kept under control by voice, signals, or other effective means. RMCAD and SAS will assess requests for the use of miniature horses by people with disabilities on a case-by-case basis.

Requests should be submitted to the Student Accessibility Services (SAS) Committee and, consistent with applicable laws, RMCAD may make modifications in its policies to permit their use if they meet certain criteria and have been individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of people with disabilities.

Emotional Support Animals (ESA)
An “emotional support animal” is an animal that provides emotional or other support that ameliorates one or more identified symptoms or effects of a person’s disability. Unlike service animals, support animals are not required to be trained to perform work or tasks, and they include species other than dogs and miniature horses. Support animals are generally not allowed to accompany persons with disabilities in all public areas in the same manner that a service animal is allowed to. While support animals are generally not allowed in campus facilities or on the grounds, people with disabilities may request approval from the Student Accessibility Services office to have the support animal accompany them to campus. 

Guide and Hearing Trainees
Colorado law states the following with respect to animals in training and will be allowed on campus:

§ 24-34-803. Rights of persons with assistance dogs

A trainer of a service animal, or an individual with a disability accompanied by an animal that is being trained to be a service animal, has the right to be accompanied by the service animal in training without being required to pay an extra charge for the service animal in training in or on the following places or during the following activities:

• Any place of employment, housing, or public accommodation;
• Any programs, services, or activities conducted by a public entity;
• Any public transportation service; or
• Any other place open to the public.

Responsibilities of People with Disabilities Using Assistance Animals

​RMCAD is not responsible for the care or supervision of assistance animals. People with disabilities are responsible for the cost, care, and supervision of assistance animals, including:

• Compliance with any laws pertaining to animal licensing, vaccination, and owner identification;
• Keeping the animal under control and taking effective action when it is out of control; and
• Feeding and walking the animal and disposing of its waste. RMCAD will not require any surcharges or fees for assistance animals. However, a person with a disability may be charged for damage caused by an assistance animal to the same extent that RMCAD would normally charge a person for damage caused. People with disabilities who are accompanied by assistance animals must comply with the same campus rules regarding noise safety, disruption, and cleanliness as people without disabilities.

​Alcohol/Drug Abuse Prevention

RMCAD is committed to creating and maintaining an environment that fosters responsible attitudes and behaviors. In recognition of this commitment and by upholding federal, state and local mandates, as well as College policies, the College prohibits persons under the age of 21 from possessing or consuming alcohol or marijuana on campus or at College events and actively discourages persons 21 and over from abusing alcohol and marijuana. The following are prohibited on campus or at College functions held off campus:

• The possession of alcohol or marijuana by those under the age of 21, unlawful manufacture, distribution, sale, purchase or use (or misuse) of a controlled substance (alcohol or illegal drugs), or legal drugs used illegally.
• The possession, manufacture, distribution, sale, purchase or use (or misuse) of marijuana of any kind, nature or description used for medicinal purposes.
• Verbal threats or disruptive, disorderly or threatening behavior while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Being in an intoxicated condition.
• The possession, unauthorized manufacture, distribution, sale, purchase or use (or misuse) of a controlled substance while in classrooms, studio spaces or on campus grounds.
• Any federal, state, or local law pertaining to alcoholic beverages or controlled substances, including those governing the transportation, possession, and consumption of alcohol, marijuana and/or controlled substances.
• Student(s) appearing to be in an intoxicated condition on campus or at College events may be asked to leave and/or subject to intervention by law enforcement to ensure their safety and the safety of the general populace.

Alcohol

Possession, use, manufacture, distribution or sale of alcoholic beverages as an individual or recognized College organization in violation of the local, state, or federal law or College policies is prohibited.

Students exhibiting intoxicated behavior will be asked to leave the campus. Students suspected of intoxication will not be permitted to operate a vehicle and must instead use public transportation, request a taxi (student will be responsible for fees), or phone a contact to transport them off premises. Law enforcement may be contacted on an as-needed basis depending on the specifics of the situation.

