Joseph Hayslette

Keith Scholars Hall, Third Floor

Hometown: Charleston, West Virginia 
Classification: Senior 
Years as an RA: Three
Why you chose to be an RA: I chose to be an RA to help ease the transition between home life and college life.

Ashlynne Davis

Dawson Hall, Third Floor

Hometown: Fresno, California
Classification: Sophomore 
Years as an RA: Two
Why you chose to be an RA: I wanted to help students feel more comfortable as well as get to know students.

Eddie Sweeney IV

Dawson Hall, Second Floor

Hometown: Charleston, West Virginia
Classification: Sophomore 
Years as an RA: This is his first year
Why you chose to be an RA: I chose to be a RA because I wanted to connect more with the student body. 





 

Exemption Process

A. West Virginia State University has a two-year on-campus residency requirement for all out-of-state students starting their freshman year. Out-of-state transfer students must have lived a total of four semesters on a university campus to be exempted from living on campus. Students who live within the 50 (road) commuting miles do not have to apply for housing unless they desire to live within the residence halls. However, if you live within the 50 commuting miles and decide to stay on campus, then you must be exempted from living on campus if you decide to move off campus. Students must receive an exemption prior to moving off campus. If a student moves off campus prior to receiving an exemption, he/she will still be responsible for the room and board charges through the University.
 
B. It is important that when requesting an exemption that students pay close attention to the exemption deadline. Exemptions to this requirement must be requested in writing (on a Release Request Form obtained from the Housing and Residence Life Office or the Residence Life website) and submitted by May 3rd, 2023 for the 2023-24 Fall Semester. Exemptions for 2024 Spring Semester should be submitted by November 15, 2023. Release requests will not be accepted after these dates. 

A release request form may be submitted to: The Office of Housing and Residence Life, West Virginia State University, Judge Damon J. Keith Scholars Hall, Institute, West Virginia 25112, or to reslife@wvstateu.edu.

Exemptions to this requirement may be granted to students under certain conditions. They are:

• Student commutes to campus from the principal residence of a parent or legal guardian living within 50 (road) commuting miles. The student must provide a birth certificate signed by one or both parents or legal documentation of guardianship, and a valid driver's license or current utility bill in the parent's/guardian's name to verify the address of his/her residence.
• Student is twenty-one years of age or older, having reached that age no later than the first day of classes for the applicable semester or having graduated from high school more than two years prior to the beginning of the semester.
• Student is married. A copy of the marriage certificate must be submitted as documentation.
• Student has custody of dependent children. A copy of the birth certificate(s) must be submitted as documentation.
• Student can demonstrate other acceptable extenuating circumstances and provide documentation to support the request for exemption.

C. Upon receipt, requests will be reviewed by the Director of Housing and Residence Life. A written determination will be emailed to the student's WVSU email address. If the student's request is denied he/she will have ten (10) days in which to submit a written appeal to the Office of Student Affairs as outlined in the denial letter.
 
D. All non-exempt freshman and sophomore students must comply with this requirement. 

Summer Housing Requirements

Residents requesting to live on campus over the summer must submit a Summer Housing Request form electronically. In order to be considered to live on campus, students must meet one of the requirements below:

• Either be a current Spring 2023 resident and/or future Fall 2023-24 resident.

                                                        AND one of the following:

1. Work an on-campus job, with supervisor support.
2. Be enrolled for summer course work or have a University affiliated internship or externship.
3. Have extenuating circumstance or hardship. These requests will be reviewed by the Office of Housing and Residence Life and Housing on an individual basis.

Summer Housing Applications are being accepted from Monday, March 13th - Friday, May 5th, 2023. Questions about whether you qualiify for summer housing can be directed to reslife@wvstateu.edu. 
 

Wondering about what you need to bring? Each room is furnished with a desk, desk chair, bed, dresser, and closet space. To help make this your home away from home, we have put together a list of helpful tips and "things to bring/things not to bring."

The Judge Damon J. Keith Scholars Hall

Features:

• 289 total beds
• 78 suite-style units – two, three and four-bedroom plans
• 9 fully-furnished apartment-style units with rental rates inclusive of electricity, cable and Internet service. With the exception of two of the apartments, each apartment houses two students, in which each student has their own room and bathroom.

Community amenities:

• Pickard Café, which provides an additional option for dining available until 9 p.m. during the week
• Gaming Room
• 24-hour Study Lounge
• Free Centralized laundry facilities on each floor

Dawson Hall

Features:

• 94 total beds 
• Double Occupancy
• Free on-site laundry facility

Dawson Hall residents are welcome to use the gaming room located in Keith Hall.

Fall 2023-24 Student Move-In

WVSU’s fall semester will begin August 14th, 2023. 

All new student placements will be sent to student's State e-mail account prior to move-in. It is important that students pay their deposits prior to arrival to receive a housing assignment. There is a $200 non-refundable housing fee required for all new students who desire to reside on campus. Housing assignments are typically sent to students around the second week of July.




 Attached below is a map of our campus:

WVSU Campus Map for Move In (pdf)

 
Early-Arrivals
Students wishing to arrive on campus in advance of their set move in date must fill out the Early Arrival Request located on your website under "Important Links." This does not ensure that you will be able to move in early and students will need to receive approval from the Housing and Residence Office prior to their arrival.  Additionally, there will be a $50 daily charge to move in prior to the move-in date.

