Academic Support
The Office of Academic Support Services is comprised of a number of programs that are designed to help Widener University undergraduate students maximize their academic success. The academic support programs and services provided by Widener include academic coaching for assistance with study skills and time management, academic tutoring, early assessment, and more. These services are described in detail on the Academic Support Services website: widener.edu/academics/support
Banking
The university offers full service banking with TD Bank. TD Bank is conveniently located at 1410 Providence Ave, Chester PA, across the street from Lipka Hall. An automated teller machine (ATM) is located in the lobby of Old Main near Campus Safety. For hours and information, please call TD Bank at 610-499-3660.
Bookstore
The Widener Bookstore is located at University Crossings at 15th Street and Providence Avenue. The store carries a variety of merchandise, including greeting cards, books, souvenirs, clothing, calculators, lab coats, school supplies, and specialty items. The Bookstore offers a large selection of used textbooks. It buys back current editions of used textbooks if there is a market for them. Visit the Bookstore’s website for information about hours and products: www.bkstr.com/widenerestore/home
Campus1Card
Widener University’s Campus1Card is the official university card. It is used as an I.D. card, library card, meal plan card, residence hall access card, academic building access card, and a flexible spending debit card. All Campus1Cards are the property of Widener University. Widener undergraduate students and employees must carry the card at all times and return the card to the university upon request. Widener supplies the first Campus1Card to every student. The Campus1Card is expected to last the length of a student’s time at Widener. If a card is lost or stolen, the student will pay a fee to replace it. For complete information about the Campus1Card, including care of the card, please go to: widener.edu/campus1cardoffice.
Career Design and Development
Career success relies on more than earning a degree. Students need to know what jobs are available, where they are, what it takes to compete, and how to make all this information work for them. The staff of Career Design and Development helps undergraduate students navigate the world of career preparation and search. Career success starts in the freshman year. Visit our office early and often to:
- explore available careers in a major.
- understand what is required to enter a preferred field.
- develop a network and learn how to parlay it into opportunities.
- gain valuable experience through co-ops, internships, and externships.
- create powerful cover letters, résumés, personal statements, as well as LinkedIn profiles and other social media branding.
- practice effective interviewing skills.
- research and apply to graduate schools.
- practice professional etiquette.
Students can access Handshake, a premier recruiting and career management online platform that enables undergraduate students to connect easily with employers, apply for jobs and internships, and register for career events.
To learn more, contact us at 610-499-4176 or visit the Career Design and Development website: widener.edu/careers.
Civic Engagement
Widener University promotes civic engagement efforts for all of its undergraduate students, faculty, and staff to identify and address community issues, to be actively engaged citizens, and to practice democratic leadership to contribute to the vitality and well-being of the metropolitan region. The university connects undergraduate students with civic engagement opportunities through direct volunteer service, service-learning, capacity-building, economic development, political engagement, and advocacy.
The Office of Civic Engagement fosters co-curricular opportunities to educate, empower, and equip Widener undergraduate students to become personally and socially responsible leaders. The office strives to do this by continually building collaborative campus and community partnerships and support ongoing efforts to further the university’s civic mission. These opportunities include scholarship-based programs, such as the Presidential Service Corps/Bonner Leader program and the Pride Service Site Leaders program, as well as the Maguire Scholars Program, Freshman Day of Service, the Civic Engagement and Global Leadership Living Learning Community, and ongoing civic and leadership development events.
Events include a 5-day pre-orientation leadership institute, weekend retreats, issues-awareness speakers, political engagement initiatives, campus-wide service projects, and coordination of transportation and promotion of volunteer opportunities throughout Chester.
The Office of Civic Engagement always welcomes new partnerships and collaborations to cultivate transformational leaders who promote positive change in our local and global communities. To learn more about how you can integrate civic engagement as part of your educational experience, visit the civic engagement website: widener.edu/serve
Computing and Information Technology
Computing resources are managed by the Office of Information Technology Services (ITS). The main offices are located on the Chester campus on the second floor of Academic Center North (ACN). Teaching and Learning Technologies (TLT) is located in the Wolfgram Memorial Library on the lower level. The Delaware campus office is located in the Main Law building on the first floor. The Harrisburg campus office is located in the library building on the second floor. For information about ITS, including hours, services, student discounts, employment opportunities, and more, visit www.widener.edu/ITS.
Students are issued an email account, a university loginID, and a password. These credentials are used to access email, Wi-Fi, computers in the general and instructional labs, and other online resources. All official university correspondence will be sent to students’ university issued email account.
