SEAL Organization

Leadership Handbook
2023-2024

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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Welcome and Expectations 3

Interest Group Policy 5

Meetings/Events 7

Hosting Off Campus Events 8

Campus Poster 10

Trips & Travel 13

Theatrical Performance Rights & Film Screening 15

Media Safety 17

Props and Weapons 19

Organization Package Pick Up 23

Community Standards 24

Inclusive Practices 25

Hazing 26

EmConnect 28

Leadership Development 29

Reminders/Other Information 30

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Dear Student Leader,
Congratulations on your leadership position. Being a leader of a student organization can seem
extremely overwhelming at times. In Student Engagement and Leadership (SEAL) and Student
Government Association (SGA), we are trying to make the experience for you and your
organization easier. This handbook includes all relevant information for an organization’s
leadership. All policies can be found on EmConnect. If you have any questions or concerns,
please feel free to email SEAL at seal@emerson.edu.
Definition of Student Organization types
A registered student organization is defined as a group/organization that has met all
requirements to be an approved organization with Emerson College. Registered
organizations are directed and controlled by students whose programs and activities
affect the educational process, promote cultural understanding, and student welfare,
and/or contribute to the enrichment of the overall community at Emerson College. These
organizations have privileges and resources available to them.
An interest group (formally known as independent organization) is defined as a
group of six or more students currently enrolled in Emerson who wishes to pursue a
common education, civic, social, cultural, or recreational interest and is currently not
registered with Student Government and Student Engagement and Leadership.
A co-curricular organization is defined as an organization with close ties to the
academic curriculum that gives students an opportunity to receive a non-tuition credit.
Co-curricular also must receive approval from SEAL and SGA before obtaining any
privileges and must re-register each semester to remain in compliance.
An inactive organization is defined as an organization that failed to complete
requirements of being a registered organization for more than consecutive two semesters.
Organizations that failed completion for only one semester are eligible to re-registered the
following semester.
Expectations of Student Organization
● Student organization leaders and members make decisions and act on behalf of their
respective organizations
● Abide all College and Student Organization Policies and Procedures
● Update and abide by Organization Constitution and Bylaws
● Abide by Emerson College Community Standards
● Have a Faculty or Staff advisor for the full academic year
● Create inclusive practices (including but not limited to recruitment, leaderships, selection,
marketing, retention, etc.)
Student Organization Elections
● All organizations are required to hold elections based on their constitution
● New leadership must be determined before the end of the Spring semester for the next academic
year and transfer all documents and information to new leadership

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Registered Organizations are required to:
● Have at least three leadership members (president, vice president, and a treasurer or
equivalent)
● Have an Emerson affiliated faculty or staff advisor and communicate with advisor
regularly
● Acknowledge the Compact Agreement and commit to implementing inclusive practices in
organization
● Must attend ALL required trainings
● Hold elections for next academic year (transition all documents to new leadership board)
● EmConnect Expectations
o Submit a re-registration form every semester on EmConnect
o Update roster of leadership board
o Manage organization page to promote recruitment, meetings, and events
o Have members join and communicate with them regularly
o Submit event submissions for approval
o Explore other organizations and departments pages and events
o Manage all financials through EmConnect and follow SGA Financial Handbook

Failure to complete any of these requirements may result in losing organizational privileges

Expectations of an Advisor
● Be a Faculty or Staff member at Emerson College
● Assist leaders/members with understanding their specific duties and responsibilities
● Meet and communicate regularly with members of organizations
● Serve as a resource for students (especially concerning College policies, regulations, and
services)
● Consult in event planning and events (including management of operating budget)
Please note: If an organization advisor steps down, organizations will have a 30 day grace period to find
a new advisor once SEAL has been formally notified. Students must notify SEAL within 3 business days
of an Advisor’s intent to end their responsibility as the organization's advisor.

Leadership/Member Removal
SEAL must ensure all students have the right and access to participate in educational activities across
campus. As such, a student organization does not have the right to remove another student from
participation in their club or organization without consultation with Student Engagement and Leadership,
Community Standards, and/or Office of Equal Opportunity.

Leadership removal can occur if an organization leader is found to be unable/unwilling to perform

their respective duties, as outlined within the organization constitution/bylaws. To initiate a formal
removal of a leadership position, a student organization must notify SEAL leadership. SEAL
Leadership will meet with the reporting students to best determine appropriate next steps, if any.

Membership removal must be connected to sanctions provided by the Office of Community

Standards or the Office of Equal Opportunity (OEO).

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 INTEREST GROUPS POLICY
(formerly known as independent organization - updated Summer 2023)
In an effort to best support all student organizations at Emerson College, the Office of Student
Engagement and Leadership has developed guidelines for potential student organizations who wish to
obtain registered status. This will go into effect in Spring 2024 to allow current “independent”
organizations to meet the qualifications of being an interest group. New Organization Application
will be live in Spring of each academic year. If you wish to become an interest group, please fill out this
form.
Note: Organizations cannot duplicate the mission and/or objectives of another organization that already
exists.

An interest group (formerly known as independent organization) is defined as a group of five or more
students currently enrolled in Emerson who wishes to pursue a common education, civic, social, cultural,
or recreational interest and is currently not registered with SGA/SEAL. After two consecutive semesters
(Fall/Spring), interest groups organizations can apply to be a registered organization.
Groups wishing not to become an interest group/registered organization will have no
organizational privileges on Emerson College Campus
If an organization fails to meet registered organization requirements, organizations status will change for
the following semester. After two consecutive semesters of not meeting requirements organizations will
become inactive and would need to go through the New Org Process again.

Guidelines for Interest Groups

An interest group has the following privileges on the Emerson College campus:
● Ability to recruit students to join their organization
● Host on campus meetings and events
● Ability to reserve rooms in 172 Tremont for meetings, events, and programs
● Guidance from staff within Student Engagement and Leadership to become a registered
organization
● Ability to have a poster approved for posting within approved locations and in compliance with all
posting policies
● Access to a joint Emerging Organizations EmConnect Page to post news, meetings, and events

Interest groups are not permitted to do the following:

● Use the Emerson College name, associated logo and branding marks in any form related to your
organization (including emails, meetings, posters, events, social media, etc) unless approved by
SEAL
● Host off-campus events
● Can not enter into any legally binding contract
● Reserve spaces managed by Athletics, Office of the Arts, or Business Services
● Host events with alcohol
● Fundraise on campus for external organizations
● Apply and receive funding from Student Government Association
● Host their own EmConnect Page

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Expectations of Interest groups to become a Registered Organization
● Have at least three leadership members (president, vice president, and a treasurer or equivalent)
● Recruit and consistently have more than 6 members in your organization
● Host one event a semester
● Have a Emerson staff/faculty advisor
● Apply for New Organization Registration on EmConnect in the Spring
● Abide by all Campus policies and procedures
● Attend required workshops in the Spring semester

As Emerson College students, any activity or behavior that is in violation of the Code of Community
Standards will be referred to the Office of Community Standards and Student Conduct or the Office of
Equal Opportunity. You may be held accountable as individuals and as an organization. If you are found
in violation of the Code of Community Standards, sanctions may include loss of privileges listed above.

Any questions may be directed to Student Engagement and Leadership at SEAL@emerson.edu

New Organization Application will be live in Spring of each academic year. If you wish to become an
interest group, please fill out this form.

Interest groups cannot duplicate the mission and/or objectives of another organization that already
exists. Once the qualifications below are met, you're eligible to apply for registration.

