Campus Safety
Committed to Campus Safety and Security
Muskegon Community College is committed to campus safety and security. Pursuant to Section 209a of Public Act 144 of 2022, the following is information regarding MCC campus safety and resources.
Safety information including Emergency Contact Numbers, Public Safety and Title IX contacts, Campus Safety and Security Resources, Whistleblower Policy, and Sexual Violence and Harassment Policy is detailed below.
EMERGENCY: CALL 9-1-1
Security: 231-777-0545
Emergency contact numbers
Police, Fire, Medical Care: 911
Muskegon Community College Public Safety
Main Campus Public Safety:
Calling from cell phone: (231) 777-0545
Calling from on-campus phone: ext. 7545
Sturrus Technology Center Public Safety:
Calling from cell phone: (231) 777-0545
Calling from on-campus phone: ext. 7545
Public Safety and Title IX Offices
Muskegon Community College Main Campus Public Safety Office | 221 S. Quarterline Rd, Muskegon, MI 49442, Room # 1356 (231) 777-0545 Email: Security.Office@muskegoncc.edu Hours: Mon.-Thur. 6:30 a.m. – 11:00 p.m. Fri.- 6:30 a.m. – Midnight, Sat. 24 Hour Coverage, and Sun. 12:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m. |
Muskegon Community College (STC) Public Safety Office | 388 W. Clay St, Muskegon, MI 49440, Room # 214 (231) 777-0545 Email: Security.Downtown@muskegoncc.edu Hours: 24/7 |
Title IX Office | 221 S. Quarterline Rd, Muskegon, MI 49442, Room # 1055E (231) 777-0690 Email: Jason.cooper@muskegoncc.edu Hours: Mon. – Thur. 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., Fri. 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. |
Emergencies During Weekend and Non-Public Hours | Security from an on-campus phone: ext. 7545 From cell: (231) 777-0545 College Services Evening Coordinator: (231) 343-4154 Physical Plant Director: (231) 777-0315 |
Campus Safety and Security Resources
Drug-Free Campus Policy
Muskegon Community College is committed to the health, comfort, and safety of students, employees and the general public, thereby, minimizing the harmful effects and discomfort smoking produces in the workplace.
In compliance with Federal and State laws, fire regulations, and Board of Trustees policy, the use, distribution or sale of tobacco, electronic cigarettes (e-cigarette) in addition to the possession, use or smoking of medical marijuana is prohibited in college buildings, extension centers, on college premises and in vehicles owned, rented or leased by the college. If College facilities are rented by non-College individuals or groups, they and their participants/guest shall be required to comply with this policy.
Muskegon Community College will offer and promote programs and services that include practical evidence-based approaches to decrease or stop tobacco use for students and employees.
In addition to responding to student conduct charges, students involved in the distribution of prescription or illicit drugs may face criminal investigation, prosecution and penalties including fines and imprisonment. Students who are also employees of the College are subject to the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act of 1989. Any employed person (including students) who is convicted under a criminal drug statute for a violation occurring in the workplace must so notify the college’s Human Resources Department within five (5) days from the date of the conviction.
Marijuana and Michigan Proposal 1
Muskegon Community College is dedicated to equity and excellence, prepares students, builds communities, and improves lives. To achieve this mission, we seek to foster a healthy learning environment. We believe marijuana use conflicts with this mission. The college has a long-standing policy against drug use on campus and within the college community, and that policy does not change with Michigan’s adoption of Proposal 1. Additionally, the federal Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act disallows the use of drugs including marijuana; if the college fails to comply, it could become ineligible for federal funding and financial aid programs for its students. The college’s policy also does not allow the use of medical marijuana.
Muskegon Community College may prohibit marijuana use within its community despite permissibility under state law. Proposal 1 says that “nothing in this Section shall prohibit a person, employer, school … or any other entity who occupies, owns or controls a property from prohibiting or otherwise regulating the possession, consumption, use, display, transfer, distribution, sale, transportation, or growing of marijuana on or in that property.”
The college’s policy does not allow the use of marijuana, whether on campus or off campus. If a student violates this code, he or she is subject to disciplinary action through the college’s judicial process.
As stated, “The Student Code of Conduct applies to behaviors that take place on the campus, at college-sponsored events or programs, and also applies off-campus, when the administration determines that the off-campus conduct has a direct impact on the educational mission and interests of the college. Muskegon Community College students studying in off-campus contexts or participating in college-sponsored programs remain responsible to uphold the Muskegon Community College Student Code of Conduct and the laws relevant to their location. The Student Code of Conduct also applies to conduct that takes place at any time from the date that a student is offered admission to the college until the student has completed graduation and includes summers and between semesters.”
