Social Media

The following are guidelines for placing CCS-related content on social media sites.

Departmental Social Accounts

Getting Started

Before creating your official CCS social media channel, please send a proposal to Marketing & Communications for review and approval. All accounts must be approved through the Office of Marketing & Communications, who will provide governance, oversight and advice to all department social media administrators. If your account predates this new process, we are requesting that all existing accounts go through this same approval process. Approvals will be sent back within two business weeks. Please consider the following questions when considering a new social account:

  • What are your goals for the account?
  • Who is your target audience?
  • What platform are you hoping to use & why?
  • How often are you going to post?
  • What kind of content will you post?
  • Are you able to provide enough content to maintain a social presence year-round?
  • How will this support the college as a whole as well as the individual department/office?
  • Do you have the time to do this well?

Account Management and Monitoring

Every departmental social account needs at least one, full-time staff or faculty member managing it. To prevent lapses in engagement or turnover, please add CCS’s Social Media Manager as an admin to the account and be sure to share your login information as well. CCS’ Social Media Manager reserves all rights to review and remove inappropriate content and to shut down inactive accounts.

Content Owners are responsible for posting and using content and maintaining compliance with CCS policies and all local, state and federal laws, including but not limited to: the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), the Federal Trade Commission Act, the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPPA), U.S. copyright law and the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA).

Social Media Do’s

  • Catalogue and retain an official account inventory and contact info for everyone who is posting/involved.
  • Create, maintain and monitor content on respective social media platforms and engage with users.
  • Post consistent, clear, quality content
  • Moderate content that violates hosting terms of service or is of a threatening/harassing nature.
  • Follow CCS’s main accounts and share when appropriate.
  • Ensure all content is relevant to the goals and objectives and upholds the standards and brand pillars of CCS.

Social Media Don’ts

  • Make sure you answer comments and direct messages in a timely manner. The common courtesy rule at CCS is no longer than 24 hours. Also, make sure your responses are courteous, professional and conversational.
  • Don’t post content that violates any laws or regulations.
  • Don’t use the College’s brand/name to endorse any view, product, private business, cause or political candidate.
  • Don’t represent personal opinions as college-endorsed views/policies.
  • Don’t promote external third-party fundraisers that do not directly benefit CCS. If you are approached about promoting a third-party fundraiser, please talk to Institutional Advancement and Marketing and Communications before moving forward.

Brand Standards and Style Guide

CCS social accounts need to convey our brand and be representative of a world-class art and design institution. To ensure that, follow these simple brand guidelines:

  • We need to make sure our account names are consistent. For undergraduate programs, please name your account ccs_departmentname. Ex: ccs_artpractice, ccs_photography, ccs_transportation. For graduate programs, please name your account ccsmfa_departmentname. Ex: ccsmfa_integrateddesign
  • Make sure you have a profile picture that is an official CCS departmental logo created and approved by the Marketing & Communications office.
  • Include the College’s main handle in your bio (ex. @ccs_detroit Product Design Department)
  • Your biography or about section should reflect your department description found on your CCS department site.
  • Follow CCS’s Style Guide [link] when designing posts, stories, etc. Consider using our official fonts, the official CCS colors, logos, etc.
  • When it comes to text – less is more! Images with too much text do not perform as well on social media.

Images

A few things to consider when posting:

  • Are your images sized correctly for posting?
  • Are your images crisp and clear?
  • Do your images properly represent the College and your department?
  • Can your image easily be cropped to 1:1?

Gifs: Gifs are fun and engaging. CCS Marketing & Communications has a library of them at your disposal.

Going “Live”

It is often useful to use live video to share demonstrations, guest lectures or other content. Please connect with CCS Marketing and Communications for guidance if needed.

Hashtags and Tagging

Hashtags are very important. It’s an easy way to connect your content to a specific topic, event, theme or conversation. Hashtags also make it easier to discover posts around specific topics, because hashtags aggregate all social media content with that same hashtag.

We request you use the following hashtags when posting:

#ccsdetroit      #ccsalumni      #ccsfamily

Be sure to tag the official @ccs_detroit account on all posts. This will give the Marketing & Communications team an opportunity to see all posts and share on the main account, when appropriate. Mentioning and tagging brings awareness to additional pages from the CCS community. Tagging also shows your content to a broader audience — the audience of both your account and the page you tag — meaning your message will reach more people.

Personal Social Accounts

CCS employees are welcome to represent CCS on their personal social accounts using the following guidelines:

Including CCS in your profile is one way to spread the word – but doing so means agreeing to act professionally on your account. Clearly identify yourself as an employee of the College in any business-related discussions. Be respectful and note that your opinions do not represent the views and opinions of CCS, unless specifically authorized to do so.

Sensitive information should never be shared via social platforms (yes, even over Direct Messages). Similar to College email, employees should have no expectation of privacy when using or posting on social media websites

Be aware of liability. You are legally liable for what you post on your own sites and on others.
Be selective. Not everything needs a response. When you see criticism of the college online, don’t feel compelled to respond. If you have the ability to correct an error or factually incorrect statement, or give someone direction to a webpage that does so, that’s helpful. If you feel there is a post or comment that is sensitive and needs response, forward it to your supervisor or to CCS’s Social Media Manager.

Community Standards

CCS has established a set of community standards to govern all participation in our social media accounts, which are administered and moderated by Marketing & Communications. 

Additionally, individual departments that administer social accounts across any social media channels reserve the right to delete comments, replies or other content and interactions that they deem to be in violation of CCS’s social media community standards or in violation of the social media platforms’ community standards. The administrators may also take action to report, block or ban users from social media platforms for violations. 

Social media submissions that will be removed and reported may include, but are not limited to:

  • Harassing, intimidating or threatening comments to another person
  • Comments that incite violence or other action in violation of any federal or state anti-discrimination laws
  • Sexually explicit and sexually vulgar language and profanity
  • Comments that promote illegal activity
  • Comments that include false or defamatory information
  • Posts that misrepresent or hide the poster’s identity
  • Comments that violate privacy or confidentiality
  • Comments unrelated to the topic or to the College community
  • Repetitive comments and spam posts

Protecting Students Abroad

Purpose and Scope

The purpose of this policy is to promote the health, wellness, safety and security of CCS students who participate in CCS Study Abroad Programs.  The College requires all CCS administrators, faculty, staff, and volunteers working with CCS students in College Sponsored Study Abroad Programs or affiliated Study Abroad Programs (in a CCS contractual relationship) to comply with this policy.

