Harding provides a Christian environment in which spiritual growth is central. In addition to the promotion of scholarly pursuits, the University endeavors to instill within each student a deeper spiritual quality that, coupled with academic growth, enables the student to flourish. All members of Harding’s administration and faculty are dedicated to building Christian character and responsibility within each student.
Harding University is built with Christ as its chief cornerstone. It provides a setting in which Christian training and participation are encouraged.
With Christ as Lord, Harding University transforms learners for global impact by engaging minds and nurturing faith within a deeply connected community.
Led by our Christ-centered mission, Harding University aspires to be known around the world for educating and inspiring students to relentlessly pursue God’s truth, excellence and love.
Pursuit of Truth
We believe the truths of God’s Word are relevant to contemporary culture, and we exercise the freedom to pursue truth in every discipline.
Human Dignity
We view every human as an image-bearer of God and therefore treat all with respect and dignity while pursuing authentic relationships.
Compassion
We ground our efforts in empathy and propel our students to use their God-given talents to run toward the brokenness among humanity as instruments of healing.
Civility
As ministers of reconciliation, we respectfully work through differences and strive to promote wisdom and understanding.
Excellence
We are committed to a high standard of character, integrity, scholarship, collaboration and work ethic.
The Student Association and other organizations will provide opportunities to have devotionals together. We also encourage the organic planning of these opportunities across campus.
We feel it is very important that you find a church home while you are here. The following is a partial list of congregations located in and around Searcy.
Harding University has conducted daily chapel services since it was established in 1924. Chapel is an important part of life at Harding. Chapel programs include an organized assembly, daily devotional for worshiping God, and fellowship with the Harding community. Throughout each semester, chapel programs will highlight and celebrate other campus community efforts and further feed into the development of our students. Chapel is held Monday-Friday at 9 a.m. Chapel attendance is required for undergraduate students who are under the age of 25 and taking nine or more hours per semester.
Chapel Policy
Chapel Attendance Requirements
Students who do not have classes immediately preceding or following chapel and live in either University rental apartments or off campus may be excused from chapel with a proportionately reduced number of allowed absences. Students with work or an internship that conflicts with chapel must complete the Permanent Chapel Excuse form within the first two weeks of classes or upon employment (also available on Pipeline). Verification from the respective employer or supervisor will be required. The number of allowed absences will be adjusted if a student is excused certain days of the week from chapel. No student will be excused from chapel every day.
Absences and tardies are posted on each student’s Pipeline account. Three tardies equals an absence. Courtesy emails will be sent at stages of chapel absences. If students notice a
discrepancy in their chapel records, they have seven days from the date of the absence to contact the Office of Student Life. The Office of Student Life will review the chapel record and adjust accordingly.
The 15 allowed absences are to accommodate illness, doctor appointments, family emergencies and other personal reasons. Students are encouraged to use their allowable absences with discretion. Additional absences due to a chronic health concern require documentation filed with the Office of Disability Services and Educational Access. The accumulation of more than 15 absences may include one or more of the following sanctions:
Students acting honestly and responsibly may avoid being sanctioned for missing chapel when they have proactively shared their circumstances with the Office of Student Life and have partnered with that office to come to an arrangement. Please contact the Office of Student Life as soon as possible if you have an extenuating circumstance regarding chapel.
The mission of the College of Bible and Ministry is to equip Harding students to know, live and share God’s word and to understand, love and serve God’s world. At Harding University, the Bible is the heart of the curriculum. These classes are designed to foster students’ spiritual development. Harding firmly believes that the application of the principles found in the Bible will enable students to lead godly lives that are truly blessed.
Harding University is committed to the teachings and examples of Jesus Christ and his apostles. Harding expects all members of its community to actively aspire to live disciplined lives of holiness, respect and love for others. We live in a fallen world, and we will all, at times, fall short of these aspirations. Thus, the core purpose of discipline within the student conduct process is to guide students toward personal maturity, a responsible understanding of the impact of student behavior and an increase in moral discernment.
Out of deep care for the welfare and dignity of our students, all conduct decisions are applied with love, mercy and justice. Harding University believes discipline is both a corrective and a restorative response to conduct violations, requiring careful assessment and a directed response to each student’s unique set of circumstances.
In summary, the disciplinary response is designed to achieve the following:
Students are expected to maintain the highest standards of morality, integrity, orderliness and personal honor. A responsibility of those in the University community is to follow established expectations and guidelines in order for the community to function more effectively. Harding University reserves the right to refuse admittance or dismiss any student whose lifestyle is not consistent with the Christian principles that Harding represents.
“Harding student” is defined as any person who has registered for courses at the University, even though such person is not, at the time of the incident, attending classes. Therefore, any student who has registered for classes but has not actually attended classes, is away for holidays or between semesters or is living away from the Harding campus in the summer is still considered a Harding student and subject to the rules and regulations of Harding University.
Harding University considers the following to be in conflict with its mission and therefore prohibited. Participation in these will result in disciplinary action:
Harding University expects all members of its community to live out the teachings and examples of the Bible in all matters, including human sexuality. Harding’s position and policy regarding sexual behavior and gender identity/expression are rooted in God’s Word as expressed in the Bible. We acknowledge how complex these matters can be, and encourage all members of the Harding community to live a chaste and moral life. Harding University views every human as an image-bearer of God, and aims to treat everyone with dignity and respect. Furthermore, Harding University remains committed to maintaining a physically and emotionally safe campus environment for all members of its community, and will not tolerate any forms of sexual harassment, belittling, or bullying toward any person for any reason. The following expectations and guidelines pertaining to these issues, while not exhaustive, are intended to provide clarity, direction, support, and accountability where appropriate.