Alcohol/Drug Abuse Prevention

RMCAD is committed to creating and maintaining an environment that fosters responsible attitudes and behaviors. In recognition of this commitment and by upholding federal, state and local mandates, as well as College policies, the College prohibits persons under the age of 21 from possessing or consuming alcohol or marijuana on campus or at College events and actively discourages persons 21 and over from abusing alcohol and marijuana. The following are prohibited on campus or at College functions held off campus:

• The possession of alcohol or marijuana by those under the age of 21, unlawful manufacture, distribution, sale, purchase or use (or misuse) of a controlled substance (alcohol or illegal drugs), or legal drugs used illegally.
• The possession, manufacture, distribution, sale, purchase or use (or misuse) of marijuana of any kind, nature or description used for medicinal purposes.
• Verbal threats or disruptive, disorderly or threatening behavior while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Being in an intoxicated condition.
• The possession, unauthorized manufacture, distribution, sale, purchase or use (or misuse) of a controlled substance while in classrooms, studio spaces or on campus grounds.
• Any federal, state, or local law pertaining to alcoholic beverages or controlled substances, including those governing the transportation, possession, and consumption of alcohol, marijuana and/or controlled substances.
• Student(s) appearing to be in an intoxicated condition on campus or at College events may be asked to leave and/or subject to intervention by law enforcement to ensure their safety and the safety of the general populace.

College Sponsored Events Held Off Campus Where Alcohol May Be Served

The College sponsors social, cultural and educational programs for students as well as curricular and extracurricular field trips to events where alcohol may be served legally by the venue (community events, galleries, entertainment venues, etc.). The College requires students to adhere to College policies and state, local and federal law. Behavior at these events which is irresponsible, or which poses a threat to the health or safety of the student or others will be subject to disciplinary action and addressed through the College’s conduct process. Additionally, faculty or staff chaperons have the authority to require students to refrain from use while participating in the event.

Disciplinary Sanctions Related to Alcohol or Other Drugs

The College will impose disciplinary sanctions on students who violate the College policy relating to alcohol, marijuana and/or controlled substances. Violations will be addressed through the College’s conduct process. Sanctions may include, but are not limited to: warning, probation, fines, loss of privileges, suspension, or expulsion and referral for prosecution. Violations of the College policy by employees may result in warning, termination and referral for prosecution. The College may require completion of a rehabilitation program as part of a disciplinary sanction. Failure to comply with or adhere to RMCAD imposed sanctions may result in further punitive action or intervention by law enforcement.

Legal Sanctions Related to Alcohol or Other Drugs

The acquisition, possession, transportation and consumption of alcoholic beverages are governed by RMCAD policy, statutes of the state of Colorado, regulations of the Colorado Liquor Enforcement Code, and federal regulations. Applicable state and federal laws are available for examination in the Liquor Enforcement Division of the Department of Revenue and the Division of Highway Safety offices.

Important legal provisions include: The minimum age in Colorado for the purpose of purchase, consumption or possession of alcoholic beverages is 21 years. It is illegal to furnish or serve alcoholic beverages to any person under 21.

• Local law prohibits carrying or consuming alcoholic beverages in open containers while operating a motor vehicle, regardless of age.
• No group that is not licensed by the Liquor Enforcement Division, Department of Revenue, may sell alcoholic beverages.
• Driving under the influence of alcohol, illegal drugs, or legal drugs if they impair the ability to operate a motor vehicle is illegal.

Parent/Guardian Notification

Federal law permits a student’s parent(s) or legal guardian(s) to be informed regarding the student’s use or possession of alcohol or a controlled substance if there has been a determination by RMCAD that the student’s use or possession of alcohol or a controlled substance constitutes a violation of RMCAD rule or regulation and the student is under 21 at the time of the disclosure to the parent(s) or legal guardian(s).