Definitions

  • Authorized Program Staff: Individuals, paid or unpaid, who interact with, supervise, or otherwise oversee CCS Students in program activities. This includes but is not limited to faculty, staff, volunteers, graduate and undergraduate students, and independent contractors/consultants. The Authorized Program Staff’s roles may include positions as, leaders, instructors, guides, etc.  For the purposes of this policy the term “Program Staff” is also assigned this definition. This definition does not include temporary guest speakers, presenters, or other individuals who have no direct contact with Program participants other than short-term activities supervised by Program Staff.
  • College Facilities: Facilities owned by or under the control of the College including housing and Program space. CCS Property is extended to include any buildings or sites in foreign countries which are used for the purpose of hosting a CCS faculty led and/or CCS affiliated study abroad program. Examples of such property include, studios, housing, and instructional sites.
  • College Sponsored Programs: Programs that are directly managed by College faculty, staff, and Sponsored Student Organizations on behalf of the College.
  • Direct Contact: Providing care, supervision, guidance or control of CCS Students or having routine interaction with CCS Students.
  • Non-College Sponsored Programs: Programs that are not operated on behalf of the College or under the College’s control.
  • One-on-One Contact: Personal interaction between any Authorized Program Staff and a participant without at least one other Authorized Program Staff, being present.
  • Program: Programs or activities offered by various academic or administrative units of the College, or by non-College groups affiliated with the College where CCS students are involved. This includes, CCS faulty Led Study Abroad Programs, or Faculty led trips which employ external agencies to administer their programs.  This does not include out-side programs that may enroll CCS students.
  • Program Manager: The person(s) who has primary and direct operational responsibility for managing a Program.
  • ISSO: The International Student Services Office at CCS

Criminal Background Check Requirement:

All individuals involved with a CCS faculty Led Student Abroad Program whom will have direct contact with CCS students are subject to submit a criminal background check and may be asked to comply with this requirement. The following types of convictions will render an individual ineligible to work or volunteer for the College’s Study Abroad Programs:

  • Drug distribution activity or felony drug possession
  • Sexual offenses
  • Crimes of violence involving physical injury to another person
  • Child abuse, molestation or other crimes involving child endangerment
  • Murder
  • Kidnapping
  • Any other crime involving moral turpitude

Operational Requirements

The Study Abroad Authorized Program Staff Responsibilities:

  • Serve as a resource and emergency contact to the group.
  • Remain with the group for the duration of the trip.
  • Be the point of contact between the group participants, and College officials as needed.
  • Be familiar with all College rules and regulations that both individuals, and groups must adhere to including:
  • Be prepared to respond to emergency and crisis protocol to ensure a safe environment and experience to all students.
  • Be prepared to adhere to all reporting requirements in regards to crime, behavioral, and sexual assault/violence.
  • Review program itineraries prior to the trip and discuss any concerns with the organization.
  • Ensure all participants are enrolled in the CCS Travel Registry prior to travel
  • Promote, and ensure compliance with mandatory enrollment of all participants in Emergency Travel and Medical Insurance and mandatory natural or political crisis Evacuation Insurance according to the International Travel Policy.
  • Collect the following information from all participants prior to the trip is scheduled to begin:
    • Passport information page copy
    • Emergency contact form
    • Health insurance and Health information form
    • Assumption of Risk Release Form
  • Make sure a final list of participants, and above mentioned information is sent to the department of International Student Services (ISSO) to be loaded into a mutually accessible database. Program Staff should also carry this information with them on the trip as both hard, and digital copies.
  • Ensure all participants are aware of travel details and trip itinerary in the form of a program handbook.

Program Handbook:

The office/department leading a Study Abroad program must develop and distribute a program handbook to participants. The International Student Services Office, can provide a general template and should be consulted in the content prior to distribution to students.

 The Program Handbook must include the following information:

  • Emergency Procedures: Procedures for notifying the college and the student’s emergency contact, in case of emergency, including medical or behavioral situations.
  • Student Emergency Contact: Information on the student’s emergency contact on how to reach them during the program.
  • Student Health Form: Information on the student’s health insurance, proof of travel insurance and specific health concerns that the program leadership should be aware of.
  • How to prepare for healthy travel- travel health clinic information and CCS Wellness Center contact information
  • Program Contact Information: Information for the student to share with their personal contacts on how to reach the Program leadership and CCS leadership while abroad.
  • Program itinerary: This should include the exact location of the participants with corresponding dates, and address. Include information regarding “free” days in which students will travel on their own.
  • Program rules: Including the CCS student code of conduct and specific cultural expectations, for participants in the program, including the fact that participants must abide by all College regulations and may be removed from the program for violation of such rules.
  • The Assumption of Risk Form: A basic contract signed by students that reviews the risks, and responsibilities involved with Study Abroad.
  • A description of the process to be followed if a participant, group leader, or other individual associated with the study abroad program is alleged to have violated College policies or conduct rules of the program, including the process for dismissal and removal from the program.
  • Title IX policy and reporting requirements:  For review by participants, and to reinforce acknowledgement of study abroad program compliance with this policy.
  • A country profile outlining regionally specific risks, and cultural information to be noted for US travelers
  • Local US embassy contact information
  • How to register for the SMART traveler program with the US State Department
  • Travel Visa requirements for destination
  • Requirement to enroll in the CCS Travel Registry

Program Leadership Pre-Departure session:

Study Abroad program leadership are required to meet with the International Student Services Office prior to departure to review the following procedures:

  1. International Travel Policy
  2. Protecting Students Participating in College Programs or Activities

An understanding agreement will be signed following the meeting and will kept on file with the college.

Student Pre-Departure session:

It is encouraged to hold an in person group meeting prior to departure with the students and leadership to review the handbook information and collect required forms.