In Scripture, human sexuality is portrayed as a gift from our Heavenly Father, who instituted marriage as a covenant relationship between one man and one woman (Genesis 2:23-24; Matthew 19:3-9; Hebrews 13:4). We believe that sexual activity outside of the marriage bond is sin (1 Corinthians 6:18 -20). Personal behaviors that deviate from this biblical standard include, but are not limited to: heterosexual sex outside of marriage; homosexual sex or suggestive same-sex behavior of a romantic nature; the viewing, possession, and distribution of pornographic material; lewd, indecent, or obscene conduct; and any sexual act or form of expression that disrupts the community. Harding University cannot accept any form of sexual behavior or expression that is not consistent with our understanding of Biblical standards. With respect to sexual orientation, we realize that some people may be physicallyattracted to someone of the same sex. We make a distinction between one having suchfeelings and deciding to act upon them. Consistent with our understanding of scripture (Romans 1:26-27; 1 Corinthians 6:9-11), we cannot accept homosexual acts or behavioral expressions suggestive of a romantic same-sex relationship.
BIBLICAL POSITION ON GENDER IDENTITY
Harding University holds firmly to God’s creation of male and female (Genesis 1:27;5:2). From this Biblical perspective, we cannot accept or support any attempts to changeone’s birth sex. As such, and consistent with our deep religious convictions and values,Harding University chooses to use its facilities and programs in a manner aligned with theinstitution’s doctrinal beliefs rooted in the Bible. This position guides our decisions regarding requests for campus housing, restroom facilities, intercollegiate athletics and extra-curricular participation, dress code, and in other matters considered relevant by the University. Furthermore, these decisions will be made in alignment with one’s sex at birth.
All members of the Harding community are expected to conduct themselves morally and in alignment with Biblical standards, including one’s sexual behavior. Violations of these expectations are subject to a range of appropriate action, up to and including termination for employees of the University, and expulsion for students. In the fallen world we live in, we understand that cultural and societal influences can lead to a host of temptations, including those of a sexual nature. We offer support services and guidance for all members of our community who are interested, and implore the Harding community to represent Christ in approaching all matters with His kindness, truth, and grace.
The following disciplinary sanctions do not apply to instances of academic misconduct. Academic misconduct is covered in the Harding University catalog.
When it appears a rule of conduct or procedure, in the case of an individual or organization, has been broken, the Office of the Vice President of Student Life/Dean of Students shall conduct an investigation. If, as a result of the investigation, it is determined that disciplinary procedures are warranted, the student or organization will be asked to appear before this staff. After the meeting, the student or organization will be informed in writing of the specific charge(s) being made, the penalty imposed and the right to request an appeal before the Student Life Committee.
Any or all of the following can be imposed for a given infraction.
A student or organization shall have 24 hours to file a written request for an appeal with the Office of Student Life or forfeit that right.
An appeal will be granted by the chair of the Student Life Committee for any of the following reasons: a) The disciplinary response is unreasonably disproportionate to the misconduct (including consideration of the student’s prior offenses or willingness to cooperate in the disciplinary process). b) The disciplinary process as outlined in the Student Handbook was not followed, and this failure significantly affected the student’s opportunity to receive a fair hearing. c) The disciplinary decision was not supported by reasonable evidence. d) New evidence has become available since the initial hearing that would have significantly altered its results. If approved by the chair, an appeal will be scheduled before the Student Life Committee no sooner than the day following the receipt of the request. A quorum for the committee shall consist of six or more members.
Students who do not appear within 15 minutes of the scheduled appeal will forfeit their right to appeal.
The appeal will be conducted in a fair and reasonable manner.
The appeal will be audio recorded.
The appeal will be open to the appealing party and representatives of the Office of Student Life. Only two witnesses, with relevant evidence to present, may testify from each side, and neither legal counsel, guardian nor parents of the accused shall be permitted to appear before this committee.
Presentation of evidence shall be as follows:
Following the appeal, the Student Life Committee, by a majority vote, will decide on the case. The student or organization will be notified of the decision. The decision of the Student Life Committee will be final. The Student Life deans or the committee may set the terms and conditions of suspension and readmission.
A student who has been suspended may not be on campus unless specific permission is granted by the Student Life deans. If campus housing is used, the residence life coordinator must be notified in advance by the deans.
All members of the Harding community must dress with modesty and decency appropriate to the Christian lifestyle and consistent with professional employment standards. For these reasons, students are expected to adhere to a dress code which faculty, staff and administration will enforce. Certain academic or extracurricular programs might have additional standards of dress.
Harding University’s first priority for its students is to provide an environment that will help the students succeed both spiritually and academically. However, there is much more to college life than just classes, homework, exams and grades. Student organizations, student government, special events, athletic programs, social and recreational events and dormitory living help make Harding’s environment unique.
Through these activities, students develop into leaders; learn communication skills; interact with peers, administrators and faculty members; increase their awareness of available campus resources; and further their overall development.
The variety of extracurricular activities ranges from social clubs and concerts to sports and special-interest groups. Concerts include classical and popular genres. Student drama and entertainment productions also are available. Student publications include The Bison campus newspaper and the Petit Jean yearbook. Special-interest organizations are listed on the Harding website at harding.edu/student-life/organizations.
Harding is a member of the National Collegiate Athletic Association Division II and Great American Conference and competes in men’s intercollegiate football, basketball, track, cross country, tennis, golf, baseball and soccer.
Women’s intercollegiate competition is offered in cross country, volleyball, basketball, track, tennis, soccer, golf and softball.
Students interested in participating in intercollegiate sports are urged to contact the coaches at any time for information and advice.
The University also maintains an intensive and excellent intramural athletic program for both men and women. This program includes activity in football, softball, basketball, tennis, volleyball, horseshoes, badminton, track and field events, ping-pong, and swimming. Both clubs and individuals participate in intramural sports. More detailed information is listed in the University catalog.