Muskegon Community College’s policy also prohibits faculty, staff, guests, and visitors from using, possessing, or being under the influence of marijuana while on campus or during college activities.
For more information, read the frequently asked questions below.
Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Proposal 1
If a majority of Michigan voters, including a majority of Muskegon voters, believe it is OK to smoke and grow marijuana, why won’t Muskegon Community College relax its policy against marijuana use and possession?
Muskegon Community College is dedicated to equity and excellence, prepares students, builds communities, and improves lives. We also believe that marijuana use conflicts with this mission. Additionally, marijuana use is illegal under federal law and permitting its use at Muskegon Community College would violate the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act. If Muskegon Community College fails to comply with that act, it could become ineligible for federal funding and financial aid programs for its students.
Now that Michigan voters approved an amendment to the state constitution permitting use and possession of marijuana, don’t I have a legal right to use and possess marijuana anywhere I want, including on campus?
No. Although the new law permits the use and possession of marijuana under Michigan law, it does not affect Muskegon Community College’s ability to set the standards for student conduct. Students who want to graduate from Muskegon Community College must, in addition to fulfilling their academic requirements, comply with the Student Hand Book. As a higher-education institution and employer, Muskegon Community College has the right to define what conduct is permissible and expected within its community and on its campus. Proposal 1 makes this point clear:
Nothing in this Section shall prohibit a person, employer, school … or any other entity who occupies, owns or controls a property from prohibiting or otherwise regulating the possession, consumption, use, display, transfer, distribution, sale, transportation, or growing of marijuana on or in that property.
Can Muskegon Community College prohibit me from engaging in conduct that is permissible under state law?
Yes. Just because something is legal under Michigan law, that does not mean Muskegon Community College must permit the conduct within its community or on its campus. For example, under certain circumstances, a student may lawfully consume alcohol under state law, but Muskegon Community College may, and does, prohibit the possession and use on campus.
What is the relationship between federal laws that prohibit marijuana use and Amendment 64?
Federal laws prohibiting marijuana use trump state laws, including Proposal 1, that attempt to permit its use. Accordingly, if you use or possess marijuana, you are subject to prosecution under federal law, regardless of what Proposal 1 permits. Importantly, a conviction for drug-use under federal law may cause you to become ineligible for federal financial aid.
Can I use or grow marijuana off-campus?
No. As a student of Muskegon Community College, your conduct, whether it takes place on-campus or off-campus, is subject to the Student Code of Conduct, including the prohibition on marijuana use. So if you use or possess marijuana off campus, you are subject to disciplinary action under the Student Code of Conduct just the same as if your violation took place on campus.
As stated, “The Student Code of Conduct applies to behaviors that take place on the campus, at college-sponsored events or programs, and also applies off-campus, when the administration determines that the off-campus conduct has a direct impact on the educational mission and interests of the college. Muskegon Community College students studying in off-campus contexts or participating in college-sponsored programs remain responsible to uphold the Muskegon Community College Student Code of Conduct and the laws relevant to their location. The Student Code of Conduct also applies to conduct that takes place at any time from the date that a student is offered admission to the college until the student has completed graduation and includes summers and between semesters.”
What if my off-campus landlord says it is OK for me to grow and use marijuana on his or her property?
Regardless of what your off-campus landlord permits on his or her property, as a student of Muskegon Community College, you are responsible for complying with the Student Code of Conduct and refraining from using and possessing marijuana.
Can I use medical marijuana on campus?
No. All marijuana use is prohibited, even if the intended purpose is for medicinal reasons. If you are sick or suffering from an illness, you should visit a doctor to discuss appropriate medical treatments.
Does Muskegon Community College’s policy prohibiting marijuana use apply to faculty, staff, guests, and visitors to campus for special events?
Yes. The college’s policy prohibits faculty, staff, guests, and visitors from using, possessing, or being under the influence of marijuana while on campus or during college activities.
Tobacco/E-Cigarette/Drug Free Environment
Muskegon Community College complies with federal, state, and local laws including those which regulate the possession, use, and sale of alcoholic beverages and controlled substances. The following represents the drug alcohol policies of MCC.