Conduct Rules for Program Leadership:

Program Staff should be positive role models and behave in a responsible manner that is consistent with the mission of the College and adhere to the policies in the CCS Staff Handbook.

Program Staff are required to comply with all applicable laws and College policy. Program Staff working in Study Abroad Programs covered by this policy must follow these expectations to avoid conduct that could cause harm or be misinterpreted:

  • Do not engage in any sexual activity, make sexual comments, tell sexual jokes, or share sexually explicit material with CCS Students or assist in any way to provide access to such materials.
  • Do not engage or allow CCS Students to engage you in romantic or sexual conversations, or related matters.
  • Do not touch a CCS Students in a manner that a reasonable person could interpret as inappropriate. Touching should generally only be in the open and in response to the Student’s needs, for a purpose that is consistent with the Program’s mission and culture, or for a clear educational, developmental, or health related purpose (i.e., treatment of an injury). Any resistance from the student should be respected.
  • Do not use profanity, vulgarity, or harassing language.
  • Do not be alone with a single student. If One-on-One interaction is required, meet in open, well illuminated spaces or rooms with windows observable by other Program Staff.
  • Do not meet with students outside of established times for Program activities. If this is required, please include more than one Program Staff.
  • Do not invite students to your home or other private locations.
  • Do not provide gifts to students or their families independent of items provided by the Program.
  • Communication with students must be educational or programmatic in purpose and the content of the communication must be consistent with the mission of the Program and the College.
  • Do not engage in any abusive conduct of any kind toward, or in the presence of, a student including but not limited to verbal abuse, striking, hitting, punching, poking, spanking, or restraining. If restraint is necessary to protect a student or other student from harm, all incidents must be documented and disclosed to the College Administration.
  • Do not use, possess or be under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs while responsible for a student’s welfare.
  • Do not provide alcohol or illegal drugs to any students at any time during the study abroad program.
  • Do not provide medication to a student
  • Do not possess any type of weapon or explosive device.

Drug and Alcohol Policy:

All members of the CCS community also are governed by laws, regulations, and ordinances established by the state and local municipalities and will be held accountable by law enforcement representatives of those entities for any illegal activity. It is the responsibility of all campus members to be aware of these laws. This includes international laws in host countries in which our staff, and student are traveling on College Sponsored Programs. Faculty cannot provide alcohol to CCS students, regardless of the legal drinking age of the country in which the Study Abroad Program is situated. Study Abroad locations are considered “on-campus” for purposes of this policy.

Reporting Protocols:

  • Faculty and staff responsible for student’s abroad must report:
    • Sexual assault and misconduct
    • Violations of conduct by students, program leadership, or affiliated constituents
    • Crimes committed to or by programs participants, or leadership
    • Emergencies of any nature

Title IX Coordinator
Dierdre Young
Assistant Dean for Institutional Equity and Inclusion
Institutional Equity and Inclusion
313-664-1489
ddyoung@collegeforcreativestudies.edu

Deputy Title IX Coordinator
Raquel Diroff
Assistant Human Resources Director
Office of Human Resources
313-664-7651
rdiroff@collegeforcreativestudies.edu

For all other reporting:

 Information will be given to the appropriate office on campus and/or CCS Crisis Management Team.

Katherine Campbell
Director of International Student Services
Office of International Student Services (ISSO)
Office: +1 (31)3-664-7448
Cell: +1 (313)-920-1296
kcampbell@collegeforcreativestudies.edu

Dan Long
Dean of Students
Office: +1 (313)-664-7675
Cell: +1 (248)-310-9571
Office of Student Affairs
dlong@collegeforcreativestudies.edu

Conduct Violations and Crime Reporting:

 CCS encourages all members of the College for Creative Studies community to engage in accurate and prompt reporting of all crimes to Campus Security and the appropriate law enforcement agencies, when the victim of the crime elects not to, or is unable to, make such a report. While abroad please work within the local law enforcement agencies, and report incidents to the college administration immediately.

Title IX Reporting:  

The Title IX reporting responsibilities of CCS Study Abroad Leadership apply while abroad. All College community members are strongly encouraged to report incidents of sexual misconduct to the Title IX Coordinator or any of the reporting resources listed below, by phone, email, or in person.

Behavior violations resulting program expulsion for students:

In the event of an incident/infraction where there is an allegation of a violation of the laws, regulations, and customs of the host country, community, institution or program or a violation of the CCS College Code of Conduct, but does not cause immediate danger to others, the following procedures will apply:

Student Behavioral Procedure:

1. VERBAL NOTIFICATION: The faculty member-in-residence or program assistant representing the Office of Academic Affairs (referred to as the “leader or mentor”) will investigate the alleged violation using the resources available to him or her. They will have a frank discussion with the student of expectations and consequences, giving the student an opportunity to respond in person and present any witnesses or ask questions of witnesses, if any, that the complainant has identified.

2. WRITTEN NOTIFICATION: The student will receive a written notification of the expectations and consequences. This is the final warning and any continuation of the undesirable behavior will result in immediate dismissal with no refund academic credit and grade will be awarded according to college policy.

3. DISMISSAL: If, after the facts have been examined and after discussion and authorization from the Office of Academic Affairs, it has been decided to dismiss the student from the program, the student receives written notification of the decision.  The student is responsible with all costs incurred due to program dismissal.  Upon return to the campus a decision regarding the need for further action will be made.

Behavior violations resulting program expulsion for Staff:

Violations of Staff conduct prior to or during travel will result in immediate removal from the study abroad program and replacement of role by an alternate staff member or potential cancellation of program. The CCS staff handbook, and conduct rules listed in this document policies apply while abroad on a CCS Program.

Emergencies Abroad:

The College has the right to make cancellations, substitutions or changes in case of emergency or changed conditions in the destination country or region. In the case of serious emergency situations, the Program Leadership is responsible for taking immediate care of participants, and notifying the college. The college will utilize its internal Emergency Procedures, and Crisis Management Team as they apply to study abroad, notify all emergency contacts of students and staff, the US Embassy, and other organizations that may aid in securing the safety of our program participants. Students and Program Leadership should take care to ensure their immediate needs and safety and then contact College immediately.