Cheerleaders are chosen near the end of each spring semester. The requirements below must be met in order to be eligible for participation as a cheerleader:
associate dean of students to verify the eligibility of each cheerleader based on the
criteria above. If someone is deemed not eligible at that point, the sponsor and
the athletic department will fill that place with one of the alternates from the tryouts.
“Just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we who are many form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.” - Romans 12:4-5
At Harding, students have the option of participating in more than 80 different organizations. These can be classified as follows:
missionary endeavors, both foreign and domestic.
County area.
through a common brother/sister bond.
Some select student organizations include:
scholarship; open by invitation only to the upper ten percent of the junior, senior and
graduate classes.
achievement.
regularly for youth rallies, banquets, church activities and retreats; membership through
audition.
Various religious groups on campus provide instruction to those interested in special areas of Christian service:
and archeology of the ancient biblical world.
individuals.
Shores Chapel is open at all times as a quiet and peaceful space for prayer, reflection or Bible study. All are welcome to post prayer requests, which will be lifted up by the community. It is maintained by Women of Faith and may be reserved for:
To reserve Shores Chapel, contact the Conference Center at 501-279-4009.
The Office of Campus Life is committed to developing positive and inclusive student opportunities and experiences for the Harding community. Campus Life seeks to provide co-curricular collaboration, the creation of campus activities and the advancement of student belonging. These events include concerts, petting zoos, hype rallies, bingo and trivia nights, movie marathons, and more. The Office of Campus Life welcomes event ideas and feedback via their Instagram account @hardingcampuslife. Student workers are employed by Campus Life and, in the event of open positions, applications open each April for the following school year.
The Student Government Association represents the student body to the administration and provides outlets for students to be involved in meaningful activities that support the mission of the University.
The SGA Executive Council is made up of four elected officers: president, vice president, secretary and treasurer. The SGA Senate is made up of a male and female representative for each class and international representative(s). The executive committee and the senate, except the freshman class representatives, are elected in the spring semester for the following year. Freshman class representatives are elected in the fall semester of the year they serve.
The SGA also supports no more than 12 standing committees whose chairpersons and members are nominated by the SGA president and approved by vote of the Executive Council, the Senate, the SGA sponsors and the administration.
Each student is invited and encouraged to join one of Harding’s 28 men’s and women’s social clubs. Each club holds meetings, functions and informal gatherings; participates in club sports and completes at least one service project each year.
The governing body of the social clubs is the interclub council, which functions under the authority of the director of campus life. Each club is represented by its president and vice president.
For detailed information and guidelines pertaining to social clubs, students should review the Social Club Handbook, available online at harding.edu/life-at-harding/social-clubs. Anyone with questions or concerns regarding social clubs should contact socialclubs@harding.edu.
All clubs, academic and other, must be approved by the vice president/dean of students or the Provost Office. All organizations must have sponsors approved by the vice president/dean of students. Special-interest clubs must have either a statement of purpose or a constitution which has been approved.
All organizational authority exists for one school year and is automatically extended unless cause is found to request a hearing concerning its function.
Fundraising and dues must be approved by the sponsor and the vice president/dean of students. The University reserves the right to require an accounting of the use of funds and dues by any organization.
Novelty and nostalgia clubs are constituted for only one school year and must request year-by-year approval. Any dues or fundraising must be approved.
Table space is available in the Hammon Student Center for organizations to provide information to students. All recognized organizations will need to get approval of table space through the Office of Student Life. After approval, the organization will then contact the Conference Center at 501-279-4009 to reserve a table.
Recognized student organizations may schedule facilities for activities in advance. Examples of these activities include regular meetings, fundraising projects, receptions, special meetings, parties, banquets, club activities, etc. Spring Sing rehearsals will be scheduled through the University’s Spring Sing director.
Harding University is blessed with talented, caring and generous students, faculty and staff. In an effort to assure proper accountability of funds, all fundraising projects must be sponsored by a campus organization and approved by the Office of Student Life before any collections can be made.
A “Request for Fundraising” must be completed at harding.edu/student-life/fundraising and submitted to the Office of Student Life for approval before the collection. This request includes:
A student may wish to form or participate in a band or musical group that is not supported by any department. No group may perform or practice on campus or for any campus organization without recognition by or permission of the Office of Student Life.
In order to be considered for special permission, all nondepartmental musical groups must be recognized by Harding University. No musical group or individual participating in a musical group shall use the name Harding University in representing themselves to the general public.
A group wishing to be recognized by the University must submit to the Office of Student Life a typed, dated copy of a constitution stating the purposes for which the organization is to be formed, including any affiliation with a national organization. A listing of the students in the charter organization should contain at least eight qualified members and one faculty/staff adviser.
The following information is required in the constitution:
“Make every effort to live in peace with all men and be holy.” - Hebrews 12:14
"Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ, God forgave you.” - Ephesians 4:32
The Student Life staff is committed to improving the quality of life in the residence halls. The residence hall environment should be one in which students may enjoy the appropriate atmosphere for study, for spiritual growth, and for serving one another. Residence halls are for single students only. Nontraditional students 25 years or older may not live in the residence halls or extended on-campus facilities without permission from the appropriate dean. (See also the Residence Life Handbook.)
Returning students making room reservations for the fall semester reserve rooms in the Housing Office on their designated day based upon their earned/completed hours as of the end of the prior fall semester in December.New freshmen and transfer students seeking rooms for the fall semester are assigned during the summer. New or former students seeking rooms for the spring semester are assigned prior to the start of the spring semester.
Single undergraduate students, under the age of 22, are required to live on campus. Harding University provides on-campus students with adequate housing, a balanced diet, varied entertainment, counseling and guidance, and cultural opportunities. Residential students dropping to eight or fewer semester hours must have approval from the Office of Student Life to remain in a residence hall.