Housing Assignment Information Our Housing and Residence Life staff works diligently to review all of the housing application materials submitted to our office to determine the best possible placement. This is not an exact science, but we do make our very best effort to match students based upon their lifestyle preferences and expectations. Considering occupancy may change due to updated, new, or rescinded applications. All assignments are tentative.  When you receive your housing assignment letter, it will include the name and email information for your roommate(s). We encourage you to contact your roommate to introduce yourself. As students are settling in, we ask that they do not drill holes into our walls and/or use Command strips. The Office of Housing and Residence would prefer students to use thumb tacks instead. No Command strips may be used at all. Students will be charged if they use them. Any damages incurred by students will be billed to directly to the student's account.   How are Incoming and Returning Students Assigned to Housing? All new incoming students must be admitted to the university and are assigned a housing placement based on their application date and $200 housing deposit submitted. The earlier a student pays their deposit for housing, the more likely they will receive their desired housing preferences. All students living in 2-, 3-, or 4-person suites will be assigned roommate(s), so it is essential that you complete the "Residential Profile" section on our website completely and accurately. The Office of Housing and Residence Life cannot guarantee your roommate selection. In order for roommate requests to be considered, the request must be mutual between both roommates.    We look forward to seeing you in August!

 

WEST VIRGINIA STATE UNIVERSITY

2023-2024 HOUSING CONTRACTUAL AGREEMENT

This Contract is made between West Virginia State University (“the University”), the undersigned student, and the Student’s parent(s) or guardian(s) (the student and the parent(s) and/or guardian(s) being collectively referred to as “Obligors.”). The University grants to the Student a revocable license to live in University housing, subject to the following terms and conditions of this Contract:

 

1. ASSIGNMENT OF SPACE. The Student must be registered full-time at WVSU, must maintain a 2.0 grade point average, and make appropriate payment arrangements with the University. The University will furnish the Student with space in a residence hall which includes a bed in a bedroom together with a bathroom (the “Unit”) to be used in common with other residents of the living unit.

2. TERM. The term of the occupancy of this Unit is from August 10, 2023 (for new freshmen and new transfer students) or August 11, 2022 (for all other students) until May 11, 2024 (“the Academic Year”), subject to the provisions of paragraph 16.1. The student promises to vacate the Unit during the designated break periods: December 9th, 2023 at 5:00 p.m. until January 13th, 2024 at noon. At the completion of the last final exam at the end of each semester or upon any sooner cancellation of the Contract, the Student promises to promptly vacate the Unit returning all keys, removing all personal items and leaving the unit in a condition, ready for the next occupant. Students should vacate no later than May 11th, 2024 at 5:00 p.m. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the University has sole and absolute discretion to require the Student to vacate a Unit or to otherwise suspend or disrupt the University’s campus housing and food services, without liability for any loss, expense, damage of any kind, if in the interests of the health and safety of students or because of circumstances that arise from, relate to, or may be necessitated by a public health crisis, order of civil authority, natural disaster, or other events beyond the control of University.

3. HOUSING APPLICATION FEE. The Student Occupants promise to pay Two-hundred dollars ($200) prior to occupancy of the Unit, payable to WVSU through the Cashier Office. The housing application fee is due each Academic year and is non-refundable.

4. USE. The Unit may be used solely as a residence for the Student and for no other purpose whatsoever. The Student must use the unit in a safe manner and may not:

1. maintain or permit a nuisance to be maintained in the Unit;

2. make physical alterations, additions or changes to Unit;

3. use the unit in any unlawful manner;

4. use the Unit in a manner that is dangerous to life, limb, or property;

5. use the unit in a manner that interferes with the safety, study, sleep, or comfort of any resident, tenant, neighbor; or

6. use the Unit in a manner that negatively impacts the standing or reputation of the University.

The Student promises to use the Unit in accordance with, and to comply with, the University’s Housing Guidelines, as they currently exist and as they may be changed from time to time by the University in its sole discretion without prior notice.

5. ASSIGNMENT AND SUBLICENSING. This Contract is not assignable, transferable, or subject to sublicensing by the Student Occupants. The Student may not allow any person who has not received prior written approval by the Office of Housing and Residence Life to reside or use the Unit as a sleeping facility. This Contract, and the rights, licenses, and obligations hereunder, may be transferred and/or assigned by the University, without the further consent of the Student Occupants, to any of the University’s successors and assigns, and the Student Occupants shall continue to owe such successors and assigns compliance with and satisfaction of all obligations described in this Contract. The Student Occupants may not assign this Contract or any right or license hereunder. Guests may not enter a unit without the permission of the roommate.

6. CONDITION AND CARE OF UNIT AND CONTENTS. 

   1. The Unit will be made available to the student in a clean and satisfactory condition containing the personal property (“Contents”) listed on the Room Condition Form provided at check-in. All Contents are the University’s property, not the property of the Student, and may not be removed from the Unit. The Student, within two (2) days after occupancy, must provide the Office of Housing and Residence Life with a written list of any existing damage to the Unit or its Contents. If the Student does not submit a list of damages within the 2-day time period, the Unit and its contents will be deemed to have been received by the Student complete and free from damage.

   2. The Student must keep the Unit and the Contents clean and must take good care of and not damage or permit the damage of the Unit or its Contents. The Student also must not damage or permit the damage of any corridors, stairwells, laundry rooms, elevators, parking lots, or common areas in the residence halls. The Student shall be responsible for the conduct of guests and invitees. Students must complete and sign Roommate Agreement forms within the first two weeks of moving in.

