Faculty Handbook
Last Updated: April, 2015
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Faculty Handbook
The George Washington University
GW Faculty Handbook 2015
Table of Contents
Foreword
Section 1: About the University
1.1 History
1.2 Mission
Strategic Plan
1.3 Demographic Overview
GW Factbook
1.4 Board of Trustees
1.5 Administration
1.6 Faculty
The Faculty Code
Faculty Organization Plan
1.7 Schools and Academic Programs
Section 2: Working at GW
2.1 Faculty and Staff Service Center
2.2 Office of Faculty Personnel
2.3 Faculty Appointment Procedures
2.3.1 Terms of Service
2.3.2 Employment Eligibility and Verification (I-9 Form)
2.3.3 Appointment of Relatives of Faculty Members
2.3.4 Appointment and Employment of Foreign Nationals
2.3.5 Faculty in Residence and Faculty Guide Program
2.3.6 Secondary and Courtesy Appointments
2.4 Relocation and Moving Allowance for New Faculty
2.5 Compensation
2.5.1 Salary Payment Schedule
2.5.2 Overload Compensation
2.5.3 Summer Sessions Compensation
2.5.4 Sabbatical Leave Compensation
2.5.5 Research Compensation
2.5.6 Administrative Stipends
2.6 Benefits
2.6.1 Benefit Tracking and Enrollment
2.6.2 Retirement Benefit Enrollment
2.6.3 Tuition Remission/Tuition Exchange
2.6.4 Leave
2.6.4.1 Parental Childcare Leave
2.6.5 Work-Life and Wellness Programs
2.6.5.1 GW’s Wellbeing Hotline
2.6.5.2 Smoking Cessation Program
2.6.5.3 Back-Up Family Care
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2.6.5.4 Health Advocacy Services
2.6.5.5 Wellness Programs
2.7 Professional Responsibilities
2.7.1 Annual Reports
2.7.2 Conflicts of Interest and Commitment Policy for Faculty and Investigators
2.7.3 Instructional-Based Professional Responsibilities
2.7.3.1. Use of Blackboard
2.7.3.2 Instructional Technology Lab
2.7.3.3 Office Hours
2.7.3.4 Syllabi with Learning Objectives
2.7.3.5 Textbook Adoption
2.7.3.6 Covering Classes
2.7.3.7 Students with Disabilities
2.7.3.8 Students in Distress
2.7.3.9 Final Exam Schedule
2.7.3.10 Timely Submission of Grades
2.7.3.11 Classroom Emergencies, Maintenance, and Technical Difficulties
2.7.4 Convocations
2.7.5 Consulting and Other Professional Activities
2.7.6 Travel to Meetings of Scholarly Organizations
2.7.7 Service
2.8 Faculty Workstation Initiative
2.9 Faculty Records (Retention and Confidentiality)
2.10 Sabbatical Policy
2.11 Leaving the University
2.11.1 Retirement
2.11.2 Emeritus Status
2.11.3 Partial Retirement
2.11.4 Retired Faculty
2.11.5 Resignation from GW
2.12 Important Policies Related to Employment
2.12.1 Equal Opportunity
2.12.2 Disabilities Policy
2.12.3 Non-Retaliation
2.12.4 Guidelines for Political Campaign Activities on Behalf of Political Candidates
2.12.5 Legal Representation of Faculty
2.12.6 Religious Accommodation
2.12.7 Sexual Harassment and Sexual Violence
2.12.8 Smoke-Free Campus Policy
2.12.9 Substance Abuse
2.12.10 Threats and Acts of Violence Policy
Section 3: Teaching at GW
3.1 Academic Calendar
3.2 Expectations
3.3 Schedule of Classes
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3.4 Undergraduate Advising
3.5 Graduate Advising
3.6 Student Registration
3.7 Student Records/FERPA
3.8 Classrooms
3.9 Class Rosters in GWeb and Blackboard
3.10 University Teaching and Learning Center
3.11 Academic Technologies
3.12 Course Information/Syllabus with Learning Objectives
3.13 Grades
3.14 Examinations
3.15 Academic Integrity
3.16 Course Change and Withdrawal
3.17 Class Attendance
3.18 Religious Holidays
3.19 Adverse Weather Conditions
3.20 Retention of Graded Papers and Papers Not Returned to Students
3.21 Auditing a Class
3.22 Electronic Theses and Dissertations
3.23 Academic Program and Course Approval
3.24 Student Services
Section 4: Research at GW
4.1 University Policies on Research
4.2 Office of the Vice President for Research
4.3 Sponsored Projects Administration
4.4 Office of Entrepreneurship
4.5 Office of Technology Transfer
4.6 Intellectual Property Rights
Copyright Policy
Patent Policy
4.7 Foundation Relations
4.8 Compliance
4.9 Research Advisory Board
4.10 University Advisory Council on Research
4.11 Office of Human Research/Institutional Review Board
4.12 Responsible Conduct of Research
4.13 Centers and Institutes
4.14 University Seminars
4.15 Research Training
4.16 Employment of International Students
Section 5: Academic Resources at GW
5.1 Libraries at GW
5.1.1 University Librarian
5.1.2 Estelle and Melvin Gelman Library
5.1.3 Eckles Library
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5.1.4 Virginia Science and Technology Campus Library
5.1.5 Jacob Burns Law Library
5.1.6 Himmelfarb Health Sciences Library
5.1.7 Washington Research Library Consortium
5.2 Computer Resources
5.2.1 GW Computer Systems
5.2.2 Email Service
5.2.3 Faculty Computers
5.2.4 Academic Technologies
5.2.5 Academic Databases
Section 6: Institutional Documents
6.1 University Charter
6.2 Faculty Organization Plan
6.3 Faculty Code
6.4 Statement of Ethical Principles
6.5 GW Policies
6.6 Code of Conduct for Users of Computing Systems and Services
6.7 Guide to Student Rights and Responsibilities
6.8 Policy on Conflicts of Interest and Commitment for Faculty and Investigators
Section 7: University Services and General Resources
7.1 Academic Technologies
7.2 Alumni Relations
7.3 Athletics and Recreation
7.4 ATMs and Cashier
7.5 Bookstore
7.6 Colonial Central/Colonial Crossroads/Student Services
7.7 Commuting
7.8 Computer Supplies and Equipment
7.9 Development Office
7.10 E-Cycling
7.11 Emergency Preparedness
7.12 Events and Venues
7.13 External Relations
7.14 Facilities
7.15 Faculty Computers
7.16 Faculty/Employee Assistance Program
7.17 Faculty and Staff Service Center
7.18 Graduate Student Support
7.19 GW Mobile App
7.20 GWorld Card
7.21 Information Technology
7.22 International Services Office
7.23 Lerner Health and Wellness Center
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7.24 Mail Services
7.25 Marvin Center
7.26 NIH Federal Credit Union
7.27 Notary Public Service
7.28 Office Supplies and Equipment
7.29 Parking Services
7.30 Payroll
7.31 Safety and Security
7.32 Smith Center
7.33 Student Services/Colonial Central
7.34 Sustainability
7.35 Telephone and Voicemail
7.36 Textbooks
7.37 University Traditions
Appendix: Faculty Handbook Revision Procedures
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George Washington University Faculty Handbook
Foreword
This Handbook has been prepared for the information and use of the faculty of the George
Washington University. Some part-time faculty members are covered by the collective
bargaining agreement between the university and Service Employees International Union Local
500. For those part-time faculty members, the collective bargaining agreement shall control
when there is a conflict between it and the Handbook.
The policies and procedures described herein may be revised by the university, and unless
otherwise stated, will be effective as of the date of adoption. Revisions will be posted to the
online version of the Handbook as soon as practicable after they are adopted. It is the
university’s practice and intent that no substantive revisions relating to this Handbook will be
made without consultation with the Faculty Senate.
A faculty member should also become familiar with the Faculty Code, which sets forth the
rights and responsibilities of academic personnel, and the Faculty Organization Plan, which
describes the bodies and functions of faculty governance. Copies of these publications are
available at the two websites below:
http://provost.gwu.edu/policies-procedures
http://www.gwu.edu/~facsen/
Section 1: About the University
1.1 History
Founded in 1821, George Washington University grew out of President George
Washington’s vision to establish a national institution of higher learning. Washington
believed the nation’s capital was the logical site for such an institution, and he left a
bequest toward that objective.
1.2 Mission
George Washington University, an independent academic institution chartered by the
Congress of the United States in 1821, dedicates itself to furthering human well-being.
The university values a dynamic, student-focused community stimulated by cultural and
intellectual diversity and built upon a foundation of integrity, creativity, and openness to
the exploration of new ideas.
George Washington University, centered in the national and international crossroads of
Washington, D.C., commits itself to excellence in the creation, dissemination, and
application of knowledge. To promote the process of lifelong learning from both global
and integrative perspectives, the university provides a stimulating intellectual
environment for its diverse students and faculty. By fostering excellence in teaching, the
university offers outstanding learning experiences for full-time and part-time students in
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undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs in Washington, D.C., the nation,
and abroad. As a center for intellectual inquiry and research, the university emphasizes
the linkage between basic and applied scholarship, insisting that the practical be
grounded in knowledge and theory. The university acts as a catalyst for creativity in the
arts, the sciences, and the professions by encouraging interaction among its students,
faculty, staff, alumni, and the communities it serves.
George Washington University draws upon the rich array of resources from the National
Capital Area to enhance its educational endeavors. In return, the university, through its
students, faculty, staff, and alumni, contributes talent and knowledge to improve the
quality of life in metropolitan Washington, D.C.
Strategic Plan
Vision 2021: A Strategic Plan for the Third Century of the George Washington University
The GW Board of Trustees unanimously approved a new strategic plan for the university
at its May 2013 meeting, capping an 18-month planning and development process that
involved members of every sector of the GW community. The plan provides a
framework for transformational progress over the next decade. Vision 2021 centers on
four themes: innovation through cross-disciplinary collaboration, globalization,
governance and policy, and citizenship and leadership. Actions and initiatives in the plan
are linked to one or more of these themes. Overall, the initiatives set forth in Vision
2021 will create a more unified undergraduate educational experience, enhance
research initiatives, especially those with a cross-disciplinary approach, and expand
GW’s contributions to the local, national, and global community.
1.3 Demographic Overview
GW is the largest institution of higher education in the District of Columbia with
approximately 25,000 students from all 50 states, the District, and more than 130
countries. The undergraduate population accounts for 10,000 students, while 14,000
study on the graduate level and 1,000 are non-degree students. GW’s ten schools and
colleges, and nearly 100 research centers and institutes span three campuses: Foggy
Bottom and Mount Vernon in Washington, D.C., and the GW Virginia Science and
Technology Campus in Ashburn, Va. Several graduate education centers also serve
students in the metropolitan area and in Hampton Roads, VA.
GW Factbook
The Office of Institutional Research and Planning’s Web site includes links to a wide
array of information about GW, including the Factbook, which contains official statistics
for the most recent and historic reporting periods, such as graduation and retention
rates, enrollment counts, admissions statistics, tuition and fees information, and faculty
and staff statistics. The IRP site also includes the Common Data Set, which contains
current information about GW that is used by publishers of college guidebooks.
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1.4 Board of Trustees
The university is governed by a board of trustees, which has overall legal and fiduciary
responsibility for the university.
1.5 Administration
The administration of the university is comprised of the president, provost, vice
presidents, deans and department chairs. All are firmly committed to ensuring a top-
quality educational experience for GW students.
President
Provost
Vice Presidents
Deans
Department Chairs
1.6 Faculty
The university structure is based on shared governance, and the faculty have a role in
the development, implementation, and management of educational policy and
curriculum through membership in school faculties and through two university-wide
groups: (1) the Faculty Assembly, which consists of academic personnel in full-time
service and certain designated administrative personnel; and (2) the Faculty Senate, a
representative body acting for the faculty as a whole in legislative and advisory
capacities. The membership and functions of each of these groups are described in the
Faculty Code and the Faculty Organization Plan.
The Faculty Code
The Faculty Code sets forth the rights and responsibilities of academic personnel. It also
defines the various types of faculty appointments at GW.
Faculty Organization Plan
The Faculty Organization Plan describes the role, structure and functions of faculty at
the university, including the faculty's role in shared governance through the Faculty
Assembly and the Faculty Senate.
1.7 Schools and Academic Programs
George Washington University includes ten academic units, as follows:
The Columbian College of Arts and Sciences (CCAS) offers programs leading to the
degrees of Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Fine Arts, Master of Arts,
Master of Fine Arts, Master of Forensic Sciences, Master of Public Administration,
Master of Public Policy, Master of Science, Master of Philosophy, Master of Psychology,
Doctor of Philosophy, and Doctor of Psychology.
Within CCAS, the School of Media and Public Affairs offers programs leading to
the degree of Bachelor of Arts with majors in journalism, mass communication,
and political communication and to the degree of Master of Arts in Public Affairs.
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The Trachtenberg School of Public Policy and Public Administration, also part of
Columbian College of Arts and Sciences, offers programs leading to the degrees
of Master of Public Administration, Master of Public Policy, and Doctor of
Philosophy in Public Policy and Administration.
Within CCAS, the Corcoran School of the Arts and Design bridges the university’s
academically robust programs in the arts with Corcoran’s creative and inspired
scholarship. The school functions as an incubator for artists and practitioners in
arts-related fields, and serves to enrich students who are taking classes in other
areas of the university. It offers undergraduate and graduate programs in both
practical and fine arts.
The School of Medicine and Health Sciences offers programs leading to the degrees of
Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences, Master of Science in Health Sciences, Doctor of
Physical Therapy, Doctor of Occupational Therapy, and Doctor of Medicine.
GW Law offers programs leading to the degrees of Juris Doctor, Master of Laws, and
Doctor of Juridical Science.
The School of Engineering and Applied Science offers undergraduate programs leading
to the degrees of Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Arts. Graduate programs lead to
the degrees of Master of Science, Engineer, Applied Scientist, and Doctor of Philosophy.
The Graduate School of Education and Human Development offers programs leading to
the degrees of Master of Arts in Education and Human Development, Master of Arts in
Teaching, Master of Education, Education Specialist, and Doctor of Education.
The School of Business offers programs leading to the degrees of Bachelor of
Accountancy, Bachelor of Business Administration, Bachelor of Science, Master of
Accountancy, Master of Business Administration, Master of Science in Business
Analytics, Master of Science in Finance, Master of Science in Government Contracts
(joint degree program with GW Law), Master of Science in Information Systems
Technology, Master of Science in Project Management, Master of Tourism
Administration, and Doctor of Philosophy.
The Elliott School of International Affairs offers programs leading to the degrees of
Bachelor of Arts, Master of Arts, Master of International Policy and Practice, and Master
of International Studies.
The Milken Institute School of Public Health offers programs leading to the degrees of
Bachelor of Science, Master of Science, Master of Public Health, Master of Health
Services Administration, Doctor of Public Health and Doctor of Philosophy.
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The College of Professional Studies offers programs leading to the degrees of Associate
in Professional Studies, Bachelor of Professional Studies, and Master of Professional
Studies.
Within the College of Professional Studies, the Graduate School of Political
Management (GSPM) offers programs leading to the degree of Master of
Professional Studies.
The School of Nursing offers programs leading to the degrees of Bachelor of Science in
Nursing, Master of Science in Nursing, and Doctor of Nursing Practice.
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Section 2: Working at GW
What follows is a compendium of a number of university policies and employment-related
information. You are encouraged to review policy.gwu.edu for a more complete set of
university-wide policies.
2.1 Faculty and Staff Service Center
The Faculty and Staff Service Center (FSSC) provides a single location for employees of the
university to receive face-to-face support in the areas of benefits administration, parking and
transportation services, and payroll and tax services. Located on the first floor of Rice Hall (2121
Eye Street, NW), the FSSC is open weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
2.2 Office of Faculty Personnel
The Office of Faculty Personnel is the primary contact for faculty appointment and personnel
policies.
2.3 Faculty Appointment Procedures
The Office of Faculty Recruitment and Personnel Relations (FRPR) supports, among other
things, the university’s continuing commitment to a culturally diverse faculty/librarian
workforce and promotes inclusive recruitment and employment practices.
Office of Faculty Recruitment and Personnel Relations
Faculty Recruitment Process, including detailed instructions for departments/libraries
Faculty Personnel Relations
Part-Time Faculty
2.3.1 Terms of Service
Full-time members of the non-medical faculty are normally appointed for a nine-month
academic year and may receive supplementary appointments for teaching or research
during the three summer months. Faculty members with year-round responsibilities
receive a fiscal-year (July 1 through June 30) appointment.
Full-time medical faculty are normally hired on 12-month contracts. Full-time medical
faculty includes the faculties of the School of Medicine and Health Sciences, the Milken
Institute School of Public Health, and the School of Nursing.
2.3.2 Employment Eligibility and Verification (I-9 Form)
The university is required by federal law to verify the eligibility of an employee to legally
work in the United States and at GW. Section I of the Employment Eligibility Verification
Form, commonly called the I-9 Form, must be completed on or before the date of hire.
Section 2 must be completed within 3 working days of the start of employment.
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I-9 Form - Information and Instructions
Remote I-9 Procedure
Occasionally, a department will hire a faculty or staff member who will be employed by
the university, yet will not physically work on or in close proximity to the campuses in
Foggy Bottom, Ashburn, VA (Virginia Science and Technology) Hampton Roads, VA, or
the Biostatistics Center in Rockville, MD. As such, a new employee may not be able to
access a GW Authorized I-9 Representative in the local area to present original
documents as part of the I-9 completion process. To facilitate the timely completion of
I-9s, employees who are off-campus may complete a remote I-9 verification. Questions
regarding the remote process should be referred to HRIS at [email protected] or (703) 726-
3679.
2.3.3 Appointment of Relatives of Faculty Members
In accordance with general university policy, the basic criteria for appointment and
promotion shall be appropriate qualifications and performance. Relationship by family
or marriage shall constitute neither an advantage nor a deterrent to appointment or
promotion. Members of the same immediate family, same household, or those involved
in a personal relationship (Related Parties) are permitted to work in the same university
department, provided that no direct reporting or supervisor-to-subordinate
relationship exists. That is, no individual should have decision-making authority or
significant influence over the hiring, work responsibilities, salary, hours, career
progress, benefits or other terms and conditions of employment of a Related Party.
2.3.4 Appointment and Employment of Foreign Nationals
The GW community is enriched by the presence of short-term visitors, visiting
professors and researchers, as well as longer-term and permanent faculty appointees
from other countries. In this regard, certain guidelines must be followed with respect to
immigration regulations. These regulations apply to such individuals from foreign
countries, regardless of whether they are formally employed by GW. In addition, hiring
individuals from another country is a significant action that requires careful advance
planning. Departments contemplating the appointment, employment, or compensation
of any individual (including a student or teaching assistant) who is not a U.S. citizen or a
lawful permanent resident must confirm that the individual has proper immigration
status authorizing employment at GW when recommending an offer of appointment.
The GW International Services Office (ISO) provides detailed advice and assistance to
academic departments on the policies and procedures governing visa options and
employment of international faculty and researchers. When immigration sponsorship by
GW is pursued, the responsibility undertaken involves a collaborative effort between
the hiring department and the ISO.
