Student Services

Information on services offered to students at NCCC, as well as co-curricular, extra-curricular activities.

Student Services

The Vice President of Student Services supports and assists students in the achievement of personal and academic success with an emphasis on student development, advocacy, and the Student Code of Conduct–rights and responsibilities. The office oversees a wide and diversified range of student services which are an important part of college life and some are listed below under the various offices that report to the Vice President of Student Services.  Some of the student services listed below are not under the direct authority of the Vice President for Student Services and are referenced accordingly.

Academic Advisement

Student Development coordinates new student academic advisement and provides academic advisement to non-matriculated students.

Education is an individualized endeavor and academic advising is an essential educational service. The philosophy “let each become all that he/she is capable of being” underlies the concept of good academic advisement. Academic planning involves complex decisions that take into consideration student individuality, interests, abilities, study habits and academic and career goals. It requires the guidance of a knowledgeable advisor who provides accurate information on academic policies, procedures and curricular requirements. Through the academic planning process, the advisor provides direction toward the realization of the student’s personal goals and the enhancement of overall college experience.

Academic advisement is a professional complement to the teaching functions of the faculty at Niagara County Community College. Faculty are the primary agents who deliver academic advisement. Every matriculated student (formally admitted to a degree or certificate program) is assigned a permanent academic advisor who is available for consultation on a regular basis. Student Development also assigns new academic advisors to students who change their curriculum or request a change of advisor. These faculty advisors assist students with appropriate course selection from their chosen field of study and serve as resource persons to guide students to other services available in the college. Additionally, they help students in gathering information regarding the transfer process to upper division schools and career opportunities.

It is the responsibility of each student to satisfy all degree/certificate requirements.

Academic Counseling

The college is genuinely concerned about student success. Student Development staff members have extensive experience working with the diversified student population attending NCCC. They are familiar with the decisions, situations and concerns college students face and they provide a variety of services to help students reach both academic and career goals.

Students who have academic progress concerns (e.g., not passing/attending classes, mid-term deficiency letters) can meet with a professional to discuss options for maintaining academic integrity. Available services include academic counseling, GPA estimates, filing academic appeals, help with Academic Foundation courses, and referrals to other college/community resources.

Athletic and Recreational Programs

Niagara County Community College Intercollegiate Athletics provides extremely skilled students with the opportunity to participate in the highest level of competition offered in the college athletic programs.

Niagara County Community College is a member of the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) and currently sponsors men’s intercollegiate sports programs in baseball, basketball, bowling, golf, lacrosse, soccer, and wrestling. Women’s intercollegiate sports programs include basketball, bowling, golf, lacrosse, soccer, softball and volleyball. The college prides itself in the excellent coaching staff it has maintained.

The Intramural and Recreation programs provide all students with the opportunity to participate in sports activities in a less formal atmosphere than intercollegiate athletics and offers group classes and personal training services.  Intramural offers the following activities, basketball, flag football, floor hockey, racquetball, volleyball, water aerobics, Zumba, and NCCC boot camp.  NCCC currently has a state-of-the art fitness center, recently renovated gymnasium, racquetball courts, swimming pool, outdoor basketball and tennis courts, and a par-fitness course that are available for use by students during designated hours.

Career Counseling

It is very common for students to be undecided about their career goals. Student Development professionals can assist with a process intended to increase students’ awareness of various career choices.

Student Development provides tools to help with career exploration including an online interest inventory (FOCUS2) that will assist students who wish to clarify their career goals and explore career options, an online library that houses thousands of videos of currently employed professionals talking about their jobs (CareerSpots), and access to interest assessment instruments (Strong, Myers-Briggs). Personalized appointments should be made with a Student Development professional to discuss the outcomes of any of these options.

Student Development also maintains a library of materials which provide information on job responsibilities, educational requirements, the type and amount of educational preparation necessary, salary levels, and employment projections. Students may view these materials in the office or borrow them for review at home.
 

Cooperative Education

One of NCCC’s goals is to prepare graduates to assume productive and rewarding careers. Cooperative Education (also known as Co-Op) is an elective career-related work experience taken for academic credit. It is a supervised work-based learning experience that enables students to combine academic work with on-the-job training. A Co-Op experience gives you the opportunity to learn by doing: you apply your academic skills and develop new proficiencies in a practical work setting.

Co-Op placements allow students the opportunity to earn academic credit and to test career interests while gaining valuable experience which enhances employability. Likewise, the employer has access to highly motivated, career-focused, reliable, and qualified employees. The program is based on partnerships between the college, its students, and the business community, including government and nonprofit organizations. We use the words “cooperative” emphasize these partnerships and “education” to stress the importance of this unique experience in meeting academic requirements.

Securing a job placement is competitive and students are not guaranteed an assignment. Employers are not guaranteed that the students will accept offers.

What is Cooperative Education?

Cooperative Education is a method of instruction that combines academic requirements and coursework with supervised work experiences. Students can apply what they learn at NCCC on the job and are exposed to new skills and knowledge at work which supplement the entire academic experience. In addition, students also receive academic credit and a grade. Co-Op courses are open to all majors.

