HTML — PaddleOCR-VL (Baidu)

IX-BOOK The Kentucky State University STUDENT HANDBOOK 2025-2026

A Message from the Division of Student Affairs

Welcome, Thorobreds!

On behalf of the entire Kentucky State University community, we are thrilled you are here. Whether you are a new student just beginning your journey or a returning student continuing your path to success, you are an essential part of the KSU family.

This handbook, The K-Book, is your guide to life at KSU. It is designed to introduce you to the University's rich traditions, connect you with essential resources, and inform you of your rights and responsibilities as a member of our community. Our goal is to provide a safe, supportive, and engaging environment where you can excel academically, grow personally, and prepare to become a global leader.

We encourage you to read this handbook thoroughly. Use it as a roadmap for navigating campus, understanding policies, and discovering the many opportunities available to you. Your success is our highest priority, and the offices and services detailed here are all dedicated to supporting you every step of the way.

Have a fantastic and productive academic year. Go Thorobreds!

Page 3 Download HTML

Part 1: Our Thorobred Identity Mission & Vision Statement

Mission Statement:

Provide transformative educational experiences to prepare graduates for making meaningful contributions to society.

Kentucky State University is a public, research-comprehensive, historically Black, 1890 land-grant institution.

Vision Statement:

Foster innovation and inspire leaders to advance the Commonwealth and the World.

A Brief History

From our founding in 1886 as the State Normal School for Colored Persons, Kentucky State University has grown from a small teacher-training school into a comprehensive university serving an intellectually diverse student body. Located on a scenic bluff overlooking Frankfort, Kentucky, KSU has a proud history as one of the first two state-supported institutions of higher learning in Kentucky. Recitation Hall (now Jackson Hall), our first building, was erected in 1887, and we became a land-grant college in 1890. Through several name changes and expansions, our core mission of providing access to an excellent education has remained constant.

The Thorobred Creed

The Thorobred Creed is the statement of our shared values. As a member of the KSU community, you are expected to live by these principles:

I will practice personal and academic integrity.
I will respect the dignity, rights, and property of all persons.
I will discourage bigotry and discrimination, while striving to learn from differences in people, ideas, and opinions.
In thought, word, and deed, I will support excellence in the learning, growth, and development of others.
Daily, I will practice responsibility, leadership, and service to my community, and I will be proactive in projecting the best image of myself and my campus.

Allegiance to these ideals requires each Thorobred to refrain from, and seek to prevent, behaviors which threaten the freedom and respect every individual deserves.

Page 5 Download HTML

University Songs

Alma Mater Harriet N. Gibbons, '45 Frederick Jarmon, '43

Hail to our Alma Mater, dear is Her name, And there shall be no other to surpass Her fame. Hers is the hand that guides us day after day, And She will stand beside us, when we go on our way. May blessings be upon Her, shepherd of youth; She holds the seat of honor, in the hall of truth. Mem'ries of Her shall never fade from our hearts, And we will praise Her ever, for the love She imparts. Sing ev'ry voice together, let echoes rise. Hail to our Alma Mater, shout to the skies. Holding the torch of wisdom, She leads the way Clasping the hand of freedom, as She marches along.

KSU FIGHT SONG

Robert Townsend

In little Frankfort stands Mighty K.S.U. With a will to fight, a will to win no matter what our foes may do. Rah! Rah! Rah! Stand up and give a cheer for a Thorobred victory. We still do our best when we're asked to stand the test and we'll win victoriously! Go Thorobreds Go! Fight Thorobreds Fight!

Page 6 Download HTML

Part 2: Academic Life & Success

The Foundation of Your Success

Your primary purpose at KSU is to learn and achieve your academic goals. The University offers a wide array of resources to support you on this journey. Responsibility for your academic success is a partnership between you and the University.

Your Catalog of Record

The curriculum and degree requirements you must fulfill to graduate are determined by your Catalog of Record. This is typically the KSU academic catalog that is in effect during the first semester you enroll as a degree-seeking student. This catalog serves as your academic contract with the University.

Your Catalog of Record will change if you have a gap in enrollment of two or more consecutive academic years. You may also petition to adopt a more recent catalog, but you cannot mix and match requirements from different catalogs. A catalog is valid for a maximum of eight years.

Understanding your Catalog of Record is crucial for graduation planning. For complete details, please refer to the official Catalog of Record Policy on the KSU website.

Academic Integrity Code

Academic integrity is a fundamental value at KSU. The University is committed to the honorable pursuit of intellectual achievement, and all students are expected to uphold the Academic Integrity Code.

Academic dishonesty is a serious offense and includes:

Plagiarism: Submitting the work, words, or ideas of another as your own without proper credit.
Cheating: Fraudulently using or providing unauthorized information or materials in any academic exercise.
Forgery: Falsely recording a signature on any official academic document.