Health Risks Associated with Use of Controlled Substances

Alcohol abuse and drug use problems have become a national health concern. Both alcohol and drugs are chemicals, and potentially harmful to a person. Some of the health risks associated with alcohol and drugs are specified in the list below. In order to obtain additional information about health risks associated with the use of controlled substances, you may contact the Director of Student Life, the College Personal Counselor, or community, state and federal agencies and organizations. Risks include: 

• Slowing down of brain function, judgment, alertness, coordination and reflexes.
• Attitude and/or behavioral changes such as uncharacteristic hostility, or increased risk taking such as driving recklessly.
• Alcohol taken with other drugs can intensify the drug’s effects; alter the desired effect of the drug; and cause nausea, sweating, severe headache and convulsions. 
• Addiction or chemical dependency.
• Memory blackout.

Resources + Programs

The problems associated with abuse of alcohol and drugs are preventable and treatable. The College is concerned about students’ physical and mental health and welfare. Treatment settings may vary from an individual outpatient setting to a therapeutic inpatient community. Medical attention may be necessary to address acute and chronic, mild and/or potentially fatal complications of substance abuse. In order to assist students with alcohol and drug counseling, treatment, and assistance, the College provides information on available resources through the Student Life Division and the Counseling Office. Students are also encouraged to make an appointment with the Counseling Office to discuss treatment and additional community resources. Students may contact the Dean of Students at 720.525.7102 or the College Counselor at 303.225.8573 with questions, concerns or the need for assistance with the aforementioned.

Gambling

Gambling, for money or stakes, is not permitted on College premises or off campus at College events. Using College-owned or -controlled technology equipment for gambling is prohibited. Students and student organizations involved in gambling-related incidents may face legal and disciplinary actions.

Smoking

Smoking is prohibited in RMCAD buildings, this includes e-cigarettes and vape pens. Smoking on campus is ONLY permitted in the one designated smoking spot next to the Texas building, North East of the student parking lot. Smoking on campus anywhere outside of the designated smoking area is prohibited. Smoking is also permitted in personal vehicles; however, no cigarette butts may be thrown on the ground in parking lots or any other part of RMCAD property. Please be sure to always dispose of all cigarette remains in appropriate waste areas.

Personal Property

Although the best possible care is taken to protect belongings, the College is not responsible for the loss, theft, damage, or misplacement of student artwork, supplies, or personal property.

Promotional Photography

The College photographs campus activities throughout the year for publication and public relations purposes. Photographs are included in RMCAD’s definition of directory information. Students who do not wish to have their photographs published must notify the Office of the Registrar in writing.

Students furthermore agree to grant RMCAD the right to use their likeness and/or voice in RMCAD advertising or promotional pieces. Students who do not wish to have their likeness and/or voice in RMCAD advertising or promotional pieces must submit advanced written request to the Office of Registrar located at: 1600 Pierce Street - Robinson Building, Lakewood, CO 80214.

Publicity, Posting, + Literature Distribution

All posters must have approval from either the Marketing Department or the Front Desk in Texas. Posters without approval will be taken down.

All posters/fliers must be sponsored by a recognized student organization or Academic department and the name of the sponsoring organization/department must be clearly printed/displayed on the poster. The sponsoring organization/department assumes the responsibility that all its notices will be posted and removed according to these regulations. All posters/fliers must be posted only on approved bulletin boards with thumbtacks provided.

Notices are not to be taped or tacked on doors, mirrors, elevators, painted walls, fire escapes, windows, fences, lampposts or trees. Distribution of handbills, newspapers, fliers or publications not produced by RMCAD is not allowed on campus unless prior permission is given by the Campus Operations Department. Notices are not to be left on desks, on the Reception Desk counter or affixed to vehicles parked on RMCAD premises.

Posters must adhere to reasonable design standards and cannot include pornography, obscenity, discrimination, or alcohol/drug related content. Text must be clearly legible. If you need assistance designing a poster, contact the Marketing Department.

