Student Affairs Policies and Procedures

The Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act, generally referred to as the Clery Act, is named after the 19 year old female student that was assaulted and murdered in her dorm room at Lehigh University in 1986.

The law was enacted by Congress in 1990 in the belief that crime awareness can prevent campus victimization and requires higher education institutions to:

• Collect, report and disseminate crime data to the campus community and the U.S. Department of Education;
• Provide timely warnings of reported crimes that represent a threat to the safety of students or employees; and
• Make public their campus security policies.

In compliance with this legislation, GU-Q disseminates public safety alerts to faculty, staff and students, produces an annual crime report, and maintains a log of reported criminal incidents.

Crimes

The Clery Act requires GU-Q to include four general categories of crime statistics:

• Criminal Offenses
• Hate Crimes
• VAWA Offenses (Violence Against Women Act)
• Arrests and Referrals for Disciplinary Action

For further information on how to classify and count Clery Act crimes, please refer to Chapter 3 in the Department of Education’s Handbook for Campus Safety and Security Reporting – 2016 Edition

Daily crime log

GU-Q maintains a daily crime log that records, by the date the incident was reported, all crimes and other serious incidents that occur on campus, on or in a non-campus building or property, on public property, or within the patrol jurisdiction of Education City. 

Annual security report

GU produces and distributes an annual security report outlining campus security policies, procedures and crime statistics. This report includes all recorded data from GU-Q. A hard copy can be found in the GU-Q security CCTV room.

​Campus Security Authorities

The Clery Act requires the disclosure of certain crimes reported to ‘campus security authorities’ and local law enforcement.  Campus security authorities may include student affairs officials, the dean of the school, faculty advisers to student organizations, athletic coaches, members of campus security departments, etc.

A list of the CSAs for GU-Q can be found here.

• All students are expected to conform to the standards of the Georgetown University community. For more information on the standards of our community, click here.
• If you wish to report an incident about a student’s behavior, please send an email.
• If the incident includes bias-related behavior or is a possible hate crime, an additional Bias Report may be made (see section on Bias Reporting below)
• The identity of the individual – both of the complainant and the defendant – are protected at all times and not divulged to anybody other than the investigating individual.

• All registered students at Georgetown University in Qatar are expected to adhere to the Code of Conduct. Click here for more information.
• If a Code of Conduct charge has been made against a student, they will be informed of it by email from an Investigating Officer
• All information –relating to the complainant and defendant – will be kept confidential and identities will not be revealed to any member of staff who are not connected with the particular case
• Students have the right to appeal a decision

Code of Conduct Ethos Statement

Choosing to come to Georgetown University means joining a distinctive community. Georgetown places special emphasis on the dignity and worth of every person and the love of truth. Membership in this community carries with it high expectations regarding the ways in which each person will act both on and off-campus. In particular, students are expected to honor the following commitments in all their actions:

• A commitment to the highest standards of honesty and personal integrity both inside and outside the classroom.
• A commitment to treat others in a respectful manner, regardless of differences such as race, religion, nationality, ethnicity, gender, or sexual orientation.
• A commitment to open discourse and the free exchange of ideas.
• A commitment to exercise mutual care and responsibility in all relationships.
• A commitment to an active concern for the safety, security, and well-being of each individual and a respect for individual, communal and university property.  

Read the full Code of Conduct for students at Georgetown University in Qatar.

For more information on the Code of Conduct, click on Office of Student Conduct – Main Campus

Instructions on Submitting a Conduct Referral  can be found at: https://studentconduct.georgetown.edu/submitting-a-referral/

To report a Code of Conduct, fill out this form

Additional policies related to Covid-19 Impact and behavior can be found at this link. Note that Residence Hall policies specified in Qatar Foundation’s Community Living Standards also apply.

The Student Code of Conduct at GU-Q is overseen by the Office of Student Affairs. Contact Dean Ken Grcich if you have any questions.

Learn more about Student Conduct at Georgetown University.

• Students are solely responsible for the safety and security of their personal property on campus
• The university does not hold any liability for personal property that is lost, destroyed or damaged on campus

• In case of an emergency, a message will be sent to the mobile phone on record
• If the message fails to transmit, an email will be sent
• Students should respond as instructed

• Georgetown prohibits all forms of sexual misconduct, including sexual harassment, sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence and stalking.
• GU-Q encourages students to inform the Deputy Title IX Coordinator, Nicole Heinz, of any instances of sexual misconduct. A report does not require the individual to proceed with a formal complaint.
• A formal complaint against a student will be adjudicated via the Student Code of Conduct system, which is coordinated by Dr. John Wright, Director of Student Life.
• Faculty and staff, with the exception of the confidential resources are required to report to the Deputy Title IX Coordinator, Nicole Heinz, the details of an incident so that the University can respond appropriately to maintain a safe campus environment
• Georgetown offers comprehensive resources for those seeking help
• For more details or information regarding complaints against faculty, staff, please visit the Title IX section of this page.

• Bias reports are filed on main campus and a staff member in Washington, DC determines who should be notified.
• The person reporting can remain anonymous, if they choose to do so.
• For more information on Bias Reporting, visit the main campus policy here.
• Reports of behavior that is bias-related or hate-related may be made using the following link: Bias Report Form

• GU-Q is a smoke free campus, please leave the grounds to smoke.
• Violations of this policy will result in a Code of Conduct charge against the student

• Students are only allowed to park at designated parking areas on campus
• Violations of this policy will result in a Code of Conduct charge against the student

• Students must carry their Georgetown University Identification Cards at all times while they are on campus
• Failure to show a Georgetown University Identification at all entrance points to the building will ensure that students cannot enter the campus
• If a security guard asks a student for their Georgetown University Identification card, they are expected to provide it immediately. Failure to do so will result in a Code of Conduct charge against the student
• Students are not expected to display their Georgetown University Identification card to any official that is not part of Georgetown Security, or has not shown them any proper identification themselves

Preamble

In January 1989, the following guidelines on speech and expression for the Main Campus of Georgetown University were implemented. They were developed by the Committee on Speech and Expression and presented to the University community after widespread consultation with faculty, students and administrators. The Committee on Speech and Expression, composed of four faculty members and four undergraduate students, is a standing committee that advises the Vice President for Student Affairs on matters relating to speech and expression. The Vice President for Student Affairs is responsible for administering these guidelines.

