Student Handbook

PVCC STUDENT HANDBOOK

STUDENT MEMBERSHIP ON COMMITTEES

Students have an opportunity to participate in the college’s governance processes through membership on campus committees, the College Senate, and the Student Government Association. Students are encouraged to seek appointment to committees with student representation, since student input is important in developing issues and concerns that affect the PVCC community.

For more information on these committees contact the office of the Vice President of Student Affairs.

STUDENT SERVICES

The purpose of the student services is to assist students in achieving their educational and career goals and to provide opportunity to enhance interpersonal skills, expand personal awareness, and promote community involvement.

Student Development Services Objectives:

• To assist students with their transition to the college.

• To implement admissions activities that clearly informs prospective students about policies and procedures and provides step-by-step instructions to successful enrollment.

• To provide experiences and activities that help students develop skills and knowledge that will help them meet their academic, career, and personal goals.

• To assist students in developing job skills and a meaningful career plan.

• To assist students in transferring to a four-year college or university by providing up-to-date advice on transfer programs and transfer requirements.

• To manage student records efficiently, accurately, and with complete security.
• To administer an effective and fiscally responsible financial aid program.

• To provide a comprehensive program of co-curricular activities to enhance the collegial experience and promote engagement.

• To offer programs and services that promotes wellness, community involvement, social awareness, and respect for the dignity of all individuals.

The Vice President of Student Affairs manages the functions and services listed with assistance from senior Student Affairs administrators.

Student Information System (SIS)

The student information system (SIS) enables students to complete numerous transactions online. A student’s ID (EMPLID) and passwords are provided at the time that the student completes an application and allow access to online services. Online services are convenient and secure.

Using the SIS through the MyPVCC protal, students may:

• enroll in classes including adding, dropping, and/or swapping classes.
• pay by credit card.
• obtain grades.
• update mailing address, telephone number, and e-mail address.
• print individual class schedules.
• view financial aid awards, payment, disbursement, refund activity, and application status.
• view a “hold” placed on their record.
• view “to do” requirements.

ADMISSIONS AND DOMICILE

Please refer to the section on Tuition Appeal Process.

ENROLLMENT

Enrollment procedures and class times are published each semester in the schedule of classes, available online at www.pvcc.edu several weeks before enrollment. The schedule is usually available about four to six weeks prior to the beginning of classes. Questions about enrollment not answered in the schedule of classes should be directed to the Admissions and Advising Center. Students are responsible for assuring that their enrollments are what they intend and that adds, drops, swaps, and withdrawals are implemented as expected.

The enrollment period begins several weeks to several months prior to the beginning of classes and is available online for students who have completed the admissions process. Students are encouraged to enroll early. Schedules may be adjusted by adding, dropping, and/or swapping classes throughout the enrollment period. After the add/drop period, a student may drop classes or withdraw completely only in accordance with regulations stated in the current college catalog.

Students are urged to promptly report any changes in status online using MyPVCC or at the Admissions and Advising Center so official records are accurate and up to date. Address and telephone number changes are especially important so that correspondence from the college can reach you without delay. Please note that international students are required to notify the dean of Student Affairs and the Immigration and Naturalization Service of any address changes within five days.

Advising Services

The college provides a strong advising program to assist students in making sound decisions regarding occupational, educational, and personal goals. Advisors are trained professionals that help both new and continuing students explore their options, help monitor academic programs, and suggest strategies to improve student success. Advising services are provided by full time advising staff and faculty advisors that rotate through the Admissions and Advising Center

All students are also encouraged to seek information and assistance from the Admissions and Advising Center with academic, career planning and curricular planning for graduation.

Advisors provide support services by aiding in a student’s curriculum choice, by providing individual and group counseling sessions, and by acting as a resource to faculty in their advising and instructional functions.

If students should require assistance beyond the scope of the services of the counseling staff, referral to other qualified persons or agencies will be offered.

CRISIS MANAGEMENT AND REFERRAL

PVCC has a plan that ensures that any student in the midst of a crisis will receive intervention and, if necessary, referral to appropriate agencies and healthcare providers.

Student Affairs staff are also available to assist students in recognizing and dealing with problems that may affect their academic progress. Students that are experiencing these issues should go to the Hub in the Bolick Center to schedule an appointment. The college also provide access to mental health services through a partnership with Region Ten. The college has also established a cross-disciplinary Threat Assessment Team that identifies potential threats and concerns and provides interventions, support, and referrals.

ORIENTATION

An orientation program is offered to assist students in making a success of their experience at Piedmont Virginia Community College. The orientation program generally begins before enrollment when students meet with an outreach and admissions coach or advisor or attend an info session, STAR Session, or high school event.

Students in all associate degree programs and some certificate programs are required to take a one-credit SDV elective. First-time college students should take a student development course during their first semester (within their first 15 credits). SDV courses provide information and skills to help students succeed at college and assist in students’ educational, career, and life planning. Staff and faculty members serve as instructors of student development courses.

NEW STUDENT ADVISING

New students receive their general course advising through the Advising Office. Advisors provide assistance on course selection and also assist students in developing an educational goal and in selecting an appropriate program(s) of study. New student advisning may also be done through specific advising events.

TRANSFER PLANNING

Students can access comprehensive transfer services in the Advising Office. Advisors can help students choose a transfer institution, select an appropriate PVCC program of study, make application to 4-year schools. The Senior Director of the Advising supervises these transfer services. For a complete list of transfer information go to: www.pvcc.edu/transferinfo.

STUDENT ACCESSIBILITY & ACCOMODATIONS

Piedmont Virginia Community College offers accessible, affordable, high-quality educational programs that promote student success and community vitality. PVCC shows commitment to all students, staff, and faculty to have the opportunity to develop their skills and knowledge. The mission of the Office of Student Accessibility and Accommodations is to ensure equal access to programs, services, supports, and education. The Office of Student Accessibility and Accommodations assists qualified students who may need accommodations or accessibility options. Staff members approve services and accommodations each semester based on each student’s individual strengths and needs.

Students who wish to access services from our office must self-identify and provide qualified documentation of their mental health, physical, medical, or other impairment. Relevant and recent documentation should identify which major life activities are impacted. PVCC implements accommodations and services if they do not fundamentally alter the integrity of the class and learning objectives. PVCC does not charge students for any approved services.

PVCC complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and The Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act of 2008.