Participation in the Co-Op program is available to students who demonstrate the ability to do above average academic work at NCCC. Once you accept a position, you are expected to remain in Co-Op until ALL requirements have been completed. It is recognized that extenuating circumstances may occasionally arise when you find it necessary to change employment or to resign from the Co-Op program. Resignations must be handled with extreme care and with prior approval from the Co-Op Coordinator. All resignations from Co-Op or from your academic program should be submitted immediately.

Student Benefits

What are the student benefits of participating in a Cooperative Education?

Here are some of the ways students can benefit:

• Learn new skills and enhance your understanding of the work environment
• Gain valuable career-related work experience
• Apply your classroom learning to practical situations
• Gain a better understanding of your coursework
• Explore your career options and help determine career direction
• Build a stronger application for transfer to another institution
• Increase your competitiveness in the workforce
• Network with other professionals in your chosen field

Who is eligible to participate in Cooperative Education?

Students must:

• Be matriculated in an academic program (associates degree or certificate) at NCCC
• Have completed of at least one semester (12 credit hours) with minimum GPA of 2.0 (transfer students must provide an official academic transcript to the Admissions for credit evaluation if they wish to participate in a Co-Op experience in their first semester at NCCC)
• Demonstrate an understanding of requisite skills, knowledge, and attitude of the position desired
• Be able to maintain positive work habits
• Maintain good academic progress toward completion of your chosen degree

Do students receive academic credit?

Students have the option of registering for Co-Op placements that require 40, 80, or 120 hours of work experience. Students establish performance objectives in conjunction with the work supervisor and the Co-Op Coordinator and the student’s overall performance is evaluated. One college credit is awarded for each 40 hours of work experience; the student receives a grade for the course.

• COE 140 - Project-Based Co-op I  
• COE 141 - Project-Based Co-op II  
• COE 180 - Enhanced Project-Based Co-op I  
• COE 181 - Enhanced Project-Based Co-op II  
• COE 198 - Experiential Cooperative Education I  
• COE 199 - Experiential Co-op II  

How do I enroll?

Call Student Development at 614-6490 to make an appointment to discuss Cooperative Education options.

Employer Information

What are the employer benefits of participating in a Cooperative Education?

• Cost-effective recruitment at no cost to employers
• Permits you to observe potential employees before making a commitment for permanent employment
• Lower training cost of new employees
• Continuous flow of pre-screened talent
• Implement special, cyclical, or seasonal projects
• Generates the flow of new ideas and the integration of new talent into your organization
• Encourages you to actively participate in and contribute to the education process

What are the employer responsibilities in Cooperative Education?

• Complete a Cooperative Education Placement Agreement
• Provide NCCC with a job description for posting
• Review resumes and select candidates to be interviewed
• Engage the student in meaningful employment related to his/her field of study and consistent with the student’s ability
• Provide appropriate training, supervision, mentoring, and where applicable, a fair wage

Employers are not obligated to hire anyone if candidates do not meet company needs; conversely, employers are free to hire multiple students if the candidates are impressive.

To enhance the student’s job performance and optimize learning, it is recommended that employers involve the student in frequent feedback and inquiry. In addition to these routine evaluations, the faculty liaison will schedule an on-site meeting and employers are asked to complete a brief Student Evaluation Form at the end of the work semester. After reviewing this form with the student, employers return it to Niagara County Community College where it becomes a part of the student’s Co-Op record.
  

How do I find out about participating?

Call Student Development at 614-6490 to set up an appointment to discuss Cooperative Education options.

Curriculum Change

Students are often unsure of their educational and vocational goals. As a result, they may decide to change their major before completing their education. Students who wish to change their curriculum are encouraged to contact Student Development to make an appointment. The student will have an opportunity to discuss the reasons for the change and its appropriateness in relationship to their goals. The Curriculum Change process is designed to accommodate currently matriculated students who wish to change their academic program. The application is also available on Banner Web under the Student Services and Financial Aid tab. Click on Student Records and select Curriculum Change Application.

The following programs have specific admission requirements and prerequisite coursework that must be completed to be eligible for a curriculum change: Animal Management, Massage Therapy, Medical Assistant, Physical Therapist Assistant, Radiologic Technology, and Surgical Technology. (See program requirements for detailed information) Students interested in the Nursing and Practical Nursing programs must submit an application through Admissions. 
 

International Student Services

Student Development is committed to supporting the needs of our international student population at NCCC. International students are a valuable asset to the NCCC community. They bring unique perspectives and experiences to the academic and social culture of the college and enhance the learning experiences of their academic peers. International students with questions or concerns about maintaining legal status in the United States, seeking authorization for off-campus employment, or any number of issues related to their international status should contact Student Development and make an appointment with a Designated School Official (DSO).

Multicultural Student Support Services

Support for multicultural students is available for providing leadership in developing, implementing and coordinating student support services and activities designed to assist the under-represented students’ personal development and academic achievement.