   3. The Student may not make alterations or additions to the Unit of any kind. Furniture, doors, etc. must remain upright and intact.

   4. The University is responsible for all repairs to the Unit unless they are required as a result of the act or omission of the Student or any guest or invitee of the Student. In that case, the Student Occupants are responsible for and will be charged for the cost of repairing and damage to the Unit and its Contents caused or permitted by any act or omission of the Student or any guest or invitee of the Student, including removal of any trash. All such repairs will be performed by the University or its designated agents or contractors; no other entity or person may perform repairs or otherwise engage in construction activity on the Unit. Charges for damages to common areas may be prorated among all students having access to those areas, unless the responsible party is identified to the University’s satisfaction. All charges for damages must be paid within thirty (30) days of notice from the University. Transcripts and diplomas will be withheld until full payment has been made by the Student.

7. UNIVERSITY’S RIGHT OF ENTRY. The Student Occupants consent and agree that the University, and its agents, servants, and employees, may enter the Unit at any time and may inspect the Unit and all Contents thereof and property therein, for emergencies, for maintenance and repairs, for inventory purposes, to protect the health and safety of students, occupants or University employees or agents, inspections, and to enforce and ensure the enforcement of the University’s rules and regulations and policies.

8. UTILITIES. The University will furnish furniture, electricity, water/sewer, HVAC, basic cable television service/internet service connection for the Unit during the term of occupancy. If any of these utilities are interrupted, the University will use reasonable efforts to restore them as quickly as reasonably possible; however, the University is not liable for the interruption.

9. DINING. All residential students must have a valid dining plan with the campus provider.

10. INSURANCE. The University shall not be liable directly or indirectly for loss or damage to personal belongings or other property by fire, theft, or other causes. The University does not provide any insurance for the Student’s personal belongings or other property at the Unit, nor for the Student’s liability to others. The Student is strongly encouraged to procure and maintain renter’s insurance or other appropriate insurance, covering the Student’s personal property from loss or damage and covering the Student for liability.

11. FIRE SAFETY. All residents must evacuate the building at the sound of the fire alarm. Any resident tampering with any smoke detector, fire alarm, or fire extinguisher, or failing to comply with state or local fire regulations in any way, including, but not limited to, failing to exit a building in a timely manner during a fire alarm, is subject to removal from housing and/or judicial action.

12. LIABILITY. 

    1. The Student Occupants shall defend, indemnify, and save the University, its agents, employees, and trustees harmless from and against all liabilities, obligations, damages, penalties, claims, costs, charges, and expenses, including, but not limited to, reasonable attorneys’ fees and costs, which may be imposed upon, incurred by, or asserted against University, its agents, servants, trustees, and employees, as a result of or arising out of any act or omission of the Student or any guest or invitee of the Student.

    2. The University will not be liable for the loss of or damage to, any property entrusted or provided to any of the employees, agents, or servants of the University without the University’s prior written consent to be so obligated, or for loss or damage to any property of the Student within the Unit or grounds from any cause whatsoever. The University shall not be liable for any personal loss, injury, illness or damage incurred by the Student or its guests or invitees from any acts or omissions of any person or entity, and any other causes beyond the University’s control, and the Student Occupants release and waive all possible claims against the University and its agents, servants, trustees, and employees relating in any way to civil, criminal or other acts or omissions of third persons.

13. ROOM CONSOLIDATION. The University may consolidate rooms to fill capacity when vacancies occur and may move students to another room when such consolidations become necessary. Students who have not contracted for a designated single occupancy, do not have a roommate/suitemate, and have been requested to consolidate may either select another roommate/suitemate, have another roommate/suitemate assigned by the University, or change rooms or change to a designated single occupancy room. Any room changes must be approved by the Director of Housing and Residence Life and be completed within three days. Students will be notified to consolidate via WVSU email.

14. RULES AND REGULATIONS. The Student Occupants acknowledge having access to the University’s Guidelines and Policies for Student Housing and Student Handbook. The Student must comply with the University’s Guidelines and Policies for Student Housing and Student Handbook, and with any other rules and regulations of the University, as such Guidelines, Handbook, policies and procedures, and rules and regulations currently existing and as they may be changed from time to time by the University in its sole discretion without prior notice. 

15. CANCELLATION. 

    1. The University may cancel this Contract before the end of the academic year without any liability whatsoever to the Student or to the Student’s parent or guardian, and the Student thereupon shall immediately vacate the Unit, if the Student:

1. fails to pay any amounts due to the University in connection with this Contract within seven (7) business days after notice from the University of the default;

2. does not correct any other violation of this Contract within three (3) business days after notice from the University;

3. receives two (2) written notices of any violation of this Contract, whether or not cured, during the Academic Year;

4. is suspended or dismissed from the University for academic or disciplinary reasons, or otherwise ceases to be a student at the University;

5. commits, causes, or encourages the commission of, any act which, in the sole and absolute discretion and determination of the University, threatens the life, health or safety of themselves or any other occupant in the residence hall(s).

6. damages or threatens to damage the Unit, its Contents or the residence hall(s);

7. commits, or causes the commission of, any breach or default of this Contract which cannot be cured;

8. commits, causes, or encourages the commission of, or threatens to commit any act which, in the sole and absolute discretion and determination of the University, demonstrates the Student’s unfitness to occupy a Unit in the residence hall(s); or

9. abandons the Unit.