Instructors who have evidence of an academic offense will address the matter with the student. Sanctions can range from a failing grade on an assignment to an "FX" grade for the course (denoting failure due to academic dishonesty) to suspension or expulsion from the University for severe or repeated offenses. The process for adjudicating violations is outlined in the official policy.

Page 7 Download HTML

It is your responsibility to understand what constitutes academic dishonesty. For detailed definitions and procedures, please refer to the full Academic Integrity Code on the KSU website.

Key Academic Resources

Academic Advising Center: Your advisors are here to help you develop a four-year plan, select courses, and connect with other campus resources.
Thorobred Learning Center (TLC): The TLC provides comprehensive tutoring and learning assistance to help you meet the demands of your coursework.
Blazer Library: More than just books, the library offers research support, study spaces, and access to vast digital databases.
Career and Professional Development Center: It's never too early to start thinking about your career. This center offers resume help, internship searches, and graduate school preparation.

Your Academic Records (FERPA)

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) is a federal law that protects the privacy of your student education records. Under FERPA, you have the right to inspect and review your records, request to amend inaccurate records, and consent to the disclosure of your personally identifiable information.

KSU will not disclose your records without your written permission, except in specific circumstances permitted by law, such as to school officials with a legitimate educational interest or in a health and safety emergency.

KSU designates certain "Directory Information" (e.g., your name, major, dates of attendance, email address) which can be released without your consent. You have the right to restrict the release of your directory information by submitting a formal request to the Office of the Registrar. Be aware that doing so means the University cannot confirm your enrollment to potential employers or include your name in publications like the commencement program.

For a complete understanding of your rights and the specific procedures for accessing, amending, or restricting your records, please refer to the official FERPA Policy on the KSU website.

Other Academic Policies

To view all of KSU's academic policies and regulations, please visit the KSU policies webpage: https://www.kysu.edu/policies/index.php.

Page 8 Download HTML

Part 3: Student Life & Engagement

Get Involved: Student Organizations and Activities

Your college experience extends far beyond the classroom. The Division of Student Affairs offers a wide range of programs and services designed to help you connect with others, develop leadership skills, and have fun. Joining a student organization is one of the best ways to get involved, make friends, and build your resume. KSU has a wide variety of academic, honor, social, service, and Greek-letter organizations.

All student-related clubs and organizations must be registered with the Office of Campus Life to have official University recognition and access to campus facilities and resources.

How to Form a Student Organization

If you have an interest that isn't represented by an existing organization, you can start a new one! To form a new student organization, you must submit an application to the Office of Campus Life.

The application requires:

A minimum of five currently enrolled students who are interested in participating.
The name and signature of a full-time KSU faculty or staff member who has agreed to serve as the organization's advisor.
A statement of the organization's purpose and a proposed constitution.

Student Organization Requirements

Advisors: Every student organization is required to have an advisor who is a full-time KSU faculty or staff member. Advisors provide guidance, help with planning, and ensure the organization complies with University policies.
Activities: All organization activities, both on and off campus, must be scheduled in accordance with University policies and approved by the Office of Campus Life.

Student Government Association (SGA)

The Student Government Association (SGA) is the official representative body for all KSU students. The SGA serves as a liaison between the student body and the University administration, advocates for student interests, and allocates funding to support student organizations and activities. Elections for SGA officers are held annually. All students are encouraged to participate in SGA meetings and voice their ideas and concerns.

Page 9 Download HTML

Greek Life

Greek-letter organizations are a vibrant part of the KSU community, dedicated to scholarship, leadership, service, and brotherhood/sisterhood. All chapters must abide by University policies.

Membership Intake: The process for joining a Greek-letter organization is called Membership Intake. This process is governed by strict rules set by the University and the respective national organizations. Hazing is strictly prohibited.
New Member Presentations: All new member presentations ("probate shows") must be approved by the Office of Campus Life.

For more information on specific organizations, membership requirements, and intake schedules, please contact the Office of Campus Life.

Housing & Residence Life

Living on campus places you at the center of the KSU experience. The Office of Housing and Residence Life is dedicated to providing a safe, clean, and welcoming living environment that supports your academic success. All residents are expected to abide by the rules and regulations outlined in the Housing contract and this handbook.

For specific policies regarding guests, room maintenance, and prohibited items, please refer to the Office of Housing and Residence Life.