Staff provide guidance and counseling support to minority and international students in all areas relevant to their persistence and success at NCCC, including general adjustment, financial aid, and career selection. Particular emphasis is provided on assisting students who are academically under-prepared or come from backgrounds underrepresented at NCCC.

Staff promote and develop educational opportunities and enrichment activities to help facilitate the educational and personal growth of minority and international students through organized activities and collaborative efforts with other college units.

Staff assist college units and student organizations to create environments and programs which will attract, support and bolster minority students success and continuation at NCCC. Additionally, staff help academic units monitor the progress of students and makes appropriate referrals to Student Development and/or academic units.

Placement Testing

Student Development staff administer the college’s testing in reading, writing, and mathematics to ensure proper course placement. Questions pertaining to scheduling and test results should be directed to the Student Development Office.

Self-Help Workshops

Academic and personal growth opportunities in a variety of areas are offered by Student Development and the Wellness Center on campus. Seminar topics, dates and times are listed each semester in “The Unschedule” publication.

Accessibility Services

Niagara County Community College (NCCC) is committed to the full participation of students with disabilities in their college education. NCCC strives to make every effort to provide an accessible learning and technological environment for all students who meet the academic standards for admission. The Accessibility Services (AS) office strives to coordinate services that will enable students with disabilities to act as independently as possible in a supportive environment that promotes self-reliance. The AS office is premised on the philosophy that the individuals it serves are students first and their disabilities are secondary.
 

Students with physical disabilities will find NCCC well suited to their needs. The architectural design of the College provides a barrier-free environment. Most of the campus is street level, and there are ramps and elevators where necessary. Accessibility Services staff is ready to assist faculty and staff so that students may achieve access to all the educational opportunities offered on campus.
 

The mission of Accessibility Services (AS) at NCCC is to provide reasonable accommodations and related services to qualified students with disabilities in the most inclusive setting possible and to enhance student independence while promoting self-advocacy in accordance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Americans with Disabilities Amendments Act. The mission of promoting access across the campus is fulfilled by the Accessibility Services Program Administrator who ensures that NCCC adheres to legal mandates stipulated under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Americans with Disabilities Amendments Act of 2008. The intent of these laws is to ensure that individuals with disabilities at NCCC have the same access to programs and services as any other student.

Students are encouraged to contact Alissa Shugats-Cummings, Accessibility Services Program Administrator, at 716-614-6290, or acummings@niagaracc.suny.edu with any questions about accommodations or accessibility issues.
 

Student Conduct

Student conduct regulations are contained in the Niagara County Community College Students Code of Conduct. These regulations, drafted jointly by representatives of the student body, faculty, and administration, are intended to help maintain an atmosphere conducive to learning and personal growth and to make the process of education positive and successful for all members of the community. Every student is guaranteed due process in all college-related disciplinary matters when a student’s college-related actions go beyond the exercise of inalienable rights guaranteed by law.  It is available online at www.niagaracc.suny.edu/pdf/rights_and_responsibilities.pdf.

Student Employment

Student Employment services provided through Student Development include job placement, employer and recruiter relations, employment-related campus events, and student access to a number of workshops and resources set up to assist students in further developing employment-related skills.  Services are available to current and past students and graduates. 

Student Development also features an extensive career planning and employment topic library and information on a variety of online resources. NCCC has a strong relationship with many local employers, who come to our Job Fair each semester and frequently contact us seeking our students and graduates for employment. We act as an intermediary between students and employers: we direct students to appropriate employment opportunities and we will forward relevant employment documents from qualified student candidates to employers when job opportunities are available.

The Federal Work Study Program provides another opportunity for students seeking employment. Eligibility for this program is strictly based on a student’s Federal Work Study Program grant, which is awarded through Financial Aid. Students seeking placement in an on-campus position funded through the Federal Work Study Program will find out about available positions through Student Development. These positions provide students with excellent opportunities for professional growth and development of employment skills. Students interested in employment should contact Student Development for more information.  

Transfer Counseling

Many students transfer to four-year colleges and universities after completing their education at NCCC.  The following factors need to be considered when choosing a transfer institution: academic program, cost, location, campus size, transfer student services, and others dictated by individual student needs.  Student Development is available to assist students with this transfer decision process.  Students should begin to work with their academic advisor or a professional in Student Development as early as possible to help maximize the transfer of credit to their institution of choice. 

NCCC has established numerous course-to-course articulation agreements with four-year colleges and universities to provide students with information to help insure a smooth transition to their transfer institution.  These agreements identify the courses students will need to complete to prepare them to enter the corresponding four-year college major.  

The college also has a number of Dual-Admission programs, a special type of articulation agreement which guarantees admission at junior-level status at a four-year college upon completion of the associate degree.  NCCC currently has Dual Admission agreements with the following institutions: Bryant and Stratton College, Canisius College, Daemen College, D’Youville College, Empire State College, Franklin University, Hilbert College, Medaille College, Niagara University, SUNY College at Brockport, SUNY College at Buffalo (Buffalo State College), SUNY College at Fredonia, SUNY Upstate Medical University (GOLD program available to high school seniors only), and Utica College of Syracuse University. 