Posters will be displayed on a first come first serve basis. If there is no room to display your poster, you may replace another poster only if the event has already passed. All notices must be removed by the posting organization/department within 24 hours after a scheduled event, with the exception of weekend events. In the case of weekend event, the notices must be removed by 5 pm on Monday.

Only one poster may be used to advertise a single event on each bulletin board.

Posters/fliers advertising rooms/apartments/houses for rent are only allowed on the “Student Housing” bulletin board on the second floor of Texas. Contact the Office of Student Affairs for approved advertising methods.

No outside vendors, companies, organizations, or agencies may post fliers or posters on the bulletin boards unless they get the poster approved and it is hung on the designated “Community” boards on the second or basement floors of Texas.

Posters/fliers advertising items for sale are not allowed unless they are approved and posted on the designated “Buy, Sell, Trade” board on the second floor of Texas.

Posters/fliers should be neatly arranged and evenly distributed across the board. Never cover or obstruct any current materials that are already hanging, and please do not allow your poster to hang over the edge of the bulletin board.

Invitations to Public Figures Policy

Students and employees desiring to invite an individual, considered to be a public figure, to campus should first seek approval from the Dean of Students by submitting an Invitation to Public Figure Request Form. (This form is found in Kronos, for employees, and in the Student Portal, for students.) A public figure is a well-known person such as a politician, celebrity, social media personality or business leader with demonstrated, or desired, influence on society.

Invitations to Public Figures Procedure

• Upon receipt of the request form, or notification of public figure by event form process submission, the Dean of Students makes a recommendation to the Campus President
• If approval is granted by the President, the VP of Marketing is informed of the visit.
• If necessary, the Director of Campus Security is also informed.
• The Dean of Students informs the student or employee of the decision and of any related conditions for the visit within 48 hours of the receipt of the request form.

Solicitation

In order to preserve the integrity and enhance the mission of the College, this policy has been developed to clarify and provide guidelines for any activities that may be interpreted as solicitation on campus.

As used in this catalog, solicitation is defined as any form of communication or distribution of material that is a request to buy, sell or rent anything; a request for a gift or contribution; any form of political campaigning; or an appeal to support or join an organization other than an officially recognized College organization.

Officially recognized College organizations include those that have been approved by the Student Government (SG); those that are a department within the College; the Alumni Association; the Philip J. Steele Arts Education Foundation; and those professional organizations that are recognized and supported by a specific academic department. Only officially recognized College organizations may solicit on campus for causes that advance the mission of the College as a whole, support their own activities or support specific charitable community events. All solicitation materials must be approved by the Marketing Department and clearly indicate which officially recognized College organization is supporting that cause or event.

Organizations with a mission and purpose related to the visual or performing arts may request that their events be advertised at RMCAD. The event must be related to and support education in the arts.

Members of the campus community may request that items that they have for sale, lease or rent be advertised only on specific College bulletin boards designated for this purpose.

THE COLLEGE RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MONITOR AND REMOVE POSTINGS OR OTHER FORMS OF SOLICITATION WHICH DO NOT COMPLY WITH THE PARAMETERS LISTED HERE, OR AT THE DISCRETION OF THE MARKETING DEPARTMENT.

Student Expression

As a community dedicated to visual art and design, RMCAD places great value on free expression and discourse. Through its curriculum and related programs, the College seeks to create an atmosphere that encourages and supports intellectual and artistic freedom; both outside of the classroom and gallery setting as well as within. Therefore, it is the purpose of this policy to provide a guiding framework for student expression outside of the classroom and gallery setting, where the capacity of faculty and staff to maintain direct oversight is lessened.

To this end, the College fosters ongoing discussion about the larger ethical and legal issues related to artistic and creative expression and looks to resolve conflicts over the application of this and any related policy through established resolution procedures outlined in this section. The College seeks to balance individual freedom of expression with the need to maintain a safe, secure and productive community that is conducive to fulfilling its educational mission.