2.3.5 Faculty in Residence and Faculty Guide Program
The Faculty in Residence and Faculty Guide (Fir/FG) program enhances the life of
residents in the residence halls and supports the academic mission of the university by
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facilitating educationally meaningful interactions among residents and faculty outside of
the classroom.
Living and working in residence halls, FiR/FG faculty members plan programs in and
beyond the residence halls—from study breaks to concerts at the nearby Kennedy
Center. FiRs and FGs serve as bridges for residential students to existing academic
programs and help to reinforce healthy learning behaviors in an effort to cultivate a
strong academic environment within the residence halls.
2.3.6 Secondary and Courtesy Appointments
A faculty member holding a regular, active-status appointment in one department or
school may be granted a secondary or courtesy appointment in another department or
school for a specified term. A secondary or courtesy appointment shall require the
recommendation of the appropriate faculty and officers of administration of the unit
granting that appointment and shall comply with rules and procedures for such
appointments established by the unit granting that appointment and by the Provost.
A secondary or courtesy appointment is not a regular, active-status appointment and
does not automatically confer any of the rights provided by the Faculty Code and the
Faculty Organization Plan to participate in faculty governance in the unit granting that
appointment. Unlike a courtesy appointment, a secondary appointment shall allow a
faculty member to exercise one or more specified governance privileges in the faculty
unit granting the appointment, but such privileges must be approved by that unit’s
regular, active-status faculty. A secondary or courtesy appointment terminates
automatically upon the expiration of its specified term or upon termination of the
faculty member’s regular, active-status appointment.
2.4 Relocation and Moving Allowance for New Faculty
Full-Time Faculty
New regular, full-time faculty may be eligible for reimbursement of certain expenses
connected with moving to the Washington area. Reimbursement eligibility may vary by
school, but generally covers:
1. Actual costs of moving household goods (e.g., to a moving company, van rental
agency, post office for book shipments), with the maximum amount authorized
based on the faculty member’s rank, as follows:
Professor and Associate Professor: $4,500;
Assistant Professor and Instructor: $3,000
(If two members of the same family, moving concurrently from the same location,
are requesting reimbursement, the total reimbursement shall not exceed $7,500.)
Note: For current rates, see https://provost.gwu.edu/faculty-appointments.
Original receipts must be submitted for reimbursement to the Office of Faculty
Personnel. Reimbursement will be processed after the full-time appointment begins
and after the I-9 has been submitted and verified.
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2. Travel costs in the form of a mileage allowance from point of origin to the
Washington, D.C. area. The rate of reimbursement is tied to the IRS business mileage
rate (57.5 cents for 2015). The IRS established mileage rate for moving (23 cents for
2015) is less than the business mileage rate. The portion of the reimbursement that
exceeds the IRS rate for relocation is considered taxable income and will be added to
your wages and subject to income tax withholding.
Visiting Faculty
A faculty member on a temporary one-year appointment may be eligible for either the
moving allowance or the mileage allowance, whichever is greater. No moving or mileage
allowance is available to part-time faculty or to full-time faculty appointed for one
semester.
2.5 Compensation
2.5.1 Salary Payment Schedule
Full-Time Faculty Salaries
Faculty salaries are paid on the last working day of each month. Excluding the initial
academic-year appointment, a faculty member appointed on an academic-year basis
customarily receives nine salary checks from the last day of September to the last day of
May. In the initial academic-year appointment, regular full-time or visiting full-time
faculty will be placed in a ten-month (August 1 through May 31) appointment status for
purposes of pay and benefit administration unless electing to be paid in nine
installments (September – May 31).
Deferred Compensation
Full-time faculty members may elect a twelve-payment option (September through
August) by requesting that arrangement in writing to the Faculty Personnel Office.
Faculty members should consult with a tax advisor regarding any questions about the
impact of electing to receive compensation over 12 months.
Information and Deferred Compensation Form
Part-Time Faculty Salaries
Faculty salaries are paid on the last working day of each month. By the course teaching
staff appointed for the fall semester receive their salary in four checks (September
through December) and for the spring semester in five installments (January through
May). Summer salaries are also paid on the last working day of each month.
2.5.2 Overload Compensation
A member of the full-time faculty who is authorized by the department chair and dean
to teach an extra course during a semester is paid overload compensation at the
appropriate part-time faculty salary rate schedule based on the minimum rates
established in the collective bargaining agreement for part-time faculty paid by the
course. School-based overload compensation rates may be established by request from
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a dean to the Provost. No faculty member shall teach more than 8 credits of overload
(on- and/or off-campus) per calendar year.
Consistent with the policy, all faculty, including those with course reductions for
administrative purposes, are not eligible for overload compensation unless they have
taught fifteen (or twelve with the permission of the dean) credits. If a faculty member’s
usual teaching load is four three-credit courses, a school dean may approve an overload
for the fifth course taught during an academic year. Such an approval may only occur on
a case-by-case basis and should come in the form of a memo from the dean to the Vice
Provost for Faculty Affairs.
Faculty on fiscal year appointments, such as associate deans, department chairs, and
program directors, cannot teach overloads during the academic year, except in special
circumstances and subject to advance approval from the Provost: they may, however,
be compensated for advising or coordinating in specific programs at an agreed upon
rate for such activity. Additional compensation for overload teaching on campus or off
campus, or for program coordination by full-time members of the faculty, must be
processed through the payroll system.
2.5.3 Summer Sessions Compensation
Full-time and part-time faculty may be appointed to teach a maximum of two courses
during the summer; any exception to this rule must be cleared in advance by the dean
and the Provost. In each school, the dean may further restrict teaching to one course in
order to make summer teaching available to a greater number of faculty. With the
exception of the schools of Law, Public Health, Medicine and Health Sciences, and
Nursing, the university usually pays 1/11 of the academic-year base salary, up to an
established cap set at a factor of 1.2 of the average salary within a school or a school
subdivision, for each 3-credit-hour course taught during the summer by full-time faculty.
The 1/11 fraction is applied to the base salary earned in the academic semester
preceding the summer program. (Compensation for teaching courses of more or fewer
credits is prorated accordingly, up to the established cap.) If a third course is approved
for a full-time faculty member because of a special need of the department that cannot
otherwise be met, compensation for the additional course would be on an overload
basis at the part-time faculty rate.
Faculty on fiscal-year appointments, for example associate deans, department chairs,
and program directors, are permitted to teach one course in the summer at 1/11 of the
base academic-year salary, up to the established cap. The dean and the Provost must
clear any exception to this rule in advance. If a second course is approved because of a
special need of the department that cannot otherwise be met, compensation for the
additional course would be on an overload basis at the part-time faculty rate.
Administrators with appropriate credentials may teach up to two courses in the summer
at the part-time faculty rate. Assignments for administrators will be limited to weekend
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or evening courses unless their supervisor provides written approval and the dean and
director of summer sessions concur.
A faculty member who combines teaching and externally funded research during the
summer may not receive from the university more than 3/9 of the academic-year salary
for the three summer months, including both teaching and research, except when the
faculty member serves as a consultant to a university project as specified under
university Policy on Research: Allowable Compensation and Allocation of Effort.
Associate deans (with the approval of the dean and the Provost and Executive Vice
President for Academic Affairs), department chairs, and program directors on fiscal-year
appointments who are involved with summer research grants are allowed to earn up to
a maximum of 2/9 of their base academic-year salary, including both teaching and
research.
A new full-time faculty member joining the university in the academic year beginning in
the fall semester may be recommended for teaching in the preceding summer sessions,
with the 1/11 fraction applied to the base salary stipulated in the contract for the
coming academic year.
A faculty member leaving the university may, under special circumstances, be
recommended for a teaching assignment in the summer sessions following his or her
termination. In such a case, the 1/11 fraction is applied to the base salary for the
preceding academic year. Typically, faculty members who are denied tenure will not be
permitted to teach after their terminal year.
2.5.4 Sabbatical Leave Compensation
During a period of sabbatical leave the university will pay a faculty member his/her full
salary for one semester of leave (or 6 months leave in the case of faculty members on
12-month appointments) or sixty percent salary for a full year’s leave. It is
understood that a faculty member on sabbatical leave may receive additional
compensation from another source either to supplement the 60% of GW salary
provided on a full year’s leave or to cover relocation expenses when a semester’s leave
or a full year’s leave is spent at a distance from Washington, D.C. The combination of
GW compensation and additional compensation should not exceed reasonable limits for
the purposes indicated. While on sabbatical, unless preapproved by the Provost, a
faculty member may not receive overload compensation for teaching at GW and may
not receive an administrative stipend from GW.
A faculty member may not receive sabbatical compensation from the University and
concurrently hold a full-time compensated position with another organization. (When a
faculty member arranges for full-time employment at another institution or with a
private firm or government agency, he/she should apply for leave without salary as
provided for in Article III F. and Article VI.A. of the Faculty Code.) Faculty with
questions about compensation arrangements should consult with the Provost’s Office
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for guidance. The full GW sabbatical policy can be found at the Provost’s website with
the Sabbatical Application Form.
2.5.5 Research Compensation
The Office of the Vice President for Research (OVPR) sponsors various intramural
funding competitions throughout the academic school year. The purpose of the
University Facilitating Fund (UFF) is to foster the creation of new research projects and
scholarly activities for full time university faculty. Awards range from $5,000-25,000 and
the award period is a year starting in July.
OVPR-chartered Center and Institute directors can apply for the Centers and Institutes
Facilitating Fund (CIFF). This program funds center/institute infrastructure that will
support more effective and collaborative efforts leading to success in receiving
extramurally funded grants and/or in promoting scholarship and advancing GW’s
reputation. These awards last for two years.
The Research Enhancement Incentive Awards (REIA) represent a return of research
dollars to Principal Investigators, departments and schools based on the generation of
external funding. The actual allocation of these funds varies by school.
2.5.6 Administrative Stipends for Fulltime Faculty
Fulltime faculty members who are asked to assume administrative roles, such as
program director, department chair, associate dean, or other duties may be given an
administrative stipend in addition to their faculty salary. The amount of such stipends
is determined by the role and the supervisor. Faculty who assume 12-month
administrative roles and receive a stipend are limited to earning an additional 2/9 of
their salary during the summer.
2.6 Benefits
GW is committed to offering eligible employees a comprehensive benefits package at a
competitive cost. A fulltime faculty member with a one-semester appointment is not
eligible for benefits. Learn more about benefits, perks, and pay by completing the
online Benefits Orientation and the online Payroll Orientation. Benefits for part-time
faculty covered by the collective bargaining agreement are described in that document.
Information and Forms
2.6.1 Benefit Tracking and Enrollment
Employees can choose from a variety of benefits using the online Benedetails system. In
addition, the GW Benefits Call Center is available at 888-4GWUBEN (888-449-8236) to
assist with health & welfare questions or concerns weekdays from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. For
questions regarding other benefit programs, please contact the Benefits Administration
Department at 703-726-8382 or [email protected].
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Enrollment Deadlines
Employees must enroll for health and welfare benefits within 30 calendar days from the
date of hire or a Qualified Life Event, such as the birth or adoption of a child. Elections
are for the entire calendar year and generally cannot be changed outside of Open
Enrollment, a period each fall in which all employees can review and change benefit
selections for the upcoming year. An exception to this would be a Qualified Life Event.
2.6.2 Retirement Benefit Enrollment
Eligible employees can choose between retirement investment providers Fidelity and
TIAA-CREF for their GW retirement savings plan investments. Employees may enroll in,
or make changes to, their 403(b) plan at any time during the year. Employees may
contact Fidelity at 1-800-343-0860, and TIAA-CREF at 1-800-842-2776, to obtain balance
and investment information or to request assistance with their accounts.
2.6.3 Tuition Remission/Tuition Exchange
At GW, we provide a world-class education to our students and offer our employees and
their spouses, domestic partners, and dependent children an opportunity to participate
in our formal education through the tuition remission benefit plan.
Dependent children may be eligible for undergraduate tuition through the tuition-
exchange program at other institutions of higher education. GW is a member school of
Tuition Exchange, Inc. a national organization that administers undergraduate tuition
scholarships (limited) for employees’ dependent children.
2.6.4 Leave
The university supports its employees’ abilities to balance their work and personal lives
(including support for employees’ personal and family health) by providing a variety of
leave options. Faculty who need to take time off from their classes for jury duty,
bereavement, military duty, family leave, or short or long term disability should contact
their department chair and dean to make arrangements for their classes to be covered.
Information and Forms
2.6.4.1 Parental Childcare Leave
A regular, active status full-time member of the faculty shall be entitled to
parental childcare leave upon certifying that he or she will provide at least half of
the child’s care during the leave period, subject to the terms and conditions set
forth in this section. Parental childcare leave shall include release from teaching
responsibilities and service responsibilities for one semester with full salary and
benefits, and such leave shall terminate within twelve months after a minor
dependent child is born or adopted or enters the faculty member’s home under
a foster care arrangement. During such leave, faculty members shall continue
providing thesis and dissertation advising to students whom they advised prior
to the leave unless adequate alternative arrangements are made. For faculty
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members engaged in externally funded grant or contract related activities,
parental childcare leave shall include release from responsibilities to the
university, but shall not include release from responsibilities to the external
funding sources unless alternative arrangements are approved by such sources.
A regular, active-status faculty member is entitled to parental childcare leave for
a maximum of two minor dependent children who are born or adopted or enter
the faculty member’s home as foster children after the starting date of the
faculty member’s appointment to the university. Parental childcare leave under
other circumstances or for other full-time faculty, including leave with full or
partial salary, may be granted at the discretion of the Provost and Executive Vice
President for Academic Affairs, after consultation with the appropriate
department chair (if applicable) and dean.
Faculty on research appointments whose compensation comes from research
grants are not eligible for parental childcare leave under the GW parental leave
policy. However, federal agencies have created family friendly leave policies to
enable principal investigators (PIs) and researchers funded by federal grants to
petition for family-related leave. The process is for the PI to contact the project
officer to request leave for him/herself or another key staff member. Depending
on the agency, there may also be administrative supplements to cover time
away, no cost extensions, or other options.
National Institutes of Health Childcare Provisions
National Science Foundation Career Life Balance
Continuation in service. By accepting Parental Childcare Leave, a faculty member
agrees to continue in the service of the university for at least one year following
the leave unless the university approves some other arrangement.
2.6.5 Work-Life and Wellness Programs
At GW, we take great pride in creating a supportive work environment and understand
that faculty and staff are our greatest asset. The mission of Colonial Community is to
promote faculty and staff wellbeing by providing programs, policies, and resources to
create a strong and healthy workforce. The following services are available to all
fulltime and regular part-time faculty members.
2.6.5.1 GW’s Wellbeing Hotline
GW’s Wellbeing Hotline is a one-stop-shop for help with personal issues,
planning for life events, or simply managing daily life. Faculty and their family
members can take advantage of confidential counseling services, qualified
referrals for child and elder care, financial or legal services support, and much
more.
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2.6.5.2 Smoking Cessation Program
GW provides support to help overcome the physical, psychological and
behavioral addictions to tobacco through expert coaching and support. Faculty
and their family members may also qualify for nicotine replacement therapy. The
program is free and confidential
2.6.5.3 Back-Up Family Care
GW’s Backup Family Care program has been tailored to meet the unique needs
of working families when regular family care arrangements are disrupted.
Faculty have up to five days per year for children, adults, and elders.
2.6.5.4 Health Advocacy Services
Health Advocate is a special benefit paid by GW that can help faculty and their
family members resolve healthcare and insurance issues, promptly and reliably.
Health Advocate is designed to help cut through the barriers that often create
frustration and problems.
2.6.5.5 Wellness Programs
GW offers a wide variety of programs to support the health and wellbeing of our
faculty members. Programs include, but are not limited to, nutrition and weight
management, recreational sports, fitness classes and challenges, and healthy
pregnancy support.
2.7 Professional Responsibilities
Although faculty members work differently, each individual must perform his or her
share of the overall activity required by the institution. The major types of faculty
activity are instructional, including preparation, performance in class, grading, student
advising, thesis and dissertation direction, and program planning; professional/clinical
service; scholarly and applied research or creative and artistic effort, whether sponsored
or unsponsored; and university service, such as committee work and part-time
administration. Throughout the university there is the expectation that all regular,
fulltime faculty will stay current in their field and engage in publishable scholarly and
applied research or its equivalent in creative work in the arts. It is expected that special
service faculty will stay current in their field and in teaching pedagogy.
It is the responsibility of the department chair and the dean to oversee faculty members
in fulfilling all professional responsibilities fully and effectively. In most divisions of the
university, the number of courses taught by a fulltime faculty member varies from four
to six (12-18 credits) courses per academic year. The normal teaching portion of a full-
time faculty member’s commitment to the institution varies in relation to other
professional responsibilities and university assignments. After consultation between the
dean and the provost, the department chair may increase or decrease an individual’s
teaching load, with no decrease in salary, taking into account that individual’s overall
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effort in such areas as research or comparable scholarly work, administration, advising,
and university governance as well as the total number of students taught.
It is expected that a member of the faculty will perform conscientiously all academic
duties, including attendance at faculty meetings, commencement exercises, and
convocations.
2.7.1 Annual Reports
All regular, active-status and research faculty members are required to file annual
reports. In certain circumstances schools may require other categories of faculty to
periodically submit annual reports, e.g., as part of a re-accreditation review. Annual
reports document accomplishments from June 1 to May 31 for the preceding year. They
are due to department chairs by May 31 each year. (Note: Faculty in the schools of
Medicine, Public Health and Nursing are on a May to April cycle.) Annual reports are
filed electronically through the online Lyterati system. Lyterati can be accessed through
the following links:
https://gwu.lyteraticloud.com/login
http://provost.gwu.edu, under Resources, then Forms
Faculty are given the opportunity to attach their recent CV, which will be input into the
Lyterati system. Annual reports filed through the electronic system are available to
chairs and deans for review and comment online.
2.7.2 Conflicts of Interest and Commitment Policy for Faculty and Investigators
Faculty and investigator activities shall be conducted in a manner that avoid
inappropriate conflicts of interest and commitment. Conflicts of interest may occur
when there is a divergence between a Faculty Member’s private interests and
professional service to the university. The goal of the university is to establish 1)
boundaries within which conflicts are managed, reduced or eliminated, 2) processes for
review of actual and apparent conflicts, and 3) appropriate mechanisms for
management of conflicts.
Conflict of Interest Reporting
Annual Faculty Conflict of Interest and Financial Disclosure Reports are due by May 31
as part of the online annual report. The Conflict of Interest form is filed electronically
through the Lyterati system and can be found at the end of the annual report. Annual
filing is a mandatory obligation of a GW faculty member. Faculty members are also
expected to provide updates to their conflict of interest disclosures if new potential
conflicts arise during the year.
Data collected in the annual conflict of interest disclosures are kept confidential and are
reviewed by the Compliance and Privacy Office and the Provost’s Office to determine
potential conflicts. With notice to faculty members at the time of collection, the data
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may also be shared with affiliated organizations such as the Children’s National Health
System or the Medical Faculty Associates as appropriate.
Compliance and Privacy Office
The mission of the university’s Compliance and Privacy Office is to establish a
compliance program to educate faculty and staff about their compliance
obligations and to assist them in adhering to them.