The policy guiding speech and expression is intended to ensure the “untrammeled expression of ideas and information.” Reverend James Walsh, S.J., wrote the following statement to provide an appropriate context for understanding the policy:

“The following policy on free speech and expression derives from a certain understanding of what a university is and of what Georgetown University is. I will attempt to articulate that understanding.

1. The nature of a university. A university is many things but central to its being is discourse, discussion, debate: the untrammeled expression of ideas and information. This discourse is carried on communally: we all speak and we all listen. Ideally, discourse is open and candid and also-ideally-is characterized by courtesy, mutual reverence and even charity.
2. The university teaches by being what it is. What the university takes seriously as an institution imparts (to its students especially but not exclusively) important lessons. The fundamental lesson it imparts-just by being what it is-has to do with the nature of the intellectual life. Rigor of thought and care in research; the willingness to address any question whatever; the habit of self-critical awareness of one’s own biases and presupposition; reverence for fellow members of the university community and openness to their ideas, which is reductively a concern for the truth itself-the list could be prolonged. These habits of mind and attitude have a powerfully shaping influence on all members of the academic community. A university that sends contrary “signals” to any of its members (as, obviously, by tolerating plagiarism, violence, intellectual shoddiness, or any sort of special pleading in the interest of ideology or vested interest) betrays its mission.
3. “Free speech” is central to the life of the university. The category “free speech” suggests another realm of life and argument, that of American constitutional law. Indeed, members of a university community exercise “dual citizenship”: we are academics and we are Americans. The rights and obligations that flow from our participation in each of the two orders–academic and constitutional–are not reducible to those of either one, nor superseded by one or the other, but neither are they in conflict. At the same time, the body of legal principles elaborated from the First Amendment is usefully applied to particular problems. For example, “free speech”, in the constitutional sense, may be limited by, and only by, reasonable and non discriminatory considerations of “time, place and manner.” These legal categories are most helpful in resolving the problem of how to reconcile the absolute openness of expression proper to a university with other considerations: numbers of people, multiplicity of activities, scheduling, space available and so on. The long and short of the matter is that “time, place and manner” are the only norms allowable in governing the expression of ideas and sharing of information that is the very life of the university.
4. More is better. Discourse is central to the life of the university. To forbid or limit discourse contradicts everything the university stands for. This conviction proceeds from several assumptions. Besides those sketched above, there is the assumption that the exchange of ideas will lead to clarity, mutual understanding, the tempering of harsh and extreme positions, the softening of hardened positions and ultimately the attainment of truth. Some ideas, simply by being expressed, sink without a trace; others cry out for the intervention of reflection, contrary evidence, probing questions. None of that happens when one cuts off discourse. John Henry Newman’s formulation applies here: “flagrant evils cure themselves by being flagrant.” The remedy for silly or extreme or offensive ideas is not less free speech but more.
5. The tradition of Georgetown University demands that we live up to these ideals. In this whole question, matters of history and of convictions central to the Catholic and Jesuit tradition come into play. The historical precedent of the medieval Catholic university, with its lively practice of the “disputation,” and its role in the formulation, clarification and development of doctrine, the Catholic teaching that between faith and reason there can be no fundamental conflict, the Catholic teaching about the autonomy of reason, certain Jesuit principles about putting the most favorable construction on your neighbor’s argument and especially about reverence for conscience; the vision of our founder, John Carroll, of a “…general and equal toleration, . . . giving a free circulation to fair argument,” and of an Academy that would be the “first in character & merit in America”-these and many other fundamentals of the tradition in which Georgetown stands prohibit any limitation upon discourse. Georgetown’s identification with the Catholic and Jesuit tradition, far from limiting or compromising the ideal of free discourse, requires that we live up to that ideal.
6. Violation of these principles, by whatever parties, must have consequences. This is a corollary of the principles themselves and necessary to vindicate the nature of the University itself. The offenses envisioned in the following policy amount to cutting off discourse. Making it impossible for others to speak or be heard or seen, or in any way obstructing the free exchange of ideas, is an attack on the core principles the University lives by and may not be tolerated.”

— Rev. James Walsh, S.J., Department of Theology

I. General Policy

As an institution of higher education, one specifically committed to the Catholic and Jesuit tradition, Georgetown University is committed to free and open inquiry, deliberation and debate in all matters, and the untrammeled verbal and nonverbal expression of ideas. It is Georgetown University’s policy to provide all members of the University community, including faculty, students, and staff, the broadest possible latitude to speak, write, listen, challenge, and learn.

The ideas of different members of the University community will often and naturally conflict. It is not the proper role of a University to insulate individuals from ideas and opinions they find unwelcome, disagreeable, or even deeply offensive. Deliberation or debate may not be suppressed because the ideas put forth are thought by some or even by most members of the University community to be offensive, unwise, immoral, or ill conceived.

It is for the individual members of the University community, not for the University as an institution, to judge the value of ideas, and to act on those judgments not by seeking to suppress speech, but by openly and vigorously contesting those arguments and ideas that they oppose. Fostering the ability of members of the University community to engage with each other in an effective and responsible manner is an essential part of the University’s educational mission.

The freedom to debate and discuss the merits of competing ideas does not mean that individuals may say whatever they wish, wherever they wish. The University prohibits expression that violates the law, falsely defames a specific individual, constitutes a genuine threat, violates the University’s Harassment Policy, or unjustifiably invades substantial privacy or confidentiality interests. In addition, the University may reasonably regulate the time, place, and manner of expression to ensure that it does not disrupt the ordinary activities of the institution. Finally, to the extent that appointment letters, confidentiality agreements or policies, professional conduct policies, or HR policies regulate conduct that may include speech and expression, they are not superseded by this policy. But these are narrow exceptions to the general principle of freedom of expression, and it is vitally important that these exceptions not be used in a manner that is inconsistent with the University’s commitment to a free and open discussion of ideas.

