President's Report Masthead
December 31, 2013

Red Folders

The Dean of Students Office published and distributed thousands of a red, letter-sized folder to faculty and staff this semester. Each Red Folder contains helpful tips and information on what to do if a student is causing a disruption, how to offer assistance to a student of concern, how to contact key student-services offices that can assist in emergency situations and how to contact the Students of Concern Committee. 

An interdisciplinary group of professionals from across all University divisions that meets weekly to collaboratively address the needs of students of concern, the Students of Concern Committee facilitates referrals to campus and community resources and consults with departments or individuals impacted by a student’s behavior.

The folder also includes information on the University’s Interpersonal Violence Prevention program, its Office of Student Conduct, FERPA and confidentiality, as well as how to identify a distressed student and contact information for some off-campus resources.

The Red Folder was also distributed to teaching assistants and graduate assistants, and, in partnership with the Graduate School, a focused training program for them on students of concern was conducted.

Plans are in place to print additional folders as new faculty and staff join the University. The project has been overseen by Beth Riley, the case manager in the Dean of Students Office, who provides support, lends advice and helps find the best resolution to address issues students are facing.