15.2    If Student desires to cancel this Contract, the Student must request permission from the Office of Housing and Residence Life. Requests for cancellation received by the Office of Housing and Residence Life at least 60 days before the start of the Academic Year will automatically be granted. Requests for cancellation due to the Student’s induction into military service will automatically be granted if the Office of Housing and Residence Life receives written proof of the military induction. Requests for cancellation because the Student has graduated at the end of the Fall semester will be granted upon verification by the Registrar’s office. All other requests for cancellation are non-refundable. Requests for cancellation due to a medical condition, illness or injury of a nature that prevents the Student from continuing the Student’s studies will be reviewed if the Office of Housing and Residence Life receives written proof of the medical condition, illness, or injury. If the cancellation of this Contract is approved by the University under this paragraph 15.2, the consideration will be prorated to the date the Student vacates the Unit or the date of cancellation, whichever is later. The Student Occupants remain responsible, however, for any obligations arising up until and including that date. 

16. SPECIAL ACCOMMODATIONS REQUEST: Students must request special housing accommodations before the University will attempt to satisfy any such accommodation. Those accommodations can be made through Student Accessibility Resources. If the University is not able to provide requested accommodation, the student will be notified and they have the right to cancel this contract without penalty.

17. LICENSE. This Contract is only a license to use space and does not constitute a lease.

18. ENTIRE AGREEMENT. This contract contains the entire agreement between the Student Occupants and the University, regarding the subject matter of this Contract, except as expressly provided herein, and supersedes all prior and contemporaneous understandings and agreements, whether oral or in writing, between the parties regarding the subject matter of this Contract.

 

Each of the undersigned states and affirms that they have read and understand this 2023-24 Housing Contractual Agreement and agrees to be bound by its terms.

 

CONTRACT DENIAL

A residence hall contract may be denied a student or terminated with subsequent financial penalties by the WVSU Housing and Residence Life based on the student’s past record of violation(s) of the residence hall contract(s). Students residing on a residence hall floor which, in the judgment of the University, has exhibited a pattern of damage and/or other disciplinary problems may not be eligible to return to the residence halls for the next semester or academic year. The University reserves the right to determine that the past behavior and/or criminal record of any student (including being found delinquent by a juvenile court) is such that the interests of the University, the student him/herself, and/or other students, would best be served by alteration or cancellation of a Residence Hall Contract. If Housing and Residence Life becomes aware that a student has a record of criminal conviction(s), falsification of records or other actions indicating behavior(s) that could pose a risk to person or property and/or could be injurious or disruptive to the residence hall community, the University may not accept or may cancel and terminate the Residence Hall Contract. If the contract is so cancelled, the student shall be entitled to a full pro-rated refund of room and board fees as of the date the room is vacated. 

 

The following are rules that apply to the residence halls and should be followed. These rules apply to all residence halls. 

HOUSING RULES AND REGULATIONS

1. Apartment/Room Inspection: WVSU Housing and Residence Life reserves the right to inspect individual rooms to: a) ensure proper maintenance of health and safety standards; b) take inventory; c) make necessary repairs; d) perform extermination/pest control services; e) add/remove furniture, and f) enforce university policies. Housing and Residence Life staff will make periodic, announced/unannounced checks of all residence hall rooms. These checks are performed to identify health, safety and maintenance problems. Residents do not have to be present during these checks. Residence Life will leave a sheet stating whether your room passed or failed. If the room fails, then you will have 48 hours to make the correction(s). If the correction(s) aren't made within the time period, then the student may be subject to a fine.

2. Room Care: Residents are responsible for: a) cleaning their rooms; b) removing waste material regularly (Both Keith and Dawson residents are responsible for taking their own waste out. Keith Hall students must dispose of their trash in the trash room, which faces the Quad area. Dawson students must dispose of their trash in the large trash bins to either the South or North stairwell located first floor of Dawson Hall); and c) maintaining sanitation and safety conditions acceptable to the university.

3. Decorations: Pictures, posters and other materials may be hung using pushpins and/or tacks. If damage is done to the walls (paint peels, drywall tears, etc.) the room/suite occupant(s) will be charged for labor and materials to repaint the area. The use of nails, screws, glue, masking tape, Command Adhesive, and other adhesives on walls, ceilings, wardrobes, woodwork, appliances, fixtures, doors or furniture is prohibited.  All decorations must be removed when the resident vacates or the student will be charged a cleaning fee. In addition, students may not attach anything to the sprinkler system head.
Students may decorate the outside of the door provided decorations: a) are not lewd; b) do not block exits; and c) do not create a potential fire or safety hazard. 

4. Noise: All WVSU residence hall quiet hours are from 10 p.m. to 10 a.m during the week and start at midnight during the weekends.  While music may be played outside of the quiet hours, noise levels during those hours should be low enough not to disturb others. It is always 24/7 courtesy hours - meaning that any excessive disturbances will not be tolerated. Students will be fined accordingly if they violate this policy. During Finals week, there will be 24/7 quiet hours during that week and weekend to provide residents with an atmosphere conducive to preparing for exams.

5. Safety

• Do not give building/room access codes to anyone. This includes letting anyone in the residence halls who do not reside in them.
• Do not prop open exterior doors or permit people to enter residence halls through Fire/Emergency Exits.