Page 10 Download HTML

Part 4: Your Rights, Responsibilities, & Safety

As a member of the Kentucky State University community, you are expected to uphold standards that promote respect, safety, and integrity on campus. This section outlines your rights and responsibilities as a student, as well as key policies that help maintain a safe and inclusive learning environment. For a full listing of all University policies and regulations, please visit: https://www.kysu.edu/policies/index.php

Student Code of Conduct

As a KSU student, you are expected to conduct yourself in a manner that respects the rights and safety of all community members. The Student Code of Conduct outlines the behavioral expectations for all students, both on and off campus. Prohibited conduct includes, but is not limited to:

Acts of dishonesty (theft, fraud)
Harm to persons (assault, harassment, dangerous behavior)
Harm to property (vandalism, property damage)
Disruption of the educational environment
Failure to comply with the directions of University officials
Violations of other University policies or laws

The student conduct process is educational and is designed to uphold community standards. Students found responsible for violating the Code are subject to sanctions ranging from a warning to expulsion.

To report a conduct concern:
Phone: 502-597-6575
Online: Submit a report

The complete Student Code of Conduct Policy and Student Code of Conduct Adjudication Regulation, which detail all prohibited conduct and procedures, are available on the KSU website. It is your responsibility to read and understand them.

Page 11 Download HTML

Freedom of Expression & Viewpoint Neutrality

KSU is committed to fostering an environment where ideas can be freely exchanged and challenged. This commitment to free speech and academic freedom is essential to our educational mission. The University does not restrict expression except when necessary to maintain campus safety and normal operations through reasonable, content-neutral time, place, and manner regulations.

Outdoor areas of campus are generally considered public forums for peaceful assembly, protests, and speeches. The University also upholds a policy of institutional neutrality on political and social issues, ensuring that KSU serves as an open forum for intellectual exploration rather than an advocate for a particular ideology. No student will be required to affirm or reject a specific political or social viewpoint as a condition of their education.

For specific guidelines on expressive activities, posting materials, and inviting speakers, consult the Free Speech Policy and Viewpoint Neutrality Policy on the KSU website.

Anti-Hazing Policy

Kentucky State University has a zero-tolerance policy for hazing. Hazing is any act that endangers the mental or physical health of a student or causes embarrassment or humiliation for the purpose of initiation into any group or organization. Consent is not a defense. Hazing is a violation of University policy and state law.

Any student or organization found responsible for hazing will face severe disciplinary action, including suspension or expulsion for individuals and loss of recognition for organizations.

If you see or experience hazing, report it immediately to the Office of Student Affairs or the KSU Police Department. The full Anti-Hazing Policy is available on the KSU website.

Alcohol, Drugs, and Tobacco Policies

KSU is committed to providing a healthy and safe environment.

Alcohol: The possession or consumption of alcohol on campus is prohibited, except in limited, pre-approved circumstances. Students under 21 are prohibited from consuming alcohol anywhere.
Drugs: The unlawful possession, use, or distribution of illegal drugs or controlled substances is strictly prohibited on campus.
Tobacco-Free Campus: KSU is a smoke-free and tobacco-free campus. The use of all tobacco products (including e-cigarettes and vapes) is prohibited on all University-owned property.

Page 12 Download HTML

For your well-being, KSU provides a Medical Amnesty Protocol. If you or a friend has overconsumed alcohol or drugs, call for help immediately. The University will prioritize your health over disciplinary action in such cases.

Title IX & Sexual Harassment

Kentucky State University is unequivocally committed to maintaining a community free from sex-based discrimination and harassment. Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 is a federal law that prohibits such discrimination in our educational programs and activities.

Prohibited conduct under this policy includes sexual harassment (quid pro quo and hostile environment), sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking. KSU will respond promptly and equitably to all reports to stop the conduct, prevent its recurrence, and remedy its effects.

Supportive measures, such as counseling, academic adjustments, and no-contact orders, are available to individuals involved, regardless of whether a formal complaint is filed.

If you have experienced or witnessed an incident of sexual harassment, please report it. You can find confidential resources, reporting options, and the complete grievance procedures in the full Title IX Sexual Harassment Policy on the KSU Title IX webpage.

Equal Opportunity, Non-Discrimination, & Anti-Retaliation

KSU is committed to providing an educational and work environment free from discrimination and harassment. The University prohibits unequal treatment based on protected characteristics, including race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or political and social viewpoints.

This commitment to equal opportunity applies to all aspects of University life, including admissions, academic programs, financial aid, and employment.

Furthermore, KSU strictly prohibits retaliation against any individual who, in good faith, reports discrimination, participates in an investigation, or opposes a discriminatory practice. Any acts of retaliation will be treated as a serious violation of University policy.

For detailed definitions and procedures for filing a complaint, please refer to the Equal Opportunity & Non-Discrimination Policy and the Anti-Discrimination & Non-Retaliation Policy on the KSU website.

Page 13 Download HTML

Animals on Campus

KSU is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities while ensuring the health and safety of the entire campus community.