When students meet certain criteria as defined in the Residence Life handbook, they may choose to apply for Upperclassmen Housing by Application, which is Shores Hall for women and Cone Hall for men. No student who is currently on disciplinary or academic probation may apply. Anyone previously approved who later incurs probation will have that approval status retracted. Eligibility requirements are provided in the Residence Life Handbook. Students who want to reside in Cone Hall or Shores Hall must apply. To apply, students will need to log on to their Pipeline account; click on the Student tab, select Housing and click on the Upperclassmen Housing by Application link. Residents of Shores/Cone Hall must reapply each spring for the fall semester. A student who withdraws from school and later readmits must reapply.
Students meeting the following criteria may be considered for off-campus housing:
At least 22 years of age or older.
Ninth-semester student or 120 semester hours completed.
21 years old with 105 semester hours completed.
Graduate student.
Part-time student (enrolled in eight semester hours or fewer in fall or spring). *If a student plans to enroll concurrently in additional classes at another university, the registrar’s office must approve the courses in advance. Concurrent enrollment is defined as online, correspondence or on-site classes.
Live with a parent, grandparent, aunt, uncle or qualified sibling.
Live with faculty/staff.
three qualifications must be met:
*This must be approved prior to registration.
When one of the above qualifications is met, approval of the Office of Student Life is still required before permission to live off campus is granted.
The residence halls function under the Office of Student Life with assistance from residence life coordinators and resident assistants. The RLCs and RAs are responsible for the day-to-day operation and administration. Residence hall regulations are simple, reasonable and effective, providing a pleasant and harmonious environment for our students (See also the Residence Life Handbook).
Residential curfew on the Harding University campus is from midnight until 5 a.m. Sunday through Thursday and 1 a.m. until 5 a.m. Friday and Saturday. Additional information regarding residential curfew may be found in the Residence Life Handbook.
All-campus curfew is from midnight until 5 a.m. Sunday through Thursday and 1 a.m. until 5 a.m. Friday and Saturday. No activity may take place on campus during all-campus curfew for protection and security of the campus. Any person needing to come on campus during all-campus curfew must check with the Office of Public Safety.
Students at Harding University are encouraged to look for ways to serve others. At the same time, students will encounter the many services the University strives to provide.
The Hammon Student Center is the hub of Harding University. In this building you will find a variety of services: Campus Mail Services; a food court featuring Chick-fil-A and Panda Express; and a student lounge area for meeting friends, where you can enjoy Einstein Bros. Bagels and Tacker’s Shake Shack. Also in the student center are the Harding University Bookstore; Bison Market; Office of Student Life, which also houses the lost and found; Academic Resource Center; Student Government Association Office; and Shores Chapel.
The mission of the Academic Resource Center (ARC) is to provide academic programs and support services that advance achievement and personal development within a Christian worldview. A range of support and resources include:
The academic programs and services led by credentialed and professional faculty and staff also include English as a second language, the McNair Scholars and Upward Bound Federal TRIO programs. Services are included in the cost of tuition and fees. The Academic Resource Center is located on the second floor of the Student Center in room 236. Please call 501-279-4531 for more information.
UNIVERSITY STUDIES
Students who begin their college career unsure about their major or career path have the opportunity to look into the University’s more than 100 areas of study through the Exploratory Studies program. Academic advising for these students will focus on the completion of general education courses that will lead into a major of their choice. All students are encouraged to enroll in UNIV 2100: Exploration of Career, Calling and Vocation their first or second semester at Harding. Students must select a major once they reach degree evaluation status, which occurs between the completion of 45-60 credit hours.
The University Studies department also offers several university foundations courses within a learning community that provides advising and support as students prepare for university-level English and Math courses.
Additionally, the University Studies department works closely with students who are on academic probation or those returning after an academic suspension.
FIRST YEAR EXPERIENCE
Making key connections early in a student’s academic career is critical to successful transition to college as well as to the student’s overall academic, social and spiritual growth. The First Year Experience program helps connect students to the people, programs and resources necessary to provide a strong foundation for this intellectual, personal and spiritual journey. This is primarily achieved through programs that include Bison Bound, Stampede, Peer Guides (student mentoring program), Organization Fair, Learning Enhancement Seminars and activities/events provided by Campus Life.
DISABILITY SERVICES AND EDUCATIONAL ACCESS
It is the policy of Harding University to accommodate students with disabilities pursuant to federal and state laws. Therefore, any student with a documented disability (e.g., physical, learning or psychological) who needs to arrange accommodations must contact his or her instructors and the Office of Disability Services and Educational Access at the beginning of the semester. If the diagnosis occurs during the academic year, the student must self-identify with the Office of Disability Services and Educational Access as soon as possible in order to get academic accommodations in place for the remainder of the year.
Reasonable accommodations will be provided depending on the documentation of the disability provided from an appropriate licensed health professional who made the diagnosis of the disability according to ADA guidelines.
Office of Disability Services and Educational Access is located in Student Center Suite 239. They can also be contacted at 501-279-4019 or disabilityservices@harding.edu. This statement represents a responsiveness to federal expectations. It also reveals the desire on the part of the institution to meet its own commitments to students in the academic arena who have documented disabilities.
DIVERSITY SERVICES
Diversity Services supports academic success and citizenship within a global perspective based on Christian understanding of and respect for other cultures. This goal is achieved through providing academic support, cultural awareness, and leadership opportunities for students. Diversity Services liaises between students and faculty/administrators on diversity issues. This office supports all campus cultural organizations implementing programs to increase multicultural awareness on the Harding campus.