6. Overnight Guests: Every guest is subject to University rules and regulations. Guests must be escorted by their hosts at all times. Overnight guests are limited to two per resident. Guest can visit for up to three (3) consecutive days (72 hours), and up to six (6) days in a given month on a space available basis in the assigned room of the host. Only if there is advance consent by all residents of the room/suite, and in accordance with the specific visitation policies established.

7. Complicity

• Presence during any violation of university policy in such a way as to condone, support, or encourage that violation. (NOTE: As a Residence Hall family, we are responsible for our home away from home. Students who anticipate or observe a violation of university policy are expected to remove themselves from the situation and are encouraged to report the violation.)  

8. Furniture: Students are not permitted to bring additional furniture such as futons, sofas, dressers, etc. into the residence halls without prior approval from the Director of Housing and Residence Life. WVSU does not provide storage space for additional personal items or unversity furnishings, to make room for additional personal items. In addition, WVSU furniture must remain in their respective unit and common area; i.e., beds should remain in the student's room as opposed to within the common space. Removal of furnishings from the unit, common areas and/or buildings is prohibited. The responsible student(s) may be referred to the WVSU judicial system and/or civil process. Common area furniture found in an individual unit will be removed and the resident(s) will be assessed a fine.

9. Housing during Winter/Spring Break
During the academic year, students wishing to stay during the following breaks: Winter Break (Winter Break is not covered in student costs. Student will have to pay extra), and Spring Break will need to contact Residence Life to request to stay over the break. If granted permission to stay during the break, you may be asked to move to another location during the break period.

10. Solicitation: No door-to-door solicitation is permitted in WVSU owned or managed buildings by individuals or groups. The occupant of an individual suite is permitted to invite individuals, groups, organizations, associations, and corporations to conduct group or individual commercial and noncommercial solicitation in the individual suite provided such activity does not: a) create undue noise; b) disturb either the occupant's roommate(s) or occupants of nearby rooms; or extend out into the hallways; d) break any policies and laws.


All residence halls are smoke-free environments.

• Burning candles, incense or other such ‘open flame’ luminaries are not permitted. Wax burners are also prohibited.
• Electronic cigarettes are not permitted in the building(s).
• No marijuana use inside the residence halls and/or outside of the halls.

Prohibited Items. These include, but are not limited to:

• Weapons
  • Firearms
    • Guns and ammunition
    • BB Guns
    • water/toy guns etc...
  • Knives (not including butter knives) larger than 3 inches.
    • switchblades, hunting knives etc...
  • Tasers
  • Fireworks and or any explosives
  • Bow and arrows etc...
• Candles and wax burners/melters
• Pets of any kind (Unless approved by the Office of Counseling and Accessibility Services prior to the pet being on campus)
• Natural trees or evergreens
• Futons
• Hotplates
• Halogen lamps
• George Foreman grills
• Air Fryers
• Crockpots/Rice cookers
• Toaster oven​
• Alcohol, alcohol paraphernalia, shot glasses
• Possession, creation, use, and/or sale of illegal substances and paraphernalia
  • sale or distribution of legal/over the counter medication is also prohibited. 

** This is not an exhaustive list. Residents should contact the Housing and Residence Life Office if they are unsure if something is allowed.
 

HAZING POLICY AND SANCTIONS

Any person or persons who cause(s) hazing is guilty of a misdemeanor and upon conviction thereof shall be: fined not less than one hundred dollars nor more than one thousand dollars; or confined in a county or regional jail not more than nine months; or both fined and imprisoned.  Provided that if the act would otherwise be deemed a felony as defined in the hazing code, the person committing such acts may be found guilty of such acts and/or may be found guilty of a felony and be subject to penalties provided by law for such felony. 
 
In accordance with the goal of educating and assisting students with conduct problems, the Vice President for Student Affairs may recommend such other forms of disciplinary action as may be appropriate to the individual case.  These may typically involve work or research projects or recommendation for counseling options.

AFFIRMATIVE ACTION STATEMENT

West Virginia State University is an EQUAL OPPORTUNITY/AFFIRMATIVE ACTION institution and does not discriminate against any person because of race, sex, age, color, religion, disability, national or ethnic origin. This policy extends to all West Virginia State University activities related to the management of its educational, financial and business affairs. It affects all employment practices including but not limited to recruitment, hiring, transfer, promotion, training, compensation, benefits, layoff, and  termination.

 

The housing lottery is only available to students who are returning for the Fall semester.

Students who do not fill out the housing application on time will be placed on a waiting list and CANNOT participate in the housing lottery.

"Emotional Support" are:

• animals that work, provide assistance, or perform tasks for the benefit of a person with a disability, or
• animals that provide emotional support which alleviates one or more identified symptoms or effects of a person's disability.

Some, but not all, animals that assist persons with disabilities are professionally trained. Other assistance animals are trained by the owners. In some cases, no special training is required. The question is whether or not the animal performs the assistance or provides the benefit needed as a reasonable accomodaon by the person with a disability at all times. Assistance animals my be considered for access to university housing, however, they are not permitted in other areas of the university (e.g. libraries, academic buildings, classrooms. labs, student center, etc.).

Assistance/Emotional Support Animal Policy

Under the Fair Housing Act (FHA), a person may keep an assistance animal in his/her residence hall or campus apartment as a reasonable accommdation if:

• The individual has a disability;
• The animal is necessary to afford the individual with a disability an equal opportunity to use and enjoy campus housing; and 
• There is an identifiable relationship between the disability and the assistance the animal provides.