In addition, ITS maintains and supports Internet access and general-purpose computing labs on all campuses. On the Chester campus, ITS maintains computer classrooms and provides support for classrooms equipped with multimedia equipment.
Student technical support is available through the walk-in Student Technical Support Center, located on the main level of the Wolfgram Memorial Library on the Chester Campus. Services include basic hardware/software support, virus/malware remediation, and problems connecting to the university’s network. For more information about the Student Technical Support Center, visit the Student Computing ‘virtual’ office on the myWidener portal.
ITS is partnered with an external support center to offer technical support to members of Widener University 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Students can submit a service request by going to http://quickticket.widener.edu. Students can also talk to a support specialist by calling the ITS help desk at 610-499-1047.
Counseling
Counseling is available at Widener’s Counseling Center. Help is provided for issues such as the transition to college, interpersonal problems, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and addictions. A variety of outreach programs are provided. Psychological consultation and medication management services are available on a limited basis. Services are provided by licensed psychologists and psychology interns under the supervision of licensed psychologists. Visit the Counseling Center’s website for hours, a list of services, and more information: widener.edu/academics/support/counseling/
Day Care
Located at 1800 Walnut Street in Chester, Widener’s Child Development Center provides a day care, nursery school, and kindergarten program for children ages two years and nine months to five years. Open year-round, the center operates half day and full-day sessions. The center is licensed by the Pennsylvania Department of Education and the Department of Human Services. The center received the highest four-star rating from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. For more information, call 610-499-1097 or visit the Child Development Center website: widenercdc.com
Dining on Campus
Widener offers several convenient dining choices on campus. For a listing of dining locations and hours on the Main Campus, as well as menus, meal plans, and other information, visit our dining website: www.widener.campusdish.com.
- The university’s dining hall, Pride Café, is located on the first floor of University Center and features chef-prepared meals, pizza made in a wood burning oven and fresh rotisserie meats. The Pride Café is undergraduate students’ destination for great food and good times. The Pride Café offers an all-you-care-to-eat dining venue. Students can choose from a variety of freshly prepared, made-to order options on a daily basis. The dining room offers a variety of seating options, including comfortable tables, booths, and banquettes. The Pride Café accepts the Campus1Card, the university’s Flex Dollars, cash, and credit and debit cards.
- Provisions On Demand (POD), located on the main floor of University Center, reinvents the campus store experience by blending the features of “corner store” quick convenience with modern market style fare and service. POD offers a variety of fresh food and produce, delicious prepared meals, and everyday essentials that deliver quality, selection, and value. POD accepts flex dollars, cash, and debit and credit cards.
- Moe’s Southwestern Grill, in Harris Hall, offers Southwestern staples from burritos to nachos in a lively environment. Flex dollars, cash, and credit accepted.
- Einstein Bros Bagels offers a wide variety of fresh baked bagels, breakfast sandwiches, hot and cold sandwiches, salads, homemade desserts, and gourmet coffee. Flex dollars, cash, and credit accepted.
- At the Burger Studio, undergraduate students can create their own masterpiece, customizing a fresh, off-the-grill burger, chicken and beef cheese steaks, or chicken breast sandwich with more than 30 different toppings. Burger Studio is also located on the first floor of University Center and accepts Flex Dollars, cash, and debit and credit cards.
- If you are looking for a great cappuccino or espresso, Widener’s own WU Brew Café is the place to go. Along with its gourmet coffees, market fresh smoothies, lattes, and gourmet teas, WU Brew Café offers a delectable selection of gourmet sandwiches, salads, and pastries baked fresh daily. Flex dollars, cash, and credit accepted. WU Brew coffee supports Widener student service projects that help produce organic, sustainable coffee grown in Las Lajas, Costa Rica. Widener undergraduate students and faculty work closely with rural Costa Rican farmers to ensure that coffee is grown organically under the canopy of shade trees, preserving and restoring natural habitats.
- Kirkbride Express is located on the 2nd floor of Kirkbride Hall and features fresh pre-made sandwiches, salads, and yogurt parfaits, as well as coffee, tea, and other refreshments. Flex dollars, cash, and credit and debit cards are accepted.
- POD Express, located on the first floor of Freedom Hall, offers an automated coffee machine 24 hours a day, grab n’ go salads and sandwiches, and cold beverages. Flex Dollars, cash, and debit and credit cards are accepted.
