Housing Policies

Cans and/or bottles may not be stored, collected, or used as decorations in a resident’s room. Violations of this policy will result in a $50.00 fine for the first offense. Subsequent violations may result in additional disciplinary action.

When intentional and deliberate damage occurs in a common area (hallway, communal bathroom, social room, etc.) and no one claims responsibility for such damage, the RAs of the building will notify the residents of an impending Common Area Damage charge. If the individual(s) responsible cannot be identified, then the charge is equally distributed among the community members.

Each resident should feel as though he/she has an intrinsic investment in the residential community. As such, residents should feel motivated to hold each other accountable for their actions. If a student damages college property, he/she is bound to accept responsibility and report these actions to their RA. Damage to public areas often goes unreported. Failure to take responsibility for our actions and allowing members of the hall to pay for damage is a serious breach of our Honor System. If damage occurs accidentally, the student still holds the responsibility to report the incident to their RA honestly and promptly.

If damage occurs to an area outside of the residence hall, but can be connected back to a particular residence hall, the damage charge may be assessed to the residents of that residence hall.

Charges will often be assessed based on a standardized fine. Situations that require additional work from sources outside of the college will result in the fine plus the cost of the outside contractor. Damage fines can be incurred for the following but are not limited to: Vomit, excessive trash, and cracked or broken window panes. Additional fines may be assessed for deliberate contamination of recycling bins.

Students must remove all their belongings within 24 hours after his/her last exam. Only graduating seniors and students associated with an official college function will have permission to remain past the official closing. When extenuating circumstances exist, students must agree to be relocated (along with all their possessions). Students who remain beyond the official closing will be fined $500.00 per day.

1. Falsely pulling a fire alarm or discharging a fire extinguisher, possession of fireworks on campus, and burning items (e.g., paper on doors or walls, paper in bathrooms, etc.) is prohibited. Minimally, first-time offenders will be fined $100.00 and the SRC will take other appropriate action. If the person responsible cannot be identified, the charge may be divided equally among residents of the floor. Clean-up fees may also be charged.
2. Any student who willfully fails to exit the residence hall after the fire alarm sounds will be subject to disciplinary action that may result in removal from the residence hall.
3. Rhodes is required to conduct fire drills each semester to ensure that fire safety systems are in working order.

The residence halls are private residences owned and maintained by the college. They are subject to the Memphis Fire Code, and are regularly inspected by the Fire Marshall′s Office.

1. Physical Plant will check smoke alarms in the students rooms regularly to assure proper operation of the alarm. Service requests for malfunctioning alarms or new batteries should be submitted through the work order request page on the web or through Campus Safety (after hours). Smoke alarms must not be tampered with or covered.
2. No upholstered furniture that has significant cuts or ruptures in the upholstery will be permitted in the residence halls. Students may be asked to remove items on walls that create a fire hazard. No items are to be hung from ceilings, covering lights, or covering smoke detectors.
3. Students may be asked to remove appliances to avoid overloading the circuits and to avoid fire hazards. All electrical appliances should be turned off when not in use.
4. Refrigerators in residence halls must be no larger than 33" high or 19" wide. Only one refrigerator per room.
5. Any appliance with an open flame or burner, including but not limited to candle warmers, hot plates, electric skillets, toaster ovens, toasters, counter top style grills, sandwich makers and woks are prohibited.
6. Halogen and other exposed bulb lamps (upwards-facing lamps) are not permitted.
7. “UL Approved” power-strips with surge protectors not exceeding 15 amps must be used.
8. “UL Approved” Christmas tree lights designed specifically for indoor use may be used. No other forms of extension cords or multi-outlet extenders can be used.
9. Neon lights, beer signs, fireworks, flammable liquids of any kind, and open flame devices, including but not limited to candles and incense, are not allowed in residence halls.
10. Residents are prohibited from installing air conditioners or ceiling fans in their rooms. Students are prohibited from plugging air conditioner units into any other outlet not designated specifically for the unite.
11. Space heaters are prohibited.
12. All residence hall spaces are non-smoking.

Failure to comply with any of these fire safety requirements will minimally result in a $50.00 fine for first offense. Subsequent offenses may result in suspension or expulsion from the residence halls.

Guests who stay with a student overnight must register with Campus Safety. Guests are expected to remain under the auspices of the host student and the host bears the responsibility for the guest′s behavior in compliance with campus policy. Host responsibilities for a guest should not be transferred from one student to another. When it appears that guests have been abandoned, they will be asked to leave the campus. Guests are not permitted during finals and senior week.

Procedures for Reporting a Fire or Other Emergency

Call Campus Safety at 901-843-3333 and report the situation from a safe place, and or call 9-1-1. In case of fire or fire alarm, evacuate the building or area immediately. In case of other emergency, follow the procedures set for the for that emergency.