For additional transfer information and updated listings of articulation and Dual-Admissions agreements, contact Student Development.

Veterans Benefits & Services

NCCC is an approved training facility for both credit and non-credit programs for receipt of VA benefits. Eligible persons may qualify for federal educational benefits as determined by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. NCCC’s Office of Veteran Services is housed in Student Development and available to help students apply for benefits and to serve as a liaison to the Department of Veterans Affairs. NCCC is also responsible for certifying prompt and accurate enrollment and attendance information to the VA.

G.I. Bill Benefits, Applying for

Applicants should begin by contacting our Admissions (credit programs) or Division of Workforce & Continuing Education Office (non-credit) to complete the steps necessary to be accepted into their desired program of study. Any transfer or service transcripts must be sent promptly to our Admissions Office for transfer credit evaluation.

Contact Veteran Services in the Student Development Office for guidance on applying for G.I. Bill educational benefits. First-time applicants will need to complete an application for benefits on www.GIBILL.va.gov. Prior recipients who are changing schools or readmitting to NCCC must initiate a change of enrollment form with our office to restart benefits. Students returning from active duty will work with a Student Development professional to have a seamless re-entry to the college. It is important that a copy of your class schedule is submitted to us each semester to initiate the reporting process.

Student Responsibilities

Students receiving veterans benefits are required to promptly inform our office of any new enrollment, changes in enrollment, and program changes. It is also important to consult with a staff member if repeating a course, enrolling in module classes, taking courses that are not necessary to complete current degree requirements, or making decisions to drop courses or withdraw from classes; these conditions may affect benefit eligibility. Students are expected to attend class and make reasonable academic progress to receive benefits.

G.I. Bill Programs

G.I. Bill educational benefits are available for veterans, members of the Selected Reserves or National Guard, and children or spouses of service connected deceased or totally and permanently disabled veterans under one of the following programs. Specific questions on eligibility should be directed to the Veterans Administration Regional Office, PO Box 4616,130 S. Elmwood Avenue, Buffalo, N.Y. 14240 or 1-888-GIBILL-1. Detailed information is available on www.GIBILL.va.gov.

Montgomery G.I. Bill - Active Duty (Chapter 30)

Individuals entering military service on or after July 1, 1985, who contributed $100 a month for the first 12 months of their service or who were eligible for the Old G.I. Bill (Chapter 34) and meet certain eligibility criteria, may be eligible for benefits under this program. To be eligible for Chapter 30, you must have a high school diploma/GED, an Honorable Discharge, and served two years of continuous active duty.

Post 9/11 G.I. Bill - Active Duty (Chapter 33)

Veterans who served on active duty on or after Sept. 11, 2001, may be entitled to receive payment of tuition and fees, monthly housing allowance, and books and supplies ($1,000 per academic year) depending on their length of service.

Montgomery G.I. Bill - Selected Reserve (Chapter 1606)

Members of the Selected Reserve who enlist, reenlist, or extend an enlistment in the Selected Reserve for a period of at least six years may qualify for full- or part-time monthly educational benefits.

Reserve Educational Assistance Program (REAP - Chapter 1607)

Reservists and National Guard members who served on active duty on or after 9/11/01 for at least 90 consecutive days on a contingency operation may qualify for this enhanced benefit.

Vocational Rehabilitation (Chapter 31)

Veterans who have a service-connected disability may be entitled to receive payment of tuition, fees, books, supplies, a monthly subsistence allowance, and career/personal counseling. Eligibility is determined by the Department of Veterans Affairs.

Vocational Retraining Assistance Program (VRAP)

Veterans between the ages of 35 and 60 who are unemployed and who are not eligible for any other VA education benefit program may qualify for 12 months of training assistance for programs of education leading to a high demand occupation as determined by the Department of Labor.

Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance Program (Chapter 35)

Survivors of deceased veterans and dependents of veterans with a permanent and total service connected disability may be eligible for a monthly allowance from the Veterans Administration.

Veterans Work-Study Benefits

The VA work-study program permits eligible students receiving veterans benefits to perform services for Veteran Services in the Student Development Office in return for a monetary allowance. VA work-study payments are non-taxable; students may contract for a maximum of 750 hours of service in a fiscal year. Work-study duties at educational institutions may include processing enrollment documents, assisting college officials in maintaining records, and assisting veterans with concerns and questions.

Tutorial Assistance

Tutorial assistance funds may be paid to students receiving VA education benefits to help pay for tutoring expenses. All claims for tutorial assistance are made on VA Form 22-1990T available in the Student Development Office.