In compliance with the Board of Trustees’ policies 4.02.00 and 5.20.00 and the Drug-free Schools and Communities Act Amendments of 1989, the following represent the Drug-free Workplace Regulations of MCC:
- Students and guests may not manufacture, distribute, dispense, possess, or use alcoholic beverages on MCC premises.
- Students and guests may not unlawfully possess, use, or distribute controlled substances and alcohol on MCC premises or while engaged in MCC activities such as conferences or field trips.
- Being under the influence of alcohol or any controlled substance while on MCC premises or engaged in MCC activities is prohibited.
- Students and guests are personally accountable for having knowledge of federal,state, and local laws relating to alcoholic beverages and controlled substances, the minimum drinking age, the transportation of open containers of alcoholic beverages, and the false representation of age by a minor.
- Student employees of MCC shall comply with the terms of this policy. Violation of such policy may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment and referral for prosecution. Any sanctions imposed will be consistent with local, state, and federal law.
- Student employees are required to notify MCC of any criminal conviction for a violation of the policy occurring in the workplace no later than five days after such conviction.
Violation of this policy by students may result in disciplinary action of up to, and including, suspension or expulsion from MCC and referral for prosecution. All guests on campus are expected to follow the above requirements. Failure to do so may result in a request to leave the MCC property or an MCC activity.
Whistleblower Policy
Applies to: Faculty, Staff, Student Employees, Students, Vendors, and Volunteers
Updated: June 15, 2022
Muskegon Community College (MCC) adheres to a high standard of ethical, moral and legal business conduct. Therefore, it is encouraged and expected of all MCC employees and other members of the MCC community to report wrongful conduct that threatens the integrity of this institution. This policy proactively supports the Michigan Whistleblower Protection Act: PA 469 of 1980, which provides protection to individuals who make good faith disclosures of alleged wrongful conduct.
Muskegon Community College does not condone or permit retaliation against anyone who participates in reporting issues or in a whistleblower activity. Harassment or victimization for reporting concerns under this policy is not tolerated.
No individual who in good faith reports known or suspected wrongful conduct (whether internally or outside MCC) shall suffer harassment, retaliation, or adverse academic or employment consequences for making such reports. Anyone who retaliates against a whistleblower is subject to disciplinary action up to and including termination.
Muskegon Community College recognizes our responsibility to our faculty, staff and community to maintain the highest ethical standards. To facilitate this process, the College has chosen HonorLine as an external vendor to provide another way to report activities that may be violations of the College’s policies or other laws, rules and regulations.
BACKGROUND
Everyone at MCC, regardless of position, shares the responsibility for creating a positive environment. You help to do this whenever you bring concerns you may have to your manager or Human Resources. For those situations when you don’t feel comfortable using that method, Muskegon Community College HonorLine, a phone and web-based reporting system that is managed by an outside company, is another way to communicate your concerns confidentially and anonymously (if you choose), so you can do your part to build communication and promote safety, security, and ethical behavior.
More specifically this policy:
• encourages an atmosphere that allows individuals to meet their obligations to disclose violations of law and serious breaches of conduct covered by college policies;
• informs individuals how allegations of wrongful conduct may be disclosed;
• protects individuals from retaliation by adverse academic or employment action taken as a result of having disclosed wrongful conduct;
• provides individuals who believe they have been subject to false allegations a fair process to seek relief from these acts.
POLICY DETAILS
- If a whistleblower feels that they have suffered retaliation, they may report it by one of the reporting methods identified below.
- Anyone making a protected disclosure concerning a violation or suspected violation must be acting in good faith and have reasonable grounds for believing the information disclosed indicates a violation of law or policy. A report of wrongful conduct is presumed to have been communicated in good faith.
- False allegations or allegations made with malice are not protected by this policy, and such allegations are viewed as a serious disciplinary offense.
- Every effort is made to treat the whistleblower’s identity with appropriate regard for confidentiality.
- While whistleblowers have the option to remain anonymous, identity is encouraged because appropriate follow-up questions may not be possible unless the source of the information is identified. Concerns expressed anonymously are explored appropriately, but consideration is given to:
• The seriousness of the concern raised;
• The credibility of the concern; and
• The likelihood of confirming the allegations.
PROCEDURE
We encourage concerns to be brought to managers, leaders and or Human Resources. However, in the event you prefer to contact a third party, we have established a reporting process with HonorLine.