Lost Passports:

You will have to replace the passport before returning to the United States. Contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for assistance. Ask to speak to the Consular Section to report your passport lost or stolen. If you have been the victim of a serious crime, be sure to tell a consular officer about it as soon as possible so they can provide appropriate assistance. If you are scheduled to leave the foreign country shortly, please provide our consular staff with the details of your travel.

Missing student Policy:

If a student becomes detached from the program group or simply disappears for more than 24 hours, the Program Leadership is required to notify the College Administration. Program leadership must notify the International Student Services Office, who will notify Campus Safety, and the Office of Student Affairs immediately.

 The following information will be collected:

  • Contact Information and relationship to the missing student.
  • Name and vital information about the student reported to be out of contact.
  • The date, time, and location the missing student was last seen.
  • The general routine or habits of the suspected missing person including any recent changes in behavior or demeanor.
  • The missing student’s cell phone number.

Once a report has been made that a student is missing, Campus Safety and the Office of Student Affairs will work together to investigate the situation.

Notifications:

  • CCS leadership will notify the local US Embassy.
  • CCS leadership will notify the student’s emergency contact.
  • No social media outlets should be utilized to communicate.
  • Program Leaders are encouraged to manage the student group appropriately to ensure that communications to media outlets, social media, and outside sources are restricted.
  • CCS leadership will communicate to all media and outside sources.

Mandatory Emergency Insurance:

Students and staff are required to purchase emergency medical and travel insurance that covers the duration of their trip. The insurance policy should include repatriation and evacuation coverage in cases if health emergencies, or death. The emergency insurance policy should also cover travel costs for family members in cases where the participants cannot leave the country in cases of hospitalization.

Evacuation Insurance

In addition to international health insurance for employees and students who travel abroad, we also require evacuation insurance due to natural disasters or political unrest.

SMART traveler enrollment:

https://step.state.gov/

CCS encourages students to enroll in the SMART program prior to college sponsored trips abroad. The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is a free service to allow U.S. citizens and nationals traveling and living abroad to enroll their trip with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

  • Receive important information from the Embassy about safety conditions in your destination country, helping you make informed decisions about your travel plans.
  • Help the U.S. Embassy contact you in an emergency, whether natural disaster, civil unrest, or family emergency.
  • Help family and friends get in touch with you in an emergency.

For questions or input on this policy please contact the International Student Services Office.

Related Policies:

Privacy Notice

Prospective Students, Applicants, and Enrolled Students

College for Creative Studies (CCS) understands that storing and tracking personal information is a sensitive topic, and it is committed to safeguarding privacy. CCS collects and processes certain types of personal information from prospective students, applicants, and enrolled students and their families in connection with its programs in the United States. This privacy notice explains what information is collected, how it is used, and how the College safeguards the information. You should contact the Registrar (kladucer@collegeforcreativestudies.edu) with any questions or concerns regarding this notice.

Whose Information Is Collected?

CCS collects information about prospective students, applicants and enrolled students in its programs (referred to herein collectively as “students”) , as well as their family members or guardians.

What Information Is Collected?

CCS collects:

  • Contact information for students and their family members or guardians, including names, titles, telephone numbers, email, and home addresses;
  • Demographic information for students, including race, ethnicity, date of birth, citizenship status, birthplace, veteran status, information about family, marital status, and gender;
  • Academic information for students, including information about school or college, grades, transcripts, coursework, study abroad, contacts with Blackboard per course enrolled, and judicial sanctions;
  • Information and recommendations from faculty or advisors concerning students’ performance and suitability for a particular program;
  • Information about students’ abilities and interests, including information used for housing and roommate placements and for identifying potential internship and other experiences and opportunities; this may include language ability, interests, skills, preferred work environment, strengths and weaknesses, prior employment experience, and the like;
  • Financial information of students and their families for students who seek a grant, loan or scholarship to help pay for the program, including social security numbers;
  • Information about students’ individual health conditions or needs, including physical or mental health conditions, treatment or prescriptions, allergies, limitations or necessary accommodations, dietary restrictions, and the like;
  • Information about students’ disciplinary history at secondary school or a previous institution of higher education or at the College, including any actual or potential violation of the Code of Student Conduct by a matriculated student or directed towards such matriculated student. Those types of incidents may require the College to collect sensitive information about the student, including about sexual orientation or sexual activities, use of drugs or alcohol, or religious or philosophical beliefs or issues.
  • Via FAFSA, information about students’ income, assets, household size, citizenship information, limited information about drug related convictions, and confirmation of selective service registration;
  • Information about students’ career interests;
  • Information about students’ post-graduation career choices, address, email address, employment, and educational pursuits;
  • Information about students’ eligibility for federal loans, past and current;
  • Information about students’ participation in student government or official student organizations;
  • When students and their families make payments to the university, payment information;
  • For applicants to graduate programs, criminal history and information about past military service.
  • For international students, travel documents, including passport and visa information, and the like; and
  • For students taking online courses, IP addresses.

Why Is Personal Information Collected?

CCS is an institution of higher education that provides a variety of programming for students. To provide a meaningful, engaging and safe experience, CCS must collect personal information about students in its programs to permit the College to develop and administer academic programs, facilitate internships and other experiences, identify and provide housing arrangements, help students budget and pay for the programs, assess and provide any necessary accommodations for academic or living conditions, and to help students ensure a healthy and safe experience.

It is necessary for CCS to collect each piece of personal information identified above to perform the contract to provide and support CCS’ programs. Students cannot be admitted into CCS without providing contact information, academic information described above, and the College cannot assess whether to award a grant or scholarship without the financial information described above. It is highly unlikely that the College can place students in an internship program without the information about abilities and interests described below. Students may decline to provide information about health conditions or any need for accommodations, but in that event the College will not be able to make accommodations and may require students to sign a waiver regarding health issues. Students enrolled in CCS programs are bound to follow the College’s Code of Student Conduct and the College’s Sexual Misconduct Policy. The College will investigate and document all allegations of violations of those policies.

How Is Information Collected?