Procedures to Follow in case of Fire or Alarm

• If you discover a fire:
• Evacuate the building or areas via the nearest safe exit; activate the building alarm by pulling a “pull-station” located next to the exit and report to the pre-designated Evacuation Assembly Area. (see section below)
• NOTE: if the fire is very small and you know how to us a portable fire extinguisher safely, you may attempt to put out the fire. Always pull the fire alarm first or make sure that the fire department has been called BEFORE you attempt to fight a fire. Do not try to fight a fire unless you feel that it can be done safely and there is a clear escape route available to you.

Portable Fire Extinguishers

• Types of Extinguishers on Campus:

Type ABC located throughout campus buildings and areas—Can be used on any fire except burning metal and chlorine fires.

• Using a Portable Fire Extinguisher:
  • If you know that you have the proper extinguisher and the fire is small enough to extinguish safely, remember to P-A-S-S acronym to use your extinguisher as follows:
    • Pull the safety pin at the top of the extinguisher
    • Aim the nozzle, horn, or hose at the base of the flames
    • Squeeze the handle of the extinguisher
    • Sweep the nozzle from side to side until the fire goes out

Procedures for Emergency Evacuation

• General emergency Evacuation Procedures:
  • Be aware of the following procedures if a fire is discovered or when the fire alarm sounds in your building. You should also be familiar with your emergency exit routes and your assembly area (see section below).
  • Leve the premises immediately.
  • If there is smoke or heat, stay low to the floor. Crawl to the nearest exit if need be.
  • Always use stairwells to evacuate if possible. Do not use elevators.
• Before opening any door, feel the door near the top. If it is hot, do not open it. Use another exit. If the door is not hot, open it cautiously. Stand behind the door and be prepared to close it quickly if there is excessive smoke or heat.
• If you become trapped, do the following:

1. Call Campus Safety a 901-843-3880 and or 9-1-1 and tell them your exact location and situation.
2. Place a blanket or similar article along the bottom of the door to keep smoke out. If possible, wet the material first.
3. Retreat. Close as many doors between you and the fire as possible.
4. DO NOT JUMP!

• Activate the nearest fire alarm pull station as you leave the building. From a safe location all Campus Safety at 901-843-3880 and or 9-1-1 (no matter how small the fire is.) Tell them where the ire is and give them any other information requested.
• Assemble outside in a pre-designated area (see section below). The Memphis Fire department will notify Campus Safety when it is clear to re0enter the bui8lding. Once you have assembled, you may be required to remain at the Assembly area until released by MFD or Campus Safety.

Procedures to Account for Persons after Evacuation

Employees

• Supervisors shall develop a procedure to account for employees after an emergency evacuation has been completed. Supervisors should conduct a “head count” of persons in their Evacuation Assembly Area. Supervisors who have knowledge of any person(s) still inside the building (or otherwise unaccounted for) must inform emergency responders (e.g. the Memphis Fire Department.)

Students

1. In Classrooms:

   • Instructors shall develop a procedure to account for (to the best of their ability) students under their control after an emergency evacuation has been completed. 

      

2. In Residential Facilities:
   • The Office of Residence Life will develop a plan to ensure that the building has been cleared in the event of a residential facility evacuation. (See Below)

Emergency Medical and Rescue Duties

The responding fire department and EMS unites will provide emergency medical and rescue duties. 

Residence hall Fire Safety Policies-on line

Assembly Locations after evacuation from an on-campus residence hall.

Termination

Termination of the Housing Contract: Termination occurs when the student’s current (and/or future) contract is canceled or revoked for violating the Rhodes College Community Standards and/or Office of Residence Life Policies. When the contract is terminated after the start of an academic year term (fall and spring semesters), the student remains responsible for the entire cost of room and board for the remainder of that term.

The college reserves the right to terminate this agreement if the student no longer meets the eligibility requirements and is enrolled for less than twelve (12) credit hours in a semester at Rhodes College.

Cancellation

1. Housing contract is canceled when: 
   The student graduates from the College at the end of a fall or spring semester.
2. The student does not re-enroll or register for classes at the College.
3. The student takes a leave of absence/mid-semester withdrawal from the College.
4. If the accommodations assigned to the student are destroyed or become otherwise unavailable, the College cannot furnish substitute accommodations.
5. This contract may be canceled if the student is granted an exemption to the residency policy. Meeting one of the requirements does not guarantee a student will be approved for an exemption from the terms and conditions of the housing contract. A student must maintain a required meal plan if the agreement cancellation is granted after the end of the second week of the fall semester.
6. If the student violates any College or residence regulations as stated in the Student Handbook or the College Catalogue, which are incorporated herein by reference, or if the student poses a threat of substantial harm to persons or College property.
7. A student who has submitted a housing contract is obligated to the terms herein for the academic year regardless of their meeting the requirements of the residency requirement. Students may request an exemption from the housing contract from the Office of Residence Life. Submitting a request for exemption from the housing contract does not guarantee the exemption will be approved. 