Demonstrations

RMCAD, as an educational institution, strongly supports the tenets of free speech by all members of the College community. Students are free to express opinions publicly and privately so long as the expression does not disrupt classes, special events or other normal functions of the College and surrounding community. RMCAD strives to promote intellectual and artistic inquiry and exchange in a respectful and civil manner. The safety of all demonstration participants, College community members and other involved persons is of the utmost importance.

Students may not demonstrate during any special events, including but not limited to Student Activities, On Campus Exhibitions, Student Organization Events and other College Community or Academic Events. Demonstrators may not threaten or inflict harm or violence to themselves or others; may not make personal physical, verbal or emotional attacks on members of the RMCAD community; and may not conceal their identity. Demonstrations may not inflict damage to College or personal property. Participation is limited only to current members of the RMCAD community.

When expected participation exceeds 20 people, the demonstration organizers are responsible for notifying the Dean of Students in advance so that appropriate safety precautions can be taken.

Art, Installations, + Performance Art in Public Space

Student work that is created in or for a RMCAD class must be displayed or installed in the classroom spaces according to the Department Chairs’ direction. All interior and exterior installations that are not part of a RMCAD class, or installations or art that may be placed on buildings or on the grounds, must be approved by the Student Installation Committee through the Student Installation Application process.

The “Student Installation Application” can be found by contacting your Department Chair or the Gallery Director.

The application is for submission of a proposal to install artworks on the RMCAD campus in a public space. Public space is defined as any space on the RMCAD campus - inside or outside of buildings - that is not contained as classroom, student studio or gallery space. This includes, but is not limited to, hallways not designated for a specific department; space within buildings not designated for classes, restrooms, lounges, fields and grounds; building exteriors; the Café; the network and shared computer systems; and parking lots.

The Department Chair and Gallery Director will review applications. All approved projects must abide by the catalog guidelines as well as American with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Lakewood Fire Code.

Please note:

• All proposed installations must have a faculty sponsor. Faculty sponsors acknowledge this role by signing the signature page on the application.
• In addition to the application form, a complete application must include an image or sketch.
• All proposals must be typed; no handwritten applications will be accepted.
• Evaluation of the applications includes health issues, safety issues, the potential for property or environmental damage, building, fire, ADA, catalog codes, and any other relevant local, state, or federal law or regulation.
• The piece must be removed by the date approved. The space is to be restored in as good, or better condition than you found it. Pieces left after the indicated end date will be discarded by maintenance and you will be billed for time and materials.
• Students must allow for two weeks to process your paperwork in light of the following Process:
  • Process for requesting a Student Installation at RMCAD: 
  • Fill out the application and sign. 
  • Obtain faculty sponsorship and approval. 
  • Submit to pjsgallery@rmcad.edu
  • You may be contacted via email if any questions or conflicts come up in examination of your proposal application. 
  • Once your proposal is approved by the committee you and your faculty sponsor will receive an email of acceptance with installation and de-installation dates. 
  • Pick up required Student Installation display label from the Reception Desk in Texas. 
  • Install your art! 
  • The College reserves the right to regulate work displayed in public space and remove work at the discretion of the institution. Student work may also be subject to disciplinary action for any violations of the Student Code of Conduct outlined below.

The following are not permitted in public spaces: profane language; pornography; violence or work depicting violence; physical, verbal or emotional attacks on members of the RMCAD community; work that victimizes individuals or groups based on gender, race, ability, sexual orientation, religion, or any other legally protected class; or work that could be perceived as harassing or hostile. Additionally, work is not permitted in public space that exposes others to hazardous or offensive materials or creates a disruption or disturbance to normal College functions.

RMCAD Campus External Events and Activities Policies + Procedures

RMCAD Events and Activities

RMCAD campus events are activities designed for the benefit and enjoyment of the RMCAD campus community and which are held on the RMCAD campus.