- Widener Catering, located in University Center, provides delicious catering for events, as well as treats to surprise someone with a little something special. Check out their menus at www.widener.catertrax.com
In addition, the J. Willard and Alice S. Marriott Dining Room is located in Academic Center North. During the fall and spring semesters, hospitality management students offer nutritious meals on Wednesdays. Dinners require a reservation. Use of the Campus1Card is permissible in the Marriott Dining Room. Visit the website for a schedule and menus: http://www.widener.edu/campus_life/living/dining.aspx
General Dining Services Policies
• The Campus1Card is not transferable and may never be loaned to anyone.
• A valid student Campus1Card must be presented to the staff member at the dining room door. If no Campus1Card is produced, the cash meal rate will be charged.
• The Campus1Card is to be presented upon request to the checker, Widener dining managers, Campus Safety, or university administrators.
• If you lose or misplace your Campus1Card or meal ticket, you must see the person on duty in the Enrollment Services Center to secure a temporary meal card.
• Eco-Green To-Go Containers are available for a to-go meal in the Pride Café. Unlimited meal plan members are provided a container. Participants must return the container to Pride Café to use again. If using the to-go option, you cannot dine in.
• Widener dining services encourages you to provide suggestions or concerns with any given meal immediately to a Widener dining staff member, supervisor, or manager. Guests can provide feedback regarding the dining services to our online response team at www.yourdiningvoice.com. We encourage undergraduate students to provide timely feedback, both positive and negative, as well as have group meetings to collaborate on programming and offerings throughout the semester via our Student Government sponsored “Eat and Greet” meetings.
Meal Exchange
Unlimited and block meal plan subscribers are permitted to swipe for a meal at Einstein’s Bagels, Moe’s Southwestern Grill, Burger Studio, and Subway. Unlimited meal plan subscribers can only use two swipes per meal period. If a guest uses a swipe as an exchange, the card will not be able to be swiped at the Pride Café until the next meal period.
General Dining Room Regulations
Appropriate disciplinary proceedings will be instituted against any student believed to be violating any Widener dining regulations, as follows:
- Your Campus 1 Card is your personal access to the dining program. The card cannot be transferred to anyone for admittance into the dining hall or for purchasing meals in retail locations.
- All food must be consumed in the dining hall. No food is permitted to leave the dining hall.
- No china, cutlery, glasses, cups, or any other university property may be removed from dining areas.
- All guests in the dining area are expected to cooperate fully with Widener dining staff and security.
- Please be mindful of others that will be dining in the area after you are finished. Busing your own dishes and utensils to the tray return is required.
- Shirts, shoes, and pants are required in all dining facilities.
- Pets are not allowed at any of our dining operations (except service animals).
- Proper behavior is expected of all guests in our dining locations. This includes no throwing of food, shouting, fighting, and disturbing of other guests.
- Alcoholic beverages are not permitted in dining locations.
- Athletic equipment, cleats, fraternity and sorority signage, or tools are not allowed in dining areas.
- No containers are to be brought into or out of the dining room for the purpose of removing food or beverages.
- Anyone confined to Student Health Services or to a residential hall at the direction of the physician or on-duty nurse will be allowed specified food items. Student Health Services will authorize food service in writing to supply food items.
- Appropriate disciplinary proceedings will be instituted against any student believed to be violating any Widener dining regulations.
Disabilities Services
Disabilities Services is a comprehensive support service for undergraduate students who have documented disabilities. Disabilities Services serves as an advocate for undergraduate students who have disabilities. Any student has the right to request reasonable accommodation of a disability. A student seeking accommodations needs to submit appropriate documentation of the disability to Disabilities Services. If the student has any questions or concerns about the response to a request, the student is encouraged to meet with the director to discuss those concerns as part of the interactive process. If the student and director are unable to reach a satisfactory resolution, the student can put his or her grievance in writing to the provost. Students are advised to review the university policy for addressing issues of undergraduate students and employees with disabilities. Visit the Disabilities Services website for hours and more information: widener.edu/academics/support/disabilities
Diversity Initiatives
Widener strives to develop a university community whose diversity enriches the lives of all members and where our undergraduate students are prepared for living in a pluralistic and ever-changing world. Widener is committed to an ambitious and robust diversity agenda. Visit the website for more information: widener.edu/campus_life/resources/multicultural/default.aspx
Enrollment Services
The Enrollment Services Center assists undergraduate students with applying for and managing financial aid, billing, course registration, and the Campus1Card. The center is located in Lipka Hall and houses Financial Aid Services, the Bursar, the Registrar, and Campus1Card. Students who withdraw or graduate from the university must clear through Enrollment Services. For hours of operation, a full listing of services, and more information, visit these Enrollment Services websites:
widener.edu/BursarOffice (Business Office)
widener.edu/Campus1CardOffice (Campus1Card)
widener.edu/FinancialAidOffice (Financial Aid)
widener.edu/RegistrarOffice (Registrar)
Facsimilie (FAX) Service
Facsimile (fax) service is available through The Bookstore in University Center. There is no charge to receive a fax. For sending faxes, different rates apply based on the location to which the fax is being sent. The fax number is 610-490-7019.