More information can be found at: www.pvcc.edu/student-services/student-accessibility-and-accommodations

STUDENT COMPLAINTS

Information on student complaints, including the complaint process, can be found at: https://catalog.pvcc.edu/content.php?catoid=7&navoid=886#student-complaints

VETERANS BENEFITS AND SERVICES

PVCC provides educational opportunities for qualifying veterans, active-duty military personnel, Selected Reserves, National Guard, Coast Guard, military family members and Department of Defense employees. All associate degree programs, certificate and career studies certificates (credit programs) at PVCC are approved by the Virginia Department of Education for the payment of veterans educational benefits as allowed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).

The Military and Veterans Advisor and School Certifying Official at PVCC orient military and veteran students to any unique admissions and registration requirements, make referrals to appropriate services, and help make connections to college resources. Support includes coordination of services related to assistance with VA education benefits, domicile determination, placement, course registration, and certification of enrollment to VA. The Military and Veterans Advisor also assists students with developing an educational plan to meet goals, provides guidance for maintaining VA requirements for benefits, advises on the required courses consistent with VA regulations, and monitors academic progress toward degree or certificate completion.

Specific questions regarding individual eligibility for educational benefits or VA policies and procedures may also be directed by phone at 1-888-442-4551 or online at www.gibill.va.gov.

To be certified for VA educational benefits, eligible students are required to submit the “Military Benefit Certify eForm” each semester. This form can be found and submitted online by logging into MyPVCC, selecting “SIS”, and then selecting “Student Records eForms”. The “Military Benefit Certify eForm” will request for the student to at least upload their Certificate of Eligibility (COE). The COE is received once the student has applied and been approved for military educational benefits directly through the VA. All applications for VA benefits can be completed online at https://www.va.gov/education/how-to-apply/.

The Military and Veterans Advisor is located in the Student Affairs Department on the 2^nd floor of the Woodrow W. Bolick Advanced Technology and Student Success Center. Appointments can be scheduled via Navigate (after logging into MyPVCC), via phone at 434.961.6581, or via email at advising@pvcc.edu. Please visit our webpage at: www.pvcc.edu/admissions/veterans_educational_benefits.php.

VA Educational Benefits:

Chapter 33/Post 911: http://www.gibill.va.gov/documents/pamphlets/ch33_pamphlet.pdf

Chapter 30: http://www.gibill.va.gov/benefits/montgomery_gibill/active_duty.html

Chapter 1606: http://www.gibill.va.gov/benefits/montgomery_gibill/selected_reserve.html

REAP: http://www.gibill.va.gov/benefits/other_programs/reap.html

DEA: http://www.gibill.va.gov/benefits/other_programs/dea.html

VEAP: http://www.gibill.va.gov/benefits/other_programs/veap.html

VRAP: http://benefits.va.gov/vow/education.html

More information about VA educational benefits, veterans’ education and transition services is available in the Veterans Services Office. Student should contact the Veterans Advisor for more information on these programs. Additionally, the current college catalog provides more details on admissions to a curriculum, credit for prior training, satisfactory progress, and other area of concerns to all students.

The Veterans Services Office is located in room M132E next to the Financial Aid Office during college general operating hours and the Veterans Advisor is available by appointment. Appointments may be scheduled by visiting the Admissions and Advising Center or via phone at 434.961.5264. Please visit our webpage at: www.pvcc.edu/admissions/veterans_educational_benefits.php.

CAREER SERVICES

Career Services at PVCC leads job-placement activities for PVCC’s credit and non-credit students. Career Services connects employers with the appropriate personnel throughout the college who can address the specific training and other needs they express and connects students to those employers. Through deep, sector-based engagement, Career Services allows PVCC to recruit, train and place students seeking quality careers.

ADMISSIONS AND ADVISING

The Bolick Center is the central point of contact for admissions and academic advising services for new and current students at the college. The Center staff welcomes and orients new students to the admissions and registration process, refers students to appropriate services, and helps all students make connections to college resources. The staff assists current students with monitoring their academic progress and degree or certificate completion and advises them during the course selection process. Any student who is interested in transferring to a 4-year college or university is encouraged to visit the Advising Office to explore the transfer opportunities and learn more about the transfer requirements of specific colleges and universities. An advisor is available in the center by appointment or walk-in during regular business hours. 

STUDENT FINANCIAL AID

General

It is the desire of the college that no qualified student should be denied the opportunity of enrollment because of financial need.

The Financial Aid Office and campus financial aid specialists provide students with counseling, applications, and information about state, federal, and institutional sources of financial assistance including loans, grants, scholarships, and work-study. Assistance is available to qualified students who enroll in at least one course of an eligible academic plan. Application for state, federal, and most institutional programs require completion of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for the appropriate award year.

Detailed information on scholarships, grants, loans, on- and off-campus and community service employment, and applications may be obtained from the Financial Aid Office. Information may also be found in the current college catalog and on PVCC Web site.

Financial Aid Policy of Satisfactory Academic Progress

To be academically eligible for student financial assistance, a student must be making satisfactory academic progress toward his/her degree or certificate program. To accurately measure a student’s progress, the PVCC Financial Aid Policy of Satisfactory Academic Progress will incorporate a qualitative (GPA) measure of progress, a quantitative (Completion Rate) measure of progress, and a time (150% Rule) measure of progress. This policy became effective July 12, 2005.

GPA Requirements (GPA Rule)

In order to remain eligible for financial aid, students must meet minimum cumulative grade point average requirements. Only non-developmental courses with grades of A, B, C, D, and F are included in this calculation. Transfer credits are excluded. In order to graduate, a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.0 is required.

Completion Rate (67% Rule)

Students must receive satisfactory grades in 67% of cumulative credits attempted. This evaluation is made prior to financial aid being awarded and after grades are posted at the end of each semester a student is enrolled at the College. Credits with satisfactory grades are those for which a grade of A, B, C, D, S or P is earned. Developmental and ESL coursework are included in this calculation. Accepted transfer credits will be counted as both attempted and completed.

Maximum Hours (150% Rule)

In order to continue to receive financial aid, a student must complete his or her program of study before 150% of the credits required have been attempted. Developmental and ESL course work are excluded in this calculation. Attempted credits from all enrollment periods plus all accepted transfer credits are counted. All terms of enrollment are included whether or not the student received financial aid and regardless of the age of the coursework.

Developmental and ESL Courses

Students may receive financial aid for a maximum of 30 semester hours of Developmental Studies courses as long as the courses are required as a result of placement testing, the student is in an eligible program of study, and satisfactory academic progress (SAP) requirements continue to be met. ESL credits are unlimited in numbers as long as they are taken as part of an eligible program and SAP requirements continue to be met.

