The University of Saint Francis Student Handbook contains the rules, regulations and policies which outline the parameters of student life at the University of Saint Francis. The Student Handbook is for all University of Saint Francis students. It is the student’s obligation to be informed about the policies and standards contained in this handbook. The university reserves the right to change the provisions of this handbook. Such changes will become effective whenever proper university authorities so determine and will apply to those who are matriculated as well as to prospective students. Students will be informed of such changes. Questions may be directed to the Vice President for Catholic Culture and Student Life.
The University of Saint Francis (USF) reaffirms its policy of administering all educational programs, related supporting services and benefits in a manner that does not discriminate against a student or prospective student with regard to age, race, religion, national origin, sex, disability, genetics, and veteran status. The University of Saint Francis (USF) is a Catholic, Franciscan institution and reserves the right to make employment and education decisions based upon religion.
In its employment practices, selection of students, and administration of all programs, the University of Saint Francis maintains a policy of non-discrimination regarding age, race, religion, national origin, sex, disability, genetics, and veteran status. The University of Saint Francis (USF) is a Catholic, Franciscan institution and reserves the right to make employment and education decisions based upon religion.
The University has appointed the Vice President for Catholic Culture and Student Life to serve as the coordinator of compliance with Title IX. Student inquiries or complaints should be directed to the Vice President for Catholic Culture and Student Life/Title IX Coordinator (260.399.7700 ext. 6743, Trinity Hall room 105), or to the Associate Dean of Students for Student Engagement/Deputy Coordinator (260.399.7700 ext. 6741). Employees should direct inquiries and complaints to the Title IX Coordinator or the Director of Human Resources/Deputy Coordinator (260.399.7700 ext. 6901).
The seal of the University of Saint Francis is based on the Franciscan coat of arms, which had its origin around the middle of the fifteenth century. It pictures two arms crossed against the background of a simple cross. The right unclothed arm of Christ passes over the left arm of Francis, which is clothed in a sleeve. Both hands bear the wound mark of a nail.
The symbolism is evident. The superiority of Christ the crucified Redeemer is evident by His right arm passing over the left arm of Francis. The arm of Francis set against the background of the cross shows his choice of that symbol as his distinguishing mark and represents his conformity with Jesus Christ crucified. The wound mark in the hand of Christ recalls His crucifixion; the wound mark in the hand of Francis recalls his having been given the stigmata two years before his death.
The clouds in the lower portion of the circle suggest the lofty ideals of the Franciscan tradition, and the leaves surrounding the inner circle suggest olive branches, representing peace, which is an important element of Franciscanism.
All hail, all hail, Saint Francis Saint Francis, noble Patron,
Alma Mater true; Keep us in your care.
Our hearts are ever loyal Franciscan values honored
Pledging pride in you. A heritage we share.
The castle is our treasure, With deep respect for others,
Rare, our campus view; Love for Nature too;
Reflections make, in Mirror Lake, We’ll cherish your traditions,
Scenes to live anew. Alma Mater true.
Hail, to Saint Francis;
Loudly we sing our praise;
Onward to victory,
Our voices we raise.
Never vanquished, always proud
Of our blue and white;
Our team will win the fight,
We cheer with all our might. RAH! RAH! RAH!
On behalf of our campus community, welcome to the University of Saint Francis! We are delighted you are here and are excited to be part of your collegiate journey!
As a student within our community, you will quickly notice that Saint Francis is a hard place to get lost. This is the kind of place you find yourself – so get involved. Become a student leader – represent your fellow Cougars on Student Government, serve your fellow students as an RA or Peer Minister. Walk on as an athlete, or if time does not permit, participate in intramurals. Join a club or organization – better yet, start a new club or organization! Getting involved outside of class has consistently shown to have a positive impact on academic success and will create a richer experience during your collegiate journey, but also pay dividends long after you have graduated.
Be intentional to take time and meet the rest of your campus community – not just other students who live on- or off-campus, but your faculty, your advisors, and all the administrators and staff who are here to support you and want to help you to create the experience of a lifetime! Nourish these relationships and you will make lifelong friendships!
This Student Handbook was developed to provide you with the information you will require to successfully navigate the University of Saint Francis; it provides information for on-campus and off-campus resources that will likely benefit you during your college career.
Please know that we are always here to provide support for you. We want to partner with you to set you up for continued success. To that end, should you ever have any questions, thoughts or concerns, please always feel free to share your insights so we might more effectively support you, and all our students!
Warmest regards, and get ready for an outstanding college experience!
Allen Machielson
Associate Vice President for Student Life/Dean of Students
[email protected]