Fees and Payment
For a comprehensive rate and payment guide at Widener, including tuition, room, board, activities, refunds, and more, visit the Bursar’s webpage: widener.edu/BursarOffice.
Financial Information
Widener recognizes that financing a college education can be a fundamental concern for undergraduate students. Through a variety of financial aid programs, the university attempts to assist undergraduate students who are unable to meet the full cost of attendance on their own. The Financial Aid Services Office helps undergraduate students explore options and plan for the investment in their college education. The Financial Aid Services staff are available daily to discuss financial aid planning. For comprehensive information on financing your education and applying for financial aid, visit: widener.edu/FinancialAidOffice.
Health and Medical Services
Student Health Services (located in Metropolitan Hall) is staffed by certified nurse practitioners, a physician, and registered nurses. Appointments are required except for urgent care circumstances.
Widener uses Crozer-Chester Medical System for acute emergency referrals. Emergency hospital services and referral visits must be applied to the student’s or parents’ health insurance plan. The university is not financially responsible for this type of extended care.
For more information, including hours of operation, services offered, a directory, and downloadable forms, visit the Student Health Service’s website: widener.edu/campus_life/wellness/health/default.aspx.
Student Health Services Charges
There is no charge to students for basic medical services provided by Student Health Services personnel. There are charges for prescription and OTC medications, immunizations, laboratory tests, or specific healthcare treatments. These charges can be billed directly to the student’s school account, or paid for by check, or cash. Student Health Services does not directly bill third-party insurance companies but upon request will provide required documentation for students, parents, or guardians to submit charges for reimbursement.
Medical Insurance
All students are required to possess personal medical insurance. At the beginning of each academic year, students are required to complete the online waiver/enrollment process through myWidener. Information concerning student health insurance can be obtained at Student Health Services or at widener.edu/campus_life/wellness/health/health_insurance.aspx.
All students who require insurance are annually pre-billed for medical insurance. Upon completion of the waiver process, the insurance fee will be credited on the student’s bursar account. If a student chooses the university insurance plan, the enrollment process must be completed and charges will remain intact.
International (undergraduate and graduate) students on nonimmigrant visas must be covered by the Widener University student health insurance policy. SACM and Fulbright students will not be enrolled in the university medical insurance because of the coverage provided by their sponsor.
Students participating in intercollegiate athletics or club sports are additionally required to enroll in the university supplemental “excess athletic injury” plan. It is important to understand that a student-athlete’s personal health insurance is used as the primary insurance for all athletic injuries. The excess policy covers only bills (deductibles and fees not paid by primary insurance within usual and customary fees) related to injuries sustained during sanctioned athletic-related events that occur as the result of an accident and/or while traveling to and from a sanctioned athletic event. Student athlete accounts will be charged once they practice with their team, whether or not they complete the season.
ID Card
See Campus1Card.
International Student Services
The Office of International Student Services (ISS) provides immigration services to international students, assists international students with adaptation to life in the United States, and offers the opportunity for domestic and international students to interact through an extensive calendar of programs. ISS strives to prepare all students for success in a diverse and global society. For more information, visit the ISS website at: widener.edu/iss.
Global Engagement
Widener’s Office for Global Engagement is the support system for our students throughout the entire study abroad process from application to reentry. Widener students have engaged in study, research, internships, and community service programs all around the globe. From conducting research on sustainable farming in Costa Rica to climbing the Great Wall of China, a world of possibility awaits students at Widener. For more information please visit www.widener.edu/world
Library Services
For detailed information about the Wolfgram Memorial Library and the libraries of the law schools, including services offered and hours of operation, visit Widener’s library resource website: widener.edu/wolfgram.
Wolfgram Memorial Library
All Widener students are eligible to use the resources provided by the Wolfgram Memorial Library on the Chester Campus including its many online resources, e.g. databases, electronic journals, electronic books and digital collections.
Instruction in the use of the library is available to all new students as part of their English classes. Seminars in advanced library research skills or one-on-one research consultations can also be arranged through research and instruction librarians for upperclassmen, graduate students, and transfer students.