Research Compliance and Integrity
The university has a broad range of policies governing research activities in the
Research and Finance Sections of the university’s Policies. It is the responsibility
of everyone associated with research at GW to comply with federal, state, local
laws, regulations and university policies in all aspects of any research conducted
on behalf of the university.
2.7.3 Instructional-Based Professional Responsibilities
2.7.3.1. Use of Blackboard
Faculty are strongly encouraged to use the online tool Blackboard to supplement
course instruction—from posting syllabi, assignments, and lectures to
conducting real-time written, spoken, or video discussions. In the event of a
weather event or other emergency that closes the campus, Blackboard becomes
an invaluable tool to allow instruction to continue uninterrupted. Training on
Blackboard is available through the Instructional Technology Lab and also via the
Web at http://itl.gwu.edu/blackboardguides.
Blackboard Support
Information Technology Helpdesk
Phone: 202-994-4948
2.7.3.2 Instructional Technology Lab
The Instructional Technology Lab offers phone and in-person support for faculty
members using programs including, but not limited to, Blackboard, PowerPoint
and BBCollaborate Live. Faculty members can also register for workshops
sponsored by the ITL.
Phone: 202-994-0485
Walk-in Hours: Mondays and Tuesdays, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Wednesdays and Thursdays, 1 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Location: Gelman Library, Room B05A (Basement Level)
2.7.3.3 Office Hours
The university does not specify precise regulations governing faculty office
hours, but some schools and departments set guidelines for the amount of time
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expected for faculty to provide office hours. It is evident that the ready, regular,
and ample availability of faculty to students and to other faculty colleagues is
essential to the academic enterprise. Faculty members will vary widely in the use
of their offices. Some will spend most of their out-of-class time in them; others,
engaged in research or other professionally related activities, will observe
specific office hours. In either case, it is expected that office hours of sufficient
extent and variety will be posted so that students have easy access to their
instructors and advisors. Academic departments will maintain a list of all faculty
members’ (both full- and part-time) office hours during the semesters and
summer sessions. It is important that this information is kept current.
2.7.3.4 Syllabi with Learning Objectives
Faculty are expected to distribute a hard copy of the syllabus during the first
session of each course taught. It should also be made available through
Blackboard. Some schools provide templates for syllabi for courses within that
school. It is expected that faculty will regularly review and update their syllabi to
keep them current. School, department and program administrators may also
review syllabi to make sure that academic program objectives and accreditation
standards are being met. All syllabi should include:
1) bulletin description of the course,
2) course prerequisites, if any,
3) learning objectives that state descriptions of behaviors or skills that
students will be able to demonstrate at the end of the class or unit,
4) required textbooks or other materials,
5) schedule of topics to be presented,
6) description of assignments and other course assessments that delineate
how student performance will be evaluated,
7) statement of the religious holiday policy (see Sect. 2.12.5),
8) statement regarding student disability services and policies (see Sect.
2.7.3.7), and
9) reference to the GW Academic Integrity Code.
Resources
University Teaching and Learning Center
Academic Planning and Assessment
2.7.3.5 Assessment of Student Learning
The Middle States Commission on Higher Education and other accrediting
organizations for GW and its schools expect that student learning experiences
will be assessed regularly by faculty and that those learning assessments will be
used to improve teaching and increase student learning. When creating or
revising a syllabus, faculty should develop course assignments, projects, and
tests that correspond to the applicable learning objectives and provide useful
information about how well students are learning what is stated in the learning
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objectives. The faculty should use their analyses of student performance to
make periodic revisions to the course and improve student learning.
2.7.3.6 Textbook Adoption
Faculty members should determine requirements for books and supplies as early
as possible and place orders in a timely manner. Textbook adoptions may be
submitted in the following ways:
Online - http://www.gwu.bkstr.com
For instructions, go to http://contest.efollett.com/edoptions/ct_edoptions
First-time users: When prompted for a store-supplied password, enter 122.
Email: [email protected]
Fax: 202-296-9445 (Attn: Textbook Department)
Campus Mail: GW Bookstore, Attn: Textbook Department, Marvin Center
Deadlines: The textbook adoption deadline for summer and fall courses is
March 15; for spring courses, October 15. These deadlines are necessary to
comply with the Higher Education Opportunity Act by providing textbook
information in time for student registration. Submission of textbook adoptions
by these deadlines also helps to ensure:
Students receive more buyback money for their used books if the bookstore
knows that they will be used for the next semester’s courses.
A wider selection of lower-priced used books are available for purchase
Title availability can be checked in a timely manner
Textbooks arrive in time for the start of classes.
2.7.3.7 Covering Classes
Prompt and regular attendance at all assigned classes is a contractual duty. If
unavoidable delay or absence occurs, every effort should be made to have the
class covered. Faculty members who expect to be absent from the university,
especially if their classes are to be taught by someone else, should inform the
department chair and the dean, giving as much notice as possible.
2.7.3.8 Students with Disabilities
The institution must provide reasonable accommodations to the student’s
known disability if needed in order to afford him/her an equal opportunity to
participate in the institution’s programs, activities and services (including
extracurricular activities). A college or university may not discriminate against an
individual on the basis of disability. If a student approaches you to discuss
issues relating to a claimed disability or to request an accommodation, you
should refer the student to Disability Support Services to acquire appropriate
documentation.
Disability Support Services recommends the following statement for use on
course syllabi to encourage early self-disclosure: “Any student who may need an
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accommodation based on the potential impact of a disability should contact the
Disability Support Services office at 202-994-8250 in Rome Hall, Suite 102, to
establish eligibility and to coordinate reasonable accommodations.”
2.7.3.9 Students in Distress
Faculty can refer students who appear to be in distress to the University
Counseling Center and/or to the CARE Network, a university-wide network
designed to connect students with needed resources. Distress can be
manifested through sudden changes in behavior, demeanor, or academic
performance, drop in class attendance, comments made that allude to self-harm
or harm to others, or any other actions that seem atypical for the student. Filing
a CARE report can be very helpful in determining if the changes are more
pervasive, since other reports may have also been filed on behalf of that student.
2.7.3.10 Final Exam Schedule
The Academic Scheduling Office (ASO) schedules final exams for the majority of
on-campus courses. Final exams are only scheduled for lecture sections, not for
labs, discussions, recitations, etc. Off-campus final exams are scheduled by each
individual department. All undergraduate final exams must be given during the
final exam period listed in the academic calendar and must be given on the day
and time listed in the final exam schedule. For online courses, the syllabus will
show the date of final exams.
Graduate exams may be given on the last day of the semester. If the professor
would like to schedule an exam during the final exam period, the department
must make a request to ASO. Graduate exam requests are accepted once all
undergraduate exams have been scheduled.
2.7.3.11 Timely Submission of Grades
Faculty are required to submit final grades within five (5) business days after the
final examination, after the submission of a final project, or after the final class
meeting if no exam or project is given. Exceptions to this requirement may be
made by the dean’s office to accommodate grading for large classes or other
exceptional circumstances. Any late submission of grades must be cleared with
the department chair or dean’s office ahead of time.
Faculty members are strongly encouraged to submit final grades online via
GWeb. Grades submitted online will be applied to a student’s record overnight
and will be available to view by the students the following morning. Online grade
submission must be done through GWeb; grades entered into Blackboard are
not considered official and are not applied to student records. Only the primary
instructor (as designated in Banner) may submit final grades online.
Faculty Grade Entry – Step-by-Step Instructions
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2.7.3.12 Classroom Emergencies, Maintenance, and Technical Difficulties
To report a crime or a health, public safety emergency, or unusual/suspicious
activities, call the GW Police Department at 202-994-6111. All classroom
incidents should be reported using the incident report form. To report a
classroom in need of minor maintenance or better temperature control, call
Facilities at 202-994-6706. To request assistance with computer equipment, call
Academic Technologies at 202-994-7900.
2.7.4 Convocations
The university schedules one major convocation during the academic year—the Spring
Commencement in May—and other convocations from time to time throughout the
academic year. Members of the regular, fulltime faculty are expected to participate in
the academic processions on these occasions. All regular, full-time faculty members who
are interested in purchasing academic regalia will receive a one-time-only
reimbursement by the university of $200 toward the cost of purchasing cap and gown.
Original receipts should be submitted to the Office of University Events, Rice Hall 504.
Faculty preferring to rent academic regalia may make arrangements to do so through
the University Bookstore.
2.7.5 Consulting and Other Professional Activities
Increasingly, industry and government have come to rely on faculties of universities for
advice and guidance. Such practical contributions from institutions of higher education
to society at large have provided many faculty members with the opportunity to use
their knowledge and talents constructively and profitably and to strengthen their
competence through a greater variety of professional experiences.
The university permits regular, fulltime faculty members to spend the equivalent of up
to one working day a week during the academic year on outside consulting and other
professional activities, provided such commitments do not interfere with university
obligations. This privilege is not extended to research faculty members paid wholly from
research grants or contracts or to full-time physician faculty members who are
participants in Medical Faculty Associates or to other physician faculty members whose
university contracts preclude such activities.
Fulltime faculty are expected to list consulting and other external professional activities
on Faculty Annual Reports each spring. Faculty are required to complete a Financial
Interest Disclosure form as part of the conflict of interest and commitment reporting
process, as well as to file ad hoc reports when new financial interests occur. Faculty
members providing outside consulting or other professional services in accordance with
this policy must inform clients that they do not represent the opinions of the university.
It is the responsibility of the department chair and the dean to ensure that outside
activities reported in faculty annual reports do not become a conflict of commitment for
the faculty member. In particular, it is expected that faculty involved in private income-
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producing activities will not utilize beyond incidental use university space or resources
for such purposes, nor the services of support staff, research assistants, or other
university staff during regular working hours (Policy on Conflicts of Interest and
Commitment).
No faculty member may accept a teaching appointment at another academic institution
or engage in any other regular activity of a remunerative nature with another academic
institution during the academic year without the approval of the university. Exceptions
allowing outside teaching appointments or academic activities may be authorized in
special cases if they are for a limited period with prior approval of the dean and the
Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs. Approval of an outside
teaching assignment is for a limited period, and it is expected that during that period the
faculty member will not engage in other consultative activity.
2.7.6 Travel to Meetings of Scholarly Organizations
University policy is to subsidize in part or in full, within budgetary limitations and with
advance approval, faculty attendance at learned or professional society meetings when
the individual is an officer of the association, is presenting a paper, or is taking some
other official part in the meeting. Occasionally, other reasons may provide the basis for
support. Department chairs, for example, often find attendance at meetings essential to
the recruiting process.
Requests for travel approval should be submitted well in advance of the date of the
meeting through the chair to the dean (or directly to the dean in schools without
departments). Such requests should include, in addition to routine information about
the meeting and its location, an estimate of the cost of the trip. Normally,
reimbursement for air transportation costs is based on coach fare. Notice of action on
the request by the dean will be sent to the department chair. If the request is approved,
the individual undertaking the travel will be required to submit, upon his or her return,
an itemized expense account recorded on the appropriate university form, together
with receipts. This information is forwarded by the dean to Accounts Payable for
reimbursement. Please see the Travel, Entertainment, and Business Expense
Reimbursement Policy for more information.
When authorized by a dean, faculty and staff whose university responsibilities include
travel may apply for a GW corporate credit card called a P-card. The P-card, which has
no annual fee, should be used exclusively for approved university business expenses.
The individual faculty member cardholder, not the university, is responsible for all
charges made to the card, and the university will only reimburse authorized charges.
2.7.7 Service
Service is, along with teaching and research, a third required component of professional
responsibilities. It is defined broadly and at many levels. It is not required that a
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professor be involved in every aspect of department, school, university, professional,
and community service but it is assumed that there will be broad participation in
extending and sharing the academic responsibilities of the institution.
Service levels include: work and leadership at the program, department level, school,
professional societies, as well as service to community organizations. Among the
service roles are: participation in leadership and on university committees at all levels;
engagement and leadership in professional organizations and societies; and service to
agencies and organizations in the broader community. A faculty member may elect to
concentrate on specific aspects of service, e.g. a greater participation in program
administration, in school committee work, or at the university level on academic and
Faculty Senate committees. Over time faculty would be expected to demonstrate
leadership in their participation in these areas.
Service to the community is broader and can include: membership on Boards of
Trustees of profit and non-profit organizations; consultative support to such
organizations; or collaborative ventures with representatives of such organizations, such
as joint research activities. Faculty are required to report all such activities and to
document those activities of a remunerative nature in their annual reports. Conflict of
interest regulations of the institution require that department chairs, deans, and the
administration be notified of all activities that might constitute a conflict of interest by
faculty or members of a faculty member’s family.
Active engagement in professional organizations, at all levels, is another option for
faculty service. This would include editing or review responsibilities on professional
journals and publications, committee membership and leadership in the organization, as
well as professional presentations and keynote addresses at national meetings.
New faculty should discuss their service interests with mentors and with the
department chair and other school leadership to ascertain how their interests expand
the mission and objectives of the school and the university.
Faculty in Residence and Faculty Guide Program
As described in Section 2.3.5, The Faculty in Residence and Faculty Guide Program is
another way to serve the university by active engagement with students outside of the
classroom.
2.8 Faculty Workstation Initiative
The Faculty Workstation Initiative (FWI) provides a new computer to eligible faculty
every three years.
2.9 Faculty Records (Retention and Confidentiality)
The Records Management Policy and the Employee Record Termination Policy address
issues of retention and confidentiality related to faculty, staff, and student records.
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Records Management Policy
Employee Record Termination Policy
Privacy of Student Records Policy
2.10 Sabbatical Policy
Sabbatical leave is granted to members of the faculty as recognition of notable service
through teaching and scholarly contributions and as an aid and inspiration to further
achievements. Sabbatical leave is intended to provide faculty with opportunities for
scholarly development and contacts that will contribute to their professional
effectiveness and to the value of their later service to The George Washington
University. A George Washington University faculty member who wishes to apply for
sabbatical leave should first consult the statement of sabbatical leave policy to make
sure that he or she is eligible. In brief, the applicant should: (1) have served full time in
regular active status for at least six years; (2) have a project for improving his/her
scholarly development and professional effectiveness; and (3) submit an application
sufficiently in advance of the academic year in which sabbatical leave is desired. Those
who are unclear as to their eligibility should contact the Office of Faculty Personnel
(202-994-6511).
All faculty members are strongly encouraged to pursue fellowship or grant opportunities
to support their proposed sabbatical activities. Information about fellowship
opportunities for faculty is available from the Office of Graduate Student Assistantships
and Fellowships (202-994-6835) and about grants from the Office of the Vice President
for Research (202-994-7315).
Sabbatical Leave Report. Upon return from the sabbatical leave, the faculty member is
required to report in writing on the progress of the research or formal study during the
leave period through the department or program chair to the dean and then to the
Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs.
Continuation in Service. It is assumed that a faculty member who accepts leave intends
to return to the University. By accepting a grant of sabbatical leave, a faculty member
agrees to continue in the service of the university for at least one year following the
leave unless the university approves some other arrangement. If after completion of a
sabbatical a faculty member resigns from the university to accept an alternative
position, the university will expect to be made harmless by the faculty member (or the
new employer) through the repayment of compensation provided to the faculty
member during the sabbatical.
2.11 Leaving the University
2.11.1 Retirement
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Faculty members are eligible for retirement benefits if they (1) retire at age 65 or over:
(2) retire between the ages of 60 and 65 with ten or more years of full-time university
service: or (3) retire between the ages of 55 and 60 with twenty or more years of
university service. (Retirement between the ages of 55 and 60 is subject to approval by
the Board of Trustees.)
The GW Benefits website contains a Faculty Retirement Guide where the retirement
benefits and options are discussed. A link to the most up to date Retirement Guide,
describing healthcare coverage, tuition remission, and other retiree benefits, can be
found at the GW Benefits website.
As stated in the Faculty Code, Article VII A. Subject to the needs of the university, a full-
time member of the faculty who is fully retired may be invited by the appropriate
officers of the university to continue on a part-time basis and appointed for a renewable
period not to exceed one academic year. Such appointee shall be designated
“emeritus (or retired) in residence.”
2.11.2 Emeritus Status
As stated in the Faculty Code Article VII B: A member of the faculty with long and
distinguished service to the university may, upon retirement, be awarded emeritus
status. Emeritus status is recommended by the regular, active-status members of the
faculty concerned and, with the concurrence of the administration, is awarded by the
Board of Trustees.
Those eligible for consideration for emeritus status are university professors, professors,
adjunct professors, clinical professors, research professors, associate professors, and
associate clinical professors. Faculty members in emeritus status shall be entitled to use
facilities as arranged with the administration of the university and to participate in
faculty meetings without the right to vote. They may serve on committees and may
perform such other services as are in keeping with their desires and the needs of the
university.
An emeritus faculty member becomes a member of the Society of the Emeriti. Emeriti
faculty members will be issued an emeritus GWID badge to enable them to receive free
parking on campus, use of the SOTE Lounge on the Mount Vernon Campus, continued
use of the Libraries, and a GW email account.
2.11.3 Partial Retirement
Full-time members of the faculty who qualify under the provisions of Article VII.D of the
Faculty Code may retire partially by reducing their service to the university to either a
two-thirds-time or a half-time basis for a specified period of time. Either basis will, in
general, include teaching, research, and other services proportionate to that considered
normal for a full-time faculty member in the relevant department, school, or other
division of the university. Any determination of programmatic needs as required by
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Section VII.D of the Faculty Code and any combination of effort proposed by a faculty
member must be approved by the department chair, the dean, and the Provost and
Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs.
The faculty member’s salary shall be, as applicable, two-thirds or one-half of the
established full-time salary, and eligibility for annual salary increases shall continue. At
the same time, the faculty member’s fringe benefits* may not be reduced. The benefits
that are offered to those who partially retire would continue to be those offered to
fulltime faculty members at the same contribution level (ex. medical, dental, vision);
however, the benefits that are salary driven (ex. life insurance, AD&D) would change to
reflect the new prorated salary level. Once a faculty member has elected to retire
partially, he or she may not increase the level of service thereafter. A faculty member in
partial retirement is no longer eligible to take a sabbatical. The faculty member may
elect to retire fully at any time prior to the end of the specified period.
*Please note: Basic and Additional Life Insurance benefits include an age reduction
provision. This provision will continue to apply should you decide to partially retire.
Please review the applicable plan certificate for details by visiting the GW Benefits
website. In addition, if at any time your salary reduces, salary driven benefits such as
life, AD&D insurance, and disability will be adjusted accordingly. To view your current
benefits at any time during the year, please go to the GW Employee Portal.
For details regarding benefits during full retirement, faculty members should refer to
the Planning for Retirement Guide on the Benefits Administration website at
https://benefits.gwu.edu/retiring-gw.
2.11.4 Retired Faculty
Faculty who retire, but are not emeritus, will continue to have access to their GW email
account for one year after they leave the university, subject to university policies.
Faculty must set up an auto-generated messaged noting the end of their employment
relationship with GW.
2.11.5 Resignation from GW
Faculty members who voluntarily resign from GW will continue to have access to their
GW email account for one year after they leave the university, subject to university
policies. Faculty must set up an auto-generated messaged noting the end of their
employment relationship with GW.
2.12 Important Policies Related to Employment
2.12.1 Equal Opportunity
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The university is an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action (EEO/AA)
employer committed to maintaining a non-discriminatory, diverse work environment.