Assistance animals are primarily allowed in the residence hall(s) or campus apartments for which the individual with a disability is assigned by the Office of Housing and Residence Life. The initial request and disability verification forms must be submitted to Student Accessibility Resources by June 1st for the fall semester, and October 1st for the spring semester.

Students must complete the intake interview and submit any requested additional information by July 1st for fall semester and November 1st for spring semester.

An individual with a disability may be asked to remove an assistance animal from campus housing if the animal:

• is out of control and individual does not take effective action to control it.
• poses a direct threat to the health and safety of others (that cannot be reduced or eliminated by another reasonable accommodation),
• causes substantial physical damage to the property of others (including University housing), or
• poses an undue financial and administrative burden to the University.

SAR and Housing and Residence Life may place reasonable conditions or restrictions on approved animals, depennding on the nature and characteristics of the animal. This will be determined on a case-by-case basis using an interactive process involving the student and staff of the aforementioned offices.

Prior to bringing an animal to campus, you must print and return the Assistance Animal Agreement and the List of Owner's Responsibilities to the Housing and Residence LIfe Office. The university has policies and procedures in place that outline what animals are allowed on campus and in residence halls and buildings.

For more information, please visit the Student Accessibility Resources webpage.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently updated their guidance on isolation and precautions for those with COVID-19, and as a result West Virginia State University is updating our campus protocols.

Consistent with CDC protocols, if you test positive for COVID-19 you should isolate from others for at least 5 days. You should also isolate if you are experiencing symptoms and suspect you have COVID-19 but do not yet have the test results. While in isolation, if you experience symptoms and want to speak with a medical professional please contact the on-campus health care provider, FamilyCare Health Center (304) 766-3323, or your health care provider of choice. If you violate your isolation while staying on campus you will be required to immediately leave campus and finish the remainder of your isolation off campus at your own expense.

If you are exposed to someone with COVID-19, the CDC is now recommending that instead of quarantining you wear a high-quality mask for 10 days and get tested on day 5. The complete updated guidelines can be found here.

For additional information please visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website.

Entering Isolation

Once you have checked in to your isolation space, you will not be able to leave for any reason apart from COVID-19 testing, medical treatment, or an emergency. Limiting movement to your room reduces the likelihood of community spread. Please make sure you have everything you need when entering isolation. 

Where will I be staying?

Students who have been designated to isolate will reside in the Sullivan Hall East wing, which is located to the left and then through the double doors on the right when you enter from the campus quad area. Only students who live within the 150 mile radius of the campus will be allowed to isolate on campus, unless there is an extenuating circumstance.

What should I bring?

Please prepare the following items for your quarantine/isolation period. Students will not be allowed back into their assigned room until they are cleared to return. No personal items will be retrieved for a student after they have moved into your isolation space. Please double check that all your personal and academic needs are packed, as it may be up to a 5-day stay.  

Room needs:

• Pillow and pillowcase 
• Comfortable blanket
• Personal needs  
• Clean, comfortable clothing
• Slippers/house shoes are encouraged
• Water bottle
• Snacks 

Entertainment:

• Gaming system
• Hobbies (knitting, puzzles, etc.)
• Books

Toiletries:

• Shampoo/conditioner, body wash/soap, face wash, toothbrush, toothpaste, feminine hygiene products, deodorant, shaving razors/cream, etc.
• Eyeglasses/contacts and related supplies  
• Medications  
• Thermometer 
• Hand sanitizer 
• Face Coverings

Academic needs 

• WVSU ID, wallet with state/government-issued ID, health insurance cards  
• Laptop and charger  
• Phone and charger  
• Headphones  
• Textbooks, notebook, pens/pencils, and highlighters

How do I get to my isolation room on campus?

If a student selects to isolate in Sullivan Hall East, an official from the WVSU Public Safety Department will initiate campus protocols and help you locate your designated room. The student will receive an email from Housing and Residence Life containing the designated room and a link to the Aladdin Dining Services menu to inform our staff of their meal preferences during their stay.

How will I receive my meals?

All meals will be provided by Aladdin Dining Services. Housing and Residence Life, along with Athletics, will work directly with you for meal delivery to your room as well as discuss any specific dietary needs. Students will be asked to complete the Google Drive form with their meal preferences for the remainder of the week. Meals for the following week are due each Sunday by 8:00 p.m.

May I have items delivered to isolation?

Our staff will work to deliver packages to your room in isolation. Please know that packages may arrive at your current location up to 24 hours after receiving the notification. Staff will knock on your door and leave your package outside of your room. Please remember to always wear a mask when you open your door. 

Am I able to attend remote classes if I am in isolation?

Students in remote courses should continue their coursework unless they are too sick to do so. In those cases, students should work with their instructors.


 

What is the cost of housing?

Housing Cost for 2022-2023 (Academic Year)

Room and Board Charges
All Residence Halls	Rate Per Semester
Keith Scholars Hall 2BR	$ 3,881
Keith Scholars Hall 2BR (Quad/Yard view)	$ 4,025
Keith Scholars Hall 3BR	$ 3,881
Keith Scholars Hall 4BR	$ 3,881
Dawson Single	$ 3,621
Dawson Double	$ 2,479
Board Plans
Board - Option # 1 - Premium - 19 Meals Plus 4 Late Night Meals & $150 Flex Dollars	$ 2,488
Board - Option # 2 - 19 Meals, and $175 Flex Dollars	$ 2,201
Board - Option # 3 - 15 Meals and $175 Flex Dollars	$ 2,273

Fees are subject to change.
 