All students who reside in campus housing sign the Housing Contract and agree to abide by the policies and regulations contained therein. Students have a responsibility to know all college policies in general, and specifically all residence hall policies contained in the Housing Contract and The Student Handbook.

• 2025-2026 Student Housing Contract

What causes mold to grow? 
Mold is a part of the natural environment that aids in the decomposition of leaves, trees, and other natural outdoor organic materials. Individual mold spores are invisible to the human eye and are continually floating around outside. However, those spores make their way indoors and, when exposed to wet/humid areas, can begin to grow or colonize. It is impossible to eliminate mold and mold spores in the indoor environment due to daily human activity—as people enter and exit buildings, mold spores are carried in on clothing, shoes, and backpacks.

Mold is found almost everywhere and can grow on wood, paper, carpet, foods, insulation, ceiling tiles, clothing, and painted walls, as long as moisture and oxygen are present. Mold needs water/moisture to grow, therefore maintaining indoor moisture and humidity levels between 30-60 percent will reduce the likelihood of indoor mold growth. Controlling humidity in large, heavily populated buildings is difficult, especially in hot humid weather.

Where is mold and mildew found? 
Mold can come in a variety of colors, including white, which is sometimes seen on a damp carpet or other fabric materials; pink, which is often found on shower walls that are not cleaned regularly; and dark green/black, which is often seen around windowsills and in restrooms due to a large amount of condensation and moisture.

How does mold spread? 
Air circulation in a building varies throughout the day and depends on the level of activity in the space. Mold spores are always present in both the indoor and outdoor environment, and can be carried in on clothing, shoes, backpacks, etc.

Tips for mildew and mold prevention and cleaning:

• Leave all bathroom doors open (at least on your side of a suite bath) to allow time for any steam or moisture to dry and to increase ventilation, and wipe moisture from walls, ceilings, and floors after showering. Note: While using your AC Unit, the air from your AC can assist in drying the moisture in the air following a shower.
• DO NOT leave windows open while blowing air from the AC unit.
• Be sure to clean and disinfect your suite bathroom periodically (at least once a week). Note: It is the responsibility of residents to ensure the cleanliness of private suite bathrooms and residence hall rooms.
• Do not place furniture or other items in front of the heating and cooling units that can obstruct airflow.
• Do not place potted plants or any other source of moisture on or around heating and cooling units.
• Do not leave wet or damp clothes, shoes, or towels in closets. Place them on a drying rack until completely dry. Please do not place drying racks in public spaces. Also, utilize laundry room clothes dryers.
• Empty your room and bathroom trash regularly and do not let trash accumulate.
• If you find mold/mildew be sure to apply your cleaning solution to the affected area and/or the cloth you are using to clean the area.

What can I expect after reporting a mold concern: 
Residence Life takes a report of the mold concern, visual mold, and/or odor issue and submits to Physical Plant.

1. Physical Plant performs a visual inspection in accordance with the college’s mold protocol.
2. If the investigation determines that no mold or moisture intrusion is present, as confirmed by protimeter (moisture meter) measurements, Physical Plant will report findings to Residence Life. Residence Life will communicate the results to residents. No further action is required.

What will be done if mold is found in my room by Physical Plant staff? 
If surface mold is present (approximately 10 square feet or less of light surface mold present), then Physical Plant will proceed with maintenance level mitigation, which includes:

• Containing the area with general dust control measures
• Isolating the HVAC returns and supplies and turning the mechanical systems to “off,” if feasible
• Controlling access to the space until after work is completed (close doors, etc., to minimize air movement)

If the area where mold is found is non-porous (concrete, porcelain, tiled, plastic, vinyl, etc.), mitigation includes:

• Cleaning the area with solution of soap and water or approved disinfectant (HALT) to remove surface deposits
• Wiping surface with disposable cloth and allowing the surface to dry
• Disposing of generated debris in heavy duty plastic bag for sealed transport

If the area where mold is found is porous (drywall, etc.), mitigation includes:

• Misting the area with general amended water solution to minimize spore dispersal
• Covering the area with plastic sheeting and sealing with duct tape
• Removal of mold to 24” beyond visibly impacted area and placing generated debris in heavy duty plastic bag for sealed transport
• Inspecting the reverse face to ensure demolition sufficient to remove impacted materials; the interior of wall cavities should be cleared, brushed, and damp wiped only, as needed
• Once surface is dried, finishes will be reinstalled
• Debris will be bagged and sealed for transport through the facility, and microbial contaminated materials and general construction debris will be disposed of in general outdoor trash containers.

If surface mold is present (approximately 10 square feet or more of heavy or embedded mold present), then all documentation will be provided to a mold abatement vendor. The mold abatement vendor will work directly with Physical plant to investigate and complete the work plan as recommended by the vendor.