CENTER FOR PROFESSIONAL EXCELLENCE
The Center for Professional Excellence, located in the Mabee Business Building room 103, provides both career counseling and exploration along with job search opportunities for students and alumni. Students have access to a library of literature and online resources on careers, companies and graduate schools. The Center for Professional Excellence staff is available to assist students in crafting resumes and cover letters and conducting mock job interviews.
At the beginning of each school year, incoming students are issued a student identification card. This card is to be carried at all times on campus and at all Harding activities off campus, and it may not be used by any other person. The ID card must be shown upon request to any school official.
The ID card serves as:
A library card.
Admission to athletic events.
Admission to campus dining services.
Admission to residence halls.
Lost ID cards must be replaced in the Security Technology Center (located in the Kendall Building) at a cost of $15 to the student. This office is responsible for issuing ID cards as well as managing electronic access control (card locks), security cameras and other security-related technologies. ID cards are made Monday-Friday between 8 a.m.-4 p.m. The phone number is 501-279-5678.
If a University official (including faculty and staff members) asks a student to surrender the ID card, the student must comply. Failure to do so will result in disciplinary action. In case of pending disciplinary action, a student’s ID card may be held. If a student withdraws from school, the ID card must be returned to the University.
Any person not possessing a valid ID card will be treated as a nonstudent.
Student Support and Communications provides all University students with an email/internet account while they are enrolled at Harding. The account serves as the official electronic communication channel for the University and must be checked regularly. Use of this account will constitute acceptance of the rules and regulations as stated in the Terms of Service. This policy can be found at harding.edu/consumer-info/terms-of-service/
Internet connections are provided in all Harding residence halls and on-campus apartments, including Village and Legacy Apartments. Use of this DormNet connection will constitute an acceptance of the rules and regulations as stated in the following policies:
Student Support and Communications operates the DormNet Help Desk, located in the Anthony and Wright Administration Building, room 205. The DormNet Help Desk is open from 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Monday-Thursday, from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on Friday, and from 7 p.m.-10 p.m. on Sunday. Students can contact DormNet at 501-279-4545 or at dormnet@harding.edu.
HARDING UNIVERSITY PIPELINE
Pipeline is Harding University’s online portal. Additionally, official Harding University apps are maintained or approved by IS&T. When students access Pipeline and approved apps they can:
Pipeline is a one-stop resource center for students. It also has links to students’ email and calendar and to the learning management system used at Harding.
BUSINESS OFFICE/STUDENT ACCOUNTS
The business office is responsible for the financial portion of registration, billing and collection of student accounts, charging meal plans, and posting charges and payments to student accounts.
Questions regarding charges, withdrawal percentage on dropped classes, refunds on residential rent, and meal plans should be directed to the business office. Financial obligations for charges begin at the time a student registers. Ensuring payment of all charges is the student’s responsibility. All past-due accounts may be subject to credit bureau reporting. If necessary to enforce payment, attorney fees, court costs and collection agency fees may be added to the amount owed. Diplomas will be released when accounts are in current status and payment arrangements have been made. Each account holder is responsible for informing the school of changes in name, address and telephone number.
HERITAGE INN
The Heritage Inn is a hotel located on campus for University guests. Guests are just steps away from executive conference rooms and banquet rooms, while parents are within a short walk of the residence halls or classrooms.
Located in the David B. Burks American Heritage Building, the Heritage Inn offers comfortable rooms at reasonable prices. A continental breakfast is available each morning, and all rooms are equipped with televisions, microwaves, refrigerators, hair dryers, irons and ironing boards.
The campus phone number is ext. 4700; the reservation numbers for off-campus calls are 501-279-4700 or 888-766-2465.
BRACKET LIBRARY INFORMATION
Brackett Library provides 24/7 service to the Harding community through online resources with access to more than 150 databases providing full-text articles, ebooks, and print materials that support the curriculum. The library webpage is available at library.harding.edu. In addition, bestseller, Christian fiction and juvenile literature collections are also available. Librarians assist in locating electronic and print resources. Library instruction is provided to classes upon request, and individual assistance is available at the information desk.
Harding students may check out an unlimited number of regular stack books. For most students, stack books are checked out for two weeks and may be renewed once. Graduate and honors students have extended checkout privileges. Students with overdue items will receive courtesy notices through their Harding email. At four weeks overdue, books are assumed lost, and the student is charged an overdue/replacement fee of $60 or the replacement cost, if more. Should the item be found and returned after the fee has been paid, a portion of the fee will be refunded. Checkout periods and fines for juvenile books, reserves, bestsellers and multimedia vary. Periodicals and some reference books cannot be checked out. The Interlibrary Loan Services department borrows or purchases materials that are not available locally.
Wireless internet connection and designated areas for group study are available. Midnight Oil coffee shop is in the building. Students are encouraged to offer suggestions for collection development or services. Two student representatives serve each year on the library committee. Library hours of operation are available at library.harding.edu.
INTERNATIONAL STUDENT ADVISER
Located in the Holland-Waller Center, this office exists to help international students with procedures, expectations and requirements between the educational procedures of the United States and their home countries.
The international student adviser is responsible for providing assistance on immigration matters; coordinating all campus and community services available to international students; providing a liaison with sponsoring agencies and foreign governments; and promoting interaction between the international students, the University and the local community.
PUBLIC SAFETY
The Office of Public Safety is located in the Kendall Building. The phone number is 501-279-5000. Public Safety officers are on duty 24 hours a day, every day of the year. The Office of Public Safety may be contacted for on-campus emergencies as well as other student needs, such as locked keys in a vehicle, jump-starting a battery, emergency transportation to the hospital and courtesy escorts after dark.