Interest groups must have the following to apply to become a registered organization:
● Abiding by interest group policies and procedures (outlined above)
● Being in existence for at least two semesters and is formally listed with SEAL
● Documentation of at least two events and established organization meetings within the two
semesters
● Organization must be in good disciplinary standing with Community Standards
● Having an affiliated Faculty or Staff Emerson Advisor and agree to a signed advisor agreement
● Have at least three leadership positions (president, vice president, and a Treasurer or equivalent
roles)
● Have at least 10 general body members
● Have followed SGA/SEAL’s process to becoming a registered organization
o Application will be live on EmConnect Spring 2024
Registered organizations have the following privileges (in additional to interest group privileges)
● Use the Emerson College name, likeness, associated logo, and branding marks
● Reserve, host, and publicize off-campus locations
● Host performers, speakers, artist, films, and other guests
● Reserve spaces managed by Athletics, Office of the Arts, or Business/Campus Services
● Facilitate a fundraiser
● Apply and receive funding from Student Government Association
● Receive trip approval and use the Emerson College name while traveling with individual
member(s) and/or other participant(s)
● Manage an organization page on EmConnect
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 MEETINGS/EVENTS
SEAL works closely with many departments on campus in supporting students and student
organizations in their events. All on-campus events hosted by a student organization require
endorsement from their advisor, and logistical coordination and communication with the
managing department of the space.

All community members may utilize Spacebook to access, view, and reserve specific locations
on campus. Spacebook is accessible through any standard internet browser at
https://spacebook.emerson.edu

Organizations are required to reserve spaces under their organization name, and not as an
individual student.

Spaces on campus may have their own guidelines or policies for reserving or utilizing the
spaces. Please contact the managing department of that space for specifics. Cancellations
should be made in advance online or by contacting the managing department. All college
policies must be complied with at all times within the spaces.

Individuals and/or organizations reserving the room may be held responsible for any damages to
equipment or physical spaces while utilizing the space. Fines may be levied for cleaning or
damages if applicable.

Failure to abide by the space guidelines may result in a policy violation and limit on future
bookings.

More information on how to use EMS/Spacebook visit

https://support.emerson.edu/hc/en-us/articles/360047232651-How-to-use-EMS-SpaceBook#log
ging-in-and-out-0-0

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 HOSTING AN OFF CAMPUS EVENT
Events held off-campus using, or implying, the Emerson College name, utilizing the Emerson
College accounting system and SGA allocated funds, or off-campus events publicized on campus
are subject to all College policies and procedures as events held on campus. In addition, to utilize
an off-campus facility, students must arrange for a contract between the facility and the College.
All contractual agreements with an off-campus facility on behalf of the registered student organization
must be signed ONLY by the Director of SEAL.
Advisors and students are not permitted to sign contracts. A contract for an off-campus venue will only be
reviewed after all on-campus venue locations have been considered and exhausted.
A contract is required for use of ANY off-campus facility (and hosted talent), regardless of how the facility
is being used or cost. The facility must also carry and show proof of general liability insurance with a
minimum of $3,000,000 coverage, naming Emerson College as an additional insured. A Certificate of
Insurance must be obtained from the facility indicating the limits of insurance, if the facility is not
a pre-approved vendor of the College. In addition, only registered student organizations are
allowed to host off campus events.
Off-campus events must be registered through SEAL by meeting with the Director of Student
Engagement and Leadership at least 8 weeks in advance of the event. No off-campus event will be
held if a student organization has not initiated contact with SEAL within the 8 week window.
Although guests of Emerson College students are typically welcomed, students who present a valid
Emerson College ID are permitted to bring up to one (1) non-Emerson guests with them to an event.
When planning an event off-campus, the student planner must set up an appointment with the Director of
SEAL and provide the following information:
● Address, phone number, email, and name of contact at the event site
● Logistics of event (including goals, purpose, and agenda)
● Unsigned contract/agreement from venue
● Vendor safety and security protocols (i.e. security, emergency procedures, etc.)
● Name of the advisor that will be present for the entirety of the event.
o If your organization advisor cannot be present, you must identify another Emerson
employee that is approved by both your organization advisor and SEAL.
o At least one advisor must be present during the event, but more may be necessary due to
the number of participants, nature, and risk of the event.
● Prepare an itemized budget plan for the event, including sources of funds and ticket sales and
timeline. Use of SGA funds must comply with policies and procedures as outlined in the Treasury
Handbook.
● Understanding that the sponsoring organization assumes full financial responsibility for any/all
activities related to this event.
After meeting with the Director of SEAL, they will confirm logistics, arrangements, and sign all
documentation/paperwork needed to secure location.

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Advisor responsibilities for off-campus events:
The functions of an off-campus event advisor are two-fold. First, to assist in preventing or curing any
undesirable situations that may develop, or if necessary, bring them to the attention of the Director of
Student Engagement & Leadership.
● Advisor(s) must be present throughout the entirety of the event. This includes being present
during set-up and breakdown.
● The advisor is to act in the capacity of a college official. If a concern arises that cannot be
addressed by the leadership of the organization, the advisor is there to assist.
● The advisor, along with the student organization are responsible for ensuring contractual
agreements are met.
● Only the advisor may authorize additional expenses of an event and the costs must be covered by
the organization (be aware of your current budget balance before any additional expenses can be
authorized).
● No reimbursements will be approved unless granted by the Director of Student Engagement and
Leadership
● Advisors must be familiar with the policies and procedures for student organizations and Emerson
College
● Advisors must notify the Director of SEAL of any concerns, incidents, or questions that may have
arisen during the event by emailing SEAL@emerson.edu with a detailed account of what
happened.
Off-Campus Event Logistics:
● There will be no tickets sold at the door. All tickets must be purchased ahead of the event date.
No cash will be on hand at the door.
● The event is only open to Emerson College community members and their guests. All ticket
holders will need to present a valid Emerson College ID for entrance. Non-Emerson guests must
present an ID and sign in as a guest at the door. Guests must be accompanied by their Emerson
student for entrance. No general public will be admitted.
● No alcohol is permitted at events sponsored by an Emerson College student organization at an
off-campus venue. Organizations wishing to have alcohol at their event must contact SEAL for
approval. No Student Organizations funds can cover alcohol (except for Senior Class Council)
● The facility must have a representative on site the entire time your organization will be in the
space. This person will be your primary point of contact. Please introduce yourself upon arrival to
the representative and communicate any challenges or issues related to the facility to them.
● Your event may require a security or police detail depending on the requirements of your venue or
the activity you are sponsoring. This will be an additional expense that must be covered by the
sponsoring organization.
Crisis Management:
If there is an accident/injury at your event, the Emerson College Police Department (617-824-8888) must
be contacted immediately. In an emergency please call 911. Should a student need to be escorted to the
hospital, please contact ECPD and the Director of SEAL (​​617-824-3638) immediately after emergency
responders have been contacted with the following information:
Name and ID of the student, the hospital transported to, the conditions that led to the transport, the name
of the person escorting the student to the hospital, Contact information, and an accounting of what
happened.

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 CAMPUS POSTER POLICY
All currently enrolled undergraduate and graduate students & student organizations must have their
posters reviewed and approved for posting. Posters are defined as digital or printed material whose
purpose is to publicize or inform the Emerson community about a certain event, audition process, call for
applications etc., that an organization or individual may be holding. Postings that do not meet that
definition are not allowed.

All non-academic posters must have an official Campus Life Approval Stamp. Student organizations are
strongly encouraged to show posters to their advisors prior to obtaining a registration stamp.