Regardless of the specifics of each case, Physical Plant will document an action plan and report findings to Residence Life. Residence Life will communicate results to residents. No further action is required.

Is it safe for me to stay in my residence hall if there is currently mold in the space? 
In most cases, yes, it is safe. Mold growth is commonly found in both indoor and outdoor environments and can be easily cleaned; however, if not addressed by cleaning as soon as it appears, it can lead to additional mold growth and elevated spore counts in a space.

What is the inspection process to determine how to address any mold in my residence? 
 If students or families have concerns about mold, they should contact Residence Life at (901) 843-3241 or submit a work order through Rhodes Express Online:

• Log in to Rhodes Express Online
• Select Work Order Reporting in the right column
• Log in to the Self-Service Portal
• Submit a work order to Physical Plant

Should I purchase a portable air cleaner and dehumidifier? 
This is a personal choice. The air cleaner and dehumidifier should be UL approved. Humidifier use is discouraged, as the device increases moisture in a space.

To participate in housing selection, a student must complete an online registration from the link sent to them via e-mail in February of each year. Students who register on time will receive a lottery number to use in selection of an apartment or room during the housing selection process. 

By registering for housing selection, students agree to the housing cancellation policy. 

Students who cancel their registration or housing after the housing assignment process starts are subject to a progressive cancellation fee.  

• Rising seniors and students who have fulfilled the residency requirement:
  • If a student cancels by 5:00 p.m. on Monday, March 24, the student does not incur a cancellation fee.
  • If a student cancels between 5:01 p.m. on March 24 and 5:00 p.m. on May 9, a cancellation fee of $750 will be charged to the student's account.
  • Students who cancel after May 9 at 5:00 p.m. are responsible for the total amount of the contract for the academic year.
• If a student registers for housing and decides to participate in a study abroad program during the fall semester, the registration will be deferred to the spring semester, and no cancellation fee will be incurred.
• A student registers for housing and subsequently is released from the residency requirement. The registration is canceled without penalty.
• A student registers for housing and subsequently withdraws or transfers. The student registration is canceled without penalty.

To cancel your application or your housing assignment for Fall 2025, complete the Housing Cancellation Form. The Office of Residence Life will confirm all information submitted with necessary campus partners before determining the requested cancellation. 

Returning Students

To participate in housing selection, a student must complete an online registration from the link sent to them via e-mail in February of each year. Students who register on time will receive a lottery number to use in selection of an apartment or room during  the housing selection process. 

Individual room keys will be issued to each resident student by the Residence Life Office upon arrival on campus. Students will have access to the outside doors of residence halls via electronic key fob. It is the responsibility of each student to protect all other students by taking care neither to lose residence hall keys and key fobs nor lend them to others. Lost keys and fobs should be reported to Campus Safety. A new fob and room key can be requested via the campus work order system. Residents must return keys to the Residence Life Office when leaving campus or at the end of the year. Students who fail to report a lost or stolen key are jeopardizing the safety and security of their fellow students. The cost for a replacement key fob is $25. Lost or unreturned keys will result in a $10.00 charge. Students are to keep their key fob unless they withdraw or graduate from the college. Mailbox keys are to be returned to the mail room.

Due to the serious compromise to the security of all residents, exterior doors should never be propped. A $50.00 fine and a possible referral to SRC will be assessed for individuals found violating this policy.

Laundry and vending services are available in many of the residence halls. Refunds for lost money may be obtained from Rhodes Express. See section on Physical Plant for reporting broken machines. Laundry services return to coin operation during the summer months.

All residence halls remain open during fall, Thanksgiving, spring, and Easter breaks. Food service is limited or not available during this time and meal plan is not in effect. Break housing is not available between fall and spring semesters. Students who remain in halls after the posted closing times or who arrive prior to halls opening will be asked to leave immediately, may be fined $500.00 per day, and may face disciplinary action.

Students’ personal belongings are not covered by college insurance. Students are encouraged to have renter’s insurance or confirm that personal belongings are covered under parent’s homeowner’s policy. Bicycles must be locked in a rack or stored in one of the bicycle storage rooms when not in use. Students may apply for a key to the bike closets from the Residence Life Office.

The college contracts with a pest control company to provide service to control insects and rodents. Service is requested by submitting a work order to Physical Plant by Tuesday of each week. If it is found that unsealed food, excessive trash, or improper storage of belongings has led to extra treatment, the resident(s) will be charged the total cost incurred by the college. Do not use your own pest control products. Use of such chemicals can pose a serious health risk to you and the other residents who live near you.

Fish (in tanks with maximum capacity of 10 gallons) are the only pets which may be kept in student rooms with the permission of roommates. The only exception is guide dogs for people with disabilities. Violators of these policies regarding pets will minimally be fined $100.00 for each infraction. Exceptions will not be made for any temporary keeping of pets.