Other Education Assistance Programs

NYS Regents Awards for Children of Deceased and Disabled Veterans

Awards up to $450 per year are offered to qualified children of deceased or disabled veterans, prisoners of war or veterans missing in action. File a Children of Veteran Award Supplement to establish eligibility. Qualified applicants must then complete the FAFSA and Express TAP application to process the award. Check with the Financial Aid Office or www.HESC.org for applications and additional information.

Military Service Recognition Scholarship

The Military Service Recognition Scholarship (MSRS) provides financial aid to children, spouses, and financial dependents of members of the armed forces of the United States or state organized militia who, at any time on or after August 2, 1990, while New York State residents, died or became severely and permanently disabled while engaged in hostilities or training for hostilities.  Check with the Financial Aid Office or complete and submit the Military Services Recognition Scholarship Web Supplement at www.HESC.org . Be sure to print the web supplement confirmation, sign it, and submit it, along with the required documentation. 

NYS Veterans Tuition Award (VTA)

NYS resident veterans who served in Vietnam, the Persian Gulf, or Afghanistan may receive full tuition for full or part-time study. File a NYS Veterans Tuition Award Supplement to establish eligibility. Full-time applicants may complete the FAFSA and link to the Tap Application or a completed Scholarship Grant Payment Application. Part-time students only need to file the VTA supplement. Check with the Financial Aid Office or www.HESC.org for applications and for current deadlines to establish eligibility.

New York State Incentive Programs

Tuition assistance is available for Army National Guard, Air National Guard, and Naval Militia meeting select criteria. Applications are processed directly through your unit. Consult your local recruiter or the educational liaison in your unit for the policy for the current fiscal year.

NCCC Veterans Association Club

NCCC’s Veterans Association Club sponsors various fundraisers to assist disabled veteran organizations and to send care packages overseas, coordinates our Veteran’s Day Ceremony each year, and functions to heighten awareness of the needs of today’s veteran within the campus community. Contact Veteran Services in Student Development to get involved.

Wellness Center (Health Services & Personal Counseling)

Health Services

The Wellness Center contains a well-equipped health services component on campus to provide for students and staff. Registered nurses are available days and evenings for emergency treatment of injuries, care for minor illnesses and counseling regarding health and related issues.

Students will be referred to an area hospital, treatment facility, their family physician or community health, and/or social service agencies when necessary.

A supply of over-the-counter medications is available in the Wellness Center. Health related programs are conducted and wellness clinics are offered to the college community. A collection of literature on health topics and social concerns is also maintained in the Center.

Student Health Insurance 

All students are required to have accident insurance coverage. If students are not covered by their own insurance, they must participate in the plan offered through the College. Optional Basic Sickness and Supplemental Medical Insurance is available to all students. This information is available in the Wellness Center.

Personal Counseling

It is normal for many college students to have some personal doubts and to experience problems or challenges.

Counselors are available in the Wellness Center to assist students with these challenges. Services are confidential, free of charge and available throughout the academic year.

Students are welcome to discuss their concerns with a counselor at any time in the Wellness Center. A library of self-help books and videos are available for student use.

Workshops and seminars dealing with various personal issues are offered during the academic year.

Immunizations

Included in the “Acceptance Folder” from the Admissions Department, is the “Health Services Packet” which contains information required by New York State Public Health Laws related to colleges and universities.

Every student born on or after January 1, 1957, is required to provide Niagara County Community College with proof of immunity to measles, mumps and rubella prior to registration. Proof of immunity includes official documentation of two immunizations or copies of positive blood titer results.

All students (regardless of age) are also required to fill out and submit a Meningitis Response Form to Niagara County Community College. Information regarding the meningitis disease and immunization is included in the “Health Services Packet”. Students need to read this information and make an informed decision whether or not to receive the vaccination. This decision is to be indicated on the response form. Please note: The Centers for Disease Control is recommending all students ages 17-26 receive immunization for the meningitis disease. For further information, please contact the Wellness Center. Students may review their immunization information on file by logging into Banner Web, Choose Personal Information, then Immunization Data Display. 

A self-completed health report is requested of all students. It can be found on the reverse side of the Meningitis Response Form. This confidential report is maintained in the Wellness Center, where blank copies are also available.

Students may also obtain the “Health Services Packet” online at: www.niagaracc.suny.edu. Click on Students, then Student Life, and finally Wellness Center. Completed forms may be submitted to the Wellness Center (C-122).

Physicals

Students in the Registered Nursing, Practical Nursing, Surgical Technology, Massage Therapy, Medical Assistant, Emergency Medical Services, Animal Management, Physical Therapy Assistant, Radiologic Technology, and Phlebotomy programs are required to have a completed NCCC Physician’s Physical form on file in the Wellness Center prior to participating in the clinical area. An annual re-assessment form must be completed for those in two-year programs.*

Healthcare organizations require students practicing in their agencies to receive the Hepatitis B vaccination or sign a declination statement as a condition of practicing in the facility. The Hepatitis B vaccination is strongly recommended for all Allied Health students, as these are considered high risk professions. This vaccine is a safe and effective method of preventing Hepatitis B infection. Please direct any questions to the nurses in the Wellness Center.