The university does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex,
national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or
expression, or on any other basis prohibited by applicable law in any of its programs or
activities. For the university’s complete Equal Opportunity Action Statement, see:
http://my.gwu.edu/files/policies/EqualEmploymentOpportunityStatement.pdf
Faculty questions or concerns about discriminatory or unfair treatment should be
brought to the Office of Faculty Recruitment and Personnel Relations.
2.12.2 Disabilities Policy
The university is committed to equal opportunity, diversity and nondiscrimination, and
supports the employment of qualified individuals with disabilities. Faculty who believe
they need a reasonable accommodation in order to perform the essential duties of their
position should contact the university’s Office of Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO).
2.12.3 Non-Retaliation
The university is committed to conducting its affairs honestly, ethically and in
compliance with applicable laws and regulations. Members of the university community
are encouraged to report good faith concerns about university-related violations of
laws, regulations or university policies. Retaliation against members of the university
community who make good faith reports regarding potential university-related
violations of laws, regulations or university policies is prohibited, and violators may be
subject to disciplinary action.
2.12.4 Guidelines for Political Campaign Activities on Behalf of Political Candidates
It is the policy of the university to comply with Internal Revenue Service (IRS) regulations
that prohibit the use of university resources in connection with political campaign
activities in support of or in opposition to candidates.
2.12.5 Legal Representation of Faculty
It is the policy of the university to provide legal representation and protection from
liability, in accordance with the terms of its Bylaws and rules, to faculty who become
involved in claims or suits arising from authorized activities that fall within the scope of
their university employment. All court papers and letters from lawyers received by
faculty and staff concerning their work at the university must be transmitted promptly
to the Office of the Senior Vice President and General Counsel (OGC) in accordance with
the university’s Legal Advisory concerning Procedures Governing Summonses,
Subpoenas, Lawsuits, Notices and Letters from Lawyers.
2.12.6 Religious Accommodation
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At the employee’s request, the university will attempt to provide a reasonable
accommodation for religious beliefs and practices of the employee if to do so does not
impose an undue hardship on the employee’s department, or interfere with the
employee’s ability to perform the essential functions of his or her position.
Each year the Provost and the Dean of Students issue a memo to the university
community providing a list of religious holidays to be accommodated. The
Administration has accepted a resolution of the Faculty Senate regarding the
accommodation of the obligations of religiously observant students and faculty.
The Senate recommended that:
1. Students notify faculty during the first week of the semester of their intention to
be absent from class on their day(s) of religious observance.
2. Faculty continue to extend to these students the courtesy of absence without
penalty on such occasions, including permission to make up examinations.
3. Faculty who intend to observe a religious holiday arrange at the beginning of the
semester to re-schedule missed classes or to make other provisions for their
course-related activities.
4. The Administration continue to circulate to faculty by the last week of the
previous semester a schedule of religious holidays most frequently observed by
our students with a notation that student members of other religious groups are
also entitled to the same courtesies and accommodations.
5. The Administration convey this policy to students by including it in the Schedule
of Classes and other places deemed appropriate.
2.12.7 Sexual Harassment and Sexual Violence
GW is committed to maintaining a positive climate for study and work, in an
atmosphere that is free from coercion, intimidation and violence. Sexual harassment
and discrimination, including sexual violence, is destructive to the university community
and will not be tolerated. GW community members found to have violated the terms of
this policy will be held accountable through the university’s processes and will face
consequences up to and including termination, suspension, or expulsion.
2.12.8 Smoke-Free Campus Policy
It is the policy of the university to promote a smoke-free campus by prohibiting smoking
in all academic, athletic and recreational, and administrative support facilities, including
offices, classrooms, locker rooms, rest rooms, laboratories, halls, stairways, residence
facilities, parking garages, and maintenance facilities.
2.12.9 Substance Abuse
In accordance with the Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988 and the Drug-Free Schools and
Communities Act of 1989, the university is committed to maintaining a drug-free
workplace and promoting high standards of employee health and safety. University
standards of conduct prohibit the illegal manufacture, possession, distribution, or use of
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alcohol and drugs. University manuals, codes of conduct, and publications specify
penalties for violations of these policies, including suspension or dismissal from the
university.
2.12.10 Threats and Acts of Violence Policy
Threats and acts of violence will not be tolerated on property owned, leased or
controlled by the university. Any university student, faculty or staff member, or guest or
visitor who violates this policy will be subject to disciplinary actions in accordance with
university policies and procedures.
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Section 3: Teaching at GW
3.1 Academic Calendar
The Academic Calendar lists important dates throughout the year, including the first day
of classes and exam dates. Dates are subject to change.
3.2 Expectations
Per Article III. C. of the Faculty Code, it is expected that faculty members shall make
adequate preparation for their classes and conduct them in a dignified, courteous
manner. They shall meet classes on time, hold classes for the full period, evaluate
academic performance fairly and reasonably, and report evaluations promptly. Unless
special arrangements are made for class coverage through the department chair or
dean’s office, faculty presence during the first week of classes is mandatory. It is also
required that a complete syllabus is distributed on the first day of classes or available
during the first week of an online class.
3.3 Schedule of Classes
The Schedule of Classes lists classes offered in the fall, spring, and summer terms at all
of GW’s campuses as well as online.
3.4 Undergraduate Advising
All incoming first-year and transfer students are assigned professional advisors. In
addition, in some schools at the end of their sophomore year, students are assigned a
faculty advisor in their major in addition to their professional advisor, whom they retain
until graduation. [The Milken Institute School of Public Health assigns both a
professional advisor and a faculty member upon matriculation. In School of Business,
students work with professional advisors throughout their undergraduate years, but are
also encouraged to seek out a faculty mentor in their major.] Faculty are urged to
encourage students to meet with their academic advisors to select the appropriate
courses for their program. All academic advisors undergo rigorous training and meet
with various divisions and programs around campus to ensure they are knowledgeable
about the university’s resources.
Undergraduate Advising Offices
Columbian College of Arts and Sciences
School of Engineering and Applied Science
School of Business
Elliott School of International Affairs
Milken Institute School of Public Health
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School of Nursing
Faculty members provide academic advising in the School of Nursing. The Manager of
Student Services offers support akin to a dean’s office, while the Executive Coordinator
of Student Services works with students on all other issues.
DegreeMAP
DegreeMAP is an online advising and degree auditing system that displays requirements
for students’ programs of study and applies students’ individual academic histories to
those requirements. DegreeMAP can include in-progress courses to show how currently
enrolled classes will apply to requirements. Students can also visit their advisor to run
“What If…” audits that apply their current academic history to a different set of degree
requirements. DegreeMAP is designed to provide more information about degree
requirements early in students’ academic careers and give students a tool to monitor
and track degree progress.
DegreeMAP is available to all undergraduate programs and many graduate programs.
Additional graduate programs will go live on a rolling basis as part of the continued
phased implementation of DegreeMAP.
3.5 Graduate Advising
Advising is program-specific at the graduate level.
3.6 Student Registration
The Records and Registration unit of the Office of the Registrar helps to facilitate the
registration process by providing a variety of resources for students, including online
instructions on how to register for classes, the registration schedule for each upcoming
semester, waitlist information, instructions for resolving holds, withdrawal and refund
information, and details on ROTC and Consortium registration. Students in the following
programs should consult their school or program for specific registration information:
Law School
Medical School
Off-Campus Programs
3.7 Student Records/FERPA
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) is a federal law that protects the
privacy of student education records. In keeping with FERPA guidelines faculty members
should not publicly post student grades, should not discuss a specific student’s grade in
class, and should not link student grades to their GWID or Social Security Number.
Faculty members may not discuss a student’s grades with a parent or guardian unless
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the student has filed a signed waiver with the Registrar’s Office giving permission to do
so.
When a student enrolls in an institution of higher education, he or she becomes subject
to the FERPA regulations that govern all colleges and universities. Regardless of the age
of a student, with limited exceptions, the university may not disclose the education
records of the student absent the student’s consent. A student’s grades may only be
disclosed to the student, unless the student expressly directs otherwise.
Amending Records
A student has the right to request that the university amend information in his or her
education records when the student believes those records contain inaccurate or
misleading information. Upon receipt of a properly written request to amend such
records, the university will consider the request and respond within a reasonable time,
not to exceed thirty days. The student will be notified in writing either that the student’s
records have been amended or that the request has been denied. A letter denying the
request will state the reasons for the decision and notify the student of the right to
request a hearing.
3.8 Classrooms
Academic Scheduling handles classroom scheduling within the Office of the Registrar.
Classroom Descriptions
Online classroom descriptions show room types, seating capacity, available technology,
and photographs, where possible. Rooms not included in this online list are
department-controlled spaces; the Academic Scheduling Office does not schedule
classes in those rooms. Questions regarding department-controlled spaces should be
directed to the relevant department.
Faculty should check classroom assignments as soon as the upcoming semester’s
schedule is announced. Visiting the classroom(s) is also advisable. Although the
Scheduling Office posts classroom descriptions online, these are subject to change. If a
classroom change is necessary, faculty members should work with department staff to
request a change immediately with the Scheduling Office.
Locked Classroom
To report a locked classroom, call GW University Police at 202-994-6110.
Classroom Maintenance
To report a classroom in need of minor maintenance or better temperature control, call
Facilities at 202-994-6706.
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Technical Assistance
To request assistance with computer equipment, call Academic Technologies at 202-
994-7900. There are telephones in most classrooms.
Emergency Preparedness
The Office of Emergency Management publishes the following emergency guidelines
that faculty should review and be familiar with in the event an emergency occurs:
Read and familiarize yourself with the Emergency Operations Plan (EOP)
Familiarize yourself with your classrooms, the location of the closest emergency
equipment (fire extinguishers, AED's, first aid kits, etc.), and two emergency exit
routes out of the building
Provide your classes with general information relating to incident procedures at the
start of each semester (see Syllabus Insert)
Know how to report an incident from the classroom(s) you use
Take charge of the students in your classroom and follow appropriate procedures for
all fire/building alarms and emergency alerts
Ensure that students with disabilities or special needs have the information or access
to assistance they may require during an incident
Be sure that you plan for disruptions to any research you may be conducting
Contact the Office of Emergency Management ([email protected]) if you have any
questions
Additional Faculty Emergency Resources
GW Emergency Response Handbook
Emergency Preparedness & ReadyGW Pocket Guide
Preparing for Emergencies and Disruptive Incidents: Designated and Essential
Employees; Academic and Administrative Management
3.9 Class Rosters in GWeb and Blackboard
Faculty members can access class rosters by logging into GWeb. Class rosters are also
available in Blackboard under “Communication.”
3.10 University Teaching and Learning Center
The University Teaching and Learning Center (UTLC) is a faculty-driven center for
teaching excellence. The UTLC brings faculty and staff together to help faculty broaden
their instructional experience, promote the scholarship of teaching and learning, and
encourage students as they deepen their commitment to learning.
Resources
The UTLC offers a growing collection of online resources for GWU faculty and teaching
assistants, such as tips on engaging students in large classes, adjusting content based on
student responses to web-based activities, and ideas for helping students come to class
prepared to learn and participate.
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eDesign Shop
The GW eDesign Shop is a unit operating under the Vice Provost for Online Education
and Academic Innovation. The team consists of instructional designers, multimedia and
video specialists that specialize in program, course, and online design. Instructional
designers ensure that each product undergoes a thorough pedagogical review and
maintains a high design standard.
Programs and courses are selected by strategic design to facilitate sustainable growth
into the online market. Faculty members interested in adding their courses to the
development cycle should contact the dean's office of their selected school.
Hybrid Course Initiative
The UTLC also supports the hybrid course initiative. A “hybrid” approach to education
(also known as “blended”), whether in a single course or threaded throughout a
program, balances face-to-face and online environments. A course is generally
considered hybrid when the percentage of work done online is between 30-70%.
3.11 Academic Technologies
Academic Technologies works with faculty, students and other GW units to identify,
develop, and support technologies that can enrich teaching and learning at GW, both in
the classroom and beyond.
Classroom Support
To request assistance with classroom equipment, contact Academic Technologies at
202-994-7900 or acadtech@gwu.edu. There are telephones in most classrooms, and
they include signs listing the extension for Academic Technologies.
Equipment Loan and Rental
Academic Technologies loans audiovisual equipment to GW faculty for university
courses held on the Foggy Bottom campus. For a fee, Academic Technologies also rents
equipment to third parties who are hosting events on the Foggy Bottom campus.
Reservations
To reserve equipment, complete an online reservation form at least 48 hours in
advance. For assistance, contact the Solutions Center at 202-994-7900.
G1 Account
A G1 Account provides users with login access to computers in classrooms and
computer labs. To enroll in the G1 Account system, you must be a faculty member or a
registered student with a valid NetID (GW email address before the “@” sign).
Training
Academic Technologies trains and assists faculty in the setup and use of technology in
the classroom. Training is highly recommended prior to using classroom equipment.
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3.12 Course Information/Syllabus with Learning Objectives
Consult with deans’ offices of specific schools for syllabus templates. See Section
2.7.3.4 of this document for more details.
Setting Course Goals and Objectives/Learning Outcomes
Developing Goals and Objectives
Online Teaching: Course Goals, Objectives and Strategies
3.13 Grades
Faculty are required to submit final grades within five (5) business days after the final
examination, after the submission of a final project, or after the final class meeting if no
exam or project is given. Exceptions to this requirement may be made by the dean’s
office to accommodate grading for large classes or other exceptional circumstances. Any
late submission of grades must be cleared with the department chair or dean’s office
ahead of time.
From the University Bulletin
Grades are made available to students through the Office of the Registrar after the close
of each semester. The following grading system is used: A, Excellent; B, Good; C,
Satisfactory; D, Low Pass; F, Fail; other grades that may be assigned are A-, B+, B-, C+, C-,
D+, and D-. Symbols that may appear include AU, Audit; I, Incomplete; IPG, In Progress;
W, Authorized Withdrawal; Z, Unauthorized Withdrawal; P, Pass; NP, No Pass; R, Need
to Repeat Course. For graduate programs, the grading system is established by the
Department and, in some cases, may not include grades lower than a C.
Except for courses that specifically state that repetition for credit is permitted, a
candidate for a degree at this university may not repeat a course in which a grade of D-
or better was received, unless required to do so by the department concerned. A
written statement, indicating that the student is required to repeat the course, must be
submitted to the student’s dean by the appropriate department chair.
The symbol of Z is assigned when students are registered for a course that they have not
attended or have attended only briefly, and in which they have done no graded work. At
the end of the academic year, students’ records are reviewed; if there is more than one
Z per semester, a student’s record will be encumbered until released by the student’s
advisor or academic dean. The symbol of Z is not a grade but an administrative notation.
Incompletes
The symbol I (Incomplete) indicates that a satisfactory explanation has been given the
instructor for the student’s inability to complete the required course work during the
semester of enrollment. At the option of the instructor, the symbol I may be recorded if
a student, for reasons beyond the student’s control, is unable to complete the work of
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the course, and if the instructor is informed of, and approves, such reasons before the
date when grades must be reported. This symbol may be used only if the student’s prior
performance and class attendance in the course have been satisfactory. Any failure to
complete the work of a course that is not satisfactorily explained to the instructor
before the date when grades must be turned in will be graded F, Failure. If acceptable
reasons are later presented to the instructor, that instructor may initiate an appropriate
grade change, which in all cases will include the symbol I.
The course work must be completed within the designated time period agreed upon by
the instructor and student, but (except in the School of Business and the Milken
Institute School of Public Health) no more than one calendar year from the end of the
semester in which the course was taken. In the School of Business and the Milken
Institute School of Public Health, the symbol I must be changed by a date agreed on by
the instructor and the student, but no later than the last day of the examination period
for the fall or spring semester immediately following the semester or summer session in
which the symbol I is assigned. All students who receive an Incomplete must maintain
active student status or, in the case of serious illness, a leave of absence, during the
subsequent semester(s) in which course work is being completed. If not registered in
other classes during this period, the student must register for Continuous Enrollment
status. When work for the course is completed, the instructor will complete a grade
change form and turn it in to the Office of the Registrar. Effective with the courses
taught in the fall semester 2014 and beyond, the “I” indicator on students’ transcripts
will be removed once an actual grade has been reported and recorded. If work for the
course is not completed within the designated time, the Registrar’s Office is responsible
for converting a grade of I into a grade of F, Failure, 0 quality points, and the grade-point
average and academic standing is recalculated after one calendar year after the end of
the semester when the course was taken.
3.14 Examinations
Final Examination Policy Statement
Final examinations are to be administered only during the regularly scheduled
Examination Period in the Fall and Spring semesters unless otherwise approved by the
Provost. In order to provide students maximum opportunity to study and review
material covered during the semester, final examinations are not to be administered
during regularly scheduled class sessions, on the class make-up day, or during the
reading period. In particular, faculty teaching undergraduate courses are not to give any
examinations during the last week of regularly scheduled classes, but rather, administer
such examinations during the Examination Period. For online courses, the syllabus will
show the date of final exam, if applicable.
Final Examination Conflicts
Students who have three or more examinations scheduled on any one day during the
examination period may request to take examinations on a different day so that they
have no more than two examinations on any one day. It is the student's responsibility
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and right to request that an examination(s) be rescheduled such that no more than two
examinations are given during the course of one day. Faculty members are expected to
accommodate these requests. The administration has accepted a resolution of the
Faculty Senate regarding final examination conflicts. The Senate recommended that the
rescheduling take place at least three weeks prior to the last day of classes and that,
whenever possible, the make-up examination be rescheduled during the examination
period; that the rescheduling be achieved in consultation with the instructors involved,
and that, whenever possible, the student selects which examination to reschedule.
Final Examination Scheduling
The Academic Scheduling Office (ASO) schedules final exams for the majority of on-
campus courses. Final exams are only scheduled for lecture sections, not for labs,
discussions, recitations, etc. Off-campus final exams are scheduled by each individual
department. All undergraduate final exams must be given during the final exam period
listed in the academic calendar and must be given on the day and time listed in the final
exam schedule.
Graduate exams may be given on the last day of the semester. If the professor would
like to schedule an exam during the final exam period, the department must make a
request to ASO. Graduate exam requests are accepted once all undergraduate exams
have been scheduled.
Faculty FAQs
What if I need more time to give my final exam than what is provided in the schedule?
While all final exams must begin at the time scheduled by the university, exams can go
beyond the scheduled end time provided the instructor makes arrangements with
Academic Scheduling to reserve the classroom beyond the standard two-hour period.
What if I would like to change the room assigned to my final exam?
Classroom assignments can be changed up until three (3) days prior to the scheduled
exam date. Instructors should submit a request to the Academic Scheduling Office.
Please be advised that classroom assignments can change due to conflicts up until that
date, so you should check your assignment within three (3) days prior to your exam.
What if I have a conflict with my scheduled final exams?
Exams are scheduled to avoid as many conflicts with other exams as possible; however,
conflicts do occasionally occur. If you have a conflict, please contact Academic
Scheduling as soon as possible for rescheduling.
Final Examination Schedule
The Final Examination Schedule is online at the GW Portal.