As a corollary to the University’s commitment to protect and promote free expression, members of the University community must also act in conformity with the principle of free expression. Although members of the University community are free to criticize and contest the views expressed by other members of the community, or by individuals who are invited to campus, they may not obstruct or otherwise interfere with the freedom of others to express views they reject or even loathe. To this end, the University has a solemn responsibility not only to promote a lively and fearless freedom of deliberation and debate, but also to protect that freedom when others attempt to restrict it.

In 1990 Ernest Boyer, President of Carnegie Foundation wrote, “[A] university is an open community, a place where freedom of expression is uncompromisingly protected, and where civility is powerfully affirmed.” Because it is essential to free and open inquiry, deliberation, and debate, all members of the University community share in the responsibility for maintaining civil and respectful discourse.  But concerns about civility and mutual respect can never be used as a justification for closing off the discussion of ideas, no matter how offensive or disagreeable those ideas may be to some members of our community.

II. Implementing Guidelines for Students at GU-Q

The following guidelines implement the foregoing propositions:

A. Event Sponsorship 

Any student organization at GU-Q with access to benefits may petition the Office of Student Life for approval to stage the event.  Events that require funding and have received the approval of the Office of Student Life may petition the Student Activities Committee (SAC) for funding. 

Individual students who wish to sponsor an event may approach the Director of Student Life.

B. Events

University spaces are places of dialogue and free exchange for the Georgetown University community.  The University will try to accommodate equally all students or student groups who have received authorization for an event or meeting exclusively for the Georgetown community in a classroom space, subject to availability.  This policy does not pertain to commercial activities or gatherings or use of classrooms; commercial activity – the conducting of any business for exchange of goods and services for money or personal financial gain – is not permitted in Georgetown University classrooms.  This policy does not pertain to external organizations.

Requests to host external groups or speakers in university classrooms are subject to review and consideration by the Office of Student Life.  External groups are not permitted to use university classrooms without sponsorship by a university department or organization with access to benefits. 

The individual GU-Q student, department, or organization must reserve the place where it will occur, in accordance with registration requirements. However, certain areas of campus shall be considered “public squares” and shall be available, without prior arrangement, for individuals and groups during daylight hours for the purpose of exchanging ideas.  These areas are: the Student Lounge on the 1st floor of the building and Red Square, which is adjacent to the Atrium.   Because of the proximity of these spaces to classroom and business activities, sound amplification in conjunction with any presentation is prohibited during business and classroom hours.

C. Access to Events 

Any event that receives financial support or other benefits of any kind from the University must be open to members of the academic community. If seating is expected to be limited, an equitable means of ticket distribution must be approved by the appropriate campus office. Such events ordinarily shall allow for a period of questions from the audience.  All event hosts should incorporate a method to allow event attendees to request reasonable accommodations in order to make the event accessible.    This should be included as a statement of accommodation request in all material marketing and advertising an event.  The notification should read:

“Accommodation requests related to a disability should be made by [specific date] to [sponsoring department contact person, phone number and email address].  A good faith effort will be made to fulfill requests made after [date].”

D. Expression of Opposing Viewpoints 

An individual or group has the right to express opposing viewpoints consistent with this policy.   However, the speaker’s right to free speech and the audience’s right to see and to hear a speaker must not be violated. .

Expressive activities planned and executed with the intention of protesting an event, policy or other concept can take place provided they do not violate the law or university policies, disrupt university business, or curtail the free speech rights of others.

E. Literature and Publicity

Georgetown University in Qatar encourages the community to promote events and activities responsibly through a full range of available media.  Certain information and communication channels are open to any individual member of the university community, such as flyering on designated bulletin boards in Red Square  tabling in Red Square, purchasing or requesting advertising in campus media, and using any variety of public social media platforms.   Certain information and marketing channels are deemed official university resources and are available only to organizations with Access to Benefits or University departments.  These channels include reserved tables in designated campus locations, university broadcast messages, and electronic message and display systems.,

Communication and publicity should be conducted in a manner that is respectful of others’ rights to share information and recognizes one’s part in the University community. The foremost issue in this policy is the safety and security of the University community and visitors. Georgetown also strives to be environmentally responsible. Many of the restrictions exist to ensure safety and respect for all.

F. GU-Q Red Square

The Red Square is a point of pride on our campuses in Washington and Doha. It is a space where students advertise events, causes, and organizations that matter to them. It provides the students with the ability to promote their causes through meaningful, respectful and engaging dialogue between members of the student community.Though this Speech and Expression Policy applies to the whole of the GU-Q Building, Red Square is a space that does not require reservation from the Events team in order to table and assemble.  Student members of the GU-Q community – individual students, unofficial student organizations, and official student organizations with access to benefits, may use this space in accordance with the rules outlined below.

Please be reminded that in both Red Square and the rest of GU-Q, the University prohibits expression that violates the law (Qatari or U.S.), falsely defames a specific individual, constitutes a genuine threat, violates the University’s Harassment Policy, or unjustifiably invades substantial privacy or confidentiality interests.General Rules for Use of Red Square1. This room is restricted for the use of GU-Q students2. As this is a university premise, the Student Code of Conduct and the University’s Harassment Policy are applicable.3. Students are responsible for keeping the Red Square clean. Students are expected to clean up after themselves, including throwing away trash into bins and returning their lunch trays.4. Students are reminded about the principle of taking ownership and personal responsibility over their activities within this space.Red Square Tabling Policy1. Students are encouraged to reserve an “Advocacy Table” for an event or a cause.2. Those tabling are also reminded to be aware of Qatari laws and that speech that violates the University’s Harassment Policy is not tolerated.3. Tables must be cleared when the last student staffing it leaves.4. Tables may be reserved on a first come, first serve basis.5. Tabling outside of Red Square, e.g., in other parts of the Atrium or in the rest of the GU-Q building, requires the permission of the Office of Student Life.Red Square Poster Policy1. Posters advertising SAC approved events and organizations can be posted by following the standard procedures for postering in the GU-Q building (i.e., they will need to be approved and stamped by the Office of Communications). 

2. Non SAC-approved posters may also be posted in Red Square.  As with any other form of expression, content on posters may not violate the laws of Qatar or the US, falsely defame a specific individual, constitute a genuine threat, violate the University’s Harassment Policy, or unjustifiably invade substantial privacy or confidentiality interests.