To obtain a Registration Stamp (Please allow at least one full business day before following up on
approval status):
● A singular original poster must be brought to the Campus Life Suite (Walker Building. rm 411 -
120 Boylston Street, 4th floor) at least one week before the poster is to be posted or placed (You
only need to bring ONE poster).
● All posters must have an Emerson College email address displayed in order to be approved.
● All non-academic events/fundraisers must be submitted and approved by a SEAL staff member
via EmConnect before the posting may be approved.
○ A signed Emerson College contract on file with SEAL is required for any event that:
■ Is off-campus and hosted by a registered student organization (note:
non-registered student organizations are not permitted to host off-campus events)
■ Any events that hosts, credits, and/or references a speaker, artist, performer, or
any non-Emerson affiliated individual on campus (including alumni)
● Note: if a speaker, artist, performer, venue, etc. would like Emerson to sign
their personal/company contract, this contract must be reviewed and signed
by SEAL/General Counsel and will take time to process.
■ Proof of a permit must be submitted on any property under the jurisdiction of a
governmental entity, such as city, state or federal institution before a poster will be
approved.
Poster Guidelines
● Individuals and groups may not post or place any poster without the original copy being stamped.
Unstamped postings will be removed and the organization or individual will be contacted.
● All registered posters will receive an approval sticker with a designation that denotes the end
posting date. Posters will be approved for up to 3 weeks of posting. Groups may copy the original
approved stamped poster for more general distribution.
● Poster approval does not imply College endorsement.
● Student/student organizations are expected to remove their notices when their event has passed.
● If you make any edits/alterations to your poster after it has been approved, you MUST get the
poster reapproved by Campus Life.
● No postings may be placed or distributed that allude to, depict, promote, invite, or encourage
alcohol or other illegal drug consumption whether for a party, event, or otherwise.
● Non–Emerson related events and activities will not be approved for posting.
● Postings that contain false/non-factual information will not receive an approval stamp. Any posters
looking to inform the campus community about particular topics, current events, social issues, etc.
must contain citations of where information was obtained from and must be credible sources.
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 ● Postings cannot be used with the purpose to harm, bully, or harass other Emerson community
members/organizations and must follow Emerson College’s Code of Community Standards.
These postings will not be approved and may be subject to investigation by the Office of
Community Standards and the SEAL office if deemed necessary.
● Proof of written permission must be shown in order to use the name or image of any
individuals/groups on the poster. Permission must be shared with Campus Life before approval is
granted.
● Advertised events, services, and educational information cannot be in violation of policies outlined
in the Student Code of Community Standards.
● Emerson College student organization’s EmConnect and other college-hosted digital event or
information postings must abide by the Emerson College Poster Policy.
● If items are posted in violation of this policy, an individual or group may lose their posting
privileges. Posting non-approved material may also result in a referral to Community Standards
for determination of whether Community Standards have been violated.

Campus Posting Areas

● Postings of signs, advertisements, and other materials are permitted on authorized bulletin boards
only. All other postings will be removed and the organization or individual will be contacted.
● Postings should be affixed to bulletin boards with tacks only. No staples, tape, or other adhesives,
either on a bulletin board or other surface, is permitted and postings will be removed and the
organization or individual will be contacted.
● No postings may be placed in elevators, on fire escapes, walls, doors, windows, bathroom stalls,
mirrors, fences, lampposts, mailboxes, trees, or any area that is not on the “approved for campus
postings” list
● Postings, advertisements, and other notices are not permitted to be slipped under or placed on
residence hall room doors without approval of the Director Of Housing & Residential Education.
● Questions about a specific building posting policy may be directed to Campus Life or the following
as appropriate:
○ 172 Tremont/Student Performance Center: campuscenter@emerson.edu
○ Residence Halls: hre@emerson.edu

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 Please note: Failure to abide by these policies may lead to loss of posting privileges,
College recognition, and/or disciplinary action from the College.

The following is a list of authorized bulletin board spaces on campus and are the ONLY places
approved for campus postings:

172 Tremont Student Performance Center (80 Boylston Street)

Located on each floor of the building - 5 bulletin Main stairwell leading to the lower level - 1 bulletin
boards board
Lower Level 1 bulletin board (near restrooms)
2 Boylston Place Residence Hall (2 Boylston
Place) Tufte Performance and Production Center (10
Lobby - 1 bulletin board Boylston Place)

Ansin Building (180 Tremont Street) 8th Floor – 1 bulletin board (Towards end of the
Lower Level - 1 bulletin board in between elevators hallway)
2nd-3rd Floor – 1 bulletin board on each floor by 9th Floor – 1 bulletin board
elevator 11th Floor – 1 bulletin board (It is through the door in
4th Floor – 2 bulletin boards (1 by elevator, the other front of elevators)
is off to the right)
5th Floor – 3 bulletin boards (1 by elevators, the Union Bank Building (216 Tremont Street)
others off to the left and right) Main Floor – Small bulletin board next to classroom
6th Floor – 2 bulletin boards (1 by elevators, the other 2nd Floor – Small bulletin board by elevators
off to the right) 3rd Floor – 1 bulletin board immediately left out of
7th-13th Floor - 1 bulletin board on each floor in elevator
between elevators 5th Floor – 2 bulletin boards
6th Floor – 2 bulletin boards-Career Services, ASK to
Dining Center Stage post-Academic Advising
Entrance to Center Stage via Boylston Place Alley -
arranged by day of week Walker (120 Boylston Street)
Stage - 1 bulletin board 3rd Floor – 1 bulletin board
4th Floor – 3 bulletin boards
Piano Row (150 Boylston Street) 5th Floor – 5 bulletin boards (Library Study rooms,
Main floor near computer kiosks - 2 bulletin boards and 2 towards the TPPC)
6th Floor – 2 bulletin boards

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 TRIP AND TRAVEL POLICY AND PROCEDURE
Trips are considered any official student organization travel outside of Emerson College grounds
(including domestic, international travel, retreats, and sports tournaments/competition)

**All trips that require transportation further than the MBTA are required to be registered and
approved through the Trip Registration Process outlined below**

1. In order to be eligible to participate and register for an off-campus trip, you must:
a. Be a currently Emerson enrolled undergraduate/graduate student or a faculty/staff
member
i. If a faculty/staff advisor wishes to bring a relative on the trip, they must get
approval from SEAL and assume liability and risk of that individual
ii. Alumni are not eligible to participate in trips unless approved by SEAL
b. Be in good disciplinary standing
2. Student organizations must submit a budget to SEAL including but not limited to expenses:
transportation (flights/taxi/train/bus), lodging accommodations, registration fees, and meals.
a. If your organization does not have the appropriate amount of funds, the organization can
seek additional funding with SGA (see Treasury Handbook for more information on
appeals)
i. You must have funds secure 4 weeks before your trip in order to purchase
any travel expenses
3. Complete a Trip Registration form. This form is currently located under the Student Life webpage
for students. Scroll down to the “Handbooks & Forms” section and click on “Trip Registration
Form.”
a. The Trip Registration form MUST be completed before the trip:
i. Local Trip (Greater Boston area) at least 14 days/two weeks prior to Travel
ii. Out-of-state trip – at least 30 days/One month prior to Travel
iii. International Trip – at least 90 Days/Three months prior to Travel
b. All trip requests submitted in less than this time frame will NOT be approved.
c. All trips must be accompanied by a Emerson faculty/staff unless approved by SEAL
4. Once the trip has been approved by the SEAL, students and advisors attending the trip will now
have the ability to register for the trip using the Trip Registration link under the Student Life tab on
ECommon. Registering for the trip includes the submission of the Assumption of Risk & Release
form.
5. Once determine eligibility, students can begin to make travel arrangements
a. Student and Advisor must set up a meeting in advance with SEAL to purchase/plan travel
expenses/accommodations
i. Registration for the conference/event/tournament etc.
ii. Air travel or other transportation
1. If purchasing airfare, each participating student must fill out the form shared
by SEAL. The following information will be required to complete the form:
a. Confirmation of ID sufficient for flight (driver’s license, real ID,
passport)
b. Name as it appears on ID
c. Email
d. Required Date/Time of departure
e. Required Date/Time of return
f. Date of Birth
g. TSA or KTN number (if applicable)
h. Frequent Flyer number (if applicable)
i. Seat preference (aisle, middle, window)
j. Cell phone number
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 iii. Overnight accommodations in a commercial hotel
1. Please identify a hotel that fits within your organization’s budget
2. Apartment or House Sharing services, like AirBnB & VRBO, must be
approved by the Director of SEAL
a. Students who choose to use these services without prior approval
by the appropriate parties will not be reimbursed
iv. Ground transportation (if applicable)
1. Car Rental must be approved by SEAL and only will be reimbursed
2. Bus/Train tickets can be purchased by SEAL
v. Meals (per diem per student): Breakfast $17.00, Lunch $18.00, and Dinner $34.00
b. Students must submit ALL purchase requests on EmConnect after travel expenses have
been approved
c. Hotel and Flight accommodations are ONLY purchased by SEAL
i. No student will be reimbursed for expenses they purchased on their own
except for approved rideshares, car rentals, house sharing/apartment, per
diem or other expenses approved by SEAL
6. Go on the trip! Save original itemized receipts (these MUST be submitted to SEAL 48 hours
after your trip)