All events and activities (not on the Annual Calendar) planned to take place out-of-doors on campus, or within a campus building, must be approved in advance by the Departmental Manager, who, upon approval, will notify the Events Coordinator, who, in turn, will coordinate with the Director of Campus Security, the Director of Information Technology and the Director of Facilities.

A RMCAD Department (or Office) and/or Recognized Student Organization must sponsor all events and activities.

Requests must be submitted, using the RMCAD Event Form and Agreement, at least 14 days before the start of the event so that appropriate offices can be informed. Unless the Event Form is approved and the event appears on the RMCAD calendar, the event is considered unapproved.

The person in charge of the event(s) should submit a written request to reserve the outdoor space or facility, including the date, time, location, number of people expected to attend; whether food, alcohol, and/or non-alcoholic beverages will be served; and the playing of music, or other amplified sound, and set-up arrangements. (If alcohol will be served at an event, additional policies and approvals apply. See the RMCAD Alcohol Policy.)

Additional information may be requested from the sponsor about the proposed event. Event organizers must be present for the duration of the event. All banners, tables, signs and other paraphernalia used, as well as all trash generated by the event, must be removed when the event concludes.

RMCAD exercises its right to deny individuals access to all or some College property, normally after an individualized determination has been made that a person(s) has engaged in criminal activity, suspicious activity, or behavior that is or is likely to be threatening, violent or disruptive to campus operations and activities.

Non-affiliated Group Events and Sponsorship

RMCAD departments or offices may sponsor non-affiliated organizations seeking to hold events at RMCAD. Nonprofit community organizations, public and civic organizations, political organizations, and governmental organizations must be approved in advance by the Campus President, who, upon approval, will notify the Manager of Campus Security.

Requests must be submitted at least 14 days before the start of the event so that appropriate offices can be informed.

In order for a non-affiliated organization to gain access to RMCAD facilities, there should be a significant College interest in hosting the event. There should also be a strong nexus between the event the non-affiliated organization wishes to hold at RMCAD and the educational mission of the College or its standing as a member of the community.

In addition, the non-affiliated organization must agree to comply with all of the College’s standard terms and conditions.

A non-affiliated event sponsor is the primary planner or contact for the event and accepts full responsibility for all stages of planning and execution of the event. In addition, the sponsoring department/office must have a strong presence at the event and, when necessary, take fiscal responsibility for event costs.

The sponsoring department or office is expected to approve all advertising for the event. Event sponsors may not transfer a reservation to another organization, nor may space reserved for an approved program be used for another purpose.

Insurance

Prior to the event, the sponsored organization shall provide the college with evidence of insurance as required by the RMCAD Event Request Form and Agreement. This evidence should include workers’ compensation coverage for a performer or vendor’s employees (if any) to the extent required by law and general liability insurance.

The performer or vendor’s general liability insurance should cover claims for property damage and/or bodily injury that may arise from the performer or sponsored organization’s operations in connection with the event, including injuries to spectators and participants at the event, and shall name the sponsoring club/related entity, college, university. If the performer or sponsored organization does not have insurance, the college may waive insurance as set forth in the Insurance Waivers’ section, below.

The amount of liability insurance to require depends on the risks involved. A lecture expected to attract under 50 people is low risk and $500,000 may be sufficient. An outdoor event, with vendor-provided attractions, is much higher risk and limits in the $2,000,000 (two million dollars) to $5,000,000 (five million dollars) range may be appropriate.

For most lectures, performances, music recitals, etc., $1,000,000 (one million dollars) per occurrence and $2,000,000 (two million dollars) aggregate is usually adequate.

Insurance Waivers

RMCAD may waive one or both of the insurance requirements described above upon a determination by the campus President that the event presents minimal risk exposure to the college and the sponsoring related entity, if any.

Minimal risk events might include those involving individuals, small not-for-profits, or organizations with a proven track record of safety and responsibility or similar situations. Events granted insurance waivers should normally be free admission events that are not open to the general public unless the College and sponsoring related entity, if any, have developed a plan for managing the risks, including without limitation adequate security.