What is a Resident Assistant?
A resident assistant (RA) is a student staff member who also lives within the residence hall.  Resident assistants facilitate the social, academic, and personal adjustment of students to the residence hall(s) and University.

When do the residence halls open?
(Please read info in "Student Move-In" Section). 
 
Do the residence halls remain open during breaks?
Residence halls are closed for Winter Break and Summer Vacation. Students who need to stay for the Winter Break must receive approval prior to the stay. Spring Break is not included in housing costs. Therefore, students who request to stay during this time will be responsible for their own meals. Depending on space available and number of students requesting to stay, students may be moved to a different hall.

Students may leave their belongings in their rooms during the Thanksgiving, Winter and/or Spring Break at their own risk.  WVSU will not assume any responsibility if a student's possessions are damaged and/or stolen. Any belongings left during breaks should be moved to one side of the room along with the mattress, covers, pillows and cases.  The University will not store student possessions over the Summer. 

What if I have a housing request based on medical needs?
Students with special medical needs must submit documentation from a physician before the housing priority deadline of June 1 for the Fall semester or November 15 for the Spring semester. Medical requests will be considered after you have filed documentation with the Office of Disability Services and turned that information in to the Office of Residence Life. 

Are all students required to have personal health insurance?
All students are expected to carry personal health insurance and may be asked to show proof prior to moving in the residence hall(s).

What are the bed sizes in the residence halls?
All beds are standard Twin XL.
  
Are the residence halls carpeted?
Residential rooms in Judge Damon J. Keith Scholars Hall are wood grain/laminate, while Dawson Hall has tile floors. You are welcome to bring a scatter rug for a more personalized approach to your housing space.
  
What type of furniture is provided in each room?
Each room is equipped with a bed, desk, dresser and closet space for each student.  Each suite in Keith Hall has a common area which is equipped with two chairs, while Dawson Hall has a common area in the lobby.  Keith Hall also houses independent apartments that are equipped with a furnished kitchen, living room and bedroom, as well as a study desk. 
 
What happens if I lose an assigned key or slide card?
Please report the loss to the Office of Housing and Residence Life.  There is a charge of $30 to change a door code (Dawson and Keith Hall). The total amount will be billed to your account.  Additionally, you are responsible to return all campus issued keys and/or slide cards when you leave the halls. Replacement costs will be assessed for failure to return these items. Do not give your ID and/or door code to anyone!
 
Are students required to live on campus?
WVSU traditional students are required to live on campus.  All freshmen and sophomore students who do not commute from the permanent legal residence within a 50-mile radius of the campus are required to live in a residence hall.  This requirement is waived if the student has served two or more years in the U.S. Armed Forces or has completed the reserve obligation.  This requirement is also waived for students who have lived in a college residence hall for six semesters or have a disability which makes the University residence halls impractical. A married student, single parent, or a student 21 years of age prior to admission to WVSU can also waive the residency requirement.
  
What appliances should I leave at home?
Routers and candle/wax burners/melters are not permitted at all. Please refer to "Housing Contract Terms and Conditions" and review the different appliances that Apartment Residents and Suite occupants are not permitted to have in the spaces. Air fryers, hot plates and grills (including George Foreman Grills) are also not permitted. 
 
Can I bring a microwave and refrigerator with me?
The following restrictions must be met:

Refrigerators should be no larger than 4.6 cubic feet max, 1.8 amps, 110 volts, UL approved only.  In the interest of fire prevention, electrical outlets must not be overloaded. No devices for the purpose of cooking are allowed in residence hall rooms, with the exception of the following: pop-up toasters (not toaster ovens), blenders, can openers, coffee makers and juicers.  Microwave ovens are permitted in student rooms provided the microwave oven has been UL approved and does not exceed 700 watts.

Are there laundry facilities on campus?
Laundry facilities are located in each residence hall and are currently free to wash and dry for on-campus residents ONLY.
 
What if I don't get along with my roommate?
Residents should complete and sign your suite's Roommate Agreement Form. The Roommate Agreement Form is designed to eliminate roommate conflict as much as possible while also providing students with their basic room rights. Students should notify their RA's first with any issues with roommates via email or through scheduling a meeting. If it is not resolved, the resident should contact the Director of Housing via email that the issue was not resolved. It is our duty to ensure that all residents feel comfortable and safe. 
 
How do I insure my personal belongings?
WVSU is not responsible for loss or damage to personal property from any cause, we strongly encourage students to procure and maintain Renter's insurance or appropriate insurance, covering the student's personal property from loss or damage and covering the student for liability. 
 
Does WVSU have maintenance and custodial services?
Resident students are expected to keep personal areas clean along with the public areas such as bathrooms, lounges, lobbies, hallways, laundry rooms, study and TV lounges. Maintenance problems in student rooms should be reported promptly by completing a Maintenance Request on the main Housing and Residence Life page (this can be done on your computer or mobile device) then follow it up with reporting to the Office of Housing and Residence Life via email.

Maintenance personnel respond in the order in which the requests are received.  Maintenance usually tries to complete the work within 24 hours of the request but it is not guaranteed depending on the severity of the issue.  
 
What are quiet hours?
Quiet hours are in effect from:

• 10 p.m. to 10 a.m. on weeknights and 12 a.m. to 10 a.m. on Friday and Saturday.