You may make a report by calling (877) 684-9585 or e-mailing to P3tips.com/658. Once a report is received, MCC Human Resources Office is notified and will assign to the appropriate person for follow up. This is done to ensure the issue is being investigated and properly resolved. Use the system to express serious concerns. If you’d prefer, you may also remain anonymous. If you have suggestions or policy questions for the Human Resources Office, please contact us directly at human.resources@muskegoncc.edu.
Honorline is available to all employees, regardless of location or position. The system is available via both telephone 1-877-684-9585 and internet at P3tips.com/658.
Reporting
This policy is not to be used to replace existing policies that address specific concerns such as grievance procedures, etc. It is NOT the responsibility of the Whistleblower to investigate matters. Reports should focus on facts and avoid speculation. Reports should include as much detailed information as possible in order to better facilitate the investigation.
Whistleblowers that are aware of or have reason to suspect wrongful conduct should use one of the following (4) four reporting methods: - Phone: HonorLine 1-877-684-9585
- Internet: P3tips.com/658
- Letter: Muskegon Community College, Whistleblower/President’s Office, Suite 400, 221 S. Quarterline Rd., Muskegon, MI 49442
- Human Resources Office Mailbox: human.resources@muskegoncc.edu
Investigation
All reports will be promptly addressed. The procedure taken in response to a report of concern under this policy will depend on the nature of the concern.
Whistleblowers who choose to make their identity known will receive confirmation of receipt of report.
DEFINITIONS
Term Definition
Whistleblower Someone who reports to an employer, a regulatory body, or an oversight or review authority, the violation of a regulation, standard, or ethical obligation. A Whistleblower may be college employees, students, vendors, and volunteers.
Wrongful Conduct A violation of applicable state and/or federal laws and regulation; a serious violation of college policy; the use of college property resources or authority for personal gain or other non-college-related purpose except as provided under college policy.
Protected Disclosure Communication about actual or suspected wrongful conduct engaged in by a college employee, student, vendor, or volunteer based on a good faith and reasonable belief that the conduct has both occurred and is wrongful under applicable law and/or college policy.
Retaliation Adverse action against an individual because she or he has made a protected disclosure or has participated in an investigation, proceeding or hearing involving a protected disclosure.
HonorLine Third-party vendor will accept phone- and web-based reports of wrongful conduct or ethical issues regarding Muskegon Community College.
Sexual Violence and Harassment
MCC Equal Opportunity, Harassment and Nondiscrimination
MCC Student Rights & Resources for Title IX
Title IX Code of Conduct Brochure
Faculty/Staff Title IX Quick Resource Guide
Commitment to Our Campus Community
Muskegon Community College is committed to developing and sustaining a healthy and diverse learning and working environment that recognizes the value of each individual. MCC advances a safe, pleasant and respectful culture for all, free from sexual violence and sexual harassment as well as dating violence, domestic violence, and stalking. At MCC such behaviors are forms of sexual discrimination and are not tolerated and are prohibited by College policy and the law.
If you have experienced sexual violence, it’s not your fault. Sexual violence occurs when a person ignores or denies someone else’s wishes through violent sexual means. No one ever asks to be raped or sexually assaulted. Even if you had too much to drink, or used drugs, or froze and did not fight back, or said “yes” to one type of sexual intimacy but not to what happened – you are not to blame for harm being done to you.
THE LAW
The Law
Title IX (1972)
“No person in the United States shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any educational program or activity receiving federal financial assistance. “
Sexual harassment and sexual violence is prohibited in the education context by Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972; in the employment context by Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended; and Section 304 of the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act of 2013.
At MCC, survivors of sexual misconduct shall have the right to:
o Receive prompt and survivor-sensitive cooperation of campus personnel for recommendations of obtaining, securing and maintaining evidence, including recommendations to receive a medical examination at a local emergency room when necessary to preserve evidence;
o Expect notification from campus personnel of your options to prevent further unwanted contact by alleged assailants, including issuing of “no contact” orders and changing academic and on-campus working schedules, provided such changes are available;
o Receive information describing options to pursue a criminal complaint with the appropriate law enforcement agency, to pursue the College’s disciplinary process, or to pursue both processes simultaneously;
o Be notified of existing campus and community-based medical, counseling, mental health, and student services for survivors of sexual assault, whether or not the assault is formally reported to campus or civil authorities;
o Be informed of the right to confidential or anonymous testing for sexually transmitted infections, HIV,
and pregnancy;
o Be free from any threat of retaliation or other attempt to prevent the reporting of sexual misconduct;
o Be notified of the opportunity to identify witnesses and other evidence to the College investigation and resolution process, information about procedures, and written notice of the outcome in a manner equivalent to the process of the accused;
o Have a support person of choice accompany them throughout the disciplinary process. While a support person is there to support, they may not speak for you or act as your legal counsel;
o Be informed in a timely fashion (60 days) of the outcome of the process concurrently with the accused;
Have the right to appeal the outcome.