Public Safety officers are medical first responders certified in CPR. They have additional training in crime prevention, emergency response and other public safety concerns. Any suspicious behavior, on-campus traffic accidents, on-campus emergencies, and all crimes occurring on campus should be reported immediately to the Office of Public Safety. Information about campus security, safety programs and procedures, fire and crime statistics is available in compliance with the Jean Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Crime Statistics Act. A copy of the annual security and fire report can be obtained at harding.edu/life-at-harding/campus-safety/security-report/ or by contacting the Harding University Office of Public Safety.
The Office of Public Safety has a number of armed officers commissioned by the state of Arkansas. Security cameras and networked access control are used in various locations on campus.
Any questions concerning parking regulations, citations or violations should be directed to the Office of Parking Services located in the Kendall Building or by calling 501-279-4005.
PERSONAL AND RELATIONAL COUNSELING SERVICES
The Counseling Center at Harding is located on the third floor of the McInteer Bible and World Missions Center. The mission of the center is to provide caring and confidential services for the purpose of enhancing the quality of life experience while a student at Harding. The center is staffed by male and female counselors with many years of experience. Some of the areas of need for students may include stress management, anxiety, personal/social conflicts, depression, and other adjustment difficulties that can develop in a college setting. In the event that a student is in need of medical or other specialized service, the center will assist in making an appropriate referral.
A student may request assistance from the Counseling Center by calling 501-279-4347 or emailing counseling@harding.edu. A student may find additional information and resources at harding.edu/counseling.
TimelyCare is also available via the TimelyCare app for 24/7 access to virtual care for mental and emotional support. Just like the Counseling Center, students have access to TimelyCare at no additional cost. The following are services offered by TimelyCare:
STUDENT HEALTH SERVICES
Harding University Student Health Services is staffed by a family nurse practitioner and registered nurses who provide symptomatic care and health information.
The nurse practitioner provides treatment and prescriptions to students for a variety of minor acute illnesses such as bronchitis, strep throat, ear infections, urinary tract infections and the flu. Students can receive these services for an optional fee of $40 per semester. This fee includes point-of-care testing such as strep tests, mononucleosis testing, flu tests and urinalysis.
SHS can also facilitate referrals to local medical providers if needed and can provide a limited quantity of over-the-counter medications for short-term, minor illness. Common preventative care services, such as flu vaccination and TB skin testing or COVID-19 testing, are also available at an extra cost to students.
Although we encourage students to carry health insurance for their own benefit in case of extenuating circumstances, SHS does not file any claims with health insurance companies. Financial responsibility related to medical care delivered by local providers rests with the student.
SHS Contact Information:
115 Dr. Jimmy Carr Drive (across from Starbucks)
Phone: 501-279-4346
Fax: 501-279-4577
Hours of operation:
Fall and spring semesters
Monday–Friday
8 a.m.-4:15 p.m. (closed for lunch daily from 12 p.m. - 1 p.m.
Closed during the summer.
Check harding.edu/student-life/healthservices for updates.
Attendance Policy:
CAMPUS MAIL SERVICES
The University operates Campus Mail Services. University housing is not serviced by U.S. Postal Services home delivery in Searcy; therefore, all students living in University housing are required to have a campus box. These boxes are typically assigned to students upon registration. A student is not allowed to receive mail/parcels for another person in their box (with the exception of spouse and/or children). Mail will be returned to the sender if improperly addressed. Full name and box number are required for delivery of mail. The correct format for receiving items through campus mail services is:
Name/Department
915 E. Market Ave.
HU 12345 (campus box number)
Searcy, AR 72149-5615
Mail sent through Campus Mail Services is in fact mail delivered to the University. The laws and regulations relating to U.S. Postal Service mail delivery only apply before mail has been delivered to the University. Upon delivery to the University, all mail is sorted to individual campus boxes.
Upon graduation or withdrawal from school, students must complete a change of address in Pipeline so mail may be forwarded. When leaving the University permanently, students should notify correspondents of any address change. Students leaving to attend aniInternational program or leaving for the summer must complete a change of address in Pipeline. This will allow mail to be forwarded until the student’s return to the University. Students no longer residing in University housing, must notify Campus Mail Services in order to keep or close their campus box.
Campus Mail Services also offers an intra-campus mail service for sending and receiving mail communication between departments, students, faculty and staff. Multiple pieces of candy, home-baked goods, etc., must be in factory sealed containers or Ziploc bags. The following items will not be accepted for delivery by Campus Mail Services: any item deemed potentially hazardous, liquids, fruit, vegetables, flowers, or 8.5 x 11 sheets of paper (each sheet must be folded in half or thirds prior to being submitted to Campus Mail Services). All cash/checks sent through campus mail must be sent using campus mail’s delivery confirmation service (at no charge).
Hours of operation:
Monday
9 a.m.–5 p.m.
Tuesday–Friday
8:30 a.m.–5 p.m.
Saturday and Sunday
Closed
Summer
Monday-Thursday closes at 4:30 p.m.
Friday closes at 4 p.m.
Phone: 501-279-4374
DINING SERVICES
Harding is a unique place requiring a unique dining program. The student body is composed of people from almost every state and dozens of foreign countries, each seeking something a little different from their meal plan. Quality, variety, convenience and flexibility are all combined to offer a dynamic dining experience. Dining Services strives to keep pace with the ever-changing trends in food service and welcomes your input.
The University Dining Hall offers a wide variety of foods with weekly rotating and pop-up style menus to satisfy any craving. Menus include a unique allergen-friendly station designed for students with food allergies and sensitivities, a salad bar and deli filled with fresh ingredients, house-made pastas and pizzas, innovative international dishes, grilled burgers, chicken, vegetables, a variety of freshly baked desserts, fresh fruit, and more! Daily menus and nutritional information can be found by downloading the Dine on Campus app or by visiting dineoncampus.com/harding.
Hours of Operation:
Monday-Friday
Breakfast
7-10 a.m.