If other students in your hall are bothering you with noise, you have the right (at anytime of day or night) to ask them to keep the noise to a minimum.  If trouble persists, feel free to notify your RA, who has the option and authority to set disciplinary procedures in motion.  Students are encouraged to keep the volume of their stereos low.  As a rule of thumb, residents are encouraged to have no more than two guests per resident visiting their room at any one time, in order to maintain courtesy quiet hours.
 
Is there a meal plan?
Students residing on campus are required to participate in the University's meal plan.  However, students residing in the apartments, located within the Judge Damon J. Keith Scholars Hall, are not required to participate in a campus meal plan.  However those students are encouraged to do so.  For more information, please see Dining Services.

What are the dining hours? 

Goldston Dining Hall Hours
Monday - Friday
Breakfast 7:30 - 9:30 a.m.
Lunch 11:00 - 1:30 p.m.
Dinner 5:00 - 7:00 p.m.

Weekends
Brunch 10:45 - 12:30 p.m.
Dinner 4:30 - 6:30 p.m.

William F. Pickard Cafe Hours
Monday - Friday
9:00 - 5:00 p.m.

Weekends
11:00 - 5:00 p.m.
 
How are mail and packages received on campus?

During the Academic Year: 
Students living in the halls may pick up mail/packages at the Keith Hall front desk. The mail room is completely operated by work-study students and hours are based on their availablity. The hours are listed below, but are subject to change based on the availability of work-study students.
 

For mail:	For packages:
West Virginia State University	West Virginia State University
Student Name-Hall-Room Number	Student Name-Hall-Room Number
P.O. Box 1001	Fairlawn Ave & Barron Drive
Institute, WV 25112	Institute, WV 25112

Additionally, personal mail boxes are available for rent in the University Union. During Summer, due to the lack of students staying within the residence hall, students will need to pick up their mail from the Post Office. 
 
Should I bring my computer and are the rooms wired for computer connections?
Students are able to enjoy free, unlimited access to e-mail and the Internet from any residence hall room. Students without their own computer can use the conveniently located computer labs in the University Union, Library and several other locations around campus. Personal routers ARE NOT permitted in the residence halls as they interfere with the campus WiFi systems. Students found to be using personal routers will be fined and the routers confiscated. 
 
Am I allowed to have a pet in the residence halls?
No pets are allowed in the residence halls, unless approved through the Office of Counseling and Accessibility Services, prior to the pet being on campus. Students are permitted to have non-meat eating fish in a tank no larger than 10 gallons. 
 
Am I allowed to have guests in my room?
Residents are allowed to have visitors on campus. However, overnight guests are limited to two per resident. Guest can visit for up to three (3) consecutive days (72 hours) and up to six (6) days in a given month on a space available basis in the assigned room of the host. Only if there is advance consent by all residents of the room/suite, and in accordance with the specific visitation policies established.

Can I bring a car to campus?
All students may have the privilege of using a motor vehicle (including motorcycles) on campus provided it is registered with WVSU Public Safety and they pay the fee for a parking sticker.
 
Can I bring a bicycle to campus?
All students bringing bicycles to campus are asked to register their bicycle with Campus Safety. Students cannot ride their bikes in the hall and any damages caused by the item will be billed to the student. 
  
What is the process for Check-In and Check-Out?
In order to expedite the process, students should must make sure they are following proper check-in and check-out procedures. Failure to do so will result in an Improper check-in/check-out fine.

Check-In

• Inspect new room/suite with RA.
• Upon inspection, you will a "Pink" copy from RA for your records.
  • You will have 24 hours to return the "Pink" copy with any additional repairs needed.
• Retrieve new key/code(s).
  • As always, for security reasons do not share codes/keys with anyone 

Check-Out

• Clean room/suite and throw out all trash
• Pack up all belongings before obtaining a cart (Carts are limited. We want to ensure all students have the opportunity to use the carts).
• Have an RA inspect room before moving to new room. 
• Return your key/key card (if applicable) .
• Trash removal, cleanliness, missing/damaged furniture items will result in a bill.

What is Room Change Period?
Students who desire to change rooms must wait until after the first full week of classes. All occupants in the desired location must agree to the students moving. Students who move without approval from the Director of Housing and Residence will be assessed a fine and must return to the original space.

What is the Consolidation Period?
Due to limited space within our residential buildings, at certain times during the academic year, it may become necessary to consolidate residents by reassigning them to new rooms/suites. The purpose of the consolidation period is to ensure spaces for incoming students and rectify the inequitable condition which exists when many students end up without roommates and/or suites are not full. 

Students required to move due to the consolidation policy will be required to move within seventy-two (72) hours of receipt of their e-mail. Generally, students will not be required to move into other buildings. Our office will make efforts to keep students affected by the Consolidation Policy within the same building and floor (if available spaces exist).
 

WVSU Yellow Jacket Sports
Get sports schedules, up-to-date scores and results, ticket information and more from the official athletic site of West Virginia State University.
 
WVSU Bookstore
The Bookstore is where you can purchase books, stock up on school supplies and get your Yellow Jacket gear and apparel.

Financial Aid
The Financial Aid website will help you get financially prepared to attend school and provide give advice and guidance for students and parents is available.
 
Campus Support Services:
University Police Department
Collegiate Support and Counseling
Health Services
 
 
Public Transportation Links for Charleston and surrounding areas
KRT - Kanawha Valley Regional Transport
Greyhound
Amtrak
Yeager Airport