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3.15 Academic Integrity
The Code of Academic Integrity was written and designed by students, faculty, librarians
and administration with ultimate approval from the President of the university and the
Board of Trustees. An Academic Integrity Office was created to manage the process and
an Academic Integrity Council was formed to promote academic integrity and to
administer all procedures associated with the Code.
3.16 Course Change and Withdrawal
Beginning the first day of classes, there is a late fee assessed for any first-time
registrations.
Beginning the first week of classes, students who wish to add a course and drop a
course as an even exchange may do so without financial penalty if these transactions
are made during the same class week (by the drop date for a refund) for an equal
number of credits.
Individual program adjustments may incur financial penalties and/or additional fees if
they are not even exchanges, or involve courses other than those at the Foggy Bottom
and Mount Vernon campuses.
Registration Transaction Form (RTF)
Students who wish to make changes to their schedule once GWeb registration has
closed (after the second week of classes) must use an RTF-EZ form. Any course(s) added
must have the permission of the instructor or department. After the fourth week of
classes, students must receive permission from their dean’s office to add a course.
Students may drop courses through the end of the fourth week of classes without
academic penalty using an RTF-EZ form. After the fourth week of classes, it is considered
a withdrawal and a grade of ‘W’ will appear on the transcript. Students may withdraw
using an RTF-EZ form through the end of the eighth week of classes. Withdrawals after
the eighth week of classes require a petition to the student’s dean’s office. Note: for
courses offered during a time frame less than the 14 week semester, these timelines will
vary.
Dean’s Permission / Registration Transaction Form
Any changes to registration that require dean’s permission (i.e. changing from letter-
grade to pass/fail or time conflicts) must be completed using a RTF.
Withdrawals and Refunds
Withdrawals and refunds are discussed on the Office of the Registrar’s Web site.
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3.17 Class Attendance
Attending regularly scheduled and scheduled make up classes, discussions and
recitations, laboratory sessions and other course meetings is a fundamental student
responsibility. Faculty may use class attendance and participation as factors in
determining course grades. The contributions of class attendance and participation
toward course grades should be explicitly stated on course syllabi as should all factors
used in determining these grades.
While it is expected that students will make every effort to attend classes, it is
recognized that personal circumstances (e.g., religious observances, documented family
and medical emergencies) and university-scheduled events (e.g., varsity athletic
competitions, performances) will arise which preclude class attendance. In such
circumstances, faculty and other instructors are expected to make appropriate
accommodations (e.g., make up tests, adjusted due dates for papers and projects), such
accommodations to be determined by the faculty member and appropriate university
offices such as Disability Support Services as warranted. The student is responsible for
obtaining the materials presented in missed classes and for making up missed tests and
other assignments. No academic penalty shall be imposed for class absences that are
permissible in accordance with university policy.
It is expected that students will schedule classes in order to minimize the number of
classes that may be missed. Further, it is expected that whenever possible, students will
inform course instructors in advance of any absences related to scheduled events or
religious observances.
3.18 Religious Holidays
(See Section 2.12.5)
3.19 Adverse Weather Conditions
The university’s Policy on Adverse Weather provides general guidance to faculty, staff,
and students during adverse weather.
3.20 Retention of Graded Papers and Papers Not Returned to Students
Consult with deans’ offices of specific schools for policies about retention of graded
papers and papers not returned to students.
3.21 Auditing a Class
A person who has been admitted to the university may be registered, with the
permission of the instructor, as an auditor in a class (no academic credit). An auditor is
not required to participate actively or to pass examinations. A student who takes a
course as an auditor may not repeat it later for credit. Tuition is charged at the
prevailing rate. A student may not change from audit status to credit status or vice versa
after the end of the eighth week of classes.
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3.22 Electronic Theses and Dissertations
Students can now publish their theses/dissertations in electronic format. GW requires
that all master’s and doctoral dissertations be submitted electronically to
Proquest/UMI, the nation’s archiver and distributor of doctoral dissertations.
ETD Contacts
Gelman Library’s ETD administrator can help with questions about the submission
process. In addition, each school has an ETD coordinator for assistance specific to
particular programs.
3.23 Academic Program and Course Approval
GW has converted its course and program approval processes to an online
management system, CourseLeaf. All proposals for new programs and courses and
changes to current listings, including all required supporting documents, must be
completed and submitted prior to the requested effective date and early enough to
allow for sufficient review. Retroactive approvals will not be granted, and new programs
or revisions cannot be publicized to current or prospective students until approved by
the Associate Provost for Academic Planning and Assessment. Every effort will be made
to promptly review and provide feedback on submissions that meet the submission
requirements. For information about and to obtain access to CourseLeaf, contact
All new course proposals or proposed changes to existing courses are to be submitted
through the CourseLeaf Course Inventory Management System (CIM).
All new program proposals or proposed changes to existing programs are to be
submitted through the CourseLeaf Course Inventory Management System (CIM).
3.24 Student Services
Career Center
Center for Civic Engagement and Public Service
Center for Student Engagement
Center for Undergraduate Fellowships and Research
Colonial Central
Colonial Crossroads
Colonial Health Center (formerly Student Health Service /University Counseling Center)
Disability Support Services
Division of Student Affairs
International Services Office
Multicultural Student Services Center
Office of the Registrar
Office of Student Rights and Responsibilities
Office for Study Abroad
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Career Center
GW’s Career Center serves undergraduate students and alumni from all schools except
the School of Business, and all graduate students and alumni from the Columbian
College of Arts and Sciences (except for the Trachtenberg School). Links to school-based
career centers can be found at the website: http://gwired.gwu.edu/career/allcenters/
The following services are available to ALL GW students and alumni through the Center
for Career Services:
Federal Work Study and on-campus student employment administrative
assistance (hiring and payroll information). (Federal Work Study is for currently
enrolled students who have applied for and received Federal Work Study funds
as part of their University financial aid package. Alumni are not eligible for
Federal Work Study).
Career events and special programs (fairs, workshops, panels).
Use of online services on the Center for Career Services website (Vault, Focus
2, Going Global [H1-B Visa], Interview Stream, Optimal Resume, Leadership
Directories, Brad Traverse Jobs, etc.,).
Center for Civic Engagement and Public Service
The Center for Civic Engagement and Public Service aims to integrate civic engagement
into George Washington University’s educational work. The Center strives to focus GW’s
resources to meet community needs beyond the campus, promote active citizenship in
a diverse democracy, and enhance teaching, learning and scholarship at GW.
Center for Student Engagement
Recognizing that GW is a community of scholars, the Center for Student Engagement
brings learning out of the classroom and works to implement innovative four-year,
competency-based student learning outcomes.
Center for Undergraduate Fellowships and Research
The Center for Undergraduate Fellowships and Research (CUFR) provides GW
undergraduates and alumni with information, guidance, and support as they learn about
and apply for research opportunities and national fellowship competitions, a
complement to academic and extracurricular experiences at GW and an educational
experience in its own right.
Colonial Central
Colonial Central is located in the basement of the Marvin Center. It has the offices for
Student Financial Assistance, Student Accounts, the Registrar, the GWorld card, and the
Cashier.
Colonial Crossroads
Colonial Crossroads, located on the fifth floor of the Marvin Center, houses GW’s Career Center,
Center for Civic Engagement and Public Service, Center for Student Engagement, Center for
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Undergraduate Fellowships and Research, and the Office for Study Abroad. Colonial Crossroads
is open from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Colonial Health Center (formerly Student Health Service /University Counseling Center)
The Colonial Health Center has Medical Services, Mental Health Services, Health Promotion and
Prevention Services, and the Parenting Initiative all housed in one area on the ground floor of
the Marvin Center. All currently registered full-time and part-time students enrolled in a
degree program at GW are eligible for services at the Colonial Health Center. Non-degree-
seeking students registered for at least 12 hours of academic credit in the current semester are
also eligible. Students must present their GWorld card each time they visit the Colonial Health
Center.
Medical Services an outpatient clinic staffed by physicians, nurse practitioners,
and physician assistants. Students can be evaluated and treated for many medical
problems. Psychiatrists are on staff to provide initial evaluation and referral and crisis
intervention.
Mental Health Services offers a broad range of counseling, crisis, academic, and
career services, psychoeducational workshops and web-based materials to support and
enhance the experience of students enrolled at GW. Confidential short-term individual
counseling and group counseling are provided to manage personal concerns that may
be interfering with college or graduate school life. “24/7” crisis intervention is available
at times of critical student need. Alcohol/drug screening through interview and
psychoeducational substance use groups is also provided. Students who require or
desire services beyond our limits are provided with appropriate community-based
referrals.
Disability Support Services
Disability Support Services (DSS) currently oversees services for more than 700 GW
students with a range of disabilities, including students temporarily disabled by injury or
illness. To be eligible, a student must provide DSS with documentation that
substantiates the need for such services in compliance with Section 504 of the
Rehabilitation Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Services provided
without charge may include registration assistance, readers, interpreters, scribes,
individualized learning specialist support, adaptive materials and equipment, assistance
with note taking, laboratory and library assistance, and test accommodations. DSS does
not provide content tutoring, although it is available through the GW Tutoring Initiative.
The university does not provide or pay for transportation services or personal attendant
care.
Division of Student Affairs
The Division of Student Affairs supports the university mission and enhances the student
experience by providing programs and services that focus on: Student Success; Student
and Parent Engagement; and Wellness, Education, and Prevention.
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International Services Office
The International Services Office facilitates international educational exchange through
its services and programs. It serves as the primary administrative, programming and
advising office for the GWU international community.
Multicultural Student Services Center
The Multicultural Student Services Center (MSSC) serves as GW’s center for
multicultural communication, community building, and leadership. The Center
collaborates with major university offices including: the Student Activities Center, the
Community Living and Learning Center, Career Services, Undergraduate Admissions,
Office of Community Service, Graduate Admissions, and the Counseling Center. In
partnership with these allies, the Center strives to develop co-curricular and experiential
learning opportunities for GW students that:
Support the shaping of a campus climate that welcomes cultural, racial, ethnic, and
intellectual diversity
Support students’ academic, cultural, social, spiritual and professional growth
Support the retention, inclusion and increase in participation rates of students of
color
Office of the Registrar
The Office of the Registrar supports the university’s mission to promote lifelong learning
by administering the various academic policies of the university and providing support
to students, faculty, administrators, and alumni. The office maintains academic records
from enrollment through graduation and offers a wide range of services in the areas of
classroom scheduling, enrollment verification, registration, requirements tracking,
transcripts, and degree conferral.
Office of Student Rights and Responsibilities
The Office of Student Rights and Responsibilities (SRR) upholds the “Code of Student
Conduct” (one of the components of the Guide to Student Rights and Responsibilities)
and other non-academic conduct policies. SRR educates students about their behavior
and helps students make responsible choices in the future. GW values students as
partners in upholding the minimum expectations set for student behavior. Students
participate by serving as University Hearing Board members, Disciplinary Conference
Officers, Peer Educators, and members of the Committee on the Judicial System. In
each capacity, students examine the cases referred to them and render decisions and
recommended sanctions based upon circumstances presented.
Office for Study Abroad
The Office for Study Abroad (OSA) provides and facilitates quality international
educational opportunities at GW. The staff works to promote the academic, personal,
professional, and intercultural development of students before, during, and after their
study abroad experiences. They respond effectively to student needs, contribute to
campus internationalization, and foster cultural understanding and self-awareness
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among the student body. The OSA primarily works with undergraduate students; some
short-term, faculty led graduate programs are administered through the OSA as well.
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Section 4: Research at GW
4.1 University Policies on Research
University policies governing research are located on the GW University Policies Web
site. Policies cover areas of compliance, cost sharing, cost transfer, direct charging of
administrative costs associated with sponsored projects, effort certification, research
administration, and research integrity.
4.2 Office of the Vice President for Research
It is an exciting time for research at GW, with more than 100 centers and institutes and
research in cutting-edge projects in science and technology, health, public policy, global
security, and the arts and humanities. Research and innovation are driving forces
advancing GW as an academic institution and society as a whole. The Office of the Vice
President for Research (OVPR) works diligently to strengthen existing initiatives and
expand into new multidisciplinary fields. In partnership with faculty, OVPR facilitates all
phases of the external and internal funding processes, and provides support for faculty
and student research initiatives.
4.3 Sponsored Projects Administration
The sponsored projects administration (SPA) team within OVPR has been assembled to
facilitate and provide oversight for each step of the research process for faculty and
researchers.
Working collaboratively with principal investigators and their department staff, our
Sponsored Projects Administrators, Sponsored Projects Managers, negotiation team,
and Grants and Contracts Officers ensure successful submission of proposals and
compliance throughout the life of the project.
The SPA site includes information on several key areas related to securing and using
sponsored funds, including:
Forms
Finding Funding
Preparing Proposals
Submitting Proposals
4.4 Office of Entrepreneurship
The Office of Entrepreneurship is committed to promoting excellence in
multidisciplinary entrepreneurship, innovation, and regional engagement in new
venture creation at the George Washington University. Founded in 2010, the office has
worked closely with thousands of aspiring student, faculty, and alumni entrepreneurs,
and now serves as a focal point to foster, promote, and perpetuate quality academic
research, education, and outreach programs.
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4.5 Office of Technology Transfer
The Office of Technology Transfer (OTT) facilitates the transition of ideas to products so
that the university community and the public can benefit from GW research. OTT links
the academy with industry, connecting university researchers with companies,
entrepreneurs, and investors. OTT oversees all aspects of technology commercialization
at GW.
4.6 Intellectual Property Rights
Faculty intellectual property rights are covered by two university policies that deal with
copyright and patent rights. In the case of copyright, faculty members may receive
further guidance from the Office of General Counsel or the University Copyright Officer
who is the Vice Provost for Faculty Affairs. In the case of patents, faculty members may
receive further guidance from the GW Office of Technology Transfer.
GW Copyright Policy
The university encourages the creation and publication of scholarly, technical, literary
and artistic works as part of its educational mission. Generally, when by his/her own
initiative a faculty member, librarian or student, in pursuit of normal scholarly,
professional, or academic responsibilities, including normal use of the university's
physical facilities, create copyrightable works, the copyright and any resulting royalties
may be claimed by the faculty member, librarian, or student as author of the
copyrighted work. However, when a work qualifies as a "Work Made for Hire" or when
"Substantial Use" of university resources is involved, as defined in the policy below, the
copyright in such work will be owned by or transferred to the university.
GW Policy on Patents and Scholarly Work
The university seeks to serve the needs of society in the course of pursuing the
traditional principles of education and research, as well as patient care. It has dedicated
itself and all its resources to the pursuit and dissemination of knowledge. It does not
pursue knowledge for primarily commercial purposes. However, the university
recognizes that the interest of the inventor(s) and that of the university are better
served when inventions and discoveries made by university faculty, staff, or students
are developed to the point of practical application.
In order to provide maximum benefit to the university community and to assure the
university's compliance with obligations to sponsors of research, all faculty, staff, and
students have the responsibility to promptly disclose fully and openly to the GW
Technology Transfer Office all Inventions, discoveries, technologies, and innovations as
required by research agreements or where there is prospect for commercialization in
which the university has an interest. The process for applying for a patent and
distribution of royalty or license fees will be done through that office in accordance with
the GW Policy on Patents and Scholarly Works.
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4.7 Foundation Relations
The Foundation Relations Program provides comprehensive services to support faculty,
administrators and center directors in their work with foundations. Staff members can
help to:
identify potential funding sources
plan and coordinate solicitations
assist with letter of inquiries and grant proposals
route proposal materials through the system
ensure timely follow-up with foundations following an award
secure follow-up awards
4.8 Compliance
Research Integrity
The university has a broad range of policies governing research activities in the Research
and Finance Sections of the university’s Policies. It is the responsibility of everyone
associated with research at GW to comply with federal, state, local laws, regulations and
university policies in all aspects of any research conducted for or on behalf of the
university.
General Compliance Considerations
In addition to all university policies related to research integrity, there are many
government and general compliance standards that apply to conducting research at GW
as referenced in GW’s Employee Compliance Guide.
Compliance and Privacy Office
The university maintains a Compliance and Ethics program to exercise due diligence in
preventing and detecting improper and criminal conduct and to otherwise promote a
culture that encourages ethical conduct and a commitment to compliance with the law.
Specific ethics or employee compliance questions may be directed to a supervisor,
department chair or dean or to the Compliance and Privacy Office.
Statement of Ethical Principles
GW’s Statement of Ethical Principles sets forth the university’s core values and guides
the actions of anyone acting on behalf of the university.
4.9 Research Advisory Board
George Washington University Research Advisory Board, composed of distinguished
external research experts, is convened to provide feedback and strategic direction for
GW’s research agenda.
4.10 University Advisory Council on Research
The Advisory Council on Research (ACR) is composed of faculty members and
administrative representatives from the various schools and divisions at GW, and is the
main research advisory group to the Office of the Vice President for Research. The ACR
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also collaborates with the Faculty Senate Committee on Research, administers the
Research Enhancement Fund, and is responsible for chartering and re-chartering GW-
affiliated centers and institutes, as well as for developing long-term planning strategies
and for improving GW research policies.
4.11 Office of Human Research/Institutional Review Board
The Office of Human Research (OHR) is the administrative support office for the George
Washington University Institutional Review Board (IRB). The GW IRB is responsible for
the review of all research activities that involve human subjects (in accordance with
federal regulations). The OHR provides institutional oversight for all human subjects
research activities conducted by GW affiliates (faculty, students, or employees), under
the auspices of the George Washington University.
4.12 Responsible Conduct of Research
GW encourages all of its faculty and students to become familiar with professional and
ethical standards in academia in general as well as in their chosen fields. In fulfilling its
responsibility to prepare the next generation of responsible researchers, GW offers the
following assistance:
Responsible Conduct of Research Training
All faculty and students interested in research are urged to complete the Responsible
Conduct of Research training provided at GW. Discussion of the issues raised by this
training among faculty and students should be an important element of professional
development in all of our research and graduate programs. Faculty and students
engaged in certain sponsored or academic programs and circumstances are required to
participate in Responsible Conduct of Research (RCR) training.
Writing Resources
GW also offers a variety of resources to assist students in being responsible writers:
GW’s Code of Academic Integrity represents our community’s commitment to academic
honesty. The Office of Academic Integrity is always available to consult on issues of
academic integrity. RefWorks is an online tool supported by Gelman Library that helps
writers organize their research and create bibliographies—and avoid inadvertent
plagiarism in the process.
4.13 Centers and Institutes
GW’s policy of chartering and re-chartering scholarly centers and institutes strengthens
research and scholarly activity capabilities throughout the university. Becoming a
chartered center or institute reflects a university seal of approval and results in the
inclusion in listings of scholarly units. Further, chartered centers/institutes are eligible to
apply for intramural funding from the Centers and Institutes Facilitating Fund.
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4.14 University Seminars
The George Washington University Seminars program was established in 1985 to foster
sustained discussion of issues that cross traditional disciplinary boundaries among
members of the GW faculty and their distinguished counterparts in universities,
research centers, federal agencies, international organizations, and private industry
throughout the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area. Only topics that warrant intensive
continuing inquiry are approved as organizing themes for the Seminars.