Lunch
10:45 a.m.-2 p.m.
Lite Lunch
2-4 p.m.
Dinner
4:30–7:30 p.m.
Monday-Thursday
Late Night
7:30-10:30 p.m.
Saturday and Sunday
Brunch
10:30 a.m.-2 p.m.
Dinner
4:30–7:30 p.m.
Occasionally undergraduates find they must withdraw completely from the University. Students living in University housing and/or enrolled in classes on the Searcy campus go to the Office of Student Life to complete paperwork and the required exit interview. Students are encouraged to contact the Office of Financial Aid Services with questions regarding the impact a withdrawal may have on their financial aid awards. All residence hall students must make arrangements with their residence life coordinator to properly check out of the residence hall.
Students who are enrolled in a class not on the Searcy campus or only in online courses may email the notice of withdrawal to studentlife@harding.edu, or mail the written notice to the Office of Student Life, Box 12252, Searcy, AR 72149-5615. Students must provide their name, student ID number, forwarding address, telephone number, semester of withdrawal, and brief statement of the reason for withdrawal.
The Student Life Office will notify the Office of Financial Aid Services, business office/student accounts and Registrar’s office of the withdrawal. Students will not be considered officially withdrawn until the registrar has received notification and completed the drop for all classes. Students who do not complete an official withdrawal may receive a failing grade for each class.
Please Note: Students who want to drop a class and not their whole schedule, should follow the deadline for dropping classes as listed in the academic information section of the current catalog and complete a drop course form on their Pipeline account.
To contest a parking citation, an appeal must be submitted within ten days of the citation issue date to the Traffic Appeals Committee via the internet. The Appeals Committee is composed of Harding faculty and staff members. Committee members review each appeal and make their decision based on the information contained in the appeal as well as information from the ticket itself. When there is a question about an appeal, members of the committee may consult with the manager of Parking Services to find a resolution. The decision of the Traffic Appeals Committee is final.
The University reserves the right to remove by impounding any vehicle parked in such a way as to constitute a serious hazard or any vehicle that impedes vehicular or pedestrian traffic movement, the operation of emergency equipment, the making of essential repairs and services, or for other cogent reasons, such as failure to properly register the vehicle, excessive parking violations or abandoned vehicles. Owners of such vehicles will be required to pay all costs involved in removing, impounding or storing such vehicles.
Any attempt to manufacture, replicate or modify a parking permit or a temporary parking permit may result in, but is not limited to, immediate towing, disciplinary action and loss of right to an appeal. This can include using a permit assigned to another person.
Penalties may be paid in the business office/student accounts or online through the parking management website. Specific penalties for each fine can be found online at harding.edu/life-at-harding/campus-safety/parking-registration/.
Changes to the above information, to include penalties for violations, may be made at any time without prior notice by the administration.
Those who make use of the University’s IS&T resources are required to behave in a manner consistent with Harding’s mission, policies and codes of conduct. As a user of these resources, the user should adhere to the following guidelines:
Disciplinary Action: Breaches of this policy will be treated as breaches of discipline and dealt with as contained in the Harding University Code of Conduct.
For the purpose of this policy, pets are defined as any domestic or tamed animals, birds, snakes, reptiles and amphibians, unless specifically exempted below.
Pets are prohibited from being in residence halls and apartments, offices, classrooms, hallways, and all other areas in any academic or administrative building.
Pets on University grounds shall not be left unattended and must be maintained on a leash. Any student bringing a pet onto the grounds is expected to clean up after it and not cause additional work for custodial or maintenance personnel.
Service animals are exempt from this policy if the student has a documented disability with the Office of Disability Services and Educational Access.
Animals that are officially part of the University’s teaching, research or clinical programs are exempt from this policy.
Organizations or individual students wishing to display or distribute literature or other materials to students, faculty and staff on University-controlled property will be governed by the following:
All demonstrations must be registered in writing to and approved by the Vice President for Student Life/Dean of Students. All demonstrations must observe the following rules:
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (called FERPA) provides, with certain exceptions, (1) that students shall have a right of access to their education records and (2) that education institutions shall not release education records to non-school employees without the consent of the student. “Students” as used in this notice includes former students.
With few exceptions provided by law, students at Harding may see their education records upon request. Access will generally be granted immediately upon request; however, it is guaranteed within 45 days of the request. Students are entitled to copies (at the student’s expense) of records to which they have access. Students further have the right, under established procedures, to challenge the accuracy of the records and to enter their viewpoints in the records. Any questions regarding education records and the University FERPA Policy may be directed to the registrar’s office..
The University may not require students to sign a waiver of their right to access, but students should be aware that recommendations and evaluations may not be very helpful or candid without a signed waiver.
A student’s home address and phone number will be made available to a roommate assigned to that person.
Harding complies with applicable privacy and security standards, requirements, and implementation specifications pursuant to the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996. Notice of the uses and disclosures of protected health information made by Harding and students’ rights and Harding’s duties with respect to protected health information is provided on Pipeline.
In accordance with applicable federal and state laws, such as Titles VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act, and the Americans with Disabilities Act and ADA Amendments, the University does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of sex, race, color, national origin, religion, age, disability, marital status, genetic information, veteran status, citizenship status, ancestry, or any other protected status under federal, state or local law applicable to the University, in its education programs and activities, in employment policies and practices, and all other areas of the University. As a faith-based institution, the University is exempted from certain laws and regulations concerning discrimination. The University maintains the right, with regard to admissions, enrollment, employment, and other matters, to uphold and apply its religious beliefs related to, among other issues, marriage, sex (gender), gender identity, sexual orientation, sexual activity, pregnancy, and abortion.
Harding University reaffirms the principle that students, faculty and staff have the right to be free from sex discrimination in the form of sexual harassment by any member of the academic community.