Service Animals: In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), service animals (dogs or, in some cases, miniature horses that are individually trained to do work or perform tasks for a person with a disability) are permitted in all areas of campus open to the public.
Emotional Support Animals (ESAs): ESAs are animals that provide therapeutic benefits but are not trained to perform a specific task. In accordance with the Fair Housing Act (FHA), ESAs may be permitted in University housing residences with prior approval from the Office of Accessibility and Disability Services, but they are not permitted in other campus buildings.
Pets: The only pets permitted in University housing are fish in aquariums of ten gallons or less. All other pets are prohibited.

Handlers are responsible for the control, care, and cleanup of their animals at all times.

For complete guidelines, handler responsibilities, and the approval process for ESAs, please consult the full Animals on Campus Policy on the KSU website.

Use of Motorized and Non-Motorized Devices Indoors

To promote a safe, accessible, and disruption-free environment for all members of the campus community, the use of motorized and non-motorized personal transportation devices is prohibited inside all University buildings at Kentucky State University, unless otherwise approved as an accommodation for a documented disability.
Prohibited Devices: Bicycles, skateboards, longboards, scooters (electric and manual), hoverboards, self-balancing devices, roller skates, in-line skates, electric unicycles, and similar motorized personal vehicles are prohibited inside all University buildings in order to maintain a safe, accessible, and disruption-free environment.
Permitted Exceptions: Medically necessary mobility aids (such as wheelchairs, walkers, or crutches), university-owned equipment used by staff in the performance of official duties, and personal transportation devices approved through the Office of Accessibility and Disability Services as part of a documented disability accommodation are permitted indoors.

Students found in violation of this policy may be subject to disciplinary action under the Student Code of Conduct, and may be held financially responsible for any damages

Page 14 Download HTML

caused by improper indoor use of such devices.

Campus Safety

Your safety is our priority. The KSU Police Department is a full-service law enforcement agency operating 24/7. In compliance with the Clery Act, the University publishes an Annual Security Report with campus crime statistics and safety policies.

Emergency Blue Light Phones are located throughout campus.
To report an emergency, dial 911.
For non-emergency assistance, call KSU Police at (502) 597-6878

Reporting Concerns: The Ethics Hotline

KSU is committed to the highest ethical standards. The University provides a confidential and anonymous Ethics Hotline for all students, employees, and other stakeholders to report suspected unethical behavior, policy violations, financial misconduct, or any other integrity concerns without fear of retaliation.

The hotline is managed by an independent third party to ensure anonymity.

To make a report:
Phone: 1-855-203-6657
Online: www.securityvoice.com/reports

For more information, please refer to the Ethics Hotline Policy on the KSU website.

Page 15 Download HTML

Part 5: Wellness & Support Services

Office of Accessibility and Disability Services (OADS)

KSU is committed to providing equal access for all qualified students with disabilities. In accordance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), OADS provides reasonable accommodations, academic adjustments, and auxiliary aids to ensure students with disabilities can fully participate in University life.

Students seeking accommodations must register with OADS and engage in an interactive process to determine appropriate support.

To request accommodations or learn more, please contact OADS. The full Section 504/ADA Student Accommodations Policy is available on the KSU website.

Student Health & Counseling Services

Your well-being is essential to your success. KSU provides confidential services to support your physical and mental health.

Health Services: Provides basic medical care, screenings, and health education.
Counseling Services: Offers individual counseling, support groups, and crisis intervention for a variety of personal and emotional concerns.

Veterans & Military-Affiliated Students

Kentucky State University is proud to support our veteran and military-affiliated students. We are committed to providing a welcoming and supportive environment as you transition to academic life. The University does not discriminate against any individual based on military service status. We offer a range of services to help you succeed, including assistance with educational benefits and connection to campus and community resources.

For more information on resources and support, please contact the Office of the Registrar or the Financial Aid Office.

Addressing Concerns: The Student Complaint Process

KSU is committed to resolving student concerns in a fair and timely manner. Students are encouraged to first seek informal resolution by speaking directly with the person or office involved.

Page 16 Download HTML

If a matter cannot be resolved informally, a student may file a formal written complaint. This process is for concerns not covered by other specific procedures (like a grade appeal or a conduct hearing).

The full Student Complaints Policy, which outlines the formal process and where to submit a complaint, is available on the KSU website. You may also contact the Office of Student Affairs for guidance.

Page 17 Download HTML

Part 6: Campus Directory & Accreditation Information

Accreditation

Kentucky State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate, baccalaureate, master's, and doctorate degrees. For questions about the accreditation of Kentucky State University, please contact the University's SACSCOC liaison or SACSCOC directly by calling (404) 679-4500 or emailing questions@sacscoc.org

This handbook is a guide and is not a contract. Policies and procedures are subject to change. For the most current and complete information, please refer to the official KSU Policies and Regulations webpage.

Page 18 Download HTML

66

Rebuilt HTML — PaddleOCR-VL (Baidu)