The goal of the Seminars is to connect the traditional research and inquiry activities of
the academy with the major institutions of society, thereby ensuring an exchange of
perspectives and information. University Seminars meet periodically during the
academic year on the GW campus. The initial nucleus of each Seminar is a group of
highly qualified faculty from a range of appropriate departments and schools, along with
distinguished individuals from outside the GW academic community. The chair of each
Seminar serves as convener. Distinguished guests may be invited to give presentations
to stimulate discussion. However, the goal is to encourage dialogue on issues of
importance in such a way that there are demonstrable outcomes such as publications,
white papers, grant proposals, curriculum reforms, scholarly discussion blogs, the
development of cross-disciplinary courses, conference proceedings, or contributions to
public policy. The University Seminar should not be perceived to be only a lecture
series. A graduate student can be appointed as logistical coordinator and rapporteur for
each Seminar. University Seminars may receive funding for up to three consecutive
years.
4.15 Research Training
Undergraduate Research
The Center for Undergraduate Fellowships and Research offers programs through which
students engage in research and interact closely with faculty members. Undergraduate
research experiences provide invaluable preparation for students interested in pursuing
nationally competitive fellowships that recognize academic and extracurricular
excellence.
Graduate Research Training
Graduate students gain valuable experience by working with faculty members and
engaging in research. GW offers three major opportunities to provide students with
essential training and skills: Graduate Research Assistantships, Graduate Teaching
Assistantships, and Fellow Awards. Most fellowships and scholarships are offered
through the academic departments and some are offered through the Office of
Graduate Student Assistantships and Fellowships.
Medical Residency Research Training
The medical residency program has a rich history at GW, which in the nineteenth
century was one of the first hospitals to start a clinical practice with resident student
participation. Residents may take advantage of research opportunities at GW as well as
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at the nearby National Institutes of Health, National Cancer Institute, National Institute
of Mental Health, and Food and Drug Administration.
Professional Research Training
Postdoctoral researchers can be found in all areas of the university, including the
biology, chemistry, high-performance computing, physics, and psychology departments.
Each GW department maintains its own listing of postdoctoral research needs. GW’s
Office of Graduate Student Assistantships and Fellowships is another resource for
graduates looking to find postdoctoral work at both GW and other institutions.
4.16 Employment of International Students
GW enrolls approximately 1,800 international students from over 128 countries; most
study at the graduate level. International students bring cross-cultural communication
and multicultural perspective to the workplace, in addition to the knowledge gained
from their studies at GW. It is imperative to know the different rules that govern
employment eligibility for international students and limitations on hours federal law
permits them to work on campus while school is in session.
Hiring International Students
On Campus Employment for F-1 Students
Post-Completion Optional Practical Training (OPT)
OPT Portal
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Section 5: Academic Resources at GW
5.1 Libraries at GW
The libraries at George Washington University consist of the Jacob Burns Law Library, the
Himmelfarb Health Sciences Library, and the centrally administered GW Libraries, made up of
Gelman Library, Eckles Library, and the Virginia Science and Technology Library. The mission of
the GW Libraries is to enable GW faculty and students, regardless of location, to meet their
curricular, research and information needs. With a commitment to excellence in services, the
Libraries offer quality information resources and creative and innovative options to support the
intellectual inquiry, research and lifelong learning needs of the unique university community
they serve.
5.1.1 University Librarian
The University Librarian and Vice Provost for Libraries is responsible for planning,
directing, and overseeing all operations of GW’s Estelle and Melvin Gelman, Eckles, and
Virginia Science and Technology Campus libraries.
5.1.2 Estelle and Melvin Gelman Library
Foggy Bottom Campus (Washington, D.C.)
The Estelle and Melvin Gelman Library is the university’s largest library, featuring more
than two million volumes and over 300 electronic databases. Its eight levels include
high-technology classrooms, computer labs, and rotating exhibitions. Staff are available
to work with you to support your teaching and research at the university. Services
offered include classroom support through library instruction and reserves, research &
tenure support, data management guidance, interlibrary borrowing and delivery
services, and media. A fuller listing of the services available can be found here:
http://libguides.gwu.edu/facultyresources.
The GW Libraries are also host to range of specialized collections, online resources and
subject experts. Among its unique offerings for research and study are the following:
Global Resources Center
The Global Resources Center (GRC) supports GW’s globally focused academic programs.
The GRC concentrates on the political, socio-economic, historical, and cultural aspects of
countries and regions around the world from the twentieth century onward. Its
interdisciplinary holdings include five specialized collections, the China Documentation
Center (CDC); Japan Resource Center (JRC); Taiwan Resource Center (TRC); Resource
Center for Russia, Eurasia, Eastern and Central Europe (REECE); and the Middle East and
North Africa Resource Center (MENA).
Special Collections Research Center
The Special Collections Research Center collects and preserves a wide range of
personal, professional, and historical materials from local, national, and international
sources. Collection highlights include the following:
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Africana Research Center
I. Edward Kiev Judaica Collection
International Brotherhood of Teamsters Labor History Research Center
National Education Association Library and Archive
University Archives
Washingtoniana Collection
National Security Archive
Gelman Library is also home to the independent National Security Archive. Founded in
1985 by journalists and scholars to check rising government secrecy, the National
Security Archive combines an investigative journalism center with a research institute
on international affairs and a library and archive of declassified U.S. documents. A
leading non-profit user of the U.S. Freedom of Information Act, it also serves as public
interest law firm defending and expanding public access to government information.
5.1.3 Eckles Library
Mount Vernon Campus (Washington, D.C.)
The Eckles Library houses a print collection of more than 64,000 volumes covering
political science, women’s history and contemporary issues, interior design, history, and
literature, among other subjects. Featuring student artwork and exhibits, free DVD
rentals, and coffee, the library is an integral part of student life on the Mount Vernon
Campus, which is accessible by free shuttle from the Foggy Bottom campus.
5.1.4 Virginia Science and Technology Campus Library
Virginia Campus (Ashburn, VA)
GW conducts research in engineering, physics, and chemistry while providing graduate
education at its Virginia Science and Technology Campus in Loudoun County (about 30
miles west of downtown Washington). As a Cooperating Collection of the Foundation
Center and member of this national network of libraries, community foundations, and
nonprofit agencies, the Virginia Science and Technology Campus Library provides
visitors with free public access to grant maker directories, books and electronic
databases, including the Foundation Directory Online, a fully searchable database with
detailed profiles of all active U.S. foundations.
5.1.5 Jacob Burns Law Library
Foggy Bottom Campus (Washington, D.C.)
The Jacob Burns Law Library is among the largest academic law libraries in the United
States. It features a research collection rich in American historic and contemporary legal
materials, as well as international and comparative materials. The Law Library’s holdings
of more than 600,000 volumes (and equivalents) and its range of electronic resources
provide researchers with a wealth of legal information.
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5.1.6 Himmelfarb Health Sciences Library
Foggy Bottom Campus (Washington, D.C.)
The Himmelfarb Health Sciences Library serves faculty, students and staff of the School
of Medicine and Health Sciences, School of Public Health and Health Sciences, and the
School of Nursing by providing resources and services to support educational, clinical
and research activities. Himmelfarb librarians assist with university compliance with the
National Institutes of Health Open Access Policy and assist researchers applying for
federal grants with compliance issues.
5.1.7 Washington Research Library Consortium
Membership in the Washington Research Library Consortium (WRLC) allows library
patrons to borrow from nine academic libraries in the metro Washington area.
Established in 1989, with GW as a leading co-founder, the WRLC coalition also includes
American, Catholic, Gallaudet, George Mason, Georgetown, Howard and Marymount
universities, along with the University of the District of Columbia.
5.2 Computer Resources
GW provides a wide array of computing systems and services for the faculty. WiFi is available
in most buildings on campus to provide wireless access to the internet. The university provides
support for laptops, iPads, tablets, and other electronic devices through the Division of
Information Technology (DIT) and for technology used for instructional purposes through
Academic Technologies (AT). (See section 6.5 for Code of Conduct for Users of Computing
Systems and Services)
5.2.1 GW Computer Systems
Acquiring a GW NetID, which serves as your electronic identification on campus, is the
first step to connect to the technology systems, services and applications at the
university. A NetID is a single username with a corresponding password that provides
access to the myGW Portal, GW's wireless networks, the GW e-mail and calendar
systems, the Blackboard instructional content management system, and other
important systems. The NetID is used as the access point when requesting personal
web (ACAD) or research space or accessing computer labs across campus. Go to the IT
Support Center to create your GW NetID.
Encryption of Data
Encryption is the conversion of data into a format that is not understandable to users
without information such as a username and password. Encryption protects computers
and mobile devices in the event of loss or theft. Part of insuring that your devices are
well encrypted is to set up a very strong password. The encryption procedure is
designed to cover computers and removable storage media that store and process
confidential and sensitive electronic data corresponding to the definitions of
confidential and sensitive data in the GW Information Security Policy. For instructions
on how to encrypt your desktop or laptop computers, contact DIT or go to
http://it.gwu.edu/encryption.
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Backup and Recovery of Data
Performing regular back-ups is crucial to protecting your information from data loss. To
back up data, simply save copies of your important files, e-mails and folders. All portable
data files stored on drives, disks and mobile laptops that include health data or other
sensitive information should also be encrypted and password-protected at all times.
5.2.2 GW Email Service
All faculty members are provided with a GW email account in the GWMail system. The
GWMail electronic mail system exists to support the university’s academic mission and
assist in its administrative operations. The GWMail policy governs usage of the GWMail
system to help ensure that it serves these purposes effectively. To that end, the policy
sets forth certain required procedures pertaining to use of the GWMail system. It
identifies the electronic mail protocols the GWMail system supports. It makes clear that
GWMail account holders do not have an expectation of personal privacy with respect to
e-mail messages transmitted or received through the GWMail system, and explains the
right reserved by the university to search, review, monitor and copy those messages. It
states that use of the GWMail system is subject to all applicable laws and university
policies, and prescribes proper procedures with respect to unsolicited electronic mail,
mass electronic mail, LISTSERVS, message relaying, backups, virus protection, inactive
accounts and other matters. The policy also provides examples of uses that are
considered e-mail messages transmitted or received through the GWMail system, and
explains the right reserved by the university to search, review, monitor and copy those
messages.
5.2.3 Faculty Computers
See Section 2.8, “Faculty Workstation Initiative.”
5.2.4 Academic Technologies (AT)
AT staff work with faculty members to identify, develop, and support technologies that
can enrich teaching, learning and research at GW, both in the classroom and beyond.
These includes computer labs, electronic teaching devices, media capture technologies,
and the Blackboard system. See Section 3.11, “Academic Technologies.”
5.2.5 Academic Databases
The GW Libraries maintain access to many academic databases. To request access to or
help with searching a database, contact a reference librarian. A reference librarian can
provide assistance in gaining access to national datasets needed for research purposes.
The library is also able to assist a faculty member to develop the required protocol for
preserving research datasets created in the process of doing funded research as
mandated by federal guidelines.
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Section 6: Institutional Documents
6.1 University Charter
George Washington University was chartered in 1821 as the Columbian College by an
Act of the US Congress to establish a college in the District of Columbia.
6.2 Faculty Organization Plan
Further information concerning this document, or amendments thereto, may be
obtained from the Faculty Senate Office, Old Main, Suite 400.
6.3 Faculty Code
Further information concerning this document, or amendments thereto, may be
obtained from the Faculty Senate Office, Old Main, Suite 400.
6.4 Statement of Ethical Principles
George Washington University dedicates itself to furthering human well-being. To do
this, the university must maintain the confidence of local, national, and worldwide
communities. For the university to maintain this confidence, trustees, senior officials,
faculty, principal investigators, staff, student employees, and others acting on behalf of
the university should strive to maintain the highest level of ethics in all of their actions
on behalf of the university, and must comply with university policies as well as external
laws and regulations. This Statement of Ethical Principles sets forth standards of ethical
conduct to which all persons acting on the university’s behalf should aspire. The
Statement should be used as a general guide in making ethical decisions in all situations,
especially those where the “right” answer is not always clear.
These standards are intended to provide a summary of ethical principles of conduct and
to encourage each of us to maintain heightened awareness of their existence. These
Principles are also stated, clarified and implemented in several separate policies and
procedures of the university. Violations of university policies will be subject to
disciplinary action as provided in those policies. Please see www.policy.gwu.edu for the
latest full listing of university policies.
Integrity and Respect
The university community is diverse -- in race, background, age, religion, and in many
other ways. The personal actions of each community member establish and maintain
the culture of tolerance and respect for which we strive. The university is committed to
free inquiry, free expression, and the vigorous discussion and debate on which the
advancement of its educational mission depends. At the same time, trustees, senior
officials, faculty, principal investigators, staff, student employees, and others acting on
behalf of the university should respect the rights and dignity of others regardless of
their differences, and must conscientiously comply with non-discrimination policies
adopted by the university.
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Responsibility and Accountability
University trustees, senior officials, faculty, principal investigators, staff, student
employees, and others acting on behalf of the university should assume and exercise
responsibility appropriate to their positions and roles. We are accountable to each
other, to the university, and to ourselves for our actions and our decisions not to act.
When roles or responsibilities are unclear, we should take it upon ourselves to obtain
clarity. We should exercise sound professional judgment in the performance of our
responsibilities, to the best of our ability.
Conflicts of Interest and Commitment
All trustees, senior officials, faculty, principal investigators, staff, student employees,
and others acting on behalf of the university hold positions of trust, and should conduct
their activities accordingly. Activities that impair or appear to impair the ability to
perform our duties or affect independence and objectivity of judgment in the discharge
of our responsibilities to the university should be avoided. We should demonstrate
sensitivity in identifying potential conflicts of interest, whether of a financial, personal,
or professional nature. Conflicts of interest must be disclosed, reviewed, and
appropriately managed or eliminated in accordance with the reporting and other
provisions of applicable university policies.
Harassment and Abuse of Power
The university supports an environment in which harassment of others is not tolerated.
Trustees, senior officials, faculty, principal investigators, staff, student employees, and
others acting on behalf of the university may not use positions of authority to violate or
to influence others to violate laws, regulations or university policies.
Stewardship
As stewards of university resources, all trustees, senior officials, faculty, principal
investigators, staff, student employees, and others acting on behalf of the university
have a responsibility to ensure that all university resources are used prudently, ethically,
and for their designated purposes. We have a responsibility to contributors to the
university, including federal, state, and local governments, to treat university property
with care, and to expend funds prudently. We should avoid waste and improper use,
and should not use tangible or intangible university assets, funds, property, or facilities
for our personal benefit or for the benefit of a non-university organization without
proper approval. Our acts should reflect the recognition of a special obligation to use
university property responsibly and consistent with the tax-exempt status conferred on
the university in light of its educational, research, and service missions. It is imperative
that those with access to confidential, proprietary, or private information not make
unauthorized disclosures or use of this information.
Reporting
All trustees, senior officials, faculty, principal investigators, staff, student employees,
and others acting on behalf of the university are expected to report violations of laws,
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regulations or university policies to appropriate university officials, e.g., the employee’s
dean, department chair or other supervisor, senior university administrator, Compliance
and Privacy Office, or Office of the Senior Vice President and General Counsel.
Confidentiality of individuals reporting violations of these standards will be maintained
to the extent possible.
6.5 GW Policies
The purpose of a GW policy is to make clear the university’s intent on topics of broad
institutional concern and to outline expected actions associated with that intent. Article
III, Section 1 of the Faculty Organization Plan outlines the function of the Faculty Senate
with respect to new or revised GW policies, including its consultative role.
GW’s online policy page provides staff, faculty and students with access to the full text
of approved university policies. Only policies approved at the university level appear on
the university’s central policy web page. In some cases university policies will refer to a
set of procedures. Procedures are not policies but are the methods for implementing
policies. Departmental or school-wide policies, which may be important but are more
narrow in applicability, may appear in departmental or school guidelines and web pages
but not on the university’s policy web page.
6.6 Code of Conduct for Users of Computing Systems and Services
All use of university computing and networking resources is governed by the Code of
Conduct for Users of Computing Systems.
6.7 Guide to Student Rights and Responsibilities and Code of Student Conduct
6.8 Policy on Conflicts of Interest and Commitment for Faculty and Investigators
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Section 7: University Services and General Resources
7.1 Academic Technologies
See Section 3.11, “Academic Technologies.”
7.2 Alumni Relations
The Office of Alumni Relations fosters relationships between the university and more
than 250,000 alumni around the world by providing a variety of benefits and services
and by hosting educational programs, networking and cultural events, and lifelong
professional development opportunities. Alumni Relations is part of the Division of
Development and Alumni Relations, which promotes a culture of philanthropy
throughout the university community, including alumni, students, parents, and friends.
GW Alumni Association
Alumni Relations has a close and mutually beneficial working relationship with the GW
Alumni Association, an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. The office and the
association partner to further the GWAA’s three main goals: 1) Enabling lifetime
engagement; 2) Gathering a voice for alumni; and, 3) Building a culture of philanthropy.
7.3 Athletics and Recreation
GW’s Department of Athletics and Recreation actively engages students, the campus
community, alumni, and fans through the spirit of healthy living and competition. The
university community and its neighbors can get involved in GW Athletics through a
variety of programs.
Varsity Sports
The university’s athletics program has 23 varsity teams. Season and individual tickets
are available for men’s and women’s basketball, volleyball, and gymnastics. Purchase
tickets online or by calling the Smith Center Box Office at 202-994-7325. All other
sporting events, including fall and spring sports played at the Mount Vernon Athletics
Fields are free and open to all.
Club and Intramural Sports
Club and intramural sports allow students to reap the health and wellness benefits of
athletic competition (not to mention the fun).
Club Sports provide opportunities for students who desire a more in-depth sports
experience. Club teams regularly travel the region and country to compete against
other schools. GW’s club sport offerings are subject to change from year to year but
examples of past clubs have included baseball, basketball, cricket, ice hockey, lacrosse,
cross country, fencing, field hockey, rugby, soccer, softball, swimming, tennis, Ultimate
Frisbee, volleyball, and water polo.
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Intramurals at GW range from a wide array of team sports (including basketball, floor
hockey, football, kickball, soccer, volleyball) to individual sports (including racquetball,
table tennis, Turkey Trot 5K, Battle Boat Passage Race).
Spirit Groups
The GW Spirit Program includes spirit groups that are themselves opportunities for
athleticism, such as the nationally competitive co-ed Cheer Team, First Ladies Dance
Team, and mascots George, Big George, and Hippo. Committed to entertaining
Colonials fans and promoting GW athletics, the Spirit Program welcomes everyone to
share in the spirit of GW!
Athletic Facilities
Barcroft Park 4200 South Four Mile Run Drive, Arlington, VA
GW’s baseball team plays its home games at Barcroft Park in Arlington, VA. Barcroft
Park features a FieldTurf playing surface, grandstand-style seating, covered dugouts,
bullpens, batting cages, press box, concession stands, restrooms, entry plaza, and
parking.
Charles E. Smith Center Foggy Bottom Campus
The Charles E. Smith Center houses the majority of GW’s intercollegiate varsity
sports. Men’s and women’s basketball, volleyball, gymnastics, men’s and women’s
swim, and men’s and women’s water polo play all of their home games at the Smith
Center. In addition to hosting varsity athletics, the Smith Center offers practice
space for club sports, classroom space for Exercise Science classes, and office space
for the Department of Athletics and Recreation. The Smith Center also hosts major
events and concerts.