3. Posters may not be placed on the glass wall and sliding door facing the atrium or the wood-paneled walls inside of Red Square. 

4. In order to ensure access to all students, posters must be no larger than a standard A3 sheet of paper and must not cover other posters.

5. Existing posters may not be removed by any member of the GU-Q community except officials from the Office of Student Life.  If any member of the community suspects that a poster is violating one of the above stated rules, such concerns should be reported to the Office of Student Life as soon as possible.

6. All posters will be removed on the 15th and 30th of each month (or closest workday) by the Student Life staff, unless related to an upcoming event.  All posters will be cleared on the last day of classes each semester.

III. Marketing Guidelines

A. Interior Flyers  

Only members of the Georgetown University academic community may hang posters or distribute handbills and pamphlets. No student organization other than one granted access to University benefits may use Georgetown in its name, or for any other reason except to identify the location of an event.

Interior bulletin boards in the Georgetown building may be used to advertise events for student organizations once the organization has received approval from Student Life for the event and the poster.  Posters and flyers placed on campus inside buildings must be in compliance with the following guidelines: Student organizations may place only one flyer/poster per bulletin board to allow for ease of reading and to give others equal opportunity to post. Flyers/posters should never be hung where they cover up any previously posted current materials.

Departmental bulletin boards are not intended for public announcements and may be used only by the appropriate department or school.

Posters for student events must be approved by the Office of Student Life and the Office of Communications before posting

Only designated bulletin boards may be used to advertise events.  Posting on walls, windows, doors, tables, benches or other furniture in the building is not permitted.

If posting in inappropriate locations results in damage to University property, the individual or organization sponsoring the event may be held responsible.

B. Campus Media

All campus media groups fall within the free speech protections offered by the Speech and Expression Policy. Georgetown University does not engage in any pre-production editorial review of any campus media outlet.  As with other forms of expression, media content may not violate the laws of Qatar or the U.S., falsely defame a specific individual, constitute a genuine threat, violate the University’s Harassment Policy, or unjustifiably invade substantial privacy or confidentiality interests.

C. Email

Student clubs and organizations may maintain email distribution lists for the purpose of communicating with members of the club or organization.  Such email distribution lists should include a mechanism for individuals to opt out of distribution.  Student organizations with access to University benefits can use official Broadcast email channels, such as GUQConnect.

D. Tabling

Tabling is a method of expressing a viewpoint by setting up a table or other physical structure such as a sign or pop-up tent in a public space to distribute or display materials.   Tabling activities must comply with all other relevant university policies, for example prohibitions on disrupting classes or using amplified sound during business hours.   In the GU-Q Building, tabling is permitted in Red Square, and, with the permission of Student Life, in the Atrium.

E. Handbills, Pamphlets, Flyers and Quarter-Sheers

Handbills, pamphlets, flyers and quarter-sheets may be distributed to any location on campus except classrooms or offices in use. When handbill distribution is associated with a particular event, whether indoor or outdoor, the location of indoor handbill distribution may be restricted on occasion to preserve safety and security at events and convocation, but distribution in these cases may not be wholly prevented or unnecessarily restricted.

This policy and information is designed to assist individuals and groups in the Georgetown University community in effectively sharing information with the rest of campus in respectful and creative ways.

IV. Speech and Expression Committee

The Senior Associate Dean for Students has the responsibility for administering these implementing guidelines. Only in extreme cases of violation of these guidelines can the Senior Associate Dean for Students prohibit speech and expression before it occurs. In administering these guidelines, the Senior Associate Dean for Students shall be advised by a GU-Q Committee on Speech and Expression, composed of two students, two faculty members, and two senior staff members.  The Senior Associate Dean for Students and the Committee may consider and implement revisions and improvements to these guidelines in a manner consistent with the ideals articulated at the beginning of this document. Committee members will also hear appeals regarding the enforcement of this policy.

A. Appointments to the Committee

Student appointments to the committee are annual, beginning in the Fall of the academic year and made on the basis of a competitive application process.  Applications will be reviewed and appointments made by the incumbent committee at the end of the spring semester.  Faculty appointments to the committee will be made by the Chair of the GU-Q Faculty. Staff appointments will be made by the Senior Associate Dean for Students in consultation with the Dean of GU-Q.

B. Correspondence

Concerns related to free speech and expression can be reported to guqspeech@georgetown.edu A response will be made within two business days of receiving the email.  The committee, in consultation with the Senior Associate Dean for Students, will review complaints and refer incidents and individuals to appropriate offices for follow up and response. The committee may also issue opinions or provide recommendations in the interest of upholding these principles and ensuring university practices are aligned with this policy.  

C. Training

Training on the management of speech and expression issues for university departments, student organizations and other relevant groups hosting events will be available by the Office of Student Life in collaboration with other departments on campus. 

V. Violations of the Speech and Expression Policy

Violations of the policy and/or guidelines by students will be handled through the disciplinary system administered through the GU-Q Office of Student Conduct.  It is a violation of this policy to curtail the free speech rights of others.  Actions that violate this policy include disrupting events to prohibit other students from hearing the views of an invited speaker, removing flyers or other materials, or otherwise limiting another’s ability to express a view or perspective. 

Nothing within this policy shall be construed to confer rights on any person not a part of the academic community as defined herein.

VI. Speech and Expression Committee Opinions

The GU-Q Speech and Expression Committee hears complaints from members of the Georgetown community regarding issues of free speech and expression.  The Committee issues opinions regarding these complaints which may serve to illuminate the nature of the issues at stake with these concerns, and offer guidance for practical follow up and policy clarification.  