In addition to online resource, generous borrowing privileges for books and copying equipment for periodicals and microform material provide convenient access to print resources. A rotating collection of current best sellers is available. Interlibrary loan and document delivery services make it possible to borrow materials from other libraries. The Campus1Card is required to enter the building and for borrowing materials through the library’s automated circulation system.
Discovery tools, e.g. the fully integrated online catalog (WebPAC) and search-box on the library’s homepage, provide access to library holdings on all three campuses from any computer on the campus network. Remote access to library resources and library assistance is available from on or off campus.
There are rooms for group study, individual carrels, printers, copying machines, scanning, and microform readers for in-house use. Part-time job opportunities in the library are available for students, including those eligible for work-study.
Law School Libraries
The Delaware Law School Library (located on the Delaware Campus in Wilmington) and the Commonwealth Law School Library (located on the Harrisburg Campus) each provide a variety of legal resources. The Delaware Law School Library is the major law library in Delaware and is widely recognized as one of the major law libraries in the region.
Lost and Found
All property found on campus should be taken to Campus Safety within 48 hours of when it was found. Campus Safety will serve as the custodian of all found property. If an individual finds an object in public areas, it is his or her responsibility to take it to the Campus Safety Office. Items left in common areas such as the library and dining hall will be taken to Campus Safety by the staff workers in these areas. All staff workers will be directed to take found items to Campus Safety no later than the end of their shift. Athletic clothing and other athletic-related items found at the Schwartz Center will be handled by the equipment room at Schwartz Center.
Please use discretion in dealing with lost property. For example, a textbook that contains owner identification found in a classroom, should, if possible, be given to the student rather than transferring it to Campus Safety.
Campus Safety will store and catalog all found items. It will maintain a database of all these items and provide the documentation necessary to ensure that these items are returned to the appropriate owners or finders. Upon receipt of an object, Campus Safety will attempt to identify and contact the owner. If the owner cannot be identified, Campus Safety will proceed as follows:
- Attach an ID label to the item noting where, when, and by whom it was found.
- Give the finder a receipt for the found object. The receipt will contain the ID number of the finder, a description of the object, and where and when the object was found.
- Enter the item in a database.
Procedure for claiming lost items:
- Try to locate lost items in the Campus Safety Office as soon as possible. Any such inquiry will be logged by Campus Safety.
- Prior to being shown any item, the claimer must describe the item and indicate the approximate time and place where the item was lost.
- The claimer will sign a form confirming that the item claimed is their property.
Procedure for the disposal of found property not claimed:
- Campus Safety will hold the found property for 30 days. During that time, owners of the lost property will be able to claim the items they lost.
- After 30 days, Campus Safety will attempt to contact the finder and offer her or him the items found. However, the executive director of the Campus Safety Department may recommend that an item be retained for a period of longer than 30 days before it is offered to the finder.
- If the finder does not claim the property within 10 days after notification, the executive director of the Campus Safety Department will appropriately dispose of the property.
Math Tutoring
The Math Center provides individual tutoring in mathematics for all Widener undergraduate students. The Math Center operates on a drop-in basis. Visit the Math Center website for hours and more information: widener.edu/mathcenter
Multicultural Enrichment
The Office of Multicultural Student Affairs (MSA) actively promotes programs and activities that support Widener University’s commitment to diversity and the “We’re All Widener!” pluralism campaign. The MSA Office develops, facilitates, and supports a variety of cultural, educational, interfaith, mentoring, and social programs that assist in the recruitment, orientation, retention, and graduation of multicultural and international undergraduate students. The operations of the MSA Office are structured to encourage cultural understanding and an accepting and inclusive community for all undergraduate students, faculty, and staff. To learn more about MSA programs and activities, visit the MSA website: widener.edu/campus_life/resources/multicultural/default.aspx
Music
Widener undergraduate students may choose to participate in groups offering a wide range of music experiences, from baroque to modern jazz. For information about Widener’s music programs and activities, visit the Music Department’s website: widener.edu/music
The Widener University Marching Band
The Marching Band performs at halftime of home football games and presents corps-style performances utilizing woodwind, brass, drumline, and color guard.
The Widener University Pep Band
The Pep Band brings lively performances to Widener’s athletic events, creating an energetic atmosphere for football and basketball games.
The Widener University Wind Ensemble
The Wind Ensemble performs contemporary, concert, and traditional band literature.
The Widener University Jazz Ensemble
The Jazz Ensemble has limited membership and meets for the purpose of studying the concepts and performing the literature characteristic of the jazz orchestra.