Financial Aid Warning Status (WS)

Students who fail to meet satisfactory academic progress (SAP) for the first time will be automatically placed in a Warning Status for one (1) term and are expected to meet satisfactory academic progress (SAP) requirements by the end of that term. Students who fail to meet satisfactory academic progress requirements at the end of the warning status term will lose their eligibility for financial aid.

Financial Aid Probation Status (PS)

Students who have successfully appealed the loss of their financial aid are placed on probation. Students on probation are eligible to receive financial aid for one (1) semester, after which they MUST be meeting all of the satisfactory academic progress standards OR the requirements of an academic progress plan that was pre‐approved by the Financial Aid Office.

Financial Aid Suspension Status (SS)

Students who do not meet the credit progress schedule and/or the cumulative grade point average standard, or who fail to meet the requirements of their pre‐approved academic progress plan will be placed in suspension status and are not eligible for financial aid.

Repeated Coursework

Students can repeat courses with financial aid until successfully completed. There is no limit assuming all other SAP requirements are met. Students may only repeat a passed course once as long as it is in order to meet an academic standard (i.e., a higher grade is required for their program of study). Repeated coursework will be included in the evaluation of completion rate and maximum timeframe. Only the latest grade will count towards the cumulative grade point average.

Appeals

Under certain circumstances, students who fail to meet satisfactory academic progress (SAP) standards and lose eligibility for financial aid can appeal the financial aid suspension (SS). Appeals will be evaluated by the Financial Aid Office and all decisions are final.

A link to the complete Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) Policy can be found at: http://www.pvcc.edu/docs/policies/policy_satisfactory_academic_progress.pdf

PRIOR PERIODS OF ENROLLMENT

All of the qualitative and quantitative standards of progress must be applied to all prior period(s) of enrollment. Federal regulations require that a student must be in compliance with the school’s satisfactory academic progress policy before receiving a financial aid award. These guidelines must be applied to any student requesting financial aid, even if the student did not receive financial aid in the past.

PLEASE NOTE:  Students who have defaulted on a federal student loan or owe a refund on a federal grant will not be eligible, nor will they receive any future financial aid until the loan or grant obligation is satisfied.

ADDITIONAL POLICIES GOVERNING SATISFACTORY ACADEMIC PROGRESS (SAP) AT PIEDMONT VIRGINIA COMMUNITY COLLEGE

• Financial aid programs included under this policy are the Federal Pell Grant (Pell Grant), Federal Supplemental Education Opportunity Grant (FSEOG), Federal Work-Study, Commonwealth of Virginia State Grant (COMA), Virginia Guaranteed Assistance Program Grant (VGAP), Part-Time Tuition Assistance Program Grant (PTAP), G3 State Grant (G3), Federal Direct Subsidized, Unsubsidized, and Parent PLUS Loans.
• Students who have reached the 150 percent point of enrollment may be financial aid eligibility in some circumstances.
• For purposes of defining credits completed concerning developmental course credit the following will apply:  S grade is considered a completed course. U grade is considered an incomplete course.
• Academic credit courses completed with a final grade of A, B, C, D are considered passing. Some courses require a minimum passing grade to progress to the next level. Academic credit courses completed with a final grade of F, W, U, X, I are considered incomplete.
• A student who does not maintain satisfactory academic progress cannot regain their eligibility on the basis of a change of curriculum.
• Returning financial aid students should be aware of any changes to the PVCC SAP Policy.
• Courses taken for audit are not eligible for financial aid.
• Federal regulations allow a student to receive financial aid for only the equivalent of the first 30 semester credit hours of developmental studies attempted, regardless of whether or not the student received any financial aid for these developmental credit hours.

Refunds/Recovery

When a Title IV (Federal Student Aid) recipient completely withdraws, drops out, or is expelled after receiving a disbursement, the college will determine whether the student has received an overpayment. If the federal aid disbursed exceeds the amount earned, the unearned funds must be returned. The college will calculate this amount based on a federally mandated formula and will notify the student. The percentage of federal aid earned is equal to the percentage of the period of enrollment completed as of the student’s withdrawal date. If this date occurs after the 60 percent point, 100 percent of the aid is considered to have been earned. Federal work-study earnings are not included. Loans will be repaid by the student in accordance with the terms of the promissory note.

The college will notify the student of the amount owed and will attempt to collect the repayment to federal student aid programs. If the student does not pay the determined amount, he or she will be ineligible for further federal student aid and will be reported as being an overpayment. The student may be referred to the U. S. Department of Education for collection for failure to pay or failure to make payment arrangements. Payments that are collected from the student will be returned to the appropriate program accounts within 30 days of receiving the student’s repayment. Repayments will be distributed in the following order:  Unsubsidized Stafford Federal Direct Loans; Subsidized Stafford Direct Loans; Federal Direct PLUS Loan Program; Federal Pell Grant Program; Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants Program; and other Title IV programs.

Students withdrawing will have their academic progress evaluated and, even though a student may have repaid part or all of an award, failure to make satisfactory academic progress could result in loss of aid in future semesters.

Recalculation of Awards/Repayment for Non-Attendance

If a student fails to begin attending any class, financial aid awards will be recalculated. This may occur at any point during the semester/term that the Financial Aid Office is made aware of the situation, and it may affect a student’s enrollment status. In most cases, however, calculation of the award will be based on enrollment status on the last day to drop with a tuition refund.

Work-Study Opportunities

The college offers both on- and off-campus, part-time employment opportunities for students who qualify for the federal or work-study programs. Federal work-study is a need-based program and students are awarded work-study based on eligibility and funding. 

STUDENT LIFE AND CAMPUS ENGAGEMENT

The Office of Student Life and Campus Engagement coordinates and implements the policies and procedures for operations of campus organizations and student activities.It seeks to assist students and the faculty in reaching the goal of integrating a variety of educational, cultural, recreational, and social experiences with the college instructional program.

Types of student activities include the following: student government, publications, intramurals and recreation, dramatic activities, professional and service organizations, music activities, and student clubs and organizations. All student clubs and organizations work with an advisor or sponsor from the faculty and administration.

ACTIVITIES CALENDAR

The Office of Student Life and Campus Engagement maintains an activities calendar. All campus-wide activities and events of interest to the college generally appear on the calendars. All events sponsored by campus groups must be scheduled through that group’s advisor. These will appear on the activities calendar. 

PUBLICATIONS

A student, group, or organization of the college may not distribute written material on campus without prior approval of the faculty advisor or Coordinator of Student Engagement and College Life. Approval shall be granted unless the material is libelous, obscene, or preaches the disruption of normal college activities. Editorial freedom of the student press entails a corollary obligation under the canons of responsible journalism. All student communication shall explicitly state on the editorial page that the opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the college or its student body.