Mount Vernon Athletic Facility Mount Vernon Campus
The Mount Vernon Athletics Facility is home to GW’s soccer, lacrosse, tennis and
softball teams. The facility includes a synthetic turf surface for soccer and lacrosse, a
softball diamond, an outdoor pool, and tennis courts. It is used for intercollegiate
team practices and competitions, student club team practices and competitions,
intramural and recreational activities, as well as occasional university and other
special events.
Thompson Boat Center Potomac Riverfront
Located only one-quarter-mile from campus on the Potomac River, the Thompson
Boat Center is home to the men’s and women’s rowing teams.
Camps and Clinics
GW offers youth camps and clinics in sports such as soccer, lacrosse, and rowing.
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7.4 ATMs
Automatic Teller Machines (ATMs) are located on the ground floor of the Marvin Center
(800 21st Street, N.W.) and in the lobby of the Academic Center (801 22nd Street,
N.W.).
7.5 Bookstore
The University Bookstore is located on the ground floor of the Marvin Center (800 21
st
Street, NW). In addition to books, computers, and textbooks, the bookstore carries a
variety of university merchandise, including clothing and souvenir items. The store also
stocks works authored by GW faculty as well as a range of school, office, and personal
supplies. University employees receive a discount on selected items, not including
textbooks. Call or visit the bookstore for details on employee discounts and hours of
operation at 202-994-6870.
Textbook Adoption (see Section 2.7.3.5)
7.6 Colonial Central/Colonial Crossroads/Student Services
See Section 3.15, “Student Services.”
Colonial Central
Cashier’s Office
GWorld Card Office
Office of the Registrar
Office of Student Accounts
Office of Student Financial Assistance
Colonial Crossroads
Career Center
Center for Civic Engagement and Public Service
Center for Undergraduate Fellowships and Research
Office for Study Abroad
Disability Support Services
Division of Student Affairs
International Services Office
Multicultural Student Services Center
Office of Student Rights and Responsibilities
Student Health Service
University Counseling Center
7.7 Commuting
Bicycling
Carpooling
Carsharing
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Electric Car Charging Station
Guaranteed Ride Home
Metrorail and Metrobus
Parking Services
Shuttle Services
Smart Benefits
SmarTrip Card
Walking
Bicycling
Bikesharing
Capital Bikeshare offers bicycle rentals by the half-hour or the day. Several racks
are available near campus. Riders are responsible for providing helmets.
Bicycle Parking
The university offers 77 bike racks and 492 parking spaces on campus. As part of
current and future building construction, GW plans to add more secured bike
storage, racks and 284 parking places. The university is not responsible for
bicycles that may be damaged or stolen while parked in any campus area.
Shower Pass
The Lerner Health and Wellness Center provides locker room access to faculty
and staff who bike or walk to campus. A free towel and lock service are available
daily by request; the towel and lock must be returned within one hour of
accessing the building. Alternately, there is an option to rent a locker for an
entire semester at a discounted rate. Note: Access is to general locker rooms,
not Presidential Club locker rooms.
Carpooling
A carpool is defined as two or more GWU employees sharing the program. Parking fees
are paid via payroll deduction and the fee is divided equally amongst the registered
carpoolers.
NuRide
The university works in partnership with NuRide, a flexible ridesharing program
that encourages and rewards carpooling. The free program serves employees at
the Foggy Bottom, Mount Vernon and Virginia campuses, who can sign up for
one ride or for recurring rides. Registered riders earn reward points for every
carpool ride. Points can be redeemed for gift cards, discounts and event tickets.
The university’s enrollment in NuRide and the creation of a discounted parking
rate for carpoolers are components of an ongoing effort to promote
sustainability.
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Carsharing
Zipcar is a carsharing service that permits hourly or daily car rental. Fuel, insurance and
Zipcar-only parking are included in the rental rates. Faculty, staff, and students over the
age of 18 can join Zipcar at a discounted rate.
Electric Car Charging Station
In spring 2012, GW installed an electric vehicle charging station in the Academic Center
Parking Garage. The university received the station free of charge through a Department
of Energy grant. Contact the GW Parking Office with questions about the on-campus
station.
Guaranteed Ride Home
Guaranteed Ride Home (GRH) provides commuters who regularly (twice a week)
carpool, vanpool, bike, walk, or take transit to work with a free and reliable ride home
when unexpected emergencies arise. Commuters may use GRH up to four times per
year to get home for emergencies such as personal illness, a sick child, or unscheduled
overtime. Register online at Commuter Connections. For questions, call GRH at 1-800-
745-RIDE (7433).
Metrorail and Metrobus
The Foggy Bottom Campus is accessible by both Metrorail and Metrobus. Located on
the Blue and Orange lines of Metrorail, the campus is served by the Foggy Bottom/GWU
Metro Station. The Farragut West Station (Blue/Orange line) may be closer to some
buildings on the eastern side of campus. Several Metrobus routes also travel through
the university area. A trip planner is available on Metro’s Web site, as is accessibility
information for persons with disabilities.
SmarTrip
A SmarTrip card is a permanent, rechargeable card used to pay Metrorail and local bus
system fares. Made of plastic, like a credit card, it is embedded with a special computer
chip that keeps track of the value of the card. Instead of inserting a fare card through
the Metrorail fare gate slot, touch the SmarTrip card to the circular targets on top of or
inside station fare gates. Likewise, tap the fare box on Metrobus to pay bus fares with a
SmarTrip card.
Transit Providers Accepting SmarTrip
SmarTrip cards can be used to ride the Metrobus, Metrorail, and to exit Metro Parking
lots. Various area transit providers also accept the SmarTrip card as a payment option.
Getting a SmarTrip Card
Employees who do not have a card and are enrolling in the program for the first time
can receive a free SmarTrip card by visiting the Faculty and Staff Service Center in Rice
Hall. You may also use one you presently own or purchase one directly from Metro.
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Using and Registering a SmarTrip Card to Participate in SmartBenefits
Employees can begin using a SmarTrip card before any payroll deductions are taken for
GW’s Smart Benefits program by adding money to the SmarTrip card. In order to
participate in SmartBenefits, an employee’s SmarTrip card must be registered through
Metro . Allow 48 hours for the registration process.
Smart Benefits
Smart Benefits allows benefit-eligible employees to set aside pre-tax dollars each month
through payroll deduction for transit and parking. Deductions are taken one month in
advance and credited to an employee’s SmarTrip card, which may be used to pay for
Metrorail, Metrobus, and Metro parking.
Transit Providers Not Accepting SmarTrip
Employees who use area transit providers that do not currently accept the SmarTrip
card as fare payment such as MetroAccess, Virginia Railway Express (VRE), MARC Train
Service, MTA Commuter buses (Eyre, Dillon’s, & Keller) may still take advantage of pre-
tax savings by participating in the GW SmartBenefits program. The SmarTrip card allows
employees to allocate their benefit to their personal account through either Commuter
Direct, or (for residents of Maryland only) MTA to contribute to your order.
Parking Services
GW offers parking for faculty, staff, students, and visitors at its Foggy Bottom, Mount
Vernon, and Virginia Science and Technology campuses. Parking locations, rates and
procedures are available on the Transportation and Parking Services Web site. For
questions or assistance, visit the Faculty and Staff Service Center (Rice Hall, First Floor,
2121 Eye Street, NW) or call 202-994-PARK (7275) and press 4.
Non-University Pretax Parking Transportation Benefit
The university offers all benefit-eligible employees a pretax deduction for parking
expenses. Employees elect a monthly amount based on their estimated parking
expenses for the following month. After the expenses are incurred, employees submit
claims to Ceridian Benefit Services for reimbursement. For questions, contact Payroll
Services at 571-553-8508.
Note: Reimbursements are processed on the 10
th
of each month. Properly completed
claim forms must be received by Ceridian two business days before the reimbursement
date in order for the claim to be paid on that date.
Shuttle Services
GW operates two inter-campus shuttles:
Mount Vernon Campus
The Vern Express picks up and drops off students, faculty, staff, and visitors at
four Foggy Bottom campus locations and two Mount Vernon campus locations.
The one-way trip between the campuses on the Vern Express typically takes 10-
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13 minutes, although during heavy traffic conditions, especially on weekdays
from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. to 7 p.m., during rush hour, the one-way trip
may take longer. Passengers are encouraged to plan accordingly.
The Vern Express is operated by International Limousine Service (ILS). Contact ILS
Dispatch at 202-388-6800, extension 236 for route information and/or ADA
arrangements.
Virginia Science and Technology Campus
The university provides shuttles between the Virginia Science and Technology
and Foggy Bottom campuses, as well as the Wiehle-Reston East Metro Station
(Orange Line). Shuttle services are free for GWorld holders (please be prepared
to show your ID to the shuttle driver). The public rides the Wiehle Express for a
fee. See also http://transportation.gwu.edu/virginia-campus-shuttles.
Walking
Shower-Pass Program
The shower-pass program allows pedestrian and cyclist commuters to use shower and
locker facilities at the GW Lerner Health and Wellness Center. For details, see “Shower-
Pass Program” under Bicycling.
7.8 Computer Supplies and Equipment
Faculty and staff can purchase Apple and Lenovo computers at academic pricing
(discounted rates) at the GW Bookstore. In addition, the GW Bookstore offers academic
pricing on software and ten percent off select accessories, not including Apple products.
7.9 Development Office
The Division of Development and Alumni Relations seeks to promote a culture of
philanthropy throughout the university community, including alumni, students, parents,
and friends.
Annual Giving
The Annual Giving department engages GW community members about the value of
philanthropy in supporting all aspects of GW. Staff members answer questions about
the ways to give to GW as well as the programs supported by philanthropy. They also
work closely with the Faculty and Staff Campaign, Student Giving, and the Colonial
Connection Student Callers. Contact Annual Giving at 202-994-5303 or
Faculty and Staff Campaign
The Faculty and Staff Campaign provides a way to support university initiatives and
programs beyond daily contributions of time and talent. Donations can be directed to
departments, the President’s Fund for Excellence, or to hundreds of other programs on
campus. Gifts to the university can be made via:
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Payroll deduction
Check (Payable to George Washington University)
Credit/debit card
Appreciated securities and bonds
Bequests
Life insurance
Heritage Society
The Heritage Society honors alumni, friends, faculty, and staff who support the George
Washington University through a bequest intention, charitable gift annuity, charitable
trust or other planned giving.
Planned Giving
The Planned Giving staff can help with planning a gift to GW—from how to include GW
in estate plans to help in setting up a gift annuity. These methods of giving benefit GW,
while often resulting in favorable tax treatment. Contact Planned Giving Staff at 202-
994-7657 or [email protected].
Receiving Donations to the University
Discussions with potential donors should be carried out in consultation with the
Development Office to make sure that donations are consistent with the mission of the
university. GW faculty or staff members in receipt of a donation to the university should
contact the Gift Records office immediately to enable timely processing. The University
Gift Processing Policy states that “All gifts to the University must be processed, recorded
and receipted by the Gift Records Office in the university Division of Development and
Alumni Relations (DAR-GR).” If you have questions, please contact the Gift Records
Office at [email protected]. The Advancement Records Department will ensure that the
gift is posted to the appropriate account based on the donor’s intentions and that the
donor receives a gift receipt for his/her tax records.
7.10 E-Cycling
Electronic materials may contain hazardous metals (e.g., lead in monitors and
televisions) that could leach out of a landfill into the surrounding ground water if the
material is not disposed of properly. For this reason, GW collects these materials and
returns them to an appropriate vendor for disassembly and reuse of various parts.
The most common electronic items to be e-cycled include, but are not limited to, PCs
and related peripherals, telephones (desk, wall, and cell), fax machines, and televisions.
E-Surplus
Offices with electronic materials that are no longer needed should follow the steps on
the E-Cycling Web site for proper disposal (see link below). Then, submit a FiXit request for
pick-up.
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Toner Cartridges
1. Toner cartridges, as well as batteries, light bulbs, and cell phones, can be recycled in
bins across from the GW Bookstore (Marvin Center, Ground Floor).
2. Alternately, submit a FIXit request and select “E-Cycling and Recycling Pick Up” from
the FIXit problem drop-down menu. In the additional details section, please specify
that the items should be delivered to Marc Shirley at 2025 F Street, NW Suite #104.
E-Cycling Guide for Faculty and Staff
7.11 Emergency Preparedness
See Section 2.7.3.11 and Section 3.8
7.12 Events and Venues
The Events and Venues department manages several spaces on campus available to
students, faculty, staff, and university guests for special events, meetings, and
conferences. Venues available through the Event and Venues department are the
Marvin Center, Jack Morton Auditorium, 1918 F Street (Alumni House), 1957 E Street
(7th Floor), Lisner Auditorium and various outdoor locations.
To request a space or for more information, please contact the Events and Venues office
at 202-994-7470 or [email protected]. Venue descriptions can be viewed and space
requests can be submitted online via the website (http://events-venues.gwu.edu).
Building Managers are on duty 24/7 for after hours event emergencies and can be
contact at 202-994-3605.
Events
Each year, University Events coordinates or contributes to approximately 100 events
that range in size from 25 people to 25,000 people. These events, many of which are
hosted by the president of the university, serve the entire GW Community—students,
faculty, staff, alumni and friends.
Fall Semester Events include:
Freshman Convocation
9/11 Remembrance
Constitution Day
Apple Day
GW Interfaith Dinner
GW Faculty and Staff Holiday Party
Spring Semester Events include:
George Washington’s Birthday Bonfire, February 22
Academic Honors Dinner
Faculty Honors Ceremony
Interfaith Baccalaureate
Doctoral Hooding Ceremony
Commencement Weekend
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7.13 External Relations
Faculty Experts
GW maintains a searchable database of Faculty Experts for the benefit of the news
media. To be added to or update existing information in the database, please contact
[email protected] or 202-994-6460.
Follow GW
Follow GW lists GW’s official social media sites, as well as those affiliated with GW
schools and administrative offices.
GW Today
GW Today is the university’s primary source of news and information. View up-to-date
information about GW and subscribe to twice weekly emails at GW Today’s Web site.
Marketing and Creative Services
Marketing and Creative Services is a department within the Division of External
Relations whose services include photography and videography as well as creating visual
designs, print publications, and Web sites. In addition, Marketing and Creative Services
maintains the university’s Identity Standards and Guidelines, institutional logo files, and
other components of the visual identity system, and ensures their use conforms to
university policy.
Business Cards, Letterhead, and Envelopes
Work with department staff to order business cards, letterhead, and envelopes
through Dupli in iBuy, the university’s online procurement system.
Media Relations
Members of the media are encouraged to contact GW Media Relations for up-to-date
information about the university. If faculty members are contacted directly by the
media, they should consult the GW Media Policy and Media Procedures for guidance.
University Calendar
The GW University Calendar serves a central resource for information about events at
the university. GW schools, departments, and organizations contribute to the calendar
on an ongoing basis. If interested in posting events on the calendar, please review the
calendar policy prior to submitting an event.
7.14 Facilities
Facilities Services manages and maintains GW’s property and grounds on all three of
GW’s campuses, including housekeeping, routine, and emergency maintenance, moving
services, pest control, project management, logistics, waste removal, recycling,
e-cycling, property management, and energy and environmental management.
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Facilities Services seeks to provide high quality service to complete requests within 5
days. Completion times may vary during periods of increased request volume. FIXit is
the work request system and can be found at https://my.gwu.edu/mod/fixit/login.cfm.
Requested services include: Housekeeping, Trash Removal and Recycling, Event
Support, Maintenance and Pest Control. Anyone can submit routine requests for
standard maintenance in any building on any of the three campuses without being
charged.
Emergency Maintenance 202-994-6706
AN EMERGENCY IS DEFINED AS A PROBLEM THAT WILL JEOPARDIZE A PERSON'S SAFETY,
CAUSE DAMAGE OR LOSS OF PROPERTY OR WILL SIGNIFICANTLY DISRUPT REGULAR
UNIVERSITY ACTIVITIES. To report maintenance emergency, please call 202-994-6706,
24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Routine Requests
To report routine maintenance issues, submit a FIXit ticket at:
https://my.gwu.edu/mod/fixit/login.cfm
Chargeable Requests
Requests outside of standard maintenance and operations of buildings are chargeable,
such as moving or out-of-cycle painting. Faculty should work with department FIXit
Power Users to submit chargeable requests.
Event Support is conducted as follows:
Support for events, such as Housekeeping or setups are provided on a reimbursable
basis for all campus events. These are Chargeable Requests and the fixit problem
code is “EVENT SUPPORT.” If special service is required for a particular area or
room, a FIXit request should be submitted at least three days in advance.
Routine maintenance services are provided as follows:
Maintenance crews are available Monday-Friday, 7 a.m.-11 p.m. and Saturday-
Sunday, 9 a.m.-6 p.m.
Routine housekeeping services are provided as follows:
In academic and administrative buildings, between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. either
Sunday-Thursday or Monday-Friday, depending on the building.
Limited weekend and overnight housekeeping services are provided to specific areas
on campus that are open and in use by the university community throughout the
day and on weekends.
7.15 Faculty Computers
See Section 2.6, “Faculty Workstation Initiative.”
7.16 Faculty/Employee Assistance Program
See Section 2.3.3, “Faculty/Employee Assistance Program.”
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7.17 Faculty and Staff Service Center
See Section 2, “Working at GW.”
7.18 Graduate Student Support
The Office of Graduate Student Assistantships and Fellowships (OGSAF) provides general
information on fellowship opportunities for graduate students at the George
Washington University on the Foggy Bottom campus. These opportunities include
special internal competitions as well as national fellowships such as Boren, Fulbright and
NSF Graduate Research Fellowships. The OGSAF oversees all graduate, non-sponsored
project funding and directly administers special programs and endowment fellowships.
The OGSAF offers informational meetings on national and internal competitions and
funding opportunities for graduate and PhD students, as well as special assistance on
aspects of the application process such as essay writing and interviewing. The Office also
oversees GW’s Graduate Teaching Assistantship Program (GTAP).
7.19 GW Mobile App
Access key GW services from your web-enabled mobile device using the GW Mobile app
developed by Academic Technologies. Tap into the campus wherever you go with the
official GW iPhone and Android apps, and now Mobile Web. Services include Schedule
of Classes, GW Email, 4-Ride, Social Media feeds, and Shuttle information.
7.20 GWorld Card
The GWorld Card is the official identification card of George Washington University. It
provides access to campus buildings and facilities, such as residence halls, academic
buildings, libraries, and the Lerner Health and Wellness Center. It can also offer access
to campus events. Faculty and staff can add funds (online or at campus kiosks) to their
GWorld cards for purchases on campus, including occasional parking and dining
services. The GWorld Card Office is located in Colonial Central (Marvin Center, Ground
Floor).
7.21 Information Technology
The Division of Information Technology (DIT) provides technology infrastructure,
services, and applications at GW, from Internet and phone connections in offices and
residence halls to software that supports admissions, online registration, and other
aspects of day-to-day business.
Technology Support
The Division of IT provides a wide range of technology support services, including
assistance with on-campus services, university accounts and applications support,
assistance with personal computers, one-on-one help with using applications, and much
more. Technology assistance is available through the IT Support Center 24 hours a day,
seven days a week.