Sexual harassment is defined as an attempt to coerce an unwilling person into a sexual relationship, or to subject a person to unwanted sexual attention, or to punish a refusal to comply, or to create a sexually intimidating, hostile or offensive environment. Sexual harassment is generally understood to include a wide range of behaviors, from the actual coercing of sexual relations to the unwelcome or inappropriate language regarding sexual identity. This definition will be interpreted and applied consistently with Christian standards of behavior and conduct.
A student who believes that he or she has been sexually harassed may obtain redress through informal and formal procedures of the University. Complaints about sexual harassment will receive prompt and equitable response. The right to confidentiality of all members of the academic community will be respected in both informal and formal procedures, insofar as is possible. Retaliation against individuals for bringing bona fide complaints of sexual harassment is expressly prohibited. Knowingly or willfully making a false claim is subject to discipline up to but not limited to dismissal from school. Formal procedures will not be initiated without a signed and verified written complaint. An individual found to have engaged in sexual harassment is subject to disciplinary action for violations of the policy consistent with existing procedures.
Kevin Davis, assistant director of Public Safety, and Amie Carter, assistant director of Human Resources, serve as Title IX Coordinators of the University. Sexual harassment claims against a student may be filed in the Office of Student Life in Hammon Student Center 218 or in the Office of Public Safety in the Kendall Building. Claims against a faculty or staff member may be filed with the Office of Human Resources in Ezell Building 130.
Complainants and witnesses who report or participate in an investigation of dating violence, domestic violence, sexual assault or stalking will not be subject to disciplinary sanctions, such as suspension or probation, for violations of the code of conduct that occurred at or near the time of the incident. A student who believes that he or she is the victim of dating violence, domestic violence, sexual assault or stalking may obtain redress through procedures of the University. Complaints will receive prompt and equitable response. The right to confidentiality of all members of the academic community will be respected, insofar as is possible. Retaliation against individuals for bringing bona fide complaints is expressly prohibited. Knowingly or willfully making a false claim is subject to discipline up to but not limited to dismissal from the University. Formal procedures will not be initiated without a signed and verified written complaint. An individual found to have engaged in dating violence, domestic violence, sexual assault or stalking is subject to disciplinary action for violations of the policy consistent with existing procedures.
Claims made by a student against another student may be filed with the Office of Student Life in Hammon Student Center 218 or in the Office of Public Safety in the Kendall Building. Claims made by a student against a faculty or staff member may be filed with the Office of Human Resources in Ezell Building 130. A copy of the rights of the accuser and accused will be made available at the time the complaint is filed. Further information may be obtained through the annual security report at harding.edu/public-safety.
The student, by being enrolled at the University, consents and grants to the University the right to enter and/or search that student’s room, with or without the student’s presence, to search his or her possessions that are in or on University property, to search computer files and data-storage devices, and for a reasonable period of time, to maintain possession of anything by which the student violates the rules and regulations of the University.
The student, by being enrolled at the University, directs and authorizes the University to refuse any item sent to the student through any means, including mail services, if the University finds possession of the item by the student would be inappropriate, would violate the rules and regulations of the University, or would be contrary to the mission of the University.
Harding’s policy states that drug and alcohol possession or use is not tolerated. Harding has chosen to take a strong stand against the use of controlled substances because of the significant risks that students assume when deciding to use them. Many of these substances are physically or psychologically addicting. The composition of “street” drugs can never be determined by the user and is often dangerous. Strictly enforced laws and policies can lead to serious consequences for even the experimenter or occasional user. The negative personal consequences far outweigh any brief exhilaration or escape. The University strongly believes that any use of controlled substances is contrary to the mission of Harding. Students seeking information or personal assistance for substance abuse can receive counseling and referral to community resources in the University Counseling Center.
The Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act requires our school to outlaw the possession, use or distribution of illegal drugs and alcohol by students and school employees on school property or during school activities. It also requires us to explain the risks that drug and alcohol use may cause to an individual’s health.
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Federal and state laws prohibit the possession, use or distribution of illicit drugs. In addition, the state of Arkansas has laws that pertain to alcohol use and possession. Contact the Office of Student Life with any questions.
SPECIAL NOTE
The Office of Student Life also makes available important information concerning:
The authority to establish and enforce regulations of Harding University is vested in the board of trustees. The responsibility to initiate, implement and supervise the disciplinary process for students is delegated to the president, who in turn has designated the vice president/dean of students as the person to conduct the nonacademic disciplinary proceedings of the University. The vice president for student life and his/her staff shall be responsible to the executive vice president of Harding University for disposal of all cases.
The faculty and staff of Harding University are delegated the authority to enforce the Harding University Code of Conduct in the classroom, in residence halls, on campus and when involved in other activities.
All students are responsible for knowing all the policies and regulations contained within this document. All are also expected to demonstrate a respect for themselves and the rights and property of others, both within and outside the University community.
Students are expected to maintain the highest standards of morality, integrity, orderliness and personal honor. Harding University reserves the right to refuse admittance or dismiss any student whose lifestyle is not consistent with the Christian principles that this University represents.
| Academic Resource Center | 501-279-4531 |
| Business Office | 501-279-4336 |
| Campus Mail | 501-279-4374 |
| Counseling Center | 501-279-4347 |
| Disability Services and Educational Access | 501-279-4019 |
| Financial Aid Services | 501-279-4257 |
| Library Information Desk | 501-279-4775 |
| Office of Public Safety | 501-279-5000 |
| Office of Student Life | 501-279-4331 |
| Registrar’s Office | 501-279-4057 |
| Security Technology Center (lost IDs) | 501-279-5678 |
| Student Health Services | 501-279-4346 |
| Student IS&T Support and Communications | 501-279-4545 |
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