Any registered student can start a new club on campus as long as it meets the following parameters:

• There is no other student club on campus that share the same mission
• The club’s mission is not in contradiction to the values of Georgetown University
• The mission of the club does not exclude any member of our community (students, staff and faculty) from participation

Procedure:

• Once the Assistant Director for Student Programs reviews and is satisfied with the Action Plan, the club is automatically registered and is able to apply for SAC Funding
• Fill out an Action Plan by contacting the Assistant Director for Student Programs
• Set up an appointment with the Assistant Director for Student Programs

• For the purpose of maintaining a club on campus, the students have to fulfill the following conditions:
• Submit a yearly Action Plan before the start of the academic year and receive approval from the Assistant Director for Student Programs
• Advertise at SAC Fair (This can only be done if the Action Plan is received prior to the SAC fair dates)
• Attend all Leadership Retreats run by the Office of Student Life
• Hold at least two meetings per semester between club/committee leaders and the Assistant Director for Student Programs
• Hold at least one event per semester
• If the club receives SAC funding, they must submit a post-event evaluation form within 96 hours from the completion of the event
• Attend an End of Year Club Assessment meeting with the Assistant Director for Student Programs

A club is dissolved if it meets any of the following conditions:

• It does not meet with the Assistant Director for Student Programs for the End of Year Club Assessment
• It changes its mission to one that is deemed by the Office of Student Life to be too similar to an existing club
• It changes its mission to be in contradiction with the values of Georgetown University
• Through practice and mission, it restricts access to its events to any member of the community (students, staff and faculty)
• It does not submit an Action Plan for a relevant academic year
• It does not advertise at SAC Fair
• Its leadership does not attend leadership retreats and trainings that are offered by the Office of Student Life
• It does not hold two meetings per semester between club/committee leaders and the Assistant Director for Student Programs
• It fails to hold at least one event per semester
• It does not submit a post-event evaluation form within 96 hours from the completion of a SAC-funded event

• Only registered clubs at Georgetown can apply for SAC funding
• A club can apply for SAC funding as soon as its Action Plan has been approved by the Assistant Director for Student Programs
• The application for SAC Funding needs to be made within 10 business days prior to the event. Failure to do so will prevent SAC from approving the required funding
• Upon completion of the event, the club has to submit a Post Event Evaluation Form within 96 hours of the event
• Visit the SGA website for more information on SAC funding

• Two leaders per club have to be nominated to and approved by the Assistant Director for Student Programs to have authorization to handle the university credit card
• Students must receive SAC approval for spending funds before they can access the credit card
• Students must fill out a check-out form at the Office of Business Processes (within the Office of Student Life) to receive the card
• The card must not be in student possession for more than 24 hours since the time it was signed out
• The student assumes all responsibilities for any expenses that are charged to the credit card whilst in their possession
• The student is liable for any losses due to negligence or the loss of the card while it is in their possession

• All students are eligible to participate in the five teams that Georgetown officially sanctions – Women’s and Men’s Football, Women’s and Men’s Basketball and Men’s Cricket
• Students must be compliant with their immunizations to be on the team
• Students must be in good academic standing to play in the team
• If a student is on academic probation, he/she can play on the team only after meeting with their Academic Dean and the Director of Student Life at Georgetown University in Qatar
• If a student is placed on disciplinary probation, then he/she will not be able to participate in any official Georgetown team or individual sports
• A student cannot play for any other university or non-university team unless he/she receives a written approval from the Assistant Director for Student Programs at Georgetown University in Qatar

• Emails on the list-serve should not be offensive to individuals or communities and have to be in line with the values of Georgetown University. For further information, refer to our ethos statement here
• Emails that are in direct contrast to the values of Georgetown University and which target students, staff or faculty (individually or as a community) are liable to sanction as per the Code of Conduct
• Students cannot advertise their club events on the list-serve
• Students can advertise club material on social media (Facebook and Twitter) by speaking to the Assistant Director for Student Programs
• Additionally, if they want their event’s information to be added to the weekly student newsletter, they have to send in their announcement to guqconnect on the Wednesday of the week before their event

• The process for trip selection is based on the merit of the application form and the program policy on previous program involvement
• Late applications (3 hours from deadline) are penalized. Late applications (over 3 hours from deadline) are automatically rejected
• Students apply by sending an email with the specified application requirements to guqstudentlife
• They are received and compiled by the Director of Student Life who is not on the selection committee, who removes any identifying aspects (name, gender, class) from the application form and assigns a number to the form
• The Selection Committee (which comprises staff and faculty) reviews the applications and makes a selection based on the merit of each application
• The selected numbers are handed back to the Director of Student Life who corresponds the numbers with the names. This is followed by the Director of Student Life informing the Selection Committee on the names of the selected candidates
• Students are only eligible for two Community Engagement Program and one Zones of Conflict/Zones of Peace experience during their undergraduate career at Georgetown in Qatar
• Seniors are not eligible to apply for the program – unless they are student leaders or can demonstrate that their participation is linked to their campus involvement or career ambitions

• Students cannot negotiate or accept sponsorship (in cash or kind) from any external agency
• Students have to inform the Assistant Director for Student Programs and the Office of External Relations of their interest in soliciting sponsorships from external agencies
• The Assistant Director for Student Programs will work with the Office of External Relations to ensure that the needs of the student club and Georgetown are in agreement with one another
• Students working with an external agency cannot represent the views and interests of Georgetown University
• Any formal arrangements between the external agency and the student club can only be contracted between a staff member from both these institutions
• Georgetown University cannot be held responsible for any oral or written contracts between students and external agencies , that have not been vetted by the Assistant Director for Student Programs and the Office of External Relations

• If a student works with an external agency, they need to inform and receive the written consent of the Assistant Director for Student Programs
• The Assistant Director for Student Programs will work with the Office of External Relations to ensure that the needs of the student club and Georgetown are in agreement with one another
• Students working with an external agency cannot represent the views and interests of Georgetown University
• Any formal arrangements between the external agency and the student club can only be contracted between a staff member from both these institutions
• Georgetown University cannot be held responsible for any oral or written contracts between students and external agencies , that have not been vetted by the Assistant Director for Student Programs and the Office of External Relations

• Charity and fundraising events and activities are discouraged on campus due to conflicts with our legal standing in Qatar
• Georgetown University is a grant-receiving organization and therefore, university assets (both tangible and intangible) cannot be used for the purpose of generating further funds
• If a fundraiser is held in Georgetown, visible presence of a local charity that is receiving the funds is necessary
• Funds can be collected only by a designated member of the local charity
• Students are not allowed to handle any monetary transactions prior to, during, or after the fundraiser

