Student/Faculty Enrichment Fund

Background
Research on student learning has repeatedly substantiated the fact that the most effective educational environment for college students is one in which there is meaningful interaction between faculty and students in settings outside the traditional classroom. Regular out-of-class interaction enhances the collegiate experience by allowing students to develop meaningful relationships with adults who play significant roles in their lives at the university.

With this in mind, in 2004 former President Leo I. Higdon created a fund to be used in support of voluntary out-of-class gatherings hosted by faculty in their homes or at other off-campus locations.

Guidelines
The following guidelines are to be followed where financial support is to be provided:

• Only teaching faculty are eligible to use this fund.
• Students should be members of a current class taught by the requesting faculty member or students directly advised by the faculty member.
• The functions are primarily for students.
• Student attendance and participation in such out-of-class gatherings shall be voluntary.
• Gatherings for which faculty seek reimbursement should not stand in place of a regularly scheduled class time. The activities are intended to be informal social gatherings.
• There shall be no alcohol consumed at these gatherings.
• Reimbursement for an event will be "after the fact" and shall not exceed $10.00 per student for the number of students who attend. Receipts and a list of participants are required for reimbursement. Reimbursements will be requested by filling out a Foundation Check Request Form.

It is recognized that with the diversity of educational offerings provided by the College of Charleston, there may be a need to modify the guidelines to meet special circumstances. Inquiries as to possible exceptions should be addressed to Victor K. Wilson, Executive Vice President for Student Affairs, Stern Student Center, 953-5522.

Reimbursement Procedures
Prior approval from the Office of the Executive Vice President for Student Affairs is required before the event is planned or expenses incurred. Please call 953-5813. The request for reimbursement should be completed after the gathering to indicate attendance and amount requested for reimbursement. Original receipts and list of participants must be attached to support the expenditures. Items included on a receipt other than those directly related to the event should be lined through to clearly indicate the expenses for which reimbursement is requested. The phone contact and mailing address of the requesting faculty member are required for reimbursement. The request for reimbursement, with accompanying documentation, must be filed with Susan Hartman, Assistant to the Executive Vice President for Student Affairs, 953-5813 or FAX – 953-5403.