EXPRESSIVE ACTIVITY POLICY

The PVCC expressive activity policy can be found at: www.pvcc.edu/expressive-activity-policy. The purpose of this policy is to set out the policy and procedures that will govern all expressive activities on campus. This policy applies to all buildings, grounds, and other spaces owned or controlled by Piedmont Virginia Community College (PVCC). The term “expressive activity” includes:

• Meetings and other group activities of students, student organizations, faculty, staff, and outside groups;
• Speeches, performances, demonstrations, rallies, vigils, and other events by students, student organizations, faculty, staff, and outside groups;
• Distributions of literature, such as distributing leaflets and pamphlets; and
• Any other expression protected by the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

STUDENT ACTIVITY FUNDING

Student activity funding is established to support all entities of the student activity program. The funds are derived from the college local revenue account which is in part generated from student fees. This fund is operated and controlled by the PVCC Board under methods and procedures established by the Virginia Community College System and approved by the state auditor. During spring semester, local budget requests are submitted and upon approval by the president’s cabinet and the PVCC Board, monies are allocated for the ensuing year.

STUDENT GOVERNANCE

Students at the college are involved in student governance in many different ways. College-wide committees consisting of faculty, staff, and administration include student members. In addition, students are primarily represented by the Student Government Association. The SGA has representation from all student clubs/organizations, the College Senate, and at-large student members. The Student Government constitution describes in detail the purpose and structure of this organization.

STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS

The State Board Policy Manual includes provisions for student activities/life programs:

Colleges shall provide a student activities/life program designed to promote educational and cultural experiences. Student activities are out-of-classroom activities that support the mission of the colleges and provide students avenues for personal growth and enrichment. Through participation in clubs and organizations, or other planned activities, students develop a wide range of abilities, including intellectual, communication, athletic, and leadership skills. Students develop self-confidence, interpersonal skills, and an appreciation for other cultures and lifestyles. Finally, students develop a sense of integrity, purpose, and social responsibility that empowers them to be productive within and beyond the college community. - Section 6.4, Student Development

The following regulations and procedures apply to all student activity programs in the community colleges of the VCCS:

• The entire program of student activities shall be under college supervision.
• There shall be a faculty or staff sponsor for each student organization.
• All student activity funds shall be deposited with and expended through the college business office, subject to State Board policies, procedures, and regulations pertaining to such funds.
• Each college shall adopt its own regulations and procedures to implement the above policy.
• All student programs and recognized organizations must comply with the VCCS’s nondiscrimination policy, except as follows. Any recognized religious or political student organization shall be authorized to limit certain activities only to members who are committed to furthering the mission of such organization. Such activities include ordering the organization’s internal affairs, selecting the organization’s leaders and members, defining the organization’s doctrines, and resolving the organization’s disputes.
• Pursuant to the laws of the Commonwealth of Virginia, a group will be considered political or religious if it: (a) articulates a clear political or religious purpose as its primary mission or a reasonable person would conclude that the group has such a purpose, and (b) its actual practices and operations support that articulated primary mission.
• Private clubs, private associations, social fraternities, and social sororities will not be recognized by the VCCS.

Approval Process for New Clubs & Organizations

Request to establish Clubs/Organizations must be approved by the SGA and the Office of Student Life and Campus Engagement.

To seek approval, student(s) should obtain a commitment from a PVCC full-time employee to serve as the advisor. The New Student Club/Organization Interest form should be completed, followed by the development of a constitution and by-laws. See the Clubs and Organizations webpage (www.pvcc.edu/clubs-and-organizations) for more information.

Membership

Only currently enrolled PVCC students may be members of Clubs/Organizations. Exceptions may be made for clubs with approved collaborations/associations with University of Virginia. (e.g., Cru, Horticulture & Environmental Club, etc.). Students who are on suspension are not eligible for membership.

All Clubs/Organizations must have a president as the key student representative and contact; the contact information is listed on the Club’s website. Officers must be currently enrolled, program-placed students in good academic standing. The club/organization must have an officer (or member if the officers cannot attend) who serves as a representative on the SGA Student Senate that meets monthly.

Members of student Clubs/Organizations are required to have and maintain a 2.0 GPA to be an active member of any club/organization. TJACE students and those in short-term workforce credential programs may participate in clubs without maintaining a minimum GPA. If an organization requires a higher minimum GPA, consent must be granted by the coordinator if the requirements are clearly stated and made available to the public.

Adherence to College Policies and Procedures

Students nor PVCC employees are authorized to speak on behalf of the College.  The Student Club and/or Activity shall not hold itself out as being part of, controlled by, or acting on behalf of PVCC. The Student Club and/or Activity shall take affirmative steps in all its recruitment, business, and other dealings with third parties (including, for example, prospective members and businesses) to properly explain its relationship with the college. The Student Club and/or Activity shall, without exception, include the following statement in the Student Club and/or Activity’s correspondence, messages, contracts, publications, websites, social media pages, and other written or internet communications:   

This organization has members who are Piedmont Virginia Community College (PVCC) students and may have college employees associated with or engaged in its activities and affairs. These individuals are not spokesperson for the College but rather express their personal views.

All statements or communications from the College are officially sanctioned and coordinated through the Director of Marketing and Communications. Please contact the Director of Marketing and Communications with media questions.

The Student Code of Conduct applies to those engaged in Clubs/Organizations and associated activities. The Code can be found in the PVCC Catalog (https://catalog.pvcc.edu/content.php?catoid=7&navoid=919). Clubs/Organizations should also review the College’s Expressive Activities website (www.pvcc.edu/expressive-activity-policy) for additional information.

More information about student clubs and organizations can be found at: www.pvcc.edu/clubs-and-organizations

OFFICE OF CAMPUS ENGAGEMENT AND STUDENT LIFE

This office of student life and campus engagement coordinates and implements the policies and procedures for operations of campus organizations and student activities. In addition to assisting the Student Government (where applicable), student publications, and clubs, the office helps individual students and faculty/staff to develop new activities and services to meet the needs of the campus community. Contact this office to find out what types of programs have been established at PVCC. Suggestions and requests for social, cultural, recreational, and co-curricular activities are most welcome.

STUDENT PUBLICATIONS

Students are responsible for developing student publications that respond to the needs of the College. PVCC has a newspaper, The FORUM.

PRIVACY OF STUDENT RECORDS

PVCC complies with the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA), when releasing information about students. FERPA permits the following directory information to be released: name, date of birth, dates of attendance, honors earned, programs of enrollment, and degrees and diplomas or certificates earned.