• All students have access to a mailbox and locker on campus
• The keys for each of these will be distributed to the student at their New Student Orientation
• Students are responsible for the contents in their mailbox and locker
• Students are legally responsible for the possessions in their mailbox and locker, and it is advised that contraband or any articles that are illegal according to the laws and regulations of the State of Qatar are not placed in mailbox or lockers
• If you lose your mailbox or locker key, you are expected to report to Georgetown University Security within 12 hours of the incident
• Lost keys can be replaced for a fee of QAR. 50 – payable at the Finance Department of Georgetown University in Qatar
• If a mailbox or locker key is found, it has to be turned in immediately to a member of Georgetown University’s Security Team
• Security can only be used to unlock your personal mailbox or locker key in an event of an emergency. You would have to provide your Georgetown ID to the Security for verification in order to open your mailbox or locker in absence of your key

• All students are required to keep their contact details current
• This includes mobile phone number, emergency contact information, current address and travel documents. Failure to update any changes to personal information could have serious repercussions in times of emergency
• Students who do not update their personal information are held liable for any action that was a result of their decision to not update their personal information
• In order to be on the emergency notification list, all students must have a mobile phone with a Qatar SIM card, and the number should be entered into MyAccess
• Emergency Contact Information should also be entered in the Next of Kin tab in MyAccess
• If you renew your passport or Qatar ID, please send an updated copy to guqstudentlife

• Georgetown’s policy is not to release student record information without the written consent of the student, however, there are some exceptions
• For example, directory information includes the following and may be released without the student’s consent: student name, addresses, including e-mail address, telephone numbers, date and place of birth, parents names, major field of study, dates of attendance, enrollment status, expected date of graduation, degrees and awards received, the most recent previous educational institution attended, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, and weight and height of members of athletic teams.
• Qatar Foundation requires any student receiving QF/HBKU financial aid or HBKU Scholarship must sign a Records Release waiver so that Georgetown can share information such as GPA (which qualifies the student for financial aid)
• Qatar Foundation also requires students working as a CDA or Front Desk Assistant to sign a Records Release form, allowing Georgetown to confirm that they are in good academic standing
• For more information, please read about the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) here

• Access to the storage room is limited to Student Life staff and its student workers only
• Students who need student affairs supplies for their club or organization events can accompany permitted staff to access the Student Life storage room
• An inventory is available, upon request, and should be filled by a staff member prior and post any movement of university assets from the Student Life storage room

• All students are eligible to register for student events on or off campus
• No students can be discriminated against (on the basis of race, sex, sexual orientation, age, religion, national origin, marital status, veteran status, disability or other categories protected by law or any other factor) in the participation of any event on or off campus
• Events and the registration process will be disseminated to students through email. Each event may have different processes and deadlines
• Students have to ensure that they meet the requirements of registration to qualify to attend any event on or off campus

• All students are eligible to register for student life activities within and outside of campus
• No students can be discriminated against (on the basis of race, sex, sexual orientation, age, religion, national origin, marital status, veteran status, disability or other categories protected by law or any other factor) in the participation of any event on or off campus
• Events and the registration process will be disseminated to students through email. Each event may have different processes and deadlines
• Students have to ensure that they meet the requirements of registration to qualify to attend any event on or off campus

• All current students are eligible to live in HBKU residence halls
• Upon graduation, students must find alternative accommodation off-campus
• Students are eligible to live in the Residence Halls when taking classes and between the Fall and Spring semesters. Please ensure that you have received confirmation of your status and your case is aware to the Georgetown Housing Liaison on campus
• During summer holidays, students must receive permission to stay in the Residence Halls. The costs are the responsibility of the student, unless other arrangements have been made. However, these arrangements need to be communicated to the Georgetown Housing Liaison
• Students are responsible for reading and abiding by the Community Living Standards
• Students who violate the Community Living Standards of Residence Life, may be subject to further investigation by Georgetown University’s Code of Conduct Officer
• In order to register for Housing, please read the instructions and fill out the link on this page

• All enrolled international and local expatriate students residing in Qatar are required to carry a supplementary private health insurance, in addition to their Qatar National Health (Hamad) Card
• GU-Q has negotiated a comprehensive medical and travel policy designed specifically for GU-Q students
• All international and local expatriate students will be automatically enrolled and charged a premium fee for this insurance on their student billing accounts
• If the student would like to decline this insurance coverage, they must sign a waiver form and provide documentation of another private health insurance
• Qatari students are automatically waived from the requirement to have supplementary private insurance
• Students are responsible for understanding their insurance coverage and benefits and must carefully read the enrollment and benefit details, including the inclusions, exclusions, and limitations of their coverage. For more information, click here.

• Georgetown University can facilitate the exit permit process only for students that are sponsored by Georgetown University/Qatar Foundation. Other students (non-Georgetown sponsored) have to depend on their own resources to acquire an exit permit
• Exit permits are valid for one week before the date of travel, so students are expected to let Georgetown University’s Immigration liaison know about his/her intended travel at least 2 weeks before the journey
• Unless in cases of an emergency, the Immigration liaison is unable to process any exit permits within three days of the dates of travel
• Students need to ensure that they do not have any dues pending towards Georgetown University/Qatar Foundation
• Students are responsible for the QR 10 payment per exit permit. A copy of a receipt from Georgetown’s Finance Department is necessary for the processing of the exit permit by our Immigration Liaison

• Non-resident international students require a Residency Permit (RP) and Qatar ID in order to study in Qatar
• International students will be sponsored by Qatar Foundation and are required to have an Exit Permit every time they travel out of Qatar
• Family members who wish to visit will need to obtain their own visa
• For details on obtaining an RP, exit permits and family visas, click here

Title IX is a United States law (Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972) which prohibits discrimination based on sex in any educational programs that receive funding from the US government. Discrimination based on sex includes sexual harassment or any acts of sexual misconduct. Title IX requires the University, upon becoming aware of any incident of discrimination or sexual misconduct, to respond appropriately to protect and maintain the safety of the University community, including students, faculty, and staff.

Georgetown University prohibits sexual misconduct, including sexual harassment, sexual assault, domestic/dating violence, stalking, and discrimination based on pregnancy or parenting status. Discrimination based on sex, including sexual misconduct and discrimination based on pregnancy or parenting status, subverts the University’s mission and threatens permanent damage to the educational experience, careers, and well-being of students, faculty, and staff.