In case of an emergency, please contact 911. Please then notify ECPD (617) 824-8555. ECPD will
notify Campus Life. Student Engagement & Leadership and ECPD will have a record of your trip
itinerary and a list of all participants and their emergency contacts.

Safety tips while you are traveling

● Do thorough research on the locations you are visiting
● Be aware of your surroundings at all times
● Travel in groups
● Charge your devices
● Share your itinerary with your friends and family
● Make copies of important documents and send it to a trusted contact
● Secure your belongings
● Trust your instincts
● Communicate with your advisor is something feels uncomfortable or unsafe

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 THEATRICAL/FILM RIGHTS POLICY
It is a requirement to obtain rights for any theatrical performances or film screenings, no matter
the organization or student(s) personal access to streaming services.

All rights must be purchased by the SEAL office. Students and organization advisors are NOT
authorized to sign contracts/rights on behalf of the College.

THEATRICAL/FILM RIGHTS GUIDELINES

1. Determine which agency holds the rights for the performance/film you are interested in producing.
Each agency has a catalog that will indicate each show’s fee. Each company has its own process
and policy by which rights are secured. Please read through their rights and policies.

2. For theatrical rights, you may request a perusal copy (this is to determine if you want to continue
obtaining rights - copying or distributing this is illegal) or request a license for a specific show.

3. There are costs associated with securing rights/licenses.

o Additional fees might apply (i.e. shipping of materials).
o A performance royalty will be due no matter the circumstance of how the play/film is
performed.

4. Photocopying scripts without permission is a breach of copyright.

5. All performance rights are granted by written contract only. There is no such thing as “verbal
approval.”

6. Once the contract and rights have been approved and signed by SEAL you may begin to work on
the show. No performance preparations may begin until rights have been secured.
o This includes any promotional materials (whether through social media, EmConnect
events, physical/digital posters, etc.), auditions, casting, or rehearsals, etc.

7. It is important to follow all stipulations in the rights/license agreement including but not limited to:
o Requirement to credit the rights holder in the program. Specifics will be mentioned
in the agreement.
o You must return all materials by the expressed deadline. Failure to do so will result in late
or replacement fees that will be the responsibility of the individual/student organization
requesting the rights, not Emerson College.
1. Please be respectful. If you don't fulfill the terms of your License Agreement, you
may affect another student group or program's ability to secure rights for another
production.

2. If the play you wish to produce is not held by any of the play houses, you will need to find a copy
of the play to find the publisher’s information. Contact that publisher and hopefully they can help
refer you to the correct source for obtaining producing rights.

Student organizations are not permitted to publicize, rehearsal, or audition, without the purchasing of the
rights

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OBTAINING THEATRICAL RIGHTS/FILM SCREENING RIGHTS
To obtain the rights to produce a play or musical, complete the following steps:
1. Determine the space in which you plan to host your performance/film. You will then need to submit
a request through Spacebook or the Office of the Arts Venue Request form to reserve a space.
1. Please note, spaces are on a first come first serve basis so reserve a space in advance
2. Bright Family Screening Room (Eligible for Film Screens Reservation Days/Times -
Monday, 5:00pm-11:00pm: Reserved for non-public, student-sponsored uses, managed by
Student Affairs)
1. Determine which agency holds the rights for the performance/film you are interested in producing.
Each agency has a catalog that will indicate each show’s fee. Each company has its own process
and policy by which rights are secured.
● For independent playwrights, please contact SEAL to draft a contract even if you are not
paying for the rights/license a contract must be signed
● If the film you wish to screen is not held by any of the play or film houses, please contact
SEAL for further direction.
1. Once you have determined the rightsholder of the play, you must contact SEAL to secure the
rights. Generally, the following information is needed in order to provide a royalty quote:
o Performance/Film title, dates, locations
o Company that holds the rights/link to purchase rights
o Name student organization
o Seating capacity of venue
o Ticket Prices - (Free admission still requires the purchase of rights)
o Number of performances/film screenings
o Script materials (if applicable)
2. SEAL will receive either confirmation or denial of the rights application and contact the student
organization with next steps.
o With confirmation of rights, student organizations will need to submit a purchase request to
finalize rights payment.
o With denial of rights application, student organizations should explore alternative

Below are the major play/musical publishing houses:
● Concord Theatricals -
https://www.concordtheatricals.com/
● Dramatist Play Service -
http://www.dramatists.com/
● Drama Source - http://www.dramasource.com/
● Dramatic Publishing -
http://www.dramaticpublishing.com/
● Musical Theatre International -
http://www.mtishows.com/
● Theatrical Rights Worldwide-
http://www.theatricalrights.com/
● Not sure who holds the rights to the show you
wish to present? Check at
http://www.musicals101.com/alphinde.htm
Below are the major film screening sites:
● Criterion - https://www.criterion.com/
● Motion Picture Licensing Corporation -
https://www.mplc.org/
● Swank Motion Pictures - https://www.swank.com

For Theatrical productions, film, or media screenings, rights are required. Any organization or
student(s) who do not obtain the rights for any theatrical performance or film screening could
lose the privilege of hosting film screenings or theatrical performances as determined by SEAL.

The use of an individual’s streaming service to screen a film or television show for a public
screening is prohibited. Streaming services tend to have terms and conditions that only allow
personal and noncommercial use of its materials, so public screenings are not allowed. Virtual
“watch parties” where individuals access the watch party via their personal streaming service
account is permitted.