Information is collected through a variety of sources, including:

  • Student-provided information through CCS online applications or request for information form, or in response to questions posed by CCS staff;
  • Information from a student’s secondary school or previous institution of higher education;
  • College Board, ACT, Educational Testing Service, International English Language Testing System, and other similar third parties, which provide information to CCS and other colleges and universities at the student’s request;
  • U.S. Department of Education, U.S. Department of Veteran’s Affairs and other government agencies; and
  • Existing CCS student educational records.

How is Collected Information Used?

Collected information is used only for purposes of CCS operating its programs, including facilitating the educational experience and safety of students in the programs.

Who has Access to Collected Information?

  • CCS faculty and staff;
  • Third-parties who provide services to CCS or to students, pursuant to a contract with CCS;
  • Federal, state and local government agencies, as required by applicable law;
  • If a student will participate in an internship facilitated by CCS, the internship providers, as applicable; and
  • Certain kinds of information may be disclosed to third parties or made available publicly pursuant to the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act.

How is Information Stored and Secured?

CCS uses College-managed, secure information technology systems to store electronic personal information, including systems that permit creating shared spaces that are accessible by CCS faculty and staff. CCS employs appropriate administrative, technical and physical security measures to protect paper or other physical records that contain personal information, including locked offices and file cabinets. CCS uses encrypted SecureMail for Restricted Use information that is subject to the College’s Data Protection Standards.

How Long Is Information Saved?

CCS maintains records as specified in its Record Retention Policy.

Correcting Information

Students who are or have been in attendance at CCS may request changes to their educational records or restrict the information disclosed as directory information as provided by the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act.

Other Rights

Under the EU’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), you may have the right to access personal data that we store and process about you, and to request correction of that information if it is inaccurate. If the GDPR applies, you may also have the right to request deletion of certain personal data; ask that we restrict our use of the data; or object to automated decision-making using your data. Access includes, where applicable, the ability to download your personal data in a commonly-used format.

Please note we may not be able to grant your request in all circumstances, including when it would adversely affect the rights and freedoms of others.

Concerns?

If you have questions or concerns about the use of your personal data please contact the CCS Registrar at kladucer@collegeforcreativestudies.edu or contact the Academic Advising and Registration Office at 201 E. Kirby, Detroit, MI 48202.

Updates to this Notice

The College may change this Privacy Notice from time to time. If the College makes any significant changes in the way it treats your personal information, the updated notice will be posted on the College’s website through the Policy Database.

Smoking

State and local laws prohibit smoking in all parts of College buildings. City ordinance prohibits smoking within 15 feet of any building entrance.

In the interest of providing a safe and healthy environment for all staff, faculty, students and visitors, and in accordance with the Michigan Clean Indoor Act and the City of Detroit Smoking Pollution Control Ordinance, smoking is prohibited in all CCS buildings and within 15 feet of all building entrances and air intakes.

Enforcement of Policy

The success of this policy depends upon the thoughtfulness, consideration and cooperation of smokers and non-smokers. Students are encouraged to ask offending smokers to stop smoking. Any student smoking in a non-smoking area must immediately stop upon being requested to do so. Failure to do so will result in formal disciplinary action as outlined below.

Complaints

Complaints regarding the smoking of faculty and staff should be made to the Department Chair, the employee’s immediate supervisor or the Director of Human Resources. Complaints regarding students smoking should be made to the Director of Student Life.

Disciplinary Action

All student complaints should be made in writing to the Dean of Students. The Dean of Students will notify the student in writing that a complaint has been issued. A second offense will result in a $50 fine. A third offense will result in a $100 fine. Further violations will be subject to CCS disciplinary policies, up to and including expulsion.

Students wishing to contest the above may do so in writing to the Office of Student Affairs. Evidence of non-violation should be attached.

College Purchasing

A purchase order is a promise to pay for goods and services that is sent to a vendor in order to process an order before payment is received. A purchase order MUST be used to procure goods and services unless prior authorization has been obtained from the office of the Vice President of Finance/CFO or is travel and entertainment related. The VP of Finance/CFO must sign all capital purchase orders. Any purchases made by an employee without prior authorization may not be reimbursed!

Mastercards are available and provided to employees for the purpose of charging legitimate travel and entertainment expenses to the College. Cardholders should not use the corporate credit cards to circumvent the Colleges purchasing function by charging for other than approved travel-related expenses unless previously approved by the VP of Finance/CFO. Authorization to obtain a card must be through the VP of Finance/CFO. Although the card is issued in an individual’s name, it should be considered College property. Complete details and more information may be obtained through the Business Services department.

The purchase requisition form is available on the public directory in the Business Services folder and on the office’s campus office page. This is an electronic form.

Credit Application

Credit applications are available from Business Services. It may be necessary to send a credit application to a new vendor so a PO will be accepted. If a new vendor requires the completion of their credit application, please contact the Business Services Department.

Tax-Exempt

CCS is a non-profit organization and is tax-exempt. The College’s tax-exempt ID # is available from Business Services, as well as a tax-exempt letter. Business Services can provide a copy of a W-9 form, the Request for Taxpayer Identification and Certification if necessary.

Personnel Records – Staff / Faculty

Staff

A master personnel record containing administrative staff records and other pertinent data is maintained in the Human Resources office. The Human Resources office maintains records concerning employment, performance, payroll, benefits, and other miscellaneous items. No information, except verification of employment dates, will be released to outside sources without the employee’s written authorization, unless disclosure is required by subpoena or court order or is necessary to meet some legal obligation of CCS. A written authorization from the employee is required for the Human Resources office to release salary information.

It is each administrative staff member’s responsibility to inform the Human Resources office of any changes in the following: name, address, telephone, marital status, dependents, beneficiaries, and emergency contacts.

Administrative staff have the right to review their Personnel Record in the Human Resources office, with a prior appointment. These Personnel Records are confidential and may only be reviewed by the administrative member, or the appropriate supervisory personnel of the administrative staff member.

Faculty

A master personnel record containing faculty records and other pertinent data is maintained in the Human Resources office. The Human Resources office maintains records concerning employment, performance, payroll, benefits, and other miscellaneous items. The Academic Affairs Office also maintains records on each faculty member which include: Full-Time Faculty Annual Reports, Department Chair Annual Reviews of Full-Time Faculty, faculty member’s resume, and correspondence. No information, except verification of employment dates, will be released to outside sources without the employee’s written authorization, unless disclosure is required by subpoena or court order or is necessary to meet some legal obligation of CCS. A written authorization from the employee is required for the Human Resources office to release salary information.