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Telephone: 202-994-GWIT (4948)
Live chat support and ticket submission: http://it.gwu.edu/support
Walk-up technology support is also provided through Tech Commons, located on the
lower level of Gelman Library (B03).
Academic year hours: Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m.-10 p.m.
Friday, 9 a.m.-7 p.m.
Sunday, 2 p.m.-8 p.m.
Summer session hours: Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-7 a.m.
Note: Hours are subject to change on holidays and during intersession breaks.
In addition to university-wide support provided by the Division of IT, specialized
technology support for particular colleges and administrative functions may be provided
by a local support partner (LSP). Check with your organization to determine if this
applies to your group.
7.22 International Services Office
See Section 3.15, “Student Services.”
7.23 Lerner Health and Wellness Center
All current GW employees (full- or part-time faculty and staff) on the Foggy Bottom and
Mount Vernon campuses are eligible to join the Lerner Health and Wellness Center
(corner of 23
rd
and G streets). Annual membership fees can be paid through credit card
or a personal check. There is a six-month minimum for membership.
Facility features include:
3-lane indoor lap pool
Aerobics, dance, and martial arts classes
Cardiovascular and strength-training center
Free weight room
2-court gymnasiums for basketball, volleyball, badminton, and intramural sports
6 squash courts
4 racquetball courts
3-lane suspended jogging track
Locker rooms and equipment rental
Conference, wellness, and multipurpose rooms
A healthy-eating café
Additional Athletic Facilities
Mount Vernon Athletic Complex
The following facilities are located on the Mount Vernon Campus:
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The GW Lloyd Gym
Activities available to current GW students, faculty, and staff include basketball,
volleyball and indoor soccer. The facility also boasts a full circuit of free weight and
cardiovascular equipment. Current GWorld cardholders are welcome.
The Mount Vernon Campus Pool
A six-lane swimming pool is open from May through September, offering members a
cool and refreshing way to relax. The center has a toddler pool for young children.
GW students can present their GWorld card to use the Swim Center.
The GW Tennis Center
The tennis center is open to all GW students and Tennis Center members. Its 11-
court facility has lights on six courts for night play. Amenities include a courtside
patio, water coolers, court chairs, divider nets, and a private locker room.
7.24 Mail Services
Foggy Bottom Campus
Delivery and Pick-up
GW’s Mail Services processes all incoming and outgoing U.S. mail as well as
interdepartmental mail for most university offices and departments. Interoffice and U.S.
mail is delivered and picked up twice daily (mornings and afternoons) for all
departments located on campus and once daily for departments located off-campus.
Preparing Outgoing Mail
All outgoing mail is processed at the Support Building and picked up by the U.S. Postal
Service or an outside vendor at approximately 2 p.m. daily. Departments can send
outgoing mail by attaching a departmental chargeback card to each bundle and placing
it in their outgoing mailbox. Specify on the card how the mail should be processed (i.e.,
3
rd
Class, Overnight, UPS, etc.). If there is no specific notation on the card, the mail will
automatically be sent First Class. If you have any questions regarding bulk mailings,
obtaining departmental chargeback cards, your mailing account, or other matters, call
202-994-8707 (outgoing mail) or 202-994-8706 (interdepartmental mail) for assistance.
Foggy Bottom Campus Post Office
The Foggy Bottom Campus post office is open weekdays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Faculty,
staff, and students can send letters and packages, including express mail (USPS, FedEx
and UPS), and buy stamps with cash or a GWorld Card. The post office is on the lower
level of the Support Building at 2025 F St., NW, Suite L-101.
U.S. Post Offices
The closest U.S. post offices to the Foggy Bottom Campus are as follows:
Watergate Station (2512 Virginia Avenue, NW)
White House Station (1700 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW)
Twentieth Street Station (2001 M Street, NW)
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Express Mail
GW contracts with preferred suppliers for discounted rates on services. Currently, GW’s
preferred express mail vendors are FedEx and UPS. Faculty should work with
department staff to send work-related express mail. Hours of Operation (Mail
Services/Student Package Services )
Foggy Bottom Campus
Monday – Friday 10 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Saturday Noon - 6 p.m. (fall and spring semester only)
Sunday 1 – 5 p.m. (fall and spring semester only)
Location: Support Building, 2025 F Street, NW, Suite L-101
Contact: 202-994-6725
Mount Vernon Campus
Monday – Friday 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Saturday 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. (fall and spring semester only)
Sunday Closed
Locations: Mail Services: West Hall Suite B-114A
Package Services: Mt. Vernon Garage adjacent to West Hall
Contact: 202-242-6660
Virginia Science and Technology Campus Mail Service
Delivery and Pick-up
Virginia Campus Mail Services processes all incoming and outgoing U.S. Mail as well as
interdepartmental mail for most university offices and departments. Mail is delivered
and picked up daily for all campus buildings.
Preparing Interoffice Mail
Label interoffice mail with recipient, department, and building name. A courier service
transports interoffice mail between the Foggy Bottom and Virginia campuses twice
daily. Mail sent by the 10:15 a.m. run will be delivered the same day at Foggy Bottom.
To arrange for a pick-up of large packages (oversized, boxed materials) destined for
Foggy Bottom, call 703-726-3563 (before noon for same-day delivery).
Preparing Outgoing U.S. Mail
All outgoing mail is processed and picked up by the U.S. Postal Service at approximately
10 a.m. daily. Departments can send outgoing mail by attaching a departmental
chargeback card with a rubber band or paper clip to each bundle and placing it in their
outgoing mailbox. Departmental chargeback, or postage meter, cards can be printed
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from the Enterprise Accounting System (EAS). To arrange for a pick-up of large packages
(oversized, boxed materials), call 703-726-3563.
Express Mail
FedEx and UPS pick up daily from Mail Services. By 1 p.m., packages should be at
Logistics (Research I) or Security (Research II). FedEx Ground picks up before 9 a.m.
Questions
If you have any questions regarding bulk mailings, obtaining departmental chargeback
cards, your mailing account, or other matters, call 703-726-3563 or 703-726-3552 for
assistance. Hours of Operation
Monday – Friday 7 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Location: Building II, 1
st
Floor
7.25 Marvin Center
The Cloyd Heck Marvin Center is GW’s campus community center. It offers programs,
services, and facilities for students, faculty, staff, alumni, and university guests. The
Center’s wide range of facilities includes dining locations, a theatre, lounges, study
rooms, conference, and meeting rooms, and is home to Colonial Central, GWorld, the
GW Bookstore, Student Health Services, and Colonial Crossroads.
The Marvin Center is supported by a team of full-time professional staff to tend to the
needs and care of the students, faculty, staff, and community members who use this
university center. For questions or concerns, visit Marvin Center 204 during regular
business hours. Building Managers are on duty 24/7 and can be contacted at 202-994-
3605.
7.26 NIH Federal Credit Union
GW employees are eligible to join the NIH Federal Credit Union, which has a branch
adjacent to campus at 2200 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW. Phone: 800-877-6440
7.27 Notary Public Service
Notary public services are available at various Foggy Bottom campus locations, including
the Faculty and Staff Service Center. A list of notaries on and around campus is available
from Colonial Central (Marvin Center, Ground Floor).
7.28 Office Supplies and Equipment
Office supply and equipment orders should be placed according to the academic
department’s administrative office policy. Supplies can be ordered through iBuy, GW’s
online procurement system. Through iBuy, departments can order from preferred
vendors at discounted rates, such as Staples, CDWG, Apple, and Dell.
7.29 Parking Services (See Section 7.7, “Commuting.”)
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7.30 Payroll
The Payroll Office is located on the Virginia Campus; however, Foggy Bottom Campus
employees can visit the Faculty and Staff Service Center (FSSC) for assistance with
payroll-related questions. Located on the first floor of Rice Hall (2121 Eye Street, NW),
the FSSC is open weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Virginia Campus Payroll Office Faculty Staff Service Center
45155 Research Place, Suite 155 2121 I Street, NW
Research Place, 1
st
Floor Rice Hall, 1
st
Floor
Ashburn, VA 20147 Washington, DC 20052
703-726-4277 202-994-1000
7.31 Safety and Security
The George Washington University Office of Safety and Security – comprised of the
Office of Emergency Management, Office of Health and Safety and GW Police
Department – is tasked with promoting a safe campus and protecting our community.
This effort requires involvement from all members of the university community,
including faculty, staff, and students.
Phone Numbers: Emergency: Non-Emergency:
Foggy Bottom (GWPD) 202-994-6111 202-994-6110
Mount Vernon (GWPD) 202-242-6111 202-242-6110
VSTC (Loudoun County) 911 703-777-1021
Other Locations 911
GW Information Line 202-994-5050
VSTC Information Line 703-726-8333
Other Important Phone Numbers
Division of Student Affairs 202-994-6710
Emergency Maintenance 202-994-6706
GW Hospital 202-715-4000
GW Housing 202-994-2552
Information Technology 202-994-4948
Office of Emergency Management 202-994-4936
Office of Health and Safety 202-994-4347
Office of Parent Services 202-994-2305
Sexual Assault Response Consultative Team (SARC) 202-994-7222
Student Health Service 202-994-6827
University Counseling Center 202-994-5300
University Operator 202-994-1000
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Blue Light Phones
GWPD operates over thirty blue light phones on the Foggy Bottom and Mount Vernon
campuses. There are also panic alarm buttons in stairwells and secluded areas of several
university buildings and parking garages. If you need assistance, see something that is
suspicious, or see someone else who needs assistance, you should activate a blue light
phone and speak directly with the GWPD dispatcher. Once activated, a large blue
strobe light flashes from the top of the phone tower and the GWPD dispatcher is
notified immediately. A caller’s location is immediately reported and officers are quickly
dispatched. Additionally, the GW Mobile App allows you to see your location in relation
to the blue light phones on campus. Download the app and look for blue light phones
under the emergency menu.
Emergency Communications
The university utilizes several different mediums to notify GW students, staff, faculty,
and community members of emergency situations and safety-related information.
Campus Advisories This is the university’s primary website used
for communicating emergency preparedness and incident-related information to the
GW community.
GW Alert (Text, E-Mail and Webpages): GW Alert is a notification system that sends
emergency alerts to e-mail addresses and mobile devices. Students, faculty, and staff
members are requested to maintain current contact information by logging into
https://banweb.gwu.edu. In emergency situations, alerts may also appear at the top of
university webpages.
Social Media: Selected GW Campus Advisories are posted to the university’s Twitter
account and Facebook status.
Emergency Medical Response Group (EMeRG)
The GW Emergency Medical Response Group (EMeRG) is a student-based volunteer
organization licensed to provide Basic Life Support and transport while serving the GW
Foggy Bottom and Mount Vernon campuses. EMeRG strives to serve the community
24/7 during the academic year on the Foggy Bottom campus, and during peak evening
hours on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays on the Mount Vernon campus. All of EMeRG
members are licensed Emergency Medical Technicians at the Basic level or higher in the
District of Columbia.
4-Ride and Colonial Express Shuttle Bus
GWPD coordinates two safe travel alternatives. 4-Ride is a fleet of escort vehicles that
pick up and drop off students, faculty, and administrators anywhere within three blocks
of campus. The Colonial Express Shuttle Bus runs two routes around campus, stopping
at residence halls and major campus buildings. Both services operate daily from 7 p.m.
to 5:30 a.m.
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GW Police Department
The George Washington University Police Department (GWPD) is committed to working
with the GW Community to help ensure a safe and secure environment. Police
personnel patrol the campus area 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
The GW Police Department is located in Rome Hall, Suite 101. All GWPD walk-in
services, including filing a police report and reporting lost or stolen keys can be accessed
24-hours a day. Inquiries can be made into lost and found items on weekdays between
the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Eye glasses and non-GW keys are available for pick up
from lost and found 24-hours a day.
Lost and Found
Lost and found items recovered by community members or GWPD officers are stored at
the Office of Safety and Security in the Academic Center. When turned in, they are
logged in a record book and stored by GWPD for thirty days. After thirty days, the items
are donated to a local charity. Inquiries can be made into lost items on weekdays
between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. by calling 202-994-6948 or by visiting Rome
Hall, Suite 101. Alternately, email [email protected]. Eyeglasses and non-GW keys
are available 24/7. Claiming lost items requires photo ID.
Operation Identification
The GWPD prints uniquely identifiable numbers on valuables to assist in their positive
identification or recovery in the event the items are lost or stolen.
Self-Defense Classes
GWPD Self Defense is open to GW community members of all ages and all backgrounds.
All GW students, faculty, and staff are able to participate in the classes. While the
majority of classes are geared toward sexual assault prevention for women, classes can
be beneficial for men as well. In addition to classes open to both men and women,
GWPD can tailor a class for men or specific groups. For more information contact GWPD
Sexual Assault Response Consultative (SARC) Team
Trained faculty and staff members are prepared to assist survivors of sexual assault.
Members do not act as counselors but provide the survivor with information and
resources to make informed decisions regarding the incident.
Violence in the Workplace
Violence in the workplace, in any form, is not tolerated by the George Washington
University. If you experience violence or harassment in the workplace, you should
report it immediately to GWPD and your direct supervisor. If you are in danger, you
should immediately call GWPD at 202-994-6111 or 911. If you observe behavior that is
suspicious or makes you feel threatened, but you do not believe that you are in
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imminent danger, you can report threatening behavior or other behavioral concerns to
GWPD online. GWPD takes reports of threatening behavior seriously and works with
several other offices within the university to address incidents of workplace violence
immediately.
Definitions
Workplace violence is violence or the threat of violence directed toward persons at
work or on duty. It can occur at or outside the workplace and can range from threats
and verbal abuse to physical assaults and homicide. OSHA has categorized workplace
violence into three categories to make it easier to understand.
1. Stranger Violence- Stranger violence versus employees, such as armed robbery,
accounts for 60% of all workplace homicides.
2. Client Violence- Client versus employee, which is best exemplified by a social worker
being attacked by a client, account for 30% of all workplace homicides.
3. Employee Violence - Employee versus employee, which is best exemplified by a case
wherein an employee attacks a supervisor, accounts for 10% of all workplace
homicides. This category also includes domestic violence, temporary employees,
and subcontractors.
General Information
Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 assures safe and healthful working
conditions for every working person and to reserve our human resources. The National
Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) is charged with researching and
making recommendations related to occupational safety and health standards.
Protecting Yourself
FAQ
Risk Factors
Resources
GWPD also facilitates a training program for Violence Prevention in the workplace and
recognizing behaviors of concern. This program is a collaboration with University Human
Resources and the university’s Behavioral Threat Assessment Team. GWPD will also
assist with creating an office safety plan and conduct training for members of a specific
department.
V.A.M.P. – Violence Awareness and Mitigation Program
VAMP is a GWPD-designed program that teaches faculty, staff and student leaders
indicators of potential violence in individuals, de-escalation techniques and defense
against armed and unarmed assailants.
7.32 Smith Center
The Charles E. Smith Center, 600 22
nd
Street, NW, is an athletic and recreation center
serving the university community. In addition to hosting varsity athletics and major
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events and concerts, the Smith Center houses practice space for club sports and office
space for the Department of Athletics and Recreation.
7.33 Student Services/Colonial Central
See Section 3.15, “Student Services.”
7.34 Sustainability
GW defines sustainability as a future with resource systems that are healthy and thriving
for all. Sustainability is the balance of environmental resources, social equity and
economic prosperity across the globe and across generations. Through efforts
underway in operations, teaching, research, and outreach, GW is committed to being a
model of sustainability.
Academic Programs
GW is home to numerous courses on topics related to sustainability that students take
across multiple academic programs at the undergraduate and graduate level. These
courses serve as the foundation for many of sustainability-related academic programs
offered at the university.
Research Institutes and Centers
At GW, a suite of institutes conducts research on a variety of sustainability topics.
Green Leaf Course Grants
Faculty can apply for Support Grants for Developing or Revising Courses to Meet the
Green Leaf Designation. Green Leaf courses address issues around social, economic,
and/or environmental sustainability and include at least three of the following criteria:
Content related to sustainable development: creating healthy and thriving resource
systems for all;
Content related to environmental issues;
Content related to social issues that can be applied to sustainable development such
as human welfare, social equity issues or social/organizational/behavioral change;
Content related to economic issues that can be applied to sustainable development;
Discourse focused on the interconnection of world resources and the human
condition from a long-term perspective;
Content related to policy and communications issues that can be applied to
sustainable development.
Green Office Network
The Green Office Network is the primary faculty and staff sustainability engagement
program. Offices sign up to participate in a program designed:
To better understand office behavior and practices on a day-to-day basis
To foster a discussion about how to improve sustainability on the individual and
office level
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To improve awareness, build community, and empower staff to make positive,
healthy changes
Recycling/E-Cycling
GW is committed to reducing on-campus waste, as well as ensuring that its recycling
program is comprehensive and robust.
Foggy Bottom and Mount Vernon Campus Recycling Guide
Virginia Campus Recycling Guide
E-Cycling Guide for Faculty and Staff
7.35 Telephone and Voicemail
All university telephone calls are processed through a communications network owned
and operated by GW.
Dialing Information
Calls are routed to the appropriate campus destination by dialing a 5-digit number. Dial
a prefix of 9 to access an outside line for local calls to the District of Columbia. Long-
distance calls and local calls to Maryland and Virginia toll-free numbers should be
preceded by 9, 1 and the area code.
On campus dialing
The university has several types of on-campus phone numbers that you can reach by
dialing the last 5 digits of each number:
202-994-xxxx 4-xxxx 571-553-xxxx 3-xxxx
703-726-xxxx 6-xxxx 202-242-xxxx 2-xxxx
Long-Distance Codes
Each employee authorized by a department chair to make long-distance calls is assigned
an authorization code that is dialed after the area code and telephone number. The
authorization code is used to verify the authenticity of the caller and to allow direct
billing to the department. The main listed number for the university is 202-994-1000.
For information, dial 0 and then say “operator” to reach the university operator. The
university phone system is administered by the Division of Information Technology.
Repair
For telephone repairs, please contact the IT Support Center at 202-994-GWIT (4948),
seven days a week.
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Voicemail
All university telephone extensions are equipped with voicemail. To access voicemail,
dial 202-994-4100 and type in the security code for that extension. If accessing
voicemail from a different telephone, you will be required to type in the 5-digit
extension (called the mailbox number) of the office phone followed by the security code
for the extension.
7.36 Textbooks See Section 2.7.3.5, “Textbook Adoption.”
7.37 University Traditions
Traditions are an important part of GW’s culture, enriching daily life and cultivating
pride within our community. The oldest traditions date back to 1904 when Columbian
College became George Washington University. Today, many GW traditions and logos
incorporate the legends and lore linked to the namesake, President George Washington.
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Appendix: Faculty Handbook Revision Procedures
The Office of Faculty Affairs in the Provost’s Office is responsible for maintaining the Faculty
Handbook in consultation with the Faculty Senate. The Handbook should be verified for
accuracy and revised periodically. Changes required for administrative or other reasons may
be done in the interim on an ad hoc basis in consultation with the Faculty Senate.
1999 GW Faculty Handbook
2015 GW Faculty Handbook (unanimously recommended for approval on April 10, 2015 by a
Resolution of the George Washington University Faculty Senate; approved for release to the
faculty by Provost Steven R. Lerman on April 10, 2015)