Pursuant to 34 C.F.R. §99.31(a)(11), Code of Virginia § 23.1-405(c), or the Virginia Freedom of Information Act (§2.2-3700 et seq.), PVCC will not disclose the address, telephone number, or email address of a student unless the student has affirmatively consented in writing to such disclosure.   

Social Security Number 

To protect the integrity of each student’s social security number, students are assigned a student EMPLID number when they submit a Piedmont Virginia Community College Application for Admission. Students should use the EMPLID number to access your education records as needed.

As a PVCC student, you have the ability to maintain the privacy of your student record.  If you do not want PVCC to disclose information from your educational records without your prior written consent, you must log in to MyPVCC to restrict the information in your record. Instructions for restricting any or all of your information are below.

If you have any questions regarding the privacy of your student record or about FERPA, please contact the Outreach and Admissions team at 434.961.6581 or admissions@pvcc.edu.

Right to Consent to Disclosure  

One exception which permits disclosure without consent is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official is an individual employed by PVCC or the Virginia Community College System in an administrative, supervisory, academic or research, or support staff position. 

Another exception to the non-consensual disclosure of information derived from education records under FERPA is to that student’s parent if the student is a dependent for tax purposes. If a student is claimed as a dependent by either parent for tax purposes, then either parent may have access under this provision, absent a court order specifically prohibiting it.

If you have any questions regarding access to your dependent student’s record, please contact the Outreach and Admissions team at 434.961.6581 or admissions@pvcc.edu..

Other typical FERPA exceptions include:

• High school dual-enrolled or concurrently enrolled students
• Specific official review for audits or evaluation
• Financial Aid staff
• Campus Security personnel
• Accrediting bodies
• Appropriate officials in cases of health or safety emergencies
• PVCC or Virginia Community College System contracted individuals or companies
• A student serving on an official committee at PVCC
• A school official or faculty member who has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record to fulfill his or her professional responsibility
• Federal Law, such as the Solomon Amendment

STUDENT REVIEW OF RECORDS

A student is guaranteed access to his/her permanent educational record, subject only to reasonable regulation as to time, place, and supervision. A student should direct requests to review educational records to the Admissions and Advising Center. Please note that copies of transcripts from other institutions may not be given to a student but that review of such transcripts is possible.

Students should contact the Admissions and Advising Center to question the content of their educational records. Further appeal should be directed in writing to the dean of Student Affairs as a final appeal. Student access to the financial records of parents through the student financial aid file is not permitted.

STUDENT RECORDS RETENTION

Official student academic records, financial aid data and applicant materials and documents are maintained by the college during a student’s enrollment and for a specified period after enrollment. Some records such as courses attempted, grades, etc., are maintained permanently (electronically) in the college’s computer systems. Documents related to admission and enrollment, such as the application for admissions, are maintained by the college. The retention period varies by document, with the longest retention period being five years subject to audit. Contact the PVCC Registrar’s Office for details on this policy.

USE OF STUDENT PHOTOGRAPHS

Photographs taken of an individual student or groups of students, for example, in classrooms, student lounge areas, and outdoors on campus, may be used by the college for release to newspapers or other media and for reproduction in PVCC publications. If a student is included in such photographs, he/she will not be identified by name or position and will not have his/her name released to outside individuals or organizations without prior written permission.

MYPVCC STUDENT ID NUMBER

The MyPVCC student ID number is used throughout a student’s college career to identity him/her in the Student Information System (SIS) and college records. The SIS assigns 7-digit Student ID number at the time students apply for admission.

Applicants for financial aid are required to provide Social Security numbers. Pell Grant program applicants are advised that Social Security numbers are required by the U. S. Department of Education when processing applications. Also, student requesting deferments for previous loans are advised that the Social Security number is required.

ACADEMIC HONORS

Vice President’s List

Students will be placed on the Vice President’s List for achieving a semester grade point average of 3.2 or higher and earning a minimum of 12 credit hours, with no grades less than C.

President’s List

Students will be placed on the President’s List for achieving a semester grade point average of 3.8 or higher and earning a minimum of 12 credit hours, with no grades less than C.

To be eligible for grading term honors, students must have 12 credits in graded courses (A, B, C).

ACADEMIC STANDING

Students are considered in good academic standing if they maintained a semester minimum GPA of 2.00, are eligible to re-enroll at the college, and are not on academic suspension or dismissal status.

The college will send students official notification by letter when they are having academic difficulty. Students will be given an appropriate period of time to show improvement. The college may determine that a student is best served by being prevented from further enrollment for a period of time if he/she shows no academic improvement.

The college provides the following official indications of academic difficulty:

1. Academic Warning

If a student fails to maintain a minimum GPA of 2.00 for any semester or fails any course, he/she will receive an academic warning.

1. Academic Probation

If a student fails to maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 1.50, he/she will be placed on academic probation until his/her GPA reaches 1.50 or better. The student will be ineligible for appointive or elective office in student organizations and usually will be required to carry less than a normal course load the following semester. While on academic probation the student is required to consult a counselor. An average between 1.50 and 1.99 may not result in formal academic probation; nevertheless, a minimum of 2.00 in a student’s curriculum is a prerequisite to the receipt of an associate. Part-time students will not be placed on academic probation until they have attempted 12 semester credit hours.

1. Academic Suspension

If a student is on academic probation and fails to attain a minimum GPA of 1.50 for the next semester, he/she will be placed on academic suspension. Academic suspension normally will be for one semester unless the student applies and is accepted for readmission to another curriculum of the college. 

If a student is informer that he/she is on academic suspension, he/she may submit an appeal in writing to the Vice President of Student Affairs for reconsideration of the case. After termination of the suspension period, a student must meet with the dean of Student Affairs to be reinstated. Students will not be placed on suspension until 24 semester credit hours have been attempted.

Following reinstatement after academic suspension, a student must achieve a minimum 2.00 GPA for the semester. He/she must maintain at least a 1.50 GPA in each subsequent semester of attendance. A student remains on probation until his/her overall GPA is raised to a minimum of 1.50

1. Academic Dismissal

If a student does not maintain at least a 2.00 GPA for the semester of reinstatement to the college when on academic suspension, he/she will be academically dismissed. If a student has been placed on academic suspension and achieves a 2.00 GPA for the semester of his/her reinstatement, he/she must maintain at least a cumulative 1.50 GPA in each subsequent semester of attendance. The student will remain on probation until his/her cumulative GPA is raised to a minimum of 1.50. Failure to attain a cumulative 1.50 GPA in each subsequent semester until a student’s cumulative GPA reaches 1.50 will result in academic dismissal.

