Social Media and Facilities Use draft policies were posted today for community review and Outdoor Chalking, Tabling and Posting Materials policies were put into effect, according to an email statement issued by the American University administration.
The Social Media draft policy sets requirements related to the “creation and management of Official University Social Media Accounts” and “establishes guidance on social media behaviors for students, faculty, and staff in their personal use of social media and standards for the use of American University’s name, logo, and trademarks.”
Under the Social Media draft policies, any official University social media account may not “post content on lobbying; promote political activities, parties, causes, or candidates,” or “post content to express personal beliefs or statements.”
Additionally, all social media accounts must comply with University policies regarding “visual identity guidelines for Official University Social Media Accounts in the Editorial Style and Usage Guide” and “the Social Media Accessibility section in the UCM Social Media Guidelines.”
The Facilities Use draft policy includes definitions for terms such as demonstration, disruptive and indoor spaces. It also classifies facilities in one of six categories: academic buildings, administrative buildings, residential buildings, campus life buildings, athletic buildings and outdoor spaces. The policy also details examples of “acceptable” and “restricted” uses for facilities.
Under these draft policies, a University Facility cannot be used for the “selling or promoting” of goods and services, “amplified sound,” blocking roadways or vehicles, “constructing structures,” a “demonstration activity” or occupation without authorization. No student may use a bicycle, scooter or skateboard in a University Facility if it is considered a “hazard.”
These draft policies also state that damage, destruction, “alteration” or “modification” done to a University Facility is also prohibited, and any violation of these policies “may result in the termination or cancellation of events, denial of future use of University Facilities, and other disciplinary actions as appropriate.”
President Alger and his cabinet previously issued a statement on Aug. 13 that said the Outdoor Chalking, Tabling and Posting Materials on Campus policies would be published for review and community feedback. According to the email, the updated and official versions of these policies are “now in effect and available in the policy library.”
“After reviewing and considering all feedback, additional updates were made to the policies,” the email said.
Social Media and Facility Use draft policies are now posted for community review and comments must be submitted by Sept. 18. Two community forums will be held for feedback – one forum for faculty and staff at 2 p.m. on Sept. 6, and a separate student forum at 3 p.m. on Sept. 9. Students can register to attend through Engage.
“The contributions from the community enhance these important policies and support the shared goals of constructive engagement, inquiry and learning, and a safe and welcoming community,” the email said.
This article was edited by Samantha Skolnick, Tyler Davis and Abigail Turner. Copy editing done by Luna Jinks, Ariana Kavoossi and Sydney Kornmeyer.