REPORTING
Reporting
Campus Reporting
The College can only respond to allegations of sexual harassment or sexual violence that are reported to campus authorities. Anyone who believes they have experienced or witnessed sexual misconduct or related retaliation is encouraged to report such behavior promptly. If in doubt, please report. Reporting to the College does not mean you have to report to local authorities, but you have the option to report to local authorities. MCC can assist with reporting to the proper law enforcement agency.
How to Report
Click on the button to access an MCC Title IX and Sexual Discrimination Report form.
Reports may be made to MCC Title IX Coordinator or Title IX Deputy Coordinators (listed below under Campus Resources) or to Campus Safety.
Student Conduct Report Form: www.muskegoncc.edu/bit or publicdocs.maxient.com/incidentreport.php?MuskegonCC
Anonymous reports for victims of sexual misconduct can be submitted at www.muskegoncc.edu/bit Please note that MCC’s response will be limited without the reporter’s information.
Confidential reporting is available when reporting to MCC counseling staff when you may not want to trigger an investigation.
Other Support Systems and Advocates
There are plenty of trustworthy people at MCC who want to support you and can point you in the right direction. They can be mentors, faculty and/or staff. However, it is important for you to remember they cannot guarantee confidentiality.
Retaliation
MCC prohibits retaliation against individuals who engage in reporting a complaint of sexual harassment, sexual misconduct, dating or domestic violence, and/or stalking. Retaliatory behavior is regarded as additional misconduct and may lead to increased sanctions.
As always, in the case of an emergency call 911 to reach the Police Department.
RESOURCES
Resources
Campus Resources
MCC Counseling and Advising Center
Room 1050, 231-777-0362
www.muskegoncc.edu/counseling
Title IX Coordinator
Jason Cooper (he/his)
Director of Compliance and Title IX Coordinator
jason.cooper@muskegoncc.edu
(231) 777-0690, Room 1055
Deputy Title IX Coordinators
Kristine Anderson (she/her)
Chief Human Resources Officer
human.resources@muskegoncc.edu
(231) 777-0447, Room 2109
Marty McDermott (he/his)
Dean of College Services and Athletics
marty.mcdermott@muskegoncc.edu
(231) 777-0462, Health and Wellness Center Room 134A
Tonette Brown-Garner (she/her)
College Service Evening Coordinator
Tonette.brown-garner@muskegoncc.edu
(231) 777-0654, Room 1360C
Dr. Patti D’Avignon (she/her)
Dean of Student Services
patti.davignon@muskegoncc.edu
231-777-0341, Room 1055B
Donielle Routt (she/her)
Director of Human Resources
Donielle.Routt@muskegoncc.edu
231-777-0698, Room 2109S
Medical Care Close to Campus
Muskegon
Emergency Services at Mercy Health, Mercy Campus
1500 E. Sherman Boulevard (Near US-31)
(231) 672-3916
Grand Haven
Emergency Department at North Ottawa Community Hospital
1309 Sheldon Road
(616) 847-5310
All emergency centers open 24/7. Call 911 for local police or emergency care.
Community Resources
Every Woman’s Place
for Domestic or Dating Violence, Sexual Assault and Stalking
24-Hour Crisis Line: (231)722-3333
Walk-In Services: 1221 W. Laketon Avenue
Monday-Friday, 9:00am-5:00pm
www.everywomansplace.org/crisis
Grand Haven
Center for Women in Transition
(Holland and Grand Haven)
Crisis Line: (616) 392- 1970
(800) 848-5991
Espanol: (866) 728-2131
Grand Haven Satellite Office
Please call ahead for appointment
300 North Ferry Street, Suite C
(616) 392-2829
Newaygo County
Women’s Information Service Inc.
Phone: (231) 796-6692
Crisis: (231) 796-6600
or 1 (800) 374-9473
Kent County
YMCA West Central Michigan
Phone: (616) 459-7092 ext. 515
Fax (616) 459-5423
Crisis (616) 421-2744
Legal Advocacy
Personal Protection Orders and Legal Advocate
Michael E. Kobza Hall of Justice
990 Terrace Street, 4th Floor
(231) 724-6422