Guests or commuter students are required to keep pets on leashes while on campus and are responsible for cleaning up after the pet. Pets should not be taken inside Residence Halls.

Routine maintenance may be requested via the Rhodes Express webpage. For emergency requests, call Physical Plant at x3870; if no answer, call Campus Safety at x3880.

Quiet hours are times when no noise should be heard in the hallways or outside of the building. Courtesy hours are times during which the noise level may be higher than during quiet hours. As the term implies, students are expected to be courteous to one another and respect the rights of other residents. Quiet hours begin at 10:00 p.m. and end at 8:00 a.m. the following morning Sunday through Thursday. On weekends (Friday and Saturday), these hours begin at 1:00 a.m. and last until the following morning. Courtesy Hours are in effect at other times. During final exams and reading days, quiet hours are extended to 24 hours.

Violations of the noise policy will result in a $25 fine and possible disciplinary action.

1. All residence hall furniture in students′ rooms at the beginning of the academic year must remain in their rooms throughout the academic year.
2. Beds may not be stacked on other beds, dressers, or desks. Only one set of cinder blocks, placed horizontally, may be used to elevate beds. Cinder blocks may not be used with bunk beds; they also may not be used under beds with adjustable bed heights. Beds may not be inverted.
3. Students are responsible for removing trash and debris and for cleaning their residence hall room when moving out of a room. Failure to do so is subject to a fine. No items may be stored on campus during the summer. Anything left behind will be discarded and the expenses incurred will be charged to the owner(s).
4. Social rooms serve as a place where residents can gather as a community. Thus, priority for reservation is given to residents of the hall and residence life sponsored programs. A group can reserve a social room for a meeting but not on a regular basis. The primary use of social rooms should allow for maximum availability and access to hall residents. Social rooms are not intended to serve as sleeping spaces for residents or their guests.
5. Personal furniture or equipment must not be placed in the halls or lounges. Any items of furniture found missing from a residence hall room will be charged to the residents of that room. A student who leaves personal furniture in a room after checking out will be charged a disposal fee. Social Room furniture must remain in social rooms at all times. Removal of furniture is considered a violation of the Honor Code. Additionally, any costs involved and a fine of up to $100 will be assessed in such matters. Screens must not be removed from windows. Student-made or individually purchased lofts of any kind are not permitted in residence halls. Students with lofts will be fined no less than $100.00 for any offense. Marring and destruction of furnishings and defacement of walls, doors and woodwork, breakage of windows, etc., is not tolerated. Compensatory damages will be assessed for any violation, and disciplinary action will be taken against those responsible.
6. Students are prohibited from being on the roof or other unapproved spaces. Violation of policy may result in $50 fine and housing probation.
7. Students are not permitted to play sports or ride bicycles or skate boards in residence halls. These actions can cause personal injury or damage to flooring and/or hallways.

Residential living is an integral part of the mission of Rhodes College and the student experience; all unmarried, full-time undergraduate students are required to live on campus and participate in one of the college meal plans during the academic year for three years (six fall and spring semesters).  Exchange students must live on campus and participate in one of the college meal plans for the duration of their enrollment.

Residency requirement exemptions may be made for students who meet any of the following criteria and provide supporting documentation:

• Students who are married.
• Students who are legal guardians of minors who reside with them permanently.
• Students who are at least 24 years old.
• Students with a documented medical disability that cannot be accommodated in on-campus living.
• In some years, a limited number of junior-level students may be released from residency requirements to live off-campus based on projected space availability. The availability of this option varies from year to year, depending on enrollment numbers and housing availability. The Office of Residence Life will notify students if this option is available. Exemptions granted, if any, will be made at the sole discretion of the Office of Residence Life. 

Students who reside off-campus without meeting one or more criteria and do not get appropriate approval will be held responsible for all room and board costs for all semesters they are enrolled and residing off-campus without such approval.

By accepting a room assignment, a student is contractually obligated to occupy that room for the entire academic year unless the student withdraws from the College, is approved for a mid-semester withdrawal, is approved for a leave of absence, graduates, or participates in a study abroad program. Vacant spaces are subject to assignment by the Office of the Residence Life.

Financial hardship: If a student or their family/caretakers face financial hardship or experiences a significant life change that has impacted income and may be challenging to pay for housing, please contact Financial Aid for assistance. 

Renter’s Insurance

Personal property insurance OR coverage for your residence hall belongings via a homeowner’s insurance policy is required for all residential students. Rhodes college has a partnership with National Student Services, Inc. (NSSI) and we highly recommend using NSSI for your personal property insurance. Students who are married:

Complete the Residency Exemption Request form and provide a copy of your marriage certificate. It must be submitted before approval. This exemption, if granted, remains in effect for the remainder of your time at Rhodes. 