The Widener University Chamber Ensemble
The Chamber Ensemble is open to undergraduate students at all levels and emphasizes small ensemble playing. Groups meet weekly; placement and repertoire are based on instrumentation and ability. Performance opportunities include both traditional recitals and less formal settings.
The Widener University Percussion Ensemble
The Percussion Ensemble performs both chamber and conducted works using a wide range of percussion instruments.
The Widener University Chorale
All members of the Widener community are welcome to join the university’s official choral ensemble.
The Widener University Gospel Choir
All members of the Widener community are welcome to join the university’s gospel choir.
The Widener University Pep Band
The Pep Band brings lively performances to Widener’s athletic events, creating an energetic atmosphere for football and basketball games.
Chosen Name Policy
Widener University recognizes that some of its students may use first names other than their legal first names to identify themselves. Because of this, the university allows use of a first name different than one’s legal first name on university records where it is legally permissible.
Such records include, but are not limited to: the student ID card; class roster; university email; faculty advisee list; library records; commencement program; and diploma. The student’s legal first name will continue to be used in the following places: Financial aid, billing records, and associated communication; official and unofficial transcripts; paychecks and paystubs; Registrar’s Office records (i.e., permanent student file records); some official forms or correspondence (e.g., financial aid awards, residence life contracts, departmental or program notices, new hire forms); time entry system; and transfer credit evaluation.
To designate a first name other than the legal name, students should contact Enrollment Services or visit widener.edu/registrar to obtain the Chosen Name Request form.
Parking
General Rules and Regulations
Widener University undergraduate students and employees must register with the Enrollment Services Center all motor vehicles owned or operated by them in conjunction with their college attendance or employment. Widener University parking regulations apply to all motor vehicles parked or driven at any time on the university campus.
All parking lots, parking areas, and parking spaces are clearly marked with signs or other markings. A motor vehicle may not be parked in any area from which it is restricted by signs, other traffic control devices, markings, or by specific action of Campus Safety or other departments. Widener University is not responsible for any damage or thefts to vehicles parked on its property.
Motor vehicles may not be parked in areas not specifically designated as valid parking zones. No motor vehicle may be parked at any time on a sidewalk or crosswalk; on the grass; in front of a driveway, doorway, or steps; within an intersection; on the roadway side of any vehicle that has stopped or parked at the side of a roadway; in any service driveway or associated turnaround; or in any residence hall. Handicap parking is strictly enforced.
No vehicle may interfere with the use of a fire hydrant, fire lane, or other emergency zone; create any other hazard; or unreasonably interfere with the free and proper use of the roadway or parking area. No vehicle can be parked in streets blocking area residents from their parking.
All questions concerning the parking rules and regulations should be directed to the Office of Campus Safety, 610-499-4200.
Registration
A motor vehicle must be registered no later than five calendar days after the date on which it is first brought to the Widener Campus. Temporary parking permits must be obtained immediately through the Enrollment Services Center.
Parking Permits and Fees
All parking on campus is by permit only. Permits are required to park in all campus lots. Parking permits are available to all employees and to all undergraduate students and visitors. They can be obtained online at widener.edu/ParkingStore or directly from the Enrollment Services Center at Lipka Hall; phone: 610-499-1018. Parking permits are not transferable and remain the property of Campus Safety, which may recall or revoke a permit for cause at any time. No refunds will be given in the year in which the permit is valid.
A parking permit does not guarantee the holder a reserved space; it guarantees only an opportunity to park within a specific area if there is space available.
A person with parking fines outstanding from current or previous years may not register a vehicle.
Eligible undergraduate students should obtain their academic year parking permits when they register their motor vehicles with Enrollment Services at: https://epay.widener.edu/C21798_ustores/web/classic/store_main.jsp?STOREID=1 (or go to widener.edu/directions and click “parking” for link).
Maps showing parking areas are available online at widener.edu/directions, at the Enrollment Services Center, and in the Office of Campus Safety in Old Main.
Students’ automobiles should not be parked on the campus unless they bear valid official campus parking stickers, and then they should be parked only in the areas approved by the university.
All vehicles on campus must be registered through Enrollment Services with Campus Safety. Violators are subject to fines, immobilization, and towing at owner’s expense.
Penalties for Violations
A motor vehicle in violation of any of the Widener University parking regulations is subject to a parking summons and may be towed or immobilized at the expense of the owner.
Motor vehicles parked in a handicap parking lane without proper identification for such an occupant are subject to a fine and may be towed or immobilized at the owner’s expense.