It is each faculty member’s responsibility to inform the Human Resources office of any changes in the following: name, address, telephone, marital status, dependents, beneficiaries, and emergency contacts.

Faculty members have the right to review their Personnel Record in the Human Resources office or their file in the Academic Affairs Office, with a prior appointment. These Personnel Records are confidential and may only be reviewed by the faculty member, or the appropriate supervisory personnel of the faculty member.

Severe Weather

CCS’s policy is to keep the school open during periods of inclement weather, if at all possible. We realize there are times when the College may remain open and you feel it is unsafe for you to attempt to come in. If this occurs, please call and leave a message for your supervisor as soon as possible. Administrative staff will be required to take Paid Time Off (PTO) for days they are unable to come in. Faculty should make every attempt to reschedule any classes that are cancelled due to bad weather. If a class is unable to be rescheduled, it is up to the faculty member to ensure that any missing coursework is covered.

In the event it is necessary to close due to severe weather conditions or any other emergency, the following procedures for notification are followed:

  • The decision to close or cancel Day Classes will be made by 6:00 a.m. and to cancel Evening Classes will be made by 2:00 p.m.
  • Closings and class cancellations will be announced through Campus Emergency Alert Program via e-mail or text alerts.
  • Updates can be found on CCS’s website (www.collegeforcreativestudies.edu), CCS social channels and to local radio/TV stations.

Children in the Workplace

All College employees, including faculty, staff, and students, may occasionally experience the need to bring children to campus. The following guidelines are established to clarify the College’s practice regarding such situations.

Employees and students who are responsible for the care of minor children are expected to arrange childcare away from the workplace and campus. The College does not condone bringing children into the workplace and on campus, except as provided below. The College accepts no responsibility for the actions of children on campus; the parents or custodians assume all such responsibility. Bringing children into the workplace or classroom creates a distraction, for the parent or custodian, for other employees and for students, impeding the performance of College duties and could also endanger the child. The immediate supervisor or instructor will counsel or notify employees or students who bring children to campus without proper authorization in advance.

Exceptions for Employees

Employees may bring children to campus under the following conditions:

An employee is coming to campus for a short visit, or errand, of less than two (2) hours:

  • delivering College-related work (forms, reports, grades, pay a bill, etc.)
  • bringing a new baby to introduce to co-workers
  • other casual, informal College business with co-workers
  • College for Creative Studies sponsored special events

Other conditions to bring children to campus will need approval from the immediate supervisor and Director of Human Resources.

Exceptions for Students

  • delivering College-related work (forms, registration, reports, grades, pay a bill, etc.)
  • bringing a new baby, outside of class time, to introduce to classmates, instructors
  • College for Creative Studies sponsored special events

Other conditions to bring children to campus will need approval from the Dean of Students.

Building Policies

Art Centre Building (ACB) and Taubman Center (TC)

ACB/TC Residents

Every ACB/TC Resident is required to show their ID when entering the ACB/TC.

Guests of ACB/TC Residents

Guests must have a valid ID (driver’s license) and sign in at the front desk. Residents must either be accompanying the guest or come down to the lobby to escort them into the building.

CCS Employees and Students Visiting Offices

Every CCS community member should present their CCS ID to the front desk receptionist every time they enter the ACB/TC.

Guests/Customers Visiting Offices

Guests/Customers visiting offices in the ACB must be escorted into the ACB by an employee with a valid CCS ID.

Wendell Ford Auditorium

  • No food or beverages are allowed
  • Reservations through the Executive Office are required

ADM Boardroom / Ford Campus

  • Reservations through the Executive Office are required
  • Can be used only for College business
  • Cover tables when serving food (i.e. table cloth, placemats)
  • Use hot mats under heated dishes (available in kitchen)
  • Use coasters on tables under beverages (available in room)
  • Clean up and place tables/chairs in meeting room set-up (see diagram on Blackboard)

Flyers and Other Postings

  • Must be approved for posting
  • Only posted in approved locations
  • Approval is obtained from the Office of Student Affairs
  • An office representative will check the posting, then stamp & date
  • Approved areas: bulletin boards, showcases, fabric walls in buildings
  • All items hung in an inappropriate location (windows, doors, vending machines, clocks, elevators, painted surfaces) or that are not approved for posting will be removed and discarded.

Computer Labs

  • CCS ID must be visible at all times.
  • Treat lab proctors and lab equipment with respect; any failure to do so will result in a loss of lab privileges.
  • Absolutely no food or drinks in the labs. This applies to instructors as well as students.
  • Maintain overall cleanliness.
  • Detrimental use of lab computer equipment, AV lab equipment, or production studio equipment will not be tolerated:
    • Illegal/pirated/pornographic files/software, or programs that allow such material.
    • Pilfering lab hardware/software.
    • Willfully damaging equipment, jamming or ripping out connections.
  • No excessive printing.
  • Questions about using various software applications should be directed to an instructor.
  • Students are solely responsible for backing up their own files.

Photography Labs

Open to photo majors, CE students, and students who have passed the Materials & Processes-Photography course.

Labs are not available for general use during scheduled class times. Check the posted schedule, outside the chairs office, for open lab hours.

A current CCS ID is required to check out equipment. CE students may use a valid drivers license or other official identification to borrow equipment. All borrowed equipment must be returned the same day.

Senior Studios

  • No sofas, lounge chairs, mattresses or oversized chairs are allowed in
    studios.
  • No sleeping in studios.
  • After 11:00 PM, for safety reasons, you must notify Campus Safety.
  • Must wear CCS ID on outermost garment for identification purposes.
  • No hazardous materials can be stored in studios.

All Shops

(Wood, Metal, Foundry, Model Shop, 3-D Shop, Sculpture, Jewelry, Glass, Ceramics, Weaving, CNC/Milling, Sandblasting)
Two persons in shop at all times.

No working on College holidays.