Allied Health students must submit required forms and information to the Wellness Center (C-122) one month prior to beginning clinical rotations. Please allow at least five business days for the registered nurses to process these requirements and complete the “Clinical Clearance” forms. No student will be allowed to attend clinical rotations without clearance.

Please Note: No information is accepted/allowed via email. All information contained on these forms is strictly confidential and subject to the Privacy Act and HIPAA Laws.

* All Allied Health Students must submit proof of immunity to measles, mumps and rubella, regardless of age.

Student Life

In assessing its role in the lives of students, Niagara County Community College considers the total campus environment a part of the college experience. For this reason, the faculty and administration vigorously support and encourage student-directed co-curricular activity. The college recognizes that participation in student government and student activities can be a vital part of an education. Cultural, social, athletic activities, leadership development and volunteer opportunities are provided and a full-range of special interest groups and organizations are open to all students.

Student Clubs & Organizations 

Orientation

Each student is expected to participate in NCCC’s orientation program prior to the beginning of his/her first semester at NCCC. Orientation is an important first step for a student’s successful educational experience. Through the orientation program, NCCC will acquaint new students and their parents or spouses to the campus. New students will meet with currently enrolled students and faculty from their curriculum area and obtain valuable academic information, meet current students who will share experiences and guide the new student through the program, participate in discussion on what to expect at NCCC and learn about our services and resources. The most important part is that new students will be able to familiarize themselves with the campus and meet fellow students, staff, faculty and administrators from NCCC.

In addition to the general orientation, specialized workshops are conducted at orientation for students and parents.

The orientation schedule will be mailed prior to the start of the student’s first semester.

Co-Curricular Transcripts

The co-curricular transcript is an official college document which records involvement in student activities at NCCC. Co-curricular involvement is the combination of college-related activities beyond the classroom and the benefits associated with those experiences. Involvement includes, but is not limited to, participation in student clubs, organizations, theatre production, intercollegiate athletics, co-curricular activities, academic projects; attendance at workshops, leadership development; and interacting with NCCC’s faculty, staff and administration. This document provides the opportunity for future employers and upper-division colleges to consider the student’s total college experience when hiring or reviewing an admission application.  Co-curricular transcripts are issued upon request by the Registration & Records Office.

Other Specialized Student Support Services

Alumni Association through the NCCC Foundation, Inc.

The College encourages its alumni to maintain an active role and interest in NCCC through the Alumni Association. Any former student who has completed 50 credit hours, obtained a certificate, or received a degree, is considered part of the Alumni Association. Current students are welcome to volunteer with the Alumni Office or during Alumni functions.  Students are also encouraged to stop by the Alumni Office to find out how to get involved with NCCC after graduation.

For more information about the Alumni Association call 716-614-5910 or visit the alumni website at http://niagaracc.suny.edu/foundation-alumni/

Bus Transportation through NFTA

Bus service is available to the campus from Lockport, North Tonawanda and Niagara Falls. Schedules are located online at www.nfta.com/metro/routes/.

Child Development Center (Child Care Center)

The NCCC Child Development Center is a licensed child-care facility. The Center is conveniently located in the middle of the Sanborn campus, which allows parents to visit and/or observe their children throughout the day. This quality program is accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), which recognizes outstanding early childhood programs which meet national standards of quality.

The Center is open from 7:45 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 7:45 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Friday during the academic year. Children ages 18 months to 5 years are accepted for enrollment.

Parents pay a $20 registration fee every semester and weekly fees are determined by a sliding scale based on the parents’ combined income.

Space is limited, so early application is advised. Students may call the Center at 614-6245 or you can also go to the NCCC website to download and mail a wait list form and brochure.

Educational Non-Credit Programming at Trott ACCESS Center 

Academic advisement and career counseling services are available at the Trott ACCESS Center in Niagara Falls. See the  Non-Credit Remedial Coursework  section of this catalog for more information.

Handicapped Parking

Anyone requiring handicapped parking must have a permit. These permits may be obtained through the town one lives in. This includes permanent and temporary permits.

Housing, On-Campus Housing through College Association

On-campus housing is available. The operation, while serving those who attend NCCC, is independently owned and operated. Students who wish to live in the facility must apply directly to the Student Housing Village at NCCC. The website is http://www.nccchousing.com/ .

Housing, Off-Campus

Off-campus student housing is also available in the community. NCCC does not inspect these accommodations nor should conveying the information to students be taken as approval of the property, direct or implied. We cannot assume responsibility for the nature of the property or rental agreements. Also, there is a bulletin board with up to date information for students looking for off-campus housing or roommates. It is located in G-Building near Student Life.

Safety and Security

The NCCC Security Department provides safety and security services on the Sanborn Campus including the Student Housing Village and at the Niagara Falls Culinary Institute Campus.  This department consists of highly trained and licensed security professionals who assist and protect the college community.