Parking Violations and Fines
Parking in a fire lane or handicapped spot is a $50 fine; all other violations are a $25 fine. Immobilization fees are a $25 fine plus all outstanding fines. Any damage to university property will result in a fine, payment of damage cost, and disciplinary action with possible suspension. Fines may be paid at the Enrollment Services Center, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Also, payment can be mailed to the Enrollment Services Center. For more information, call 610-499-4202. Any fine not paid or appealed within five days will be charged to the individual’s account.
Appeals
If individuals feel they have grounds for an appeal, they should submit a copy of the citation and letter of appeal to the Office of Campus Safety.
Temporary Restrictions
Widener University reserves the right to temporarily restrict and change the parking regulation as needs require. Such restrictions will be conspicuously posted on appropriate signs and traffic control devices and will, when practical, be publicly announced in advance.
Parking Hangtags
Parking hangtags must be hung on the rearview mirror for a registration permit to be valid.
Car Covers
Covering a motor vehicle in any fashion that prevents immediate viewing of the registration plate(s) and university decal is prohibited. Violators are subject to a fine.
Scofflaws
The accumulation of multiple parking violations indicates a disregard of the university’s regulations. Immobilization or towing may be used as an additional enforcement tool.
PMC Museum
The PMC (Pennsylvania Military College) Museum, located in Alumni Auditorium, was established in 1999 by PMC alumni to preserve the exceptional heritage of Widener’s predecessor schools—Pennsylvania Military Academy and Pennsylvania Military College. Until its Corps of Cadets was disbanded in 1972, PMC was known as the “West Point of the Keystone State” and was the second oldest private military college in the United States. Through an impressive array of memorabilia and artifacts, as well as electronic access to archival documents and photographs, this museum is a lasting monument to PMC’s proud history and its cadre of alumni, both military and civilian. It also preserves and protects the strong institutional values of academic achievement, personal honor, and community service for all Widener undergraduate students of the future. For hours of operation and to learn more, visit the PMC Museum’s website: widener.edu/pmcmuseum
Postal Services
Located in University Center, Widener’s Post Office is open Monday– Friday, 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m during the fall and spring semesters. During the summer, the Post Office is open 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m., Monday through Thursday. Many postal services are offered, including Express Mail.
All resident undergraduate students will be assigned a mailbox. Students are required to use their box numbers as part of their address to expedite receipt of their mail at the university. For example:
Name
Widener University
WU P.O. Box #
One University Place
Chester, PA 19013-5792
Resident undergraduate students must return their mailbox key to the Post Office within one week of leaving the university, and this includes leaving for the summer. Students who fail to turn in their mailbox key will receive a $25 charge for lock services.
The use of chain letters or other potentially fraudulent mailings is strictly prohibited, and university mail services are not to be used for these purposes.
If mail is to be sent to a student box from campus, please be sure to list the student’s name and box number. The Post Office will not deliver mail without these two items.
Registrar and Academic Records
The Registrar’s Office deals with all matters relating to a student’s academic record, such as maintaining student’s transcripts, registration, grading, and graduation petitions. The office also produces the final exam schedule, coordinates class scheduling, and responds to requests for transcripts, loan deferment forms, and enrollment and degree verifications. The Registrar’s Office is part of the Enrollment Services Center and is located in Lipka Hall at 14th and Potter Streets. For a complete list of the office’s functions and services, visit the Registrar’s website: widener.edu/registraroffice.
Spiritual, Religious, and Interfaith Services
The Interfaith Sacred Space accommodates the devotional and meditational needs of our undergraduate students, faculty, and staff. It is located on the lower level of the University Center. This unique space has resources designed to embrace the diverse faith traditions found in the Widener University community.
Our interfaith student organizations offer a variety of events, activities, programs, and worship opportunities throughout the academic year that encourage students—religious and nonreligious—to explore their spirituality. Interfaith student organizations are assisted by the Office of Multicultural Student Affairs and a diverse group of local faith community leaders.
Should you have faith-related questions or need information regarding attending local worship services, contact the director of Multicultural Student Affairs at mmdavis@widener.edu. Check the MyWidener calendar and announcements regularly for information regarding events, activities, and worship opportunities. For contact information and hours, check out the website: widener.edu/interfaithcenter
Tutoring
Tutoring is available for most freshman courses and various upper-class courses. Tutoring occurs in groups and individual sessions. For more information, visit the Tutoring Services website: widener.edu/academics/support/tutoring
University Center
University Center is the hub of student life on the Chester Campus. Located within University Center are student affairs offices, including Residence Life, Multicultural Student Affairs, International Student Services, Civic Engagement, Chaplain Offices, Student Life, Student Conduct, and University Center Administration, as well as the dean of undergraduate students. In addition, there are many auxiliary facilities housed in University Center: the Art Gallery, Bookstore, Dance Floor, devotional and meditation space, game room, quiet lounge, Pride Café, SUBWAY, Post Office, Computer Lab, Franklin Mint Credit Union, and Food Court. Student Government maintains an office on the lower level. The following are University Center guidelines:
- While in the University Center, undergraduate students are expected to maintain an appropriate demeanor and act with common courtesy, sound judgment, and good behavior.