Academic dismissal normally is permanent unless, with good cause, the student reapplies and is accepted under special consideration for readmission by the Vice President of Student Affairs. The statement “Academic Dismissal” will be placed on the student’s permanent record.

1. College Procedures for Students Academically Suspended or Dismissed

The procedures listed below apply to students who have been academically suspended or dismissed:

1. The student is notified of the academic suspension/dismissal through both the PVCC grade report, and a letter sent from the college that describes the suspension/dismissal policy and the steps available for an appeal.
2. A “hold” will be placed on the student’s records so that he/she cannot enroll. The hold will indicate “academic suspension” or “academic dismissal” and is a part of your academic record.
3. If the student chooses to appeal, he/she is required to write a letter to the Vice President of Student Affairs requesting an exception to the policy. The letter should detail the causes for academic difficulties and describe remedies the student proposes to improve academic performance.
4. If the student is requesting reinstatement to the college, he/she must meet with a Student Affairs official.
5. The Vice President of Student Affairs makes the reinstatement decision.
6. The Vice President of Student Affairs’ reinstatement decision is final.

ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE POLICY

The serving, possessing, and consuming of alcoholic beverages is prohibited at all college-sponsored student events or activities.

BOOKSTORE

Students may purchase books and other supplies at the bookstore during their regular posted hours. Students may purchase/rent textbooks and purchase some supplies at the bookstore’s web site 24/7. The address for the web site is www.bkstr.com/piedmontvirginiaccstore/home.  Additional operating hours are provided during the beginning weeks of each semester allowing more flexible hours to purchase books. The bookstore is operated by a private company under an agreement with the college. During the last few weeks of each semester, the bookstore may buy back books at its discretion. Exact dates of “buy back” will be posted in advance. Questions concerning bookstore services should be directed to the bookstore manager.

Please Note:

1. Basic textbooks are selected and ordered by the academic divisions of the college.
2. Supplementary materials may be used to accompany a basic textbook. Such materials may be selected and ordered for an individual instructor. These types of materials may or may not be required for a subsequent term.
3. Save receipts on book purchases. They are required for refunds when returning books due to add/drop/swap or class cancellation. Students should not write or mark in a book until they are sure they will need the book.

CHILDREN ON CAMPUS

PVCC is committed to creating a safe and welcoming environment for its community members. Visitors to campus are welcome and encouraged. PVCC has established guidelines governing the presence of children and visitors on campus to provide an environment conducive to study and work that promotes children’s safety on PVCC property.

More infromation about on children on campus can be found in the college’s policy on Children and Visitors in the Workplace

COLLEGE CATALOG

The PVCC Catalog is available online at www.pvcc.edu.

COPYRIGHT

Students are expected to comply with federal copyright law. The United State Copyright Law protects all copyrighted materials:  printed materials such as books and journals, music, sound recordings; films, videocassettes, art works, and computer software. Most Internet sites and all their contents are protected by copyright.

The Copyright Act of 1976 grants copyright owners’ exclusive rights to publish, reproduce, perform, and display their works. Anyone publishing, reproducing, performing, or displaying all or part of a copyrighted work is guilty of infringing the copyright unless the act falls within one of the fair use exceptions, or unless she or he has acquired permission to use the work from the copyright owner. Read the law at http://lcweb.loc.gov/copyright/.

EMAIL

The college’s email system is provided by the Virginia Community College System to all students within the PVCC community. To protect student privacy, instructors may only use a student’s official e-mail address. Students may forward their e-mail to another account if they choose. Instructors may issue assignments by e-mail and students may be allowed to email in their work. The college also provides faculty and students with access to Canvas, a Web-based learning management system. This system allows instructors to post assignments and announcements, have students participate in asynchronous discussions, share written materials, etc.

EMERGENCIES 

PVCC has a formal emergency response plan and emergency procedures, which are regularly reviewed. Police and Security officers are on campus, augmented by WiFi cameras in strategically placed locations. The college has a public address system in all buildings, a telephone in every classroom, emergency call boxes prominently located in the parking lots, electronic messaging capability, and other measures in place to help ensure the security and safety of everyone on campus. PVCC also maintains a collaborative relationship with the Albemarle County Police Department and other local and state law enforcement agencies.

More information can be found at: www.pvcc.edu/emergency-preparedness

ONLINE LEARNING

For students who prefer to study independently, distance learning courses taught by PVCC faculty are comparable to the same courses taught in the traditional classroom format. Distance learning courses have the same content, grading system, and course credit values as traditional courses. PVCC offers a variety of distance learning formats including online, hybrid, Web conferencing and video conferencing.

Online Courses. Online courses and several associate degree programs are offered online

Students are responsible for providing their own hardware, software, and Internet service. Requirements to be on campus vary among the online courses; some courses require a minimal number of visits to the PVCC campus for orientation and/or testing. Online courses are delivered in a primarily text-based environment; therefore, reasonably good reading and writing skills are critical factors for adequate course participation. Additionally, research has shown that students who are self-directed and manage their time well are more likely to succeed using this delivery model. It is recommended that students carefully evaluate their readiness and abilities in these areas before selecting online courses. 

Hybrid Courses. In addition to online courses, PVCC offers a variety of hybrid courses. A hybrid course is one that blends online and face-to-face delivery. A substantial proportion of the course content is delivered online; the course typically includes online discussions and some face-to-face meeting times. Students are responsible for providing their own hardware, software, and Internet service.

ADVISORS

Students entering college should work with an academic advisor to plan their program for meeting their educational objectives. New and current students can receive advising services in the Admissions and Advising Center. Student Affairs staff, academic advisors, and faculty will work with students each semester to select courses, monitor academic progress and help students meet their academic and career goals.

FIRE ALARMS

When you hear a fire alarm, gather your belongings, and quickly exit the building through the nearest emergency exit. Emergency evacuation plans are posted in all rooms on campus. You should become familiar with the exits for each room you use. Follow the directions of college faculty and staff members and move away from the building and out of the path of responding emergency equipment. Do not return to the building until you are directed to do so by faculty or staff members. Do not ever assume that an alarm is a drill. Treat every alarm as real.

FIREARMS AND OTHER DANGEROUS WEAPONS

PVCC has a policy regarding firearms and dangerous weapons. The purpose of this policy is to promote safe learning and working environments for all Piedmont Virginia Community College (PVCC) locations by minimizing the risk of violence by the use of a weapon.This policy provides rules and procedures for the possession of weapons on campus grounds, in campus buildings, and at campus events. It is consistent with the Regulation of Weapons adopted by the State Board for Community Colleges, Policy 3.14.6, Workplace Violence Prevention and Threat Assessment Policy Guidelines of the Virginia Community College System, PVCC Policy XII-2.0 Violence Prevention and Threat Assessment Policy, and the laws and regulations of the Commonwealth of Virginia.