Security can be reached by calling 614-6400 or Extension 6400 for the Sanborn Campus, 210-2555 or Extension 2555 at the Culinary Institute, and 731-8855 at the Sanborn Student Village Housing.  There are campus emergency phones on the Sanborn campus located outside of the following building entrances:  C-North, C-annex, D-South, F-South, G-North, H-building Southeast, and outside the Wellness Center.  Each exterior emergency phone has a blue light.  These emergency phones are direct lines to Security.

The NCCC Security Department is responsible for providing a safe campus environment. Officers maintain campus safety by providing internal and external campus patrols, responding to emergencies, enforcing parking regulations, providing escorts, assisting with medical emergencies, issuing identification cards and conducting investigations. Officers must meet Civil Service requirements which include New York State certification, education and work experience.

NCCC complies with federal and state laws and regulations. The Annual Security Report (which includes Clery Act and campus crime statistics) is available at the Campus Security Office and the following web site www.niagaracc.suny.edu/studentlife/campussecurity.php?section=studentlife&subsection=campus-security#01. Clery Act crime statistics are also available at the United States Department of Education web site http://www.ed.gov.

Identification Card

College identification (ID) cards are issued to new students at their first registration. For students who do not receive an ID card at registration, the Security Department issues IDs on a walk in basis at the Security Office G106 or the NFCI Security Office (at reception). Clinical IDs are done at scheduled times. In order to receive a NCCC ID or Clinical ID, students must present an official form of picture ID like a state drivers license and have a current NCCC schedule.

The ID card contains the student’s permanent registration number and the student’s ID number. It is valid for entire time they are registered as a student at NCCC. The student ID card must be carried with them at all times on campus. Students are required to present this ID to any college official or faculty member upon request. The ID card will allow use of the Lewis Library, fitness center, computer labs and allows entry to campus events.

A replacement fee of $6.00 is charged for cards that are lost or mutilated. The $6.00 fee must be paid for at the Cashiers Office before a new card may be issued.

Student Publications

THE SPIRIT produced by and for students of Niagara County Community College and is funded through the Student Activity fee.  The SPIRIT offers opportunities for those interested in any level of publication, writing, graphic arts, and design.  The student newspaper allows students to work with the state-of-the-art computer programs designed for publication. The student can take an active role in the technical aspects of publishing a small newspaper while learning skills needed to work with desktop publishing.  It is available on line at  http://www.niagaracc.suny.edu/studentlife/spirit.php.

Student Services Policies - Confidentiality of Student Records

FERPA - Notification of Rights

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) afford eligible students certain rights with respect to their education records.  (An “eligible student” under FERPA is a student who is 18 years of age or older or who attends a postsecondary institution.) These rights begin once a student is enrolled in coursework and include:

1.     The right to inspect and review the student’s education records within 45 days of the day the college receives a request for access.

Students should submit to the registrar, vice president, head of the academic department, or other appropriate official, written requests that identify the record(s) they wish to inspect. The college official will make arrangements for access and notify the student of the time and place where the records may be inspected. If the records are not maintained by the college official to whom the request was submitted, that official shall advise the student of the correct official to whom the request should be addressed.

2.    The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the student believes is inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy rights under FERPA. Students may ask the college to amend a record that they believe is inaccurate. They should write the college official responsible for the record, clearly identify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it is inaccurate.

If the college decides not to amend the record as requested by the student, the college will notify the student in writing of the decision and advise the student of his or her right to a hearing re­garding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the student when notified of the right to a hearing.

3.    The right to provide written consent before the college discloses personally identifiable information (PII) contained in the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without con­sent.

The school discloses education records without a student’s prior written consent under the FERPA exception for disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests.  A school official is a person employed by NCCC and/or the State University of New York - SUNY in an administrative, supervisory, academic, research, or support staff position (including law enforcement unit personnel and health staff); a person serving on the board of trustees; or a student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee.  A school official also may include a volunteer or contractor outside of the college who performs an institutional service of function for which the school would otherwise use its own employees and who is under the direct control of the school with respect to the use and maintenance of PII from education records, such as an attorney, auditor, or collection agent or a student volunteering to assist another school official in performing his or her tasks.  A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an educa­tion record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibilities for NCCC and/or the State University of New York - SUNY. 

Certain directory information may be released without the student’s permission. Niagara County Community College has defined directory information to include: the student’s name, address (including email), telephone number, date and place of birth, major field of study, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, photograph, weight and height of members of athletic teams, dates of attendance, degrees and awards received, and the most recent previous educational agency or institution attended by the student. However, a student may prevent the release of such information by completing the appropriate form in the Registration & Records Office.

The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by Niagara County Community College to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the Office that administers FERPA is: 

FERPA permits the disclosure of PII from students’ education records, without consent of the student, if the disclosure meets certain conditions found in §99.31 of the FERPA regulations. Except for disclosures to school officials, disclosures related to some judicial orders or lawfully issued subpoenas, disclosures of directory information, and disclosures to the student, §99.32 of FERPA regulations requires the institution to record the disclosure. Eligible students have a right to inspect and review the record of disclosures. A postsecondary institution may disclose PII from the educational records without obtaining prior written consent of the student.