If you feel you have experienced an incident of sexual misconduct, please reach out to one of the resources listed below.

Title IX Contacts

Nicole Heinz,
Deputy Title IX Coordinator
Office 1A34
+974 4457 8506
Email

Ken Grcich,
Associate Dean for Student Affairs
Office 1F14
+974 4457 8484
Email

Confidential Resources for Students

Mahnaz Mousavi, Ph.D.
Director
Student Wellness and Counseling Center
Office 1G18
+974 4457 8330
Email

Elena Lopez Khoury, Ph.D.
Assistant Director
Student Wellness & Counseling Center
Office 1G19
+974 4457 8330
Email

Amy Walker, Ph.D.
Psychological Counselor and Inclusion Programming Lead
Student Wellness & Counseling Center
Office 1G17
+974 4457 8330
Email

Not sure where to start? Consider speaking with one of the following resources.

For Students

Student Wellness and Counseling Center (SWCC)

Speak confidentially with someone from the Student Wellness and Counseling Center (SWCC) at GU-Q.

Student Wellness and Counseling Center
First Floor 1G09-1G19
Georgetown University in Qatar (GUQ)
PO Box 23689
Doha, Qatar
Phone: 4457-8330
E-mail: guqstudentwellness@georgetown.edu
Website: qatar.georgetown.edu/swcc

Student Appointment: swcc.qatar.georgetown.edu/TitaniumWeb

24/7 GUQ Student Urgent Mental Health Support: 4457-8111

Title IX Coordinator

Speak with a Title IX Coordinator (non-confidential).

At GU-Q: Nicole Heinz, Deputy Title IX Coordinator
+974 4457 8506 or titleixguq@georgetown.edu
Office 1A36 (in the Human Resources suite at GU-Q)

University Title IX Coordinator (in Washington, DC): Samantha Berner
+1 (202) 687-4798 or titleixoeoc@georgetown.edu

NOTE: The University reserves the right to take formal or informal action following a report to ensure the safety of the community.

Student Conduct Office

Speak with someone from GU-Q’s Office of Student Affairs or the Student Conduct Office (non-confidential).

At GU-Q: Ken Grcich, Associate Dean for Student Affairs
+974 4457 8484 or kg965@georgetown.edu
Student Conduct Office on Main Campus (Washington, DC):
+1 (202) 687-4056 or  studentconduct@georgetown.edu

NOTE: Members of Student Affairs and the Student Conduct team are not confidential resources and are required to discreetly report any instances of sexual misconduct to a Title IX Coordinator.

For Staff and Faculty

Employee Assistance Program

Speak confidentially to someone through the Employee Assistance Program available through www.cignaenvoy.com.

Title IX Coordinator

Speak with a Title IX Coordinator (non-confidential).

Deputy Title IX Coordinator for GU-Q: Nicole Heinz +974 4457 8506 or titleixguq@georgetown.edu Office 1A34 (in the Human Resources suite at GU-Q)

University Title IX Coordinator (in Washington, DC): Samantha Berner +1 (202) 687-4798 or titleixoeoc@georgetown.edu

NOTE: The University reserves the right to take formal or informal action following a report to ensure the safety of the community.

I Feel Unsafe

GU-Q Security

In the Georgetown Building, call +974 4457 8458 or dial 0 (zero) from any office phone in the building

Qatar Foundation Health, Safety, Security, and Environment (HSSE)

In Education City, call +974 4454 0999

Off-Campus Emergency (Police)

Call 999

I Need Medical Care

Student Wellness and Counseling Center (SWCC)

Contact the Student Wellness & Counseling Center (SWCC) for consultation about available resources, support, and referrals.

Student Wellness and Counseling Center
First Floor 1G09-1G19
Georgetown University in Qatar (GUQ)
PO Box 23689
Doha, Qatar
Phone: 4457-8330
E-mail: guqstudentwellness@georgetown.edu
Website: qatar.georgetown.edu/swcc

Student Appointment: swcc.qatar.georgetown.edu/TitaniumWeb

24/7 GUQ Student Urgent Mental Health Support: 4457-8111

Off-Campus Medical Care

Public Health Care

• Al Gharafa Primary Health Center: 4481 4843
• Hamad General Hospital: 4439 4444
• Hamad Accident and Emergency: 4439 2222
• Hamad Psychiatric Department: 4438 4542 or 4438 4502

Private Health Care

• American Hospital: 4442 1999
• Al Ahli Hospital: 4489 8888
• Doha Clinic Hospital: 4438 4333
• Al-Emadi Hospital: 4466 6009

Campus Medical Care

QF Primary Health Care Center:
4454 1244 or 4454 1240

I Need Emotional Support

Student Wellness and Counseling Center (SWCC)

Contact the Student Wellness and Counseling Center (SWCC) to schedule an appointment with a confidential counselor.

Student Wellness and Counseling Center
First Floor 1G09-1G19
Georgetown University in Qatar (GUQ)
PO Box 23689
Doha, Qatar
Phone: 4457-8330
E-mail: guqstudentwellness@georgetown.edu
Website: qatar.georgetown.edu/swcc

Student Appointment: swcc.qatar.georgetown.edu/TitaniumWeb

24/7 GUQ Student Urgent Mental Health Support: 4457-8111

Employee Assistance Program

Speak confidentially to someone through the Employee Assistance Program available through www.cignaenvoy.com.

Other Qatar-Based Resources

Contact GU-Q Human Resources for other Qatar-based support resources.

Speak Confidentially

Information you share will not be shared with anyone. You will not be contacted by a Title IX Coordinator.

Student Wellness and Counseling Center (SWCC)

Student Wellness and Counseling Center
First Floor 1G09-1G19
Georgetown University in Qatar (GUQ)
PO Box 23689
Doha, Qatar
Phone: 4457-8330
E-mail: guqstudentwellness@georgetown.edu
Website: qatar.georgetown.edu/swcc

Student Appointment: swcc.qatar.georgetown.edu/TitaniumWeb

24/7 GUQ Student Urgent Mental Health Support: 4457-8111

Employee Assistance Program

Speak confidentially to someone through the Employee Assistance Program available through ​​​​​​​www.cignaenvoy.com.