Residency exemption request process

Students who are 24 or older:

Complete the Residency Exemption Request form, and a copy of your birth certificate, driver’s license, or passport must be submitted before approval. This exemption, if granted, remains in effect for the remainder of your time at Rhodes.

Students with a medical condition:

A student has a medical condition that warrants the necessity to live off-campus.  The student needs to go through the  SAS accommodation request process. There must be an attestation of the medical condition from a qualified professional who has treated the student in the last six (6) months. Student Accessibility Services and the Office of Residence Life will review all required documentation. 

Most medical and mental health conditions can be accommodated in on-campus housing. We are anticipating not approving many exceptions for medical/mental health reasons. Please keep this in mind as you plan for the upcoming academic year.

All changes in room assignment during the term of this Contract must be preapproved by the Residence Life Office. A checklist of procedures necessary for initiating a room change, including execution of room assignment forms, is available in the Residence Life Office. During the academic year, a student may not change rooms during the first two weeks or last two weeks of either semester. The Student making an unapproved room change without proper notification and approval will be fined $250.00 and may have the preferred room assignment revoked.

In the fall, Resident Assistants fill out the Room Condition Report online and mark all noteworthy items. Residents should inspect their living quarters along with the Resident Assistant. Damage to any part of the room or to any furniture should be described clearly.

Failure to complete the RCR or failure to describe in full any damage that existed at the beginning of occupancy will cause student occupants to pay charges for damages. Students will be charged for nails, decals, and “mounting squares” added to walls, ceiling, or furniture.

Purpose

The purpose of Health and Safety Inspections is to promote and maintain a safe, healthy, and respectful living environment within the residence halls. These inspections are intended to identify conditions that may pose a health and/or safety risk to residents or the community, ensure compliance with Residence Life policies, and support students in maintaining community standards.

Scope

This policy applies to all students residing in campus-owned or campus-operated residential facilities, including residence halls, apartments, and other residential communities managed by the Office of Residence Life.

Inspection Authority and Frequency

• Health and Safety Inspections are conducted by Residence Life staff or their designees.
• Inspections may occur on a scheduled basis (e.g., during academic terms, recesses, breaks) or as needed to address health, safety, or facility concerns.
• Students will be provided with advance notice of scheduled inspections whenever feasible. The College reserves the right to conduct inspections without prior notice in cases involving emergency situations, suspected policy violations, or immediate health or safety concerns. 

Inspection Standards

During inspections, staff may assess, including but not limited to:

• Fire safety compliance (e.g., prohibited appliances, blocked exits, candles, open flames)
• Electrical safety (e.g., extension cords, power strips, overloaded outlets)
• Cleanliness and sanitation
• Food storage and waste disposal
• Prohibited items
• Damage to College property
• Any condition that may pose a health or safety risk to individuals or the community
• The Residence Life staff will include refrigerators in their inspections. 

Confiscated Items
During health and safety inspections, the Office of Residence Life may confiscate items that are prohibited or pose a safety concern. Confiscated items will be held by the Office of Residence Life for the remainder of the current semester. Students may retrieve the item during this period; however, the item may not be returned to the residence hall. Items not retrieved by the end of the current semester will be discarded by the Office of Residence Life.  Prohibited items confiscated at the end of the semester will be immediately discarded. 

Notification of Violations

• Students found to be in violation of Residence Life health and safety standards will be notified via their official Rhodes student email account.
• The notification will include a description of the violation(s), required corrective actions (if applicable), and the deadline for compliance or follow-up.
• Students are responsible for regularly monitoring their student email account. Failure to read email notifications does not excuse non-compliance with this policy.

Dispute and Review Process

• Students may dispute the findings of a Health and Safety Inspection by submitting a request for review via eRezLife.
• Requests must be submitted within five (5) business days from the date the violation notice is sent to the student’s official student email account.
• Disputes will be reviewed by the Director of Residence Life (DRL), or their designee, and should clearly outline the basis for the dispute and include any relevant information or documentation.
• After reviewing the information provided by the student, the DRL or designee will make a determination and send it to the student’s email. 
• The determination is final.

Standards of Conduct and Referrals

• If a Health and Safety Inspection identifies behavior or conditions that may constitute a violation of the College’s Standards of Conduct, the matter may be referred to the Office of Community Standards.
• Referral to the Community Standards process is separate from corrective actions required by the Office of Residence Life and may result in additional educational or disciplinary outcomes.

Compliance and Follow-Up

• Students are expected to correct identified violations by the stated deadline.
• Failure to comply with corrective actions, repeated violations, or serious safety concerns may result in additional administrative action, including conduct referrals, fines, reassignment, or removal from housing.

Entry into Residential Spaces

• Residence Life staff will respect students’ privacy to the greatest extent possible while fulfilling their responsibilities.
• Routine inspections are visual; staff will not search through personal belongings unless permitted by College policy or required by law.
• The Director of Residence Life (or their designee) may authorize an administrative room search when there is reasonable cause to believe a policy violation, safety concern, or other urgent matter exists.