Mandatory safety glasses to be worn at all times while working in any shops (This is to improve personal safety and maintain within guidelines of MIOSHA). For better hygiene, we suggest purchasing your own pair. Glasses may be purchased at the CCS Bookstore.

Respirators must be used and worn in any of the spray-booths or other marked areas on campus. You must supply your own respirator.

Hours for student access will be posted near the doors before the start of each semester and will reflect hourly changes associated with holidays and breaks.

Shop staff can work the following hours:
Mon. – Fri. 6:00 AM – 2:00 AM
Sat. 6:00 AM – 2:00 AM
Sun. 6:00 AM – 2:00 AM

Work Study students are only allowed to work the following times:
Mon. – Fri. 8:00 AM – 12:00 Midnight
Sat. 9:00 AM – 12:00 Midnight
Sun. 9:00 AM – 12:00 Midnight

Employees must pass test on equipment usage before after-hour access will be granted and their name added to approved list.

Only those employees on approved list are allowed in offices after building hours and for safety reasons they must check in and out with Campus Security.

Violation of policies or department rules will result in losing the privilege of using College equipment and facilities.

Travel and Entertainment

The travel and entertainment policy is intended to establish and communicate equitable standards and effective procedures for administering and controlling travel and entertainment expenses, and ensure consistent and fair treatment of all employees who travel on CCS business.

CCS recognizes that the effective conduct of the College’s activities will require employees to travel from time to time on behalf of CCS. It is therefore the policy of the College to reimburse employees for all expenses that are necessary, and incurred, when traveling on authorized College business.

Reason for Policy

This policy is to establish and communicate equitable standards and effective procedures for administering and controlling travel and entertainment expenses, and ensure consistent and fair treatment of all employees who travel on CCS business. This policy’s purpose is:

  • To provide guidance to employees, and those with authority to approve expense reports, on travel and entertainment expenditures incurred on behalf of CCS
  • To ensure compliance with legal and internal control requirements
  • To identify reimbursable and non-reimbursable expenses
  • To clarify employee responsibility for controlling and reporting travel and entertainment expenses.

Rationale

CCS’s Travel and Entertainment expense guidelines are based on generally accepted business practices and IRS regulations which describe those expenses that a business or an individual may legally deduct from gross income when paying Federal taxes. In addition, certain procedures and practices have been included to maintain good internal accounting controls.

Procedures

For each trip an employee takes, an expense report must be completed, approved and submitted to Business Services within ten business days of completion of the trip. Expense reports must contain a detailed description of all business expenses and appropriate receipts, to include airline boarding passes and/or a copy of the travel itinerary. Receipts are normally provided for airfare, hotel, and car rental. If not provided, you should request a receipt for meals, taxi, parking and miscellaneous items. Acceptable receipts must be original and itemized.

General

CCS wishes that its employees who are required to travel, do so in reasonable comfort. Employees are expected to exercise good judgment in distinguishing between reasonable comfort and extravagance. Employees are expected to:

  • exercise discretion and good judgment with respect to expenses
  • check for accuracy of bills prior to payment
  • report all expenses and advancements promptly and accurately with required documentation
  • if plans change and the employee does not make a trip, return all advanced funds to Business Services immediately
  • reference the list of recommended local restaurants and hotels on Blackboard for local meetings
  • plan travel in advance to insure lowest cost
  • research arriving one day before and/or staying one day later on trips if that may be less expensive and time effective (considering work schedules, air fare, hotel, and meals)
  • provide documentation for all advance cost quotes for air fare, hotel, car rental, and taxi/limo service vs mileage/parking.

Travel Guidelines

(effective May 1, 2009, all travel must be pre-approved by an officer of the College)

Air

All employees will travel the most economical fare available at all times. Reservations should provide the most economical airfare within a two hour window of requested departure and arrival times (one hour before or after requested departure and one hour before or after requested arrival). Airfare change or upgrade fees are allowable only if necessary due to College business, and approved in writing by reporting officer. Reporting officers have some discretion to approve seat only upgrades on flights over four (4) hours. Trip Protector insurance is not an allowable expense except for international travel and only with reporting officer approval. Employees are allowed one (1) piece of checked luggage on domestic flights.

Automobile

Employees must obtain prior approval from their supervisor before using personal vehicles for business trips when doing so would be more economical and time effective than traveling by air. Personal vehicle mileage will be reimbursed per the current IRS limits, which are subject to change annually, and may not exceed the cost of the most economical air fare. For evaluation purposes, employees must confirm airfare rates at the time they register or plan their trip. Personal vehicle mileage allowance covers the cost of gasoline, oil, and wear and tear of the automobile. Employees using personal vehicles must have a current Motor Vehicle Record file in Human Resources. If two or more employees are attending the same event, it is recommended that they make every effort to carpool.

Cash Advance

A cash advance may be approved for legitimate business purposes and in cases of emergency. A cash advance must be requested and approved no later than five working days in advance of any planned travel. A cash advance may not be requested prior to ten business days before the start of any planned travel. A cash advance may be used only by the person requesting it and approved for the cash advance. Cash advance balances must be cleared with a personal check or cash submitted with the expense report within ten business days of completion of the trip. Petty cash advances must be cleared with Business Services within five business days.

Car Rental

With many promotional programs constantly changing, the least expensive car should be reserved unless there is a business necessity to upgrade. Travelers should decline Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and Personal Accident Insurance. This coverage is provided through our College policy. Rental cars need to be re-fueled prior to drop off to avoid the refueling and service charges.

Frequent Flyer

Frequent Flyer bonus programs and usage credits awarded by airlines, car rental agencies or hotels shall be assigned to the employee. CCS considers this a perquisite well earned by the employee. However, the employee must still travel at the lowest possible rate.

Family

Spouse or family members may accompany employees on trips, with approval from your immediate supervisor. When a spouse, companion or family travel with an employee, their travel must be accounted for, and paid for separately. The College will pay for a standard room, no upgrades. Any additional charges for spouse, companion, or family sharing a room is the employee’s responsibility. Employees must separate all expenses associated with spouse, companion, or family members, with no incremental expenses to the College.

