Your Very Handy Student Handbook
Every year, Chatham University releases its Student Handbook, your go-to guide for life at Chatham, from the Student Honor Code to a run-down of services and amenities to new health and safety protocols. We can’t say this enough: you should look at the whole thing, but to get you started, we’re highlighting some fun, informative, and lesser-looked-at sections of the handbook below:
Student Honor Code (page 52)
For our campus community to achieve our mission and uphold our values, we all need to strive toward a certain behavioral standard. The Student Honor Code at Chatham defines that standard, emphasizing honesty, accountability, and respect for others. It addresses specific prohibited conduct, defines key terms, and gives a step-by-step outline of what reporting a violation to the Honor Code entails.
Photography on Campus (page 48)
A fairly common question we receive in our Marketing and Communications Department is “where do you get your photos?” We use a variety of different resources, from stock photos to professional photographers and videographers, student employee photographers, guest contributors, and just capturing moments ourselves with a camera phone. These photos, videos, and audio may be used for promotional purposes including ads and digital and print materials. If you’re not comfortable with having your photo used by the University, notify the photographer in the moment, or send us an email at communications@chatham.edu.
Gender Identity, Sexual Orientation, and Affirmed Names (page 94)
Coming to college can mean a major expansion of your worldview. It’s totally okay to feel like you need to learn the fundamentals about gender identity, expression, and sexual orientation— Chatham University’s Women’s Institute put together definitions of commonly used terms and tips for creating a more inclusive space, right in your Student Handbook (page 94).
We’re also pleased to outline our Affirmed Names Policy (page 98), where students can apply to have their affirmed name used on campus technology wherever possible, including student IDs, email addresses, and more.
Student ID Perks (page 15)
So you probably know by now your student ID serves as your access card for campus buildings and meal plans, but it does so much more:
- FREE board on Port Authority Transit (PAT) buses, light rail, and inclines
- FREE admission to all four Carnegie Museums
- Up to 50% off Pittsburgh Cultural Trust performances
- Discounted admission to other museums, historical centers, sports events, and more
140 Things to Do at Chatham Before You Graduate (page 14)
From Chatham traditions to sites around Pittsburgh to encouraging a healthy physical, emotional, and intellectual lifestyle, this list is bursting with activities. Use it as inspiration for when you’re stumped for what to do, or go completist and check off the whole thing before you head to Commencement!
This is just some of the information housed in your Student Handbook— make sure you review the new version each year, and refer to it often throughout your time at Chatham.