• To other school officials, including teachers, within the college whom the school has determined to have legitimate educational interests. This includes contractors, consultants, volunteers, or other parties to whom the school has outsourced institutional services or functions, provided that the conditions listed in §99.31 (a)(1)(i)(B)(1) - (a)(1)(i)(B)(2) are met. (§99.31(a)(1))
• To authorized representatives of the U.S. Comptroller General, the U.S. Attorney General, the U.S. Secretary of Education, or State and local educational authorities, such as a State postsecondary authority that is responsible for supervising the College’s State-supported education programs. Disclosures under this provision may be made, subject to the requirements of §99.35, in connection with an audit or evaluation of Federal- or State-supported education programs, or for the enforcement of or compliance with Federal legal requirements that relate to those programs. These entities may make further disclosures of PII to outside entities that are designated by them as their authorized representatives to conduct any audit, evaluation, or enforcement or compliance activity on their behalf. (§§99.31(a)(3) and 99.35)
• In connection with financial aid for which the student has applied or which the student has received, if the information is necessary to determine eligibility for the aid, determine the amount of aid, determine the conditions of the aid, or enforce the terms and conditions of the aid. (§99.31(a)(4))
• To organizations conducting studies for, or on behalf of, the school, in order to: (a) develop, validate, or administer predictive tests; (b) administer student aid programs; or (c) improve instruction. (§99.31 (a)(6))
• To accrediting organizations to carry out their accrediting functions. ((§99.31(a)(7))
• To parents of an eligible student if the student is a dependent for IRS tax purposes. (§99.31(a)(8))
• To comply with a judicial order or lawfully issued subpoena. (§99.31(a)(9))
• To appropriate officials in connection with a health or safety emergency, subject to §99.36. (§99.31(a)(10))
• Information the school has designated as “directory information” under §99.37. (§99.31(a)(11))
• To a victim of an alleged perpetrator of a crime of violence or a non-forcible sex offense, subject to the requirements of §99.39. The disclosure may only include the final results of the disciplinary proceeding with respect to that alleged crime or offense, regardless of the finding. (§99.31(a)(13))
• To the general public, the final results of a disciplinary proceeding, subject to the requirements of §99.39, if the school determines the student is an alleged perpetrator of a crime of violence or non-forcible sex offense and the student has committed a violation of the school’s rules or policies with respect to the allegation made against him or her. (§99.31(a)(14))
• To parents of a student regarding the student’s violation of any Federal, State, or local law, or of any rule or policy of the school, governing the use or possession of alcohol or a controlled substance if the school determines the student committed a disciplinary violation and the student is under the age of 21. (§99.31(a)(15))
• The disclosure concerns sex offenders and other individuals required to register under section 17010 of the Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act of 1994

FERPA ANNUAL NOTICE ADDENDUM:

As of January 3, 2012, the U.S. Department of Education’s FERPA regulations expand the circumstances under which your education records and personally identifiable information (PII) contained in such records - including your Social Security Number, grades, or other private information - may be accessed without your consent. First, the U.S. Comptroller General, the U.S. Attorney General, the U.S. Secretary of Education, or state and local education authorities (“Federal and State Authorities”) may allow access to your records and PII without your consent to any third party designated by a Federal or State Authority to evaluate a federal- or state-supported education program. The evaluation may relate to any program that is “principally engaged in the provision of education,” such as early childhood education and job training, as well as any program that is administered by an education agency or institution. Second, Federal and State Authorities may allow access to your education records and PII without your consent to researchers performing certain types of studies, in certain cases even when we object to or do not request such research. Federal and State Authorities must obtain certain use-restriction and data security promises from the entities that they authorize to receive your PII, but the Authorities need not maintain direct control over such entities. In addition, in connection with Statewide Longitudinal Data Systems, State Authorities may collect, compile, permanently retain, and share without your consent PII from your education records, and they may track your participation in education and other programs by linking such PII to other personal information about you that they obtain from other Federal or State data sources, including workforce development, unemployment insurance, child welfare, juvenile justice, military service, and migrant student records systems.

Public Order on Campus:

Conduct by Students and College Employees

All members of the campus community (students and college employees) are expected to conduct themselves in accordance with local, state and federal laws and in a manner appropriate to the collegiate environment. Any member of the college community whose conduct violates any local, state or federal law or behaves in a manner inappropriate to the college environment is subject to being charged under the law, college policy or collective bargaining provision which governs his/her behavior.

Sources of Information

In addition to this catalog, the college publicizes information in several other sources. The schedule of credit and credit-free courses that are offered for the fall, spring and summer semesters is posted on our web site.  

Compliance with Article 129-A of the Education Law

NCCC is in compliance with the Clery Act and provides crime statistics using the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting Program. Campus crime statistics are available upon request to students in print form and also available on the web at www.niagaracc.suny.edu.