Hotel

Reservations will be made at moderately priced establishments that will be comfortable, but not extravagant. Travelers should insure that the rate charged matches the rate on the itinerary. “No-show” bills are incurred when “guaranteed” hotel reservations are not used and have not been canceled. It is the responsibility of the traveler to cancel hotel rooms which become unnecessary due to changes in travel plans. The cancellation can be made through the travel agency or with the hotel directly. In either case, the traveler should obtain a cancellation number. Room change or upgrade fees are allowable only if necessary due to College business and approved in writing by a reporting officer. Personal upgrades and changes are not reimbursable.

Local Transportation

Employees are expected to use their own transportation when traveling to/from home and/or CCS campus to Metro Airport or other local sites. CCS or the employee’s home, whichever is less mileage, is considered the home base for local trips. Mileage will be reimbursed from the home base to the local site. Limousine services (e.g. Checker, Metro Cars) are not to be used when traveling to/from CCS or the employee’s home and Metro Airport unless the cost is less than the cost for mileage and airport parking. Employees are expected to use the most economical ground transportation when traveling to and from airports and hotels while out of town. Taxi, rental car, bus, and van are all acceptable. Travelers should always ask if the hotel at which they are staying provides a shuttle service to and from the airport.

Meals

While traveling, employees should eat at moderately priced restaurants. The actual cost of meals, including tips, incurred while traveling on CCS business is reimbursable. Up to twenty (20%) percent of the meal cost is the maximum tip in the U. S. The tip or “service” is often included in the meal cost at certain restaurants. Alcoholic beverages are limited to one (1) per person with any meal. Employees are expected to exercise discretion and good judgement with respect to meals, alcoholic beverages and tipping.

Parking

Discounted parking rates are available at lots around Detroit Metropolitan Airport. These lots provide parking for about one half the cost of parking at airport lots. All of these lots provide 24/7 shuttle service to all terminals. Online coupons for one day free parking are available at their websites. Discounted parking is available at these lots:

Employees should not park in Detroit Metropolitan Airport lots and valet parking is not allowed as it is approximately twice the cost of long-term lots.

Telephone

Telephone and Internet access from hotel rooms should be used only as necessary and with discretion. Personal phone calls should be limited to one call per day, except for emergencies or special circumstances. Cell phones and pre-paid calling cards are low-cost options.

International Travel

Employees on international travel should always use their credit card and not cash for expenses. Credit card use insures charges are processed at the current exchange rate on the day the charges were incurred. This eliminates the need to research the exchange rate when the expense report is processed.

Entertainment

Entertainment is defined in this policy as limited to entertainment when traveling on College business. Employees will be reimbursed for the actual cost of entertainment, when such expenses have been determined reasonable and beneficial to the College. Entertainment must conform to current tax and legal requirements. Discretion must be used as to levels of entertainment. Unreasonable entertainment expenses will not be reimbursed. When an employee pays the expense of any other person who is not an employee of the College, the expenses of all persons in attendance, including CCS employees, are to be listed on the expense report and itemized receipt. Spouses or partners expenses are not eligible for reimbursement, unless approved in advance by a reporting officer.

Expenses not Authorized

The following is given as a guide, and not necessarily a complete list, of expenses that are not reimbursable:

  • alcoholic beverages not part of a meal, with discretion allowed for College officers to approve appropriate entertainment
  • alcoholic beverages in excess of one (1) per person at any meal
  • alcoholic beverages at department meeting or events
  • tobacco products
  • minibar expenses
  • snack food
  • personal care (spas, medication – laundry is allowed up to a maximum of $50 for domestic trips longer than 7 days and for international travel)
    personal entertainment (movies in hotels or on flights)
  • personal items (books, dvds, newspapers, magazines, maps, personal care items, souvenirs, etc.)
  • parking or traffic tickets
  • rental car GPS charges, unless approved in advance by a reporting officer.
  • airline or travel insurance; Trip Protector insurance except for
  • international travel with officer pre-approval
  • valet parking at airports
  • ATM fees
  • gifts to employees or departments

Exceptions

In unusual business circumstances, actual expenses that are incurred, and that are not covered by this policy, are subject to approval and/or adjustment by the Vice President of Finance or the President.

Federal Income Tax Regulations and Compliance

Employee’s will appreciate that, if the Travel and Entertainment Policy is to work to everyone’s best interest, each employee must be responsible for supporting and complying with it in both spirit and letter. To meet IRS requirements, travel and entertainment expenses must adhere to the following conditions:

  • the expenditure must be shown to be ordinary and necessary in the course of business
  • original, itemized receipts, no photocopies, must be submitted
    • credit card statements or non-itemized receipts are not acceptable
    • credit card receipts with only a total amount are not reimbursable
    • ATM receipts for cash are not acceptable
  • the expenditure must actually be incurred, and supported with exact and detailed records, verifying the names, amount, date and location, business purpose and business relationship of the person entertained (name, company, title)
  • name, title and company affiliation of those present
  • employees must account for all travel expenditures by submitting a complete and accurate Expense Report within 10 business days after the completion of a trip or business event
  • incomplete reports and those lacking receipts, approvals, or other required documentation, will be returned, delaying reimbursement
  • no reimbursement will be made for expenses incurred in violation of the Travel and Entertainment Policy
  • Expense Reports will be monitored and audited on a regular basis to ensure adherence to the provisions of the Travel and Entertainment Policy
    non-compliance may result in disciplinary action

Approvals

The Internal Revenue Code specifically states that an individual may not approve his/her own expense report. Immediate supervisors must approve cash advances, expense reports, and travel related expenses charged to the College Corporate American Express and Master Card of employees reporting to them. Additionally, Deans and Vice Presidents must approve cash advances, expense reports, and Corporate American Express and Master Card charges for faculty and staff in their division. It is the responsibility of the approving individual to determine if the advance and expense was:

  • ordinary and necessary for the benefit of the College and within budget;
    properly substantiated to meet CCS policy.
  • The Expense Report will be further reviewed and approved by Business Services, for conformance to both College policy and IRS regulations. All Expense Reports over $1,000 will require approval by the Administration and Finance division. Individual expenses not approved will be returned and be the responsibility of the employee. The employee will be required to complete and resubmit a new Travel and Expense Report.