16
 MEDIA SAFETY GUIDELINES
Below are guidelines for use of media recording for organization from the Department of Visual and
Media Arts (VMA) and Student Engagement and Leadership (SEAL). Students must commit to being an
active participant in maintaining and growing a culture of safety and accountability in their organizations.
Film/Photo/Media Releases: All actors/subjects being recorded on media, must sign a Release giving you
permission to use their likeness. If it is necessary to gain approval from someone on the spot, students
must have the subject state on camera - their name, the date, contact information, and their permission
for you to use their likeness. Digital/electronic signatures are acceptable.
Working with Child Actors and subjects who are children. All child actors must be accompanied by
guardians at all times. Prior to the first production day they must sign all necessary documents including
release form and Emerson child actor contract.
Guidelines
● Nudity, Partial Nudity, Sexually Explicit Content: Performers must be made aware of nudity, partial
nudity or sexually explicit content before they arrive on set. In advance of the shoot, the performer
must sign a photo release and write in a description of the required nudity or sexual content. For
example, “I am aware that this role entails a scene where I will remove my shirt.”
● NO Fire, Pyrotechnics, or Weapons: Fire, explosives, weapons or simulated weapons of any kind
including guns and knives are not allowed in any public areas without police detail presence. This
includes but not limited to toy guns or knives or simulated bomb elements. Use of toys or simulated
weapons may be allowed inside your own private residence but you must gain prior approval by the
VMA Director of Production Safety
● NO Water Immersion Scenes: Scenes that depict swimming, full immersion in water, or filming
within any body of water (lake, river, creek, ocean, pond, swimming pool, dock, pier, etc.) are not
allowed.
● NO Rooftops, Balconies, Bridges, or other High Altitudes: Any scenes taking place on rooftops,
balconies, fire escapes or any such elevated property are not allowed.
● NO Physical Restraints: Any use of rope, tape, zip-tie, or handcuffs as actual restraints is not
allowed. This includes restraints to breathing such as gags, ropes around the throat, or plastic bags
over an actor’s head. Any restraint must be entirely simulated and never in danger of actual
restraint.
● NO Moving Vehicles or Subways: No filming inside subways or on subway platforms. No filming
inside buses, trains, cars, trucks, taxis, boats or other moving vehicles. Limited use of a cell phone
camera, or small DSLR may be allowed within a private moving vehicle provided the person
operating a camera/recording device is NOT the driver and that no one is giving any instructions, or
directions, to the driver while the vehicle is in motion.
● NO Actual Cigarettes, Alcohol, Drugs: Actors depicted smoking or drinking must always use
non-harmful prop substances as stand-ins. For any depiction of cigarettes, commercial herbal
cigarettes must be used and the area must be well ventilated or outside. Depiction of alcohol is
allowed using commercial bottles, but must use nonalcoholic liquid.
● NO Hazardous Locations: No filming at locations that are dangerous, structurally unsound or
subject to extreme weather conditions. Some examples include abandoned buildings, warehouses,
factories, cliffs, mountains, deserts or other similar locations.
● NO Illegal Activity: If you plan to record media at a live event, such as a music performance,
demonstration, or protest, you must gain approval from your instructor. If approved, students must

17
 scrupulously avoid participating in, assisting, directing or controlling in any way the activity in
question.
● Exits: When filming in a location, always identify exits and do not block any exits in any way.
Media Recording in your Residence.
If you live in on-campus housing, you must have the permission of your roommate(s) to record in your
shared space. For all residential suite productions, you should email your roommates consent to
Filming_hre@emerson.edu
If your residence is an off-campus apartment or condo, you are not permitted to film in any common
areas, such as stairwells, without the written approval of your landlord.
Media Recording inside Private Locations
Location agreements are required in advance for media recording in a private location. In these
situations, students must gain approval by the owner - their name, the date, contact information, and
approval. You can obtain insurance through the VMA portal for these private locations.
Media Recording on Campus:
No filming or media acquisition is allowed on Emerson property without permission from your instructor
and the department where you intend to film or record media. You can submit your location requests on
the VMA Portal.
Media Recording on Public Property:
For public property locations you may need to obtain permits from city or governmental agencies. Such
processes may take up weeks or months.
For all public locations in the city of Boston or DCR Properties (Department of Conservation and
Recreation) you need to contact the Government's Relations Office at Emerson.
Small productions with minimal cast and crew (less than 10 people total) are allowed to proceed without a
permit for productions during the day time.

18
 PROPS AND WEAPONS POLICY
Emerson College encourages its students’ creative endeavors, and strives to make sure its students are
performing in an environment that is as free from risk as possible. This document provides students and
their advisors with protocols for use of prop weapons in theatrical or film productions by recognized
student organizations at Emerson College. No document can cover every circumstance, as the specific
needs for each production can vary widely. This document seeks to outline issues common to the vast
majority of theatrical combat and/or “threat”-based scenarios that use prop weaponry, as well as to
provide you with resources to obtain, use and care for prop weaponry.

Defining Prop/Stage Weapons

A prop weapon, or simulated weapon, is a weapon manufactured to give the illusion of authenticity
without the ability to cause harm, compared to how its “real” counterpart might. Prop weapons should
always be treated as real weapons, as they may still be capable of causing injury. Moreover, the prop
may be perceived as real, and thus a cause for alarm, by an outside observer who happens upon your
rehearsal or film shoot.

It is also important to recognize that everyday objects, which may include but are not limited to, pencils,
lamps, rolling pins, etc., may also become weapons when staging combat scenes, and the protocols
regarding weapon safety must still be employed.

Not Permitted at Emerson College

● Real weapons, including firearms, blade and blunt weapons, manufactured with the intent to
cause harm
● Disabled guns (defined as guns initially manufactured to fire ANY type of projectile that have been
modified to an inoperable state)
● Any sharp metal blades for a fight scene or struggle
● Live ammunition, blank firing cartridges and loads, paintball or airsoft pellets, or anything else
designed to be capable of being fired
● Cap guns (considered a pyro-technic)
● Storing prop weapons in your residential hall/off campus apartment

Please note that Performing Arts/Emerson Stage’s Props Department does not loan out prop weapons.
You will need to purchase or rent any and all prop weapons for your production - a few vendors are
recommended at the end of this document.

You may not use prop weaponry without College approval. To obtain approval to use your
proposed prop weapon, you must follow the steps below.

Process for Notification/Approval – Step by Step Guide

1. Discuss your interest in utilizing a prop weapon with your cast, crew and advisor at least 2 months
in advance of the performance – earlier is better! Determine which member of your production
team, preferably a Stage Manager or Props Lead, will serve as the Student Contact in charge of
ensuring proper safety practices with the prop.
2. Review the Safety Guide to Using Prop Weapons (below in this document) with every member of
your cast, crew and with your organization advisor(s).
3. Please submit the Prop Weapon Usage Application to the Director of Student Engagement &
Leadership (SEAL) at least three (3) weeks in advance of the date the prop weapon is scheduled
to be used. It may sometimes take up to 10 business days for the College to complete review your
materials. Please plan ahead.
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 4. The SEAL Director has authority to approve or disapprove use of prop weaponry. If they review
and approve your proposed use of prop weaponry, they will instruct your Student Contact
responsible for the prop weapon to set up an appointment with the College Police Department
(ECPD) for visual inspection of the prop weapon. You must give at least 24 hours’ notice to ECPD
before expecting to meet with them.
*Please note only the Student Contact should contact ECPD and they must present the
prop in person at the time of the appointment.
5. The designated member of the ECPD will visually inspect the prop weapon to determine that it is
considered safe for use in the designated context. ECPD has authority to approve or disapprove
use of prop weaponry.
6. ECPD will notify the Director of SEAL of the results of its review. If the ECPD approves use of the
prop weaponry, the Director of SEAL will notify the appropriate building managers and you may
begin your safe use of the prop weapon for the activity proposed.
7. Should your vision/intended use/plans of the prop weapon change, the initial proposal and
approval is revoked and you will need to begin the process from the start. No exceptions will be
made to this.
8. Failure to handle the prop weapon before, during and after the review use in a responsible and
safe manner may result in disciplinary action under the Student Code of Conduct.

