Support Services

Department of Public Safety

http://www.rockford.edu/community/campus/security/

The Rockford University Public Safety Department is committed to providing a safe and secure environment for every member of our campus community. The department can be reached by dialing “4060” from any on-campus phone or 815-226-4060 from any phone.

RU Department of Public Safety, staffed seven days a week, 24 hours a day, currently operates with two full-time armed public safety officers, one part-time armed public safety officer, five full-time unarmed public safety officers, and two part-time unarmed public safety officers. The department has a long-standing relationship with the Rockford Police Department, the Rockford Fire Department, and the Winnebago County Sheriff's Office, which also includes the city's emergency medical and ambulance services. RU Department of Public Safety works in conjunction with the Residence Life staff and assists in the event of any emergency or problem.

The LiveSafe app serves as our primary method of communicating information about emergency events and weather-related closures happening on campus. This app will allow us to send you emails, text messages, and push notifications (RU Alerts) if there is an emergency or weather event (snow closure, tornado warning, etc.) on campus and is the best way to stay safe and informed. The LiveSafe app includes several additional safety features such as the ability to:

  • Report suspicious activity to campus public safety
  • Share your location with emergency services in the event of an incident
  • Request a SafeWalk to virtually walk with a family member or friend for an extra layer of security when you’re alone on campus.

Student Administrative Services (SAS)

http://www.rockford.edu/community/sas/

The SAS office is Rockford University’s “one-stop shop” for assistance with financial aid, registration, student accounts and student employment questions and concerns. SAS representatives are cross-trained to assist you; specialists in each area are also available. SAS is located on the first floor of Nelson Hall.

Student Employment

http://www.rockford.edu/community/humanresources/studentopenings/

Assistance is available with on- and off-campus employment. Positions can be secured as part of financial aid packages or to provide hands-on experiences in a particular field of study. Contact the Human Resources office at 815-226-5026 for more information, or visit the University website.

Title IX and Violence Against Women Act (VAWA)

Rockford University is committed to creating and maintaining an educational environment free from all forms of sex discrimination, including sexual misconduct. Any act involving sexual harassment, violence, coercion, and intimidation will not be tolerated. Specifically, Rockford University strictly prohibits the offenses of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking. These acts have a real impact on the lives of survivors/victims. They not only violate a person’s feelings of trust and safety, but they can also substantially interfere with a student’s education. It is the policy of Rockford University that, upon learning that an act of sexual misconduct has taken place, immediate action will be taken to address the situation.

Rockford University encourages the reporting of sexual misconduct that is prompt and accurate. This allows the University community to quickly respond to allegations and offer immediate support to the survivor/victim. Rockford University is committed to protecting the confidentiality of survivors/victims, and works closely with students who wish to obtain confidential assistance regarding an incident of sexual misconduct. The staff at Lang Wellness Center (nurses and counselors) are professionals permitted by law to offer confidential services. Those who do not maintain the privilege to offer confidentiality are expected to keep reports private to the extent permitted under the law and University policy. This means that they may have to report to University officials, but will not broadcast the information beyond what is required by law and policy. All allegations will be investigated promptly and thoroughly.

In addition to Title IX concerns, the Office of Compliance and Title IX assists students and employees with navigating harassment, discrimination and equity concerns. The Office is located in the Burpee Student Center, Student Life Suite, and at www.rockford.edu/titleix.

It is the collective responsibility of all members of the Rockford University community to foster a safe and secure campus environment. In an effort to promote this environment and prevent acts of sexual misconduct from occurring, the University engages in ongoing prevention and awareness education programs. All incoming students (and employees) are required to participate in these programs, and all members of the RU community are encouraged to participate throughout the year in ongoing campaigns and trainings focused on the prevention of sexual misconduct, domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking on campus.