The PVCC Firearms and Dangerous Weapons Policy can be found here: www.pvcc.edu/sites/default/files/2025-02/XII-4.0%20Firearms%20and%20Dangerous%20Weapons%20Approved%2011%202024%20WebPosting.pdf

GRADUATION

The college awards degrees and certificates at the end of each semester to those who have applied and met graduation requirements. A commencement ceremony is held each year at the end of the spring semester. Applicants for graduation are advised to check with the Advising Office for more information.

INCLEMENT WEATHER POLICY

Weather or emergencies may require Piedmont Virginia Community College (PVCC) administrators to periodically delay opening or closing the College. We monitor the weather services and all emergency communications regarding the weather event, as conditions can change from one minute to the next.

Inclement Weather Guidelines

PVCC classes operate as normal, and the College is open when primary and most secondary roads are passable. PVCC may cancel on-campus classes, delay the start of on-campus classes, or close early in the event of inclement weather. Decisions are made in a timely manner, usually by 6 a.m. in the morning (for closure or a delayed opening) or by 3 p.m. (for an evening closure). 
 
Decisions to delay the start of classes or to cancel classes affect the main campus and all PVCC sites, including the Giuseppe Center in Greene County. All online classes (online anytime and online scheduled time) will operate as normal in the event of inclement weather even if on-campus classes are canceled or delayed.   

How to Obtain College Delay/Closure Information 

Students, staff, and faculty are encouraged to use the following resources to obtain delay/closure information:

• Sign up for immediate email and text notifications. Log in to Omnilert Emergency Notifications and look for emergency notification information.
• Visit the PVCC home page. Delay/closure information will be posted at the top of the home page.
• Inclement weather decisions will also be shared with local television stations, NBC29 and CBS19. 

 The following PVCC phone numbers will also have delay/closing information:  

• PVCC main phone: 434.977.3900

BETTY SUE JESSUP LIBRARY

The PVCC Betty Sue Jessup Library offers services, collections, and individual and group study spaces to support students. PVCC librarians teach students to locate, evaluate, use, and cite information while the library’s website provides access to large collections of print and electronic books, electronic journals and scholarly articles, newspapers, and primary source materials. Assistance from librarians and the collections are available on and off campus; students access collections off campus by logging into MyPVCC. Contact information, including library hours, is located on the library’s website. Visit the Betty Sue Library webpage for more information.

LOCKERS

PVCC has a limited number of lockers available in the locker rooms in the 100 hallway. Lockers are for students, faculty, and staff and are for day-use only. PVCC does not provide locks.

LOST AND FOUND

Lost personal articles are stored in the PVCC Security Office. They may be claimed upon appropriate demonstration of ownership.

SAFETY INFORMATION

PVCC is committed to providing a safe and secure campus community so that its students and staff are free to learn and pursue their academic goals.

Information about PVCC safety can be found at: www.pvcc.edu/pvcc-safe

The annual College Safety Report is available on the college web site at: www.pvcc.edu/statistics-safety-information

SMOKING

Smoking is permitted in personal vehicles and within parking lots. Smoking is also permitted within designated smoking areas identified by “DESIGNATED SMOKING AREA” signs and the presence of smoking urns.

Except as noted above, smoking is not permitted on college grounds nor inside college buildings. Smokers are responsible for properly disposing of smoking materials.

Fines:

Students, employees, and visitors who violate college smoking policy will be subject to fines and appropriate disciplinary action. PVCC security personnel are authorized to issue tickets for smoking violations. The fine for smoking on college grounds outside of designated smoking areas and for improperly disposing of smoking materials is $25.00.

Definition:

Smoking is defined as any tobacco product or other substance (including electronic or e-cigarettes or vapes) that emitssmoke or is designed to simulate smoking cigarettes.

TUITION AND FINES

TUITION PAYMENT

Tuition is due and payable at the time of registration or by the dates posted each term. Tuition charges are subject to change at the discretion of the State Board for Community Colleges. The most current tuition is posted on the college website: www.pvcc.edu/tuition-and-fees

Payment of tuition enables students to use the library, bookstore, student study areas, and other facilities of the college.

For more information, visit: www.pvcc.edu/paying-pvcc

TUITION PAYMENT PLAN

To help you meet educational expenses during the fall and spring semesters, PVCC offers a convenient and affordable payment plan administered by Nelnet. This payment program is not available for classes taken during the summer semester. This is not a loan program, so you incur no debt. There are no interest or finance charges, only a modest enrollment fee and there are no credit checks.

The earlier you enroll in the program, the more likely the lowest monthly payment option will be available. For more information visit: www.pvcc.edu/payment-plan

TUITION REFUND

Refunds are processed only for classes that are canceled or classes that are dropped within the refund period as noted in PVCC’s Academic Calendar. Refunds are processed the day after the posted refund date.

• If you paid your tuition by credit card online, your refund will be credited back to the appropriate credit card.
• If you paid your tuition by cash, check or credit card in person at the Cashier’s Office, or are a financial aid student eligible for a refund, tuition refunds will be issued electronically either by direct deposit (ACH) to a bank account or a paper check. A refund in the form of a paper check will only be issued if direct deposit is not selected.  Verify that your mailing address in SIS is updated and correct.  Direct deposit is strongly encouraged.
• To set up your refund preference:
  • Go to www.pvcc.edu
  • Log in to MyPVCC and click on SIS (Student Information System)
  • Select “My Student Information” tile
  • Under Finances, click Manage Refunds (You will be directed to Nelnet to complete your registration and refund preference).

Refunds are payable to the enrolled student and not the person who originally paid, if different from the student. The college is not responsible if a refund is seized by the state debt set-off program.  

Please ensure that your student address is accurate and up to date. You can update it in the Student Information System (SIS) accessible through MyPVCC.

Refund for Special Circumstances

Requests for a refund/forgiveness of debt after the drop deadline (Census date) are exceptions to the VCCS policy. There is no refund after the Census date has passed except in special circumstances. Please review the Refund Policy for more information. 

DOMICILE/TUITION APPEAL PROCESS

To qualify for in-state tuition and fees at PVCC, eligible students must be legally domiciled (live) in Virginia and have resided in Virginia for 12 continuous months prior to enrolling. See Domicile Requirements.