Please note, ECPD must physically inspect the actual prop in its performance-ready state. This means
that if you are renting theatrical weaponry, you will need to rent the item(s) BEFORE you know whether
the College will approve its use. It is therefore advisable to rent only from reliable theatrical prop weapon
suppliers, such as those listed below, to decrease the likelihood of its being rejected.

Safety Guide to Using Prop Weapons

Prop weapons can cause unsafe situations and harm if they are not used and cared for correctly. Please
use the guidelines below to ensure the safety of all project participants.

Safety Common Sense

● The first rule of safety: when in doubt, ask. Understand what makes a rehearsal or performance
safe and do your best to act in a professional manner. If you ever have any questions about
safety, contact SEAL, the Emerson Stage Props Director, or the VMA Director of Production
Safety.
● Safety begins long before your rehearsal or performance. It is the responsibility of each member
of your team to educate themselves and one another about safety. Arrive to rehearsals and
performances on time, well rested, and healthy.
● Accidents are caused by negligence, lack of awareness, and lack of foresight. It is important to
stay alert and understand potential dangers. Work toward anticipating safety hazards ahead of
time.
● Follow your instincts. If it feels unsafe, it probably is. And if you think something is unsafe or
someone is acting in an unsafe manner, say something. By calling attention to the safety hazard,
it gives your Stage Managers, Director, crew members and fellow actors a chance to reevaluate
the situation.
● Safety must be your first concern, making a great piece of art or media is second. Everyone wants
the production to be great, but it is never worth risking the injury or death of anyone involved. Take
care of one another.

General Prop Weapon Use

● Treat all prop weapons as real weapons. Handle all prop guns as if loaded (even if it is a wooden
cut-out). Treat all prop knives as sharp. Be especially conscious of the point on bladed weapons,

20
 as they can still cause penetrative injury even though they’re dull. Prop weapons can cause
severe harm or worse and should be treated with respect.
● Prop weapons must always be locked behind two locks when not in use in rehearsal or
performance - for example, a small locked box containing the prop inside a locked locker or
closet. You may consider using the lockers on the fourth floor of Paramount or on the fifth floor of
Tufte.
● When transporting your prop weapon make sure it is not exposed. You must keep it inside of a
lock box inside of a bag during transport.
● It is crucial that your prop is cared for and maintained. Always inspect weaponry before and after
every rehearsal and performance. Perform regular cleaning and maintenance on the props as
recommended by the supplier. Do not use a damaged prop.

Rehearsal and Performance

Do not attempt to work beyond your capabilities – pushing artistic boundaries is what school is about, as
this should be a safe place to experiment, fail and grow. However, do not let that attitude prevail over
proper safety measures – make your production, LITERALLY a "safe place to fail"! If you don't know how
to make an illusion safe, seek out appropriate help, which could include hiring a professional fight director
or stunt coordinator; working with personnel who have training and experience; and/or finding a creative
solution to the story-telling needs that doesn’t include a prop weapon.

● At the start of rehearsal, you must hold a safety meeting where all individuals involved in the
production are informed that there will be a prop weapon in use, which individuals will be handling
it, and how it will be used. If any plan changes, you must hold another safety meeting to update
the cast and crew.
● If a prop weapon in your performance is used in a threatening or combative manner, a fight call
must take place before every performance with all cast and crew involved in the scene.
● A notice must be posted on entrances and exits of any room where a prop weapon is in use. Be
sure to take the posting down at the end of each rehearsal or shoot. If you are rehearsing in an
unconventional rehearsal space and a prop weapon is in use, make efforts to ensure that persons
outside of the space cannot see or hear your rehearsal, so as not to cause undue alarm.
● Consult with your producer or production manager to determine any need for notices to be posted
during live performances.
● When a prop weapon is not in use, keep it securely and safely locked away at all times..
● When the prop weapon is needed, the person designated as the responsible party must hand the
weapon to the actor. When the stage action with the prop is complete, the actor must immediately
return the prop weapon to the responsible party and secure it until it is needed again. The prop
must not be preset on a prop table or left on a prop table after use. It must either be worn by the
responsible party or promptly locked up.
● While a prop weapon is in use, the user should never point the prop weapon at anyone or
themselves. While staging, never aim a weapon directly at the face, head, or body of a performer
or directly at audience members regardless of the prop’s capabilities.
● Always aim off line, either up – or downstage of the “victim”.
● Beware of disarms; when dropping a prop from a large height or from repetitive drops the prop
can become damaged. Do not let the disarmed weapon become a trip-hazard later in the fight. Do
not let a disarmed weapon slide towards the audience.
● Never leave a prop weapon unattended, including on prop tables. If you need advising on how to
properly store your prop weapon, please contact SEAL, the Emerson Stage Props Director, or the
VMA Director of Production Safety.
● At no time should there ever be any horseplay with a prop weapon.

21
Emergency Procedure
Despite careful preparation and steps to minimize risks as much as possible, accidents may still occur.

In the event of an emergency:

Call the Emerson College Police Department’s emergency line:
● When calling from a cell phone while on campus: 617-824-8888
● When calling from a campus phone: x8888
Call 911 when calling from an off-campus location

Make your call from a safe location, if possible. Remain calm. Speak slowly and clearly. Do not hang up
the phone until the dispatcher tells you to.

Be prepared to give the following information:

● Location of the emergency – give clear directions, street address, building, and room.
● Type and severity of the emergency:
o Fire – type and size of fire.
o Medical – type of illness or injury, cause, number of victims.
o Police/crime – type of crime, description of suspects and their direction of travel.
o Chemical/hazardous materials – quantity and type of substances involved, hazards and
injuries.
● When the incident occurred.
● Your name, location you’re calling from, and phone number.

Resources
The most important thing to remember to create a safe atmosphere for yourself and others to work in is,
“when in doubt, ask”. Please use the list of the following people and vendors as resources for your
project.

Process Resource Rental Resources

Jennifer Nival Preferred Arms (swords, knives, prop guns)
Director - Office of Student Engagement & Robb Hunter - www.preferredarms.com
Leadership
jennifer_nival@emerson.edu Rogue Steel (swords, daggers, shields)
Neil Massey - www.roguesteel.com
Personnel Resources
Ted Hewlett Centre Firearms (mostly deal with blank-firing
Acting Faculty - Department of Performing Arts weapons, but have non-firing models as
ted_hewlett@emerson.edu well) - www.centrefirearms.com

Ryan Bates Purchasing Resources:

Props Director - Department of Performing Arts
ryan_bates@emerson.edu
Homa Sarabi
Director, Production Safety and Sustainability -
Department of Visual and Media Arts
homa_sarabi@emerson.edu
Knighthawk Armory:
http://www.latex-weaponry.com/
Western Stage Props:
http://www.westernstageprops.com/
Blueguns: http://www.blueguns.com/

22
 PACKAGE PICK UP POLICY
Process

● All packages will be delivered to the Campus Life Suite, 120 Boylston Street, Walker 411.
Packages are not sent to personal addresses, student, or advisor on-campus addresses without
prior communication with SEAL directly.
● A Campus Life Staff member will email the president/primary contact of the organization when the
package has been delivered. Anyone from your organization can pick up the package. They will
sign the package out by Campus Life front desk staff. Please have them bring their Emerson ID.
● All packages must be picked up from Campus Life (Monday-Friday 9am-5pm) within 5 business
days of when you receive your package email.
● You will get a reminder email after three business days. If packages are not picked up by a
member of the organization they belong to, said organization will lose purchasing privileges until
packages have been removed.
○ If packages are consistently picked up late by an organization, it could result in a loss of
purchasing privileges for the remainder of the semester or academic year.
● All purchases must be approved and purchased through SEAL and/or your advisor who has a
Purchase Card. Reimbursements will not be permitted unless approved by SEAL.