- The following are not permitted in the University Center: smoking and using tobacco products, using alcoholic beverages without prior permission from the interim dean of undergraduate students, riding bicycles or other mobile objects, animals (with the exception of service animals), and gambling.
- Any usage of any space within the University Center must take into consideration safe and effective usage of the facility. The reservationist can assist with logistical details regarding event setup and safety.
- Event setups are coordinated by University Center administration with the exception of the Wyman Room. Setup requests are due no later than three business days prior to the event for all spaces. This allows staff to be properly informed of requests, assess furniture usage patterns, and schedule staffing to complete the setup safely. Events that do not follow setup requests may be denied furniture or assistance. University Center administration strongly encourages all event planners to provide as much advance notice as possible when making event arrangements. Organizations are not permitted to move furniture themselves.
- Food must be catered by the designated caterer (Aramark) unless written permission is received by the Aramark director prior to the event. This includes all events scheduled in the University Center.
For more information about University Center and to book reservations, visit the University Center on MyWidener.
Veterans
Widener University is approved for the training of veterans, active duty military, and dependents of veterans/active duty military for all degree and internship programs. Veterans, active duty military, and dependents enrolling for the first time should apply for benefits at www.vets.gov. The VA will send a Certificate of Eligibility directly to the applicant. The applicant should forward the certificate to Widener’s school certifying official, Mary Kate Cullen. e-mail mkcullen@widener.edu. Veterans, active duty military, and dependents should apply at least six weeks prior to their expected date of enrollment.
Veterans transferring from another institution to Widener University are required to submit VA Form 22-1995 (Request for Change of Program or Place of Training).
The following paperwork is required to be received by Widener:
- Certificate of Eligibility
- DD 214 (when applicable)
- Application for Veterans Enrollment Certification, found at widener.edu/bursaroffice.
- VA Form 22-1995 or VA Form 22-5495 (if applicable).
Currently, those enrolled are required to complete an Application for Veterans Enrollment Certification on an annual basis. This enrollment status requirement is designed to assist in avoiding delays in certifying.
For more information, contact the school certifying official at 610-499-4144, or e-mail mkcullen@widener.edu. Visit online at widener.edu/vets and widener.edu/bursaroffice.
Recreation and Fitness
Widener’s state-of-the-art Pride Recreation Center is part of a 20,000-square-foot addition built onto the front of the Schwartz Athletic Center. The facility is equipped with the finest fitness equipment from Precor, Cybex, Life Fitness, and StarTrac. The Pride Recreation Center includes cardio and strength floors with over 80 pieces of equipment, two group fitness rooms that house a variety of free classes, and a state-of-the-art multimedia room. Sports equipment and lawn games are also available free of charge for checkout with a valid Widener ID.
Students can also experience the thrill of rock climbing on our 24-foot climbing wall, a focal point of the Pride Recreation Center. A wide range of routes are available for beginner to advanced climbers and new routes are set every semester. Climbers of all skill levels can challenge themselves, hone their skills, and keep in shape-no experience or equipment is needed!
Currently, all Widener University students, faculty, and staff are permitted to use the Pride Recreation Center and Schwartz Athletic Center free of charge. Some services may have charges, such as special events or programs and intramural activities. A valid Widener ID must be presented to enter any of the Pride Recreation Center and Schwartz facilities.
For Pride Recreation Center hours of operation, a complete list of policies and procedures, and activity schedules, visit the Pride Recreation Center website: widener.edu/priderec. For hours of operation and more information about Schwartz Athletic Center, visit: www.widenerpride.com.
Writing Assistance
The Writing Center is located on the first floor of the Old Main Annex and provides help for any writing assignment regardless of the course. At the Writing Center, undergraduate students work one on one with an instructor whose job is to meet their individual needs. The center is beneficial to both the good writer who wants additional polishing and the student who is having difficulty. Students use the center on their own initiative or at the suggestion of a faculty member. Appointments are suggested; call 610-499-4332 to make an appointment. widener.edu/academics/schools/arts_sciences/writing_ctr/
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