For those students wishing to store their belongings over the summer break, Rhodes has partnered with CampusStorage.

Rhodes College welcomes guests and visitors while maintaining the safety and comfort of our campus community. All guests and visitors must comply with college policies and local, state, and federal laws while on campus. 

Definitions

Visitor: A visitor is an individual who comes to campus for business or personal reasons without a specific host, such as attending events or meetings. Visitors are responsible for their adherence to campus policies.

Guests on Campus

Guests are required to always remain under the responsibility of their host. 

The host is accountable for ensuring the guest abides by and respects all campus policies, including those related to safety, conduct, respect for others, and behavioral expectations.  Failure of the guest to adhere to campus regulations and policies will result in the host’s referral to the Office of Community Standards.  

 The responsibility for hosting a guest cannot be transferred from one individual to another during their visit. 

Guests are not permitted on campus during high-stress academic periods, such as finals week and senior week, to ensure minimal disruption to the learning environment.

Overnight Guests in Residence Halls

Rhodes College allows overnight guests under the following conditions:

Rhodes College allows 24-hour visitation provided the student first secures verbal approval from their roommate(s) and/or suitemate(s) before the guest's arrival.

Roommate Rights: A roommate’s right to free access to the room/apartment, privacy, study, or sleep should not be compromised due to the presence of a guest.

Cohabitation Policy: The College prohibits cohabitation. Cohabitation is a guest staying overnight for more than three consecutive nights. Violations may result in disciplinary action.

Guest Registration Process: All overnight guests must be registered through the Office of Residence Life by completing the Overnight Guest Registration Form. This form must be submitted at least 24 hours before the guest’s stay. The host is responsible for ensuring their guest is registered and for adherence to all Residence Life policies. No one under the age of sixteen can be an overnight guest.

If an unregistered guest is discovered or the guest policies are violated, the student hosting the guest will lose overnight privileges. There may be additional disciplinary action.

Various types of misconduct may result in the removal of guests and referral of hosts to the Office of Community Standards (refer to the Student Handbook for more details).

Guests are not permitted during finals week and senior week to protect the integrity of the academic environment.

Guest and Visitor Check-In Process

All are required to follow the campus check-in process upon arrival:

Identification: Visitors must present a valid driver’s license or other approved government ID at the campus gate.

Guest/Visitor Badge: The guest/visitor's ID will be scanned into the Raptor system, and a visitor badge will be issued with their name, photo, and destination. All vehicle passengers must present identification to ensure campus security.

Students who enter through the North Parkway gate with guests must register guests at the Phillips or Bailey gate when the North Parkway gate is not staffed.

Visitors to West Campus should be directed or taken to one of the staffed gates to allow their guests to check in through the Raptor process before proceeding to their destination.

Students with overnight guests are required to register their guest(s) at one of the staffed gates. The visitor will receive a visitor badge with the expiration date included.

Large Events: 

Pre-registered guests/visitors may bypass the Raptor system by displaying their event parking pass or emailed event pass, allowing quicker access to the campus.

Event organizers are required to submit the list of attendees to Campus Safety at least 48 hours before the event for guests to bypass the visitor check-in process. Campus Safety will send you a visitor pass, which you can forward to your guests.

If multiple people will be in one vehicle, include the names of the passengers on the list sent to Campus Safety.

The pass will allow them to pass through the gate without being stopped.  Guests will not be turned away if you do not follow these steps; they will have their ID scanned and be issued a visitor badge as described above.   

For more details on the visitor check-in process, refer to the guidelines provided by Campus Safety.

Trespass Notice

Campus Safety or any Rhodes official may issue a Criminal Trespass Notice if it is determined that an individual poses a threat to the safety, well-being, or academic environment of the College. If a person is deemed to have committed a crime, they may be subject to arrest by the Memphis Police Department.

Purpose

Rhodes College is committed to fostering an inclusive residential community that respects students of diverse religious, spiritual, and cultural beliefs and identities. The purpose of this policy is to outline the process by which students may request housing preferences based on sincerely held religious or cultural beliefs, while balancing those requests with the operational and space limitations of campus housing. 

Scope

This policy applies to all undergraduate students seeking housing within Rhodes College residence halls and apartments who request specific housing arrangements due to religious or cultural practices. This policy governs requests for housing preferences and does not supersede other housing policies, procedures, or institutional requirements.