Procedure

● Come to Walker 411 Monday - Friday between 9am-5pm to pick up your org’s package(s) within
the 5 business days window from when you received your package email.
● Ask the staff member at the front desk for your package and the organization that you are picking
up for.
● Please bring your Emerson ID and show it to the front desk staff member. They will retrieve your
package for you.
● If the order that you are picking up is larger/heavier, carts from the residence halls and the
mailroom may be available to transport items.
● If you have time sensitive items, please contact SEAL as soon as possible.
● Inform SEAL of any damaged items in your order. We will reach out to the vendor the order is
associated with to either get refunded or a replacement item.

Storage of Packages

● You can talk to your advisor or the staff in Campus Life to determine a storage location. Please
note that storage in the Campus Center is full at this time. We encourage organizations to share
space with other organizations who currently have storage on campus as well.
● If you don’t have an office/storage/locker, we will keep the packages in Campus Life. However, we
don’t have much space so if you get a package notification please try to pick it up as soon as
possible within the 5 business days window.

23
 COMMUNITY STANDARDS
The College's mission is to educate students to assume positions of leadership in communication and the
arts and to advance scholarship and creative work that brings innovation, depth, and diversity to these
disciplines. Our mission can only be met when we have an environment that contributes to scholarship
and our creative work.

As part of a community of artists and innovators we will work together to establish an. environment built
on trust and mutual respect. With this in mind it is an expectation that all Students know and honor the
following Rights and Responsibilities.

Rights:
A. The right to participate in the open exchange of ideas and freedom of expression. Understanding
this right does not exempt you from the consequences of your actions.
B. The right to be secure from unreasonable or unauthorized search or seizure.
C. The right to reasonable privacy, including the privacy of personal information.
D. The right to a fair Student Conduct Process.
E. The right to bring forward a complaint if one has a good faith reason to believe that it is more likely
than not that the rights or responsibilities derived from this statement have been violated.

Responsibilities:
A. The responsibility to respect and equally treat all members of the College community in a civil
manner.
B. The responsibility to know and follow College policies as well as federal, state and local laws and
comply with them as required.
C. The responsibility to respect the confidentiality of personal information about members of the
Emerson College community and to preserve the right of privacy.
D. The responsibility to recognize that student and student organization/club behavior reflects upon
the individuals involved and upon the College community.

Office of Equal Opportunity (OEO)

Emerson College is committed to creating an educational and work environment free of Discrimination,
Harassment & Sexual Violence. The Office of Equal Opportunity (OEO) is available to address conduct
and concerns reported to the office. OEO can provide support resources and discuss what options may
be available if the impacted individual is interested in addressing the conduct.

If you have been impacted by discrimination, harassment or sexual violence, the Office of Equal
Opportunity (oeo@emerson.edu; 617-824-8999) is available to meet with you and discuss options to
address concerns and to provide you with support resources. If you would like to speak with someone
confidentially, please contact the Healing & Advocacy Collective, the Emerson Wellness Center, or the
Center for Spiritual Life.

24
 INCLUSIVE PRACTICES
As a student organization that is deeply connected to Emerson College, you have a responsibility to the
mission of the institution. It is vital that all members of the greater Emerson community help to create an
inclusive, equitable and just environment - an environment where all voices are heard and their
contributions are appreciated and valued. We have a shared responsibility to ensure our student
organizations are inclusive and equitable for all.

As a student organization, you’ll want to consider ideals of justice, equity, and inclusion and the impact it
has on the community and your organization.

Areas of growth and development

● Creating an inclusive recruitment process
● Diversify your events, ideas, and program implementation
● Create access and equity for all leadership roles and general membership
● Foster an anti-racist environment
● Understand and decrease participation barriers

Accessibility
Please consider accessibility in how you plan and lead your community. If you are a student who needs
accommodations, please contact Student Accessibility Services (SAS), formerly the Disability Services
Office. Emerson College strives to create an inclusive campus environment for students, allowing them to
have full access to courses, programs, and activities during their time at Emerson College. Please
consider wearing a mask to meetings and programs to protect those who are still at risk.

It is also important to consider digital accessibility when creating programs, services, flyers, social media
posts, etc. Accessible digital content is that which all people, regardless of disability or impairment, can
perceive, navigate, and use with equivalent ease. This content can include websites, electronic
documents, desktop and mobile apps, course content containing images, audio, or video, Zoom
meetings, and more. Accessible content provides all people the opportunity to acquire the same
information, engage in the same interactions, and enjoy the same services. You can find accessibility
guides here. In addition, student leaders are encouraged to review this article from the Perkins School for
the Blind to learn more about writing alternative text and image descriptions for social media posts.

Religious and Spiritual Diversity

Please consider religious and spiritual diversity in how you plan and lead in your community. Take a look
at the multi-faith calendar at the beginning of each term (which can be found here) and see if any of your
meetings or events might conflict with religious holidays. While it may be impossible to avoid all holidays
altogether, please avoid scheduling important or mandatory events on work-restricted holidays which are
noted on the multi-faith calendar with "no work" (or if that's not possible, provide alternate options). You
may also find it beneficial at the beginning of the semester to ask members of your community if there are
upcoming religious observances or spiritual practices that might impact their participation and take those
into account in your planning. Click here for more extended guidance on requesting and supporting the
religious and spiritual practices of our community.

25
 Massachusetts Hazing Law
COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS
GENERAL LAWS 269:17, 18, 19

269:17 HAZING; ORGANIZING OR PARTICIPATING; HAZING DEFINED.

Section 17. Whoever is a principal organizer or participant in the crime of hazing, as defined herein, shall
be punished by a fine of not more than three thousand dollars or by imprisonment in a house of
correction for not more than one, [sic] year, or both such fine and imprisonment.

The term ``hazing'' as used in this section and in sections eighteen and nineteen, shall mean any conduct
or method of initiation into any student organization, whether on public or private property, which willfully
or recklessly endangers the physical or mental health of any student or other person. Such conduct shall
include whipping, beating, branding, forced calisthenics, exposure to the weather, forced consumption of
any food, liquor, beverage, drug or other substance, or any other brutal treatment or forced physical
activity which is likely to adversely affect the physical health of any such student or other person, or which
subjects such student or other person to extreme mental stress, including extended deprivation of sleep
or rest or extended isolation.

Notwithstanding any other provisions of this section to the contrary, consent shall not be available as a
defense to any prosecution under this action.

269:18 FAILURE TO REPORT HAZING.

Section 18. Whoever knows that another person is the victim of hazing as defined in section seventeen
and is at the scene of such crime shall, to the extent that such person can do so without danger or peril to
himself or others, report such crime to an appropriate law enforcement official as soon as reasonably
practicable. Whoever fails to report such crime shall be punished by a fine of not more than one thousand
dollars.

269:19 Copy of secs. 17-19; issuance to students and student groups, teams and
organizations; report

Section 19. Each institution of secondary education and each public and private institution of post
secondary education shall issue to every student group, student team or student organization which is
part of such institution or is recognized by the institution or permitted by the institution to use its name or
facilities or is known by the institution to exist as an unaffiliated student group, student team, or student
organization, a copy of this section and sections seventeen and eighteen; provided, however, that an
institution's compliance with this section's requirements that an institution issue copies of this section and
sections seventeen and eighteen to unaffiliated student groups, teams, or organizations shall not
constitute evidence of the institution's recognition or endorsement of said unaffiliated student groups,
teams or organizations.