Other Qatar-Based Resources

Contact Gosia Ledwon or Nicole Heinz in GU-Q Human Resources for other local resources.

Speak Non-Confidentially

If you disclose an incident to an employee who is not a confidential resource, information about your incident will be discreetly shared with the Deputy Title IX Coordinator, who will email you to provide resources and support. You are not obligated to respond.

Title IX Office

Deputy Title IX Coordinator for GU-Q: Nicole Heinz
titleixguq@georgetown.edu or +974 4457 8506
Office 1A34 (in the Human Resources suite at GU-Q)

University Title IX Coordinator and Director of Title IX Compliance (in Washington, DC): Samantha Berner
titleixoeoc@georgetown.edu or +1 (202) 687-4798

Title IX Coordinators work with individuals who experience sexual misconduct to coordinate supportive measures and other timely services, provide information about available resources, and explain the University’s policies and complaint processes. Supportive measures are available for individuals who experience any type of sexual misconduct regardless of whether or not they file a formal complaint.

Services: Referral to Resources, Interim Safety Measures, Interim Academic Measures, Investigation Support

Student Conduct

Associate Dean for Student Affairs at GU-Q: Ken Grcich
kg965@georgetown.edu or +974 4457 8484
Office 1F14

Student Conduct Office on Main Campus (in Washington, DC): studentconduct@georgetown.edu or +1 (202) 687-4056

Note: Members of Student Development and the Student Conduct team are not confidential resources and are required to discreetly report any instances of sexual misconduct to a Title IX Coordinator.

Student Conduct, in conjunction with the Director of Student Life at GU-Q, coordinates the investigation and resolution of sexual misconduct complaints brought against students.

Services: No contact orders, Student Conduct Complaints, Adjudication

Faculty and Staff

Faculty & Staff can provide general support and resources should you wish to confide in them. However, they are not confidential resources and are required to discreetly inform the Deputy Title IX Coordinator of any reported instances of sexual misconduct.

If a friend discloses to you that they have experienced sexual misconduct, the most important thing you can do is listen and validate how they are feeling. Ensure they are physically safe and help them access medical attention or other supportive resources, if needed. You can always utilize the confidential services of the Student Wellness and Counseling Center to talk through how you can best support your friend. It can be very overwhelming to help someone navigate these issues, so remember to take care of yourself, too.

To consult with a confidential Student Wellness & Counseling Center (SWCC) counselor:
Make an appointment using SWCC online system
Email SWCC 
Visit 1G09 during office hours 
For 24/7 GU-Q Student Urgent Mental Health Support call: 4457-8111

If you have experienced or witnessed an act of sexual harassment, misconduct, or discrimination, you are encouraged to tell someone about the incident, which is called making a report. You have three options: you can tell someone at GU-Q or GU, you can report the incident online, or in the case of an emergency, tell the police.

1. Make a report to the University
   • Tell a Title IX Coordinator: Title IX Coordinators provide information about available support resources, explain the University’s policies and complaint processes, and coordinate protective measures and other timely services. Title IX Coordinators will keep all information about the incident private to the fullest extent possible, consistent with the University’s obligation to address complaints and ensure the safety of the campus community. Contacts:
     • GU-Q Deputy Title IX Coordinator: Nicole Heinz, Office 1A34 (in the Human Resources suite at GU-Q), titleixguq@georgetown.edu, +974 4457 8506
     • University Title IX Coordinator (in Washington, DC): Samantha Berner, Phone: +1 (202) 687-4798, titleixoeoc@georgetown.edu
   • Report to a Student Conduct Representative: Student conduct representatives will provide advice, connect students to the Title IX Coordinator, and coordinate any complaint procedures and intermediate safety steps.
     • Staff in GU-Q’s Office of Student Affairs
     • Office of Student Conduct on Washington, DC Campus: studentconduct@georgetown.edu or +1 (202) 687-4056
     • NOTE: Members of Student Affairs and the Student Conduct team are not confidential resources and are required to discreetly report any instances of sexual misconduct to a Title IX Coordinator.
   • Make an Online Report: If you wish to make a report in writing, you can submit your report online. This report goes to the Title IX Coordinator, who will send you an email explaining your options and available resources.
     • Click here to make a report online
2. Make a report to the police
   • In an emergency dial 999 to be connected to medical and police services.

NOTE: Making a Report is not the same as filing a Complaint. An individual will typically only be informed that a report was made and undergo investigation when a formal Complaint is filed. It is your choice to file a Complaint or not, and there are many protective actions that can be taken without filing a formal Complaint or disclosing your identity. Contact the Deputy Title IX Coordinator for more details.

Georgetown University’s Policy on Sexual Misconduct applies to all GU students, faculty, and staff. To view the policy, click here.

A snapshot overview of the Title IX Reporting and Complaint processes at GU-Q can be found here.  Please see summaries and links below for more detailed information. 

Process for Formal Complaints against Students

• Formal Complaints against students are adjudicated through the Student Code of Conduct system via the Office of Student Conduct on GU’s main campus.  To view a detailed summary of the Sexual Misconduct Policies and Procedures, as well as detailed complaint process resources and info sheets, please visit https://studentconduct.georgetown.edu/sexual-misconduct-procedures
• Please contact GU-Q’s Deputy Title IX Coordinator for more information and to initiate a Formal Complaint against a student.  

Process for Formal Complaints against Faculty or Staff 

• Formal Complaints against Faculty or Staff are handled by GU’s Office for Equal Opportunity Compliance  (OEOC) on GU’s main campus.  The OEOC Grievance Procedures provide a detailed overview of the process.
• Please contact GU-Q’s Deputy Title IX Coordinator or titleixoeoc@georgetown.edu for more information and to initiate a Formal Complaint against a Faculty or Staff member.

NOTE: Making a Report is not the same as filing a Complaint. An individual will typically only be informed that a report was made and undergo investigation when a formal Complaint is filed. It is your choice to file a Complaint or not, and there are many protective actions that can be taken without filing a formal Complaint or disclosing your identity. Contact the Deputy Title IX Coordinator for more details.

• Terms and Definitions
• Process Flowchart
• Frequently Asked Questions