Religious Housing Preference Options

The Office of Residence Life may consider the following housing preferences when they are based on documented religious or cultural needs:

• Assignment to an all-same-gender floor, suite, or apartment
• Consideration of additional space to accommodate religious practices. 
• Assignment to a location with access to semi-private or private-use bathroom facilities

Students seeking private spaces for prayer or religious practice are encouraged to utilize campus resources outside of their assigned living space. These include reservable social rooms within residence halls, designated prayer rooms in Barret Library, and the Interfaith Lounge in Burrow Hall, which is available 24/7 

Established Criteria and Limitations

• Requests must be based on sincerely held religious or cultural beliefs and supported by appropriate documentation.
• Housing preferences are not guaranteed due to the limited nature of housing inventory.
• Requests for single (private) bedrooms are not approved as a religious housing preference.
• All requests are reviewed individually and evaluated in consideration of availability, operational feasibility, and documented need.

Request Process

Students seeking a religious housing preference must complete the Religious Housing Preference Request Form and the housing application by the applicable deadline:

• Friday, January 30, 2026 (11:59 p.m.)  – Returning students requesting preferences for Fall 2026
• February 23-27, 2026 – Decision notifications for Religious Housing Preference requests sent to students.
• Wednesday, March 4, 2026 (5 p.m.) - Deadline to confirm or deny the GIH assignment.     
• Sunday, May 31, 2026 – Incoming students requesting preferences for Fall 2026

Failure to meet the established deadlines may limit the Office of Residence Life's ability to consider the request.

Review and Approval 

All religious housing preference requests are reviewed on a case-by-case basis by the Office of Residence Life. The Office of Residence Life, in consultation with the Office of the Chaplain, is responsible for evaluating documentation and determining eligibility. Housing assignments made by the Office of Residence Life are final.

Religious Housing Preference request decisions will be communicated to students via their Rhodes email. Students must confirm acceptance or decline of the assignment by 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, March 4, 2026. Failure to respond by the deadline will result in cancellation of the Religious Housing Preference assignment, and the student will participate in the general housing selection process. 

Students with questions regarding this policy or the request process may contact the Office of Residence Life at reslifestaff@rhodes.edu.

Purpose

Rhodes College is committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive residential community that respects students of diverse gender identities and expressions. The purpose of this policy is to outline the process by which students may request Gender Inclusive Housing when their gender identity differs from the sex assigned at birth, while balancing these requests with the operational and space limitations of campus housing.

Gender-Inclusive encompasses a range of social, psychological, behavioral, and medical interventions designed to support and affirm an individual’s gender identity. Gender Inclusive Housing (GIH) is intended to support students who may benefit from housing arrangements that prioritize these needs within the residential experience.

Scope

This policy applies to all undergraduate students seeking GIH in Rhodes College residence halls and apartments. This policy governs housing preference requests and does not supersede other housing policies, procedures, or institutional requirements.

Gender Inclusive Housing Options

GIH allows students the opportunity to submit housing preference requests that prioritize their gender identity–related needs. Housing assignments under this policy may include:

• Assignment to a multiple-occupancy bedroom, suite, or apartment shared by two or more students who mutually agree to live together, regardless of students’ sex or gender.
• Assignment to identified residence halls or housing areas designated for Gender Inclusive Housing.
• Consideration of housing configurations that support a student’s comfort, safety, and well-being.

All members of a shared room, suite, or apartment must voluntarily agree to the Gender Inclusive Housing arrangement.

Established Criteria and Limitations

• Requests must be based on a student’s gender identity and related housing needs.
• GIH preferences are not guaranteed due to limited housing inventory and space availability.
• All requests are reviewed individually and evaluated based on availability, operational feasibility, and the mutual consent of all assigned roommates.
• All residents within a Gender Inclusive Housing assignment must agree to the arrangement.
• Students are encouraged to communicate with their families regarding housing assignments; however, the Office of Residence Life will not communicate directly with families regarding GIH placements.
• Requests for single (private) bedrooms are not guaranteed as part of the Gender Inclusive Housing process.

Request Process

Students seeking Gender Inclusive Housing must complete both the Gender Inclusive Housing Request Form and the housing application by the applicable deadline:

• Friday, January 30, 2026 (11:59 p.m.) – Returning students requesting Gender Inclusive Housing for Fall 2026.
• February 23-27, 2026 – Decision notifications for GIH request sent to students.
• Wednesday, March 4, 2026 (5 p.m.) - Deadline to confirm or deny the GIH assignment.     

Requests submitted after the established deadline may limit the Office of Residence Life’s ability to consider the request.

Gender-Inclusive Housing assignments are made before the general room selection process.

Review and Approval

All Gender Inclusive Housing requests are reviewed on a case-by-case basis by the Office of Residence Life. The Office of Residence Life is responsible for reviewing submitted information, determining eligibility, and making final housing assignments. 

GIH decisions will be communicated to students via their Rhodes email. Students must confirm acceptance or decline of the assignment by 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, March 4, 2026. Failure to respond by the deadline will result in cancellation of the GIH assignment, and the student will participate in the general housing selection process. 

Decisions made by the Office of Residence Life are final. 

Students with questions regarding this policy or the request process may contact the Office of Residence Life at reslifestaff@rhodes.edu.