Each such group, team or organization shall distribute a copy of this section and sections seventeen and
eighteen to each of its members, plebes, pledges or applicants for membership. It shall be the duty of
each such group, team or organization, acting through its designated officer, to deliver annually, to the
institution an attested acknowledgement stating that such group, team or organization has received a
copy of this section and said sections seventeen and eighteen, that each of its member, plebes, pledges,
or applicants has received a copy of sections seventeen and eighteen,
and that such group, team or organization understands and agrees to comply with the provisions of this
section and sections seventeen and eighteen.

26
Each institution of secondary education and each public or private institution of post-secondary education
shall, at least annually, before or at the start of enrollment, deliver to each person who enrolls as a
full-time student in such institution a copy of this section and sections seventeen and eighteen.

Each institution of secondary education and each public or private institution of post-secondary education
shall file, at least annually, a report with the regents of higher education and in the case of secondary
institutions, the board of education, certifying that such institution has complied with its responsibility to
inform student groups, teams or organizations and to notify each full time student enrolled by it of the
provisions of this section and sections seventeen and eighteen and also certifying that said institution has
adopted a disciplinary policy with regard to the organizers and participants of hazing, and that such policy
has been set forth with appropriate emphasis in the student handbook or similar means of communication
the institution's policies to its students. The board of regents and, in the case of secondary institutions,
the board of education shall promulgate regulations governing the content and frequency of such reports,
and shall forthwith report to the attorney general any such institution which fails to make such report.

27
 EmConnect
EmConnect is an online platform where Emerson students, faculty, and staff can find information
regarding student organizations. EmConnect provides a platform for student engagement outside of the
classroom. EmConnect is used to showcase your organization, your events and programs, and increase
membership. EmConnect is where all student organizations will manage their finances by submitting
purchase requests, annual budget requests, and appeals.
Putting your information on EmConnect helps make your organization more accessible to more people.
Everyone with an Emerson email will be able to view your organization. Being transparent with what
you’re doing is a key factor in the success of organizations.
Members List: Your roster is important to keep up-to-date, to make sure the right people have the
right levels of permission they need in your organization. Your roster will show you a list of all your
organization's members, leadership positions, and information about your organization's primary
contact. The primary contact is person designated to be the main point of contact for your
organization. All of your members should be listed on your organization’s roster to easily be able
to send messages, event reminders, and notifications about News posts.

Co-Curricular Transcripts: All students on EmConnect have access to download their very own
Co-Curricular Transcript. The transcript outlines all involvement, both past and present, including
any leadership positions held, community service hours, events attended and more. The transcript
is completely customisable.To access the transcript, students should select the small circle at the
top right corner of the page. From the drop down menu, students select “On-Campus
Involvement”. From there, students can customize their transcript to best fit their needs.

Community Service: Community service is not specific to Fraternity and Sorority Life, all
students have access to record community service hours on EmConnect. You can record all of
your community service hours through EmConnect. Your service hours can be listed on your
Co-Curricular Transcript.

Peer Shout-outs: Students now have the opportunity to share praise of the work of their peers.
To submit a peer shout-out, use this form and look for the shout-out on EmConnect’s home page
within a few days! Each semester, a winner will be chosen through random draw to win a prize!

Events: Events are the perfect opportunity to showcase what your organization is up to. Advertise
your upcoming events, auditions, and more!

News: The News feature in EmConnect is your very own blog to post information about your
organization, upcoming events and auditions, and more. When publishing a News article, you can
notify all of your members on your roster to remind them to take a look!

Event Pass: Event Pass is a unique code that allows you to easily check-in people to your event.
For more information about accessing your Event Pass and using the Check-In App, please visit
this Event Pass 101 document. Note: you will need to have an event created on EmConnect to
retrieve the Event Code necessary to use this feature.

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 Leadership Development
Who can be a leader? Anyone! A Leader is a person who has a vision, and a drive and commitment to
achieve that vision. Effective leaders possess a clear vision of what they want to achieve. They can
articulate this vision to others, creating a shared sense of purpose and direction.
Leaders have the capacity to influence others, encouraging them to take specific actions, make
decisions, or adopt certain behaviors. Leadership is the process of guiding, influencing, and motivating
individuals or a group of people to achieve a common goal or vision.
Characteristics of a Leader:
1. Effective Communication: Being able to articulate ideas clearly and listen actively to others is
crucial for a student leader. Good communication helps in conveying goals, motivating team
members, and resolving conflicts.
2. Emotional Intelligence & Empathy: Understanding and empathizing with the needs and feelings
of fellow students foster a supportive and inclusive environment. Emotional intelligence enables
student leaders to handle emotions effectively, both theirs and those of others.
3. Time Management & Prioritization: Balancing academics, extracurricular activities, and
leadership responsibilities can be challenging. Successful student leaders need to manage their
time efficiently to meet their commitments.
4. Decision-Making & Problem-Solving: Leaders must be capable of making informed and
responsible decisions. This involves considering various perspectives, gathering information, and
evaluating potential consequences. Inevitably, challenges will arise, and leaders must be adept at
analyzing problems and finding creative solutions.
5. Teamwork & Collaboration: Student leaders often work with diverse groups of individuals.
Building and nurturing a cohesive team is essential for achieving common goals. Good leaders
learn that being able to mediate conflicts and foster productive dialogue between conflicting
parties is essential for maintaining harmony within the group.
6. Vision & Goal Setting: Student leaders should have a clear vision for what they want to achieve
and set realistic and achievable goals to move towards that vision.
7. Resilience & Perseverance: Leadership roles can be demanding, and setbacks may occur.
Resilience helps student leaders bounce back from challenges and stay committed to their
objectives. Flexibility and adaptability are crucial as situations and circumstances may change
unexpectedly.
8. Ethical Leadership: Leading with integrity, honesty, and fairness is essential for gaining the trust
and respect of peers and mentors.

How to Enhance your Skills:

One priority of SEAL is to provide opportunities for students to learn various leadership skills through
workshops, professional development, events, and more. Engage in meaningful dialogue with your team,
including both your leadership team and general members. Participate in SEAL trainings to stay
up-to-date with leadership skills. You may also visit and partner with various campus resources, like the
Career Center or Office of Sustainability.

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 REMINDERS
Student Organization Elections
● All organizations are required to hold elections based on their constitution
● New leadership must be determined before the end of the Spring semester for the next academic
year
● Documents and information about organizations must be transfer to new leadership for a smooth
transition
Usage of Emerson College Name/Logo
● Emerson College designated graphic elements, colors, and typefaces should be used consistently
in all presentations.
● Use of college seals, logos or marks on materials must be approved by your advisor, SEAL, and
College Communications office.
● About Emerson College marks, they are the exclusive property of Emerson College, with use
protected by law.
o Must be reproduced from official artwork
o Must be clearly legible at all times
o Cannot be altered or redrawn in any way
o Are designed to be used as one unit
o Letterforms must never be separated from the accompanying marks

Reminders
● All student organizations must reactivate every semester via EmConnect
● All student organizations must have a faculty and staff member
● All student organization must follow all policies and procedures within this handbook
● Theatrical/film rights must be approved/purchase before publicizing event
● All contracts are signed by the Director of Student Engagement and Leadership (SEAL)
● Reimbursements are not guarantee and will be limited this year
● Failure to meet guidelines can result in losing organizational privileges

If you have any questions or concerns you can

contact:
Student Engagement and Leadership at
SEAL@emerson.edu

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