PHOTO IDENTIFICATION

Student photo identification cards are provided to students through their student activities fee. ID cards may be needed for library material use, campus copying and printing, admissions to special student activities, parking, and so forth. The photo identification cards can be obtained from the PVCC Security Office.

PVCC STUDENT ID POLICY

A student photo ID card is a student’s official Piedmont Virginia Community College identification. Student photo identification cards are provided to students through the student activities fee. The photo identification cards can be obtained from the Security Office. ID cards must be presented for admission to special student activities, obtaining parking decals, and to purchase discounted bus passes. ID cards can be used for library material use and discounts at local merchants.

The photo identification cards can be obtained from the Department of Public Safety & Campus Police (Main Building, room M218) during normal business hours of the College. 

Students must bring:

• A copy of your current class schedule
• A valid form of ID (i.e., valid driver’s license, passport, military/government ID, birth certificate, social security card, voter registration card)

Photo ID cards must be presented for admission to special student activities, obtaining parking decals and to purchase discounted bus passes. Photo ID cards can be used for library material use and discounts at local merchants.

More Information for Students:

• Students should have only the most current photo ID card in their possession.
• Contact the Department of Public Safety & Campus Police if your photo ID card is lost or stolen. An incident report will be filed and a new card issued.
• If a card is damaged or unusable, return the damaged card to the Security Office for issuance of a new card.
• Cards are non-transferable to another person.
• Students must present their student photo ID card if requested by College personnel. Failure to present a photo ID is a student code of conduct violation and may result in disciplinary action.

STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT

The PVCC Student Code of Conduct is located at: https://catalog.pvcc.edu/content.php?catoid=7&navoid=919

TECHNOLOGY SERVICES 

Technology Services at PVCC includes Technology Services Help Desk, Infrastructure Services and Administrative Computing. Technology Services provides general-access computing and communications facilities for students and the entire college community. Please see our Policies.

VCCS Acceptable Use Agreement

The VCCS Acceptable Use Agreement is available here.

Technical Support

For SIS, MyPVCC or PVCC website issues, use the Technical Issues Form, email help@pvcc.edu or call 434.961.5400.

SEXUAL MISCONDUCT, ASSAULT, HARASSMENT, AND STALKING

PVCC promotes a safe community free from all forms of sexual misconduct. Sexual misconduct includes: sexual violence; sexual harassment; stalking; verbal or physical sexuality-based threats or abuse; and intimate partner violence. All incidents of sexual misconduct will be investigated fully and will be referred to law enforcement and college disciplinary action as appropriate. The college provides various mechanisms for students to report sexual misconduct and offers counseling, support and referral for all victims.

• Key Definitions
• Safety Tips and Prevention Information
• Warning Signs of Sexual Assault and/or Abusive Behavior
• Sexual Assault Victim Resources and Support
• Bystander Intervention Information
• Report an incident (Maxient Incident Reporting Form)

ACADEMIC POLICIES AND GRIEVANCE POLICIES

The College’s academic policies, including those for an academic grievance (ex. grade appeal), can be found in the College Catalog: https://catalog.pvcc.edu/ 

PARKING AND TRAFFIC REGULATIONS

Parking and Vehicle Registration

Student Parking

PVCC has designated parking areas for students in Parking lots 3, 4, and 5. Parking Map

• In addition, student parking is available in parking lot 2 after 6:30 p.m.
• Student parking is available in parking lot 1 after 5 p.m.

Parking Decals 
Day, evening, weekend and part-time students must register their vehicle(s) and obtain a parking decal. There is no charge for decals. They are available from the Department of Public Safety & Campus Police (main building room 218). Registering for classes on line does not excuse a student from the requirement to register their vehicle and secure a parking decal. Each vehicle a student operates must have a decal in order to park on the PVCC campus. It is the student’s responsibility to ensure the decal is visible on the left side of the rear bumper or on/in the rear window. Students who are employed by the College on a part-time basis are not eligible for employee parking permits.

Students are responsible for any violation committed by the operator of a vehicle registered in the student’s name. Not registering a vehicle is itself a parking violation subject to the same fine as other general parking violations.

Handicapped Parking
Handicapped parking permits that allow parking in designated handicapped parking spaces can only be issued by the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles. The college is not authorized to issue permits which allow parking in handicapped spaces. All persons including students with valid handicapped parking permits may park in any handicapped space in any college parking lot. The fine for illegally parking in a handicapped space is $100.00. Albemarle County and state authorities may also issue tickets for parking in a handicapped space or for other violations (such as blocking a fire hydrant). The fines for tickets issued by county and state authorities are typically higher than for tickets issued by the college.

Common Traffic Offenses
In addition to parking in an employee or visitor parking space, some other common traffic offenses can be found here: www.pvcc.edu/tickets-and-citations

Vehicles cannot be left unattended for a period of time exceeding 15 hours or to park a vehicle overnight without prior consent. As a general policy, overnight parking will not be permitted except for official college purposes or in an emergency. The Department of Public Safety & Campus Police should be contacted at (434) 981-6362 if circumstances require permission for extended or overnight parking.

In addition, Albemarle County and state authorities may also issue tickets for some violations such as parking in a handicapped parking space or blocking a fire hydrant. The fines for tickets issued by county and state authorities are typically higher than for tickets issued by the College.

Parking Violation Appeals 
If parking citations are not paid or canceled on appeal, repeated violators may lose on-campus parking privileges. Appeals of parking fines should be made in writing to the Parking Appeals Panel through the Department of Public Safety and Campus Police (Room M709 in the Main Building). An appeal form is available at the Cashier’s Office. 

Visitor Parking
Short-term (2 hours or less) visitors should park in designated visitor parking spaces and do not need to secure a visitor’s parking permit. Visitors who will be on campus for longer periods or who must park in spaces other than those specifically marked for visitors should obtain a visitor’s parking permit from the Receptionist or the Department of Public Safety & Campus Police (Room 218). Visitors are not permitted to park in reserved spaces and are subject to the same regulations regarding traffic offenses and appeals of parking fines as are employees and students.

VIP visitor parking may be reserved by the President’s Office and the Office of Institutional Advancement and Development for board meetings and VIP visitors. Other college offices are not authorized to reserve visitor parking. 

VIP visitor parking may be reserved by the President’s Office and the Office of Institutional Advancement and Development for board meetings and VIP visitors. Other college offices are not authorized to reserve visitor parking. Departments that have frequent or numerous visitors are authorized to issue visitor parking permits for general visitor parking. The standard PVCC temporary hang tag should be used for this purpose.

Liability
PVCC is not responsible for loss or damage to motor vehicles or their contents while they are on College property. Drivers should use caution and good sense while in the parking areas.