We think employees are happier, more productive and valuable if they know what they can expect from Bethel University, and what the University expects from them. In the next few sections we introduce you to Bethel’s history, values, culture and goals. We expect that employees will incorporate that information into their day-to-day job performance, striving to meet our University's Christian mission and values in everything they do.

Our personnel policies and procedures will familiarize employees with the privileges, benefits and responsibilities of being a Bethel University employee. Employees should understand that our policies and practices can only be highlighted and summarized. For detailed information employees will have to speak with immediate supervisors or the Office of Human Resources.

If there are any discrepancies between the information contained in the University's policies and procedures and the legal plan documents that describe the plans in detail, the plan documents will prevail. Changes in benefit plans and/or policies will be communicated through written or e-mail correspondence to employees, and through updates to the University's written Policies and Procedures.

At Bethel University, as in the rest of the world, circumstances are constantly changing. As a result, we may revise, rescind or supplement these policies from time to time. Nothing in our Policies or Procedures or any Manual or Handbook is a contract or promise. The Policies and Procedures can change at any time, for any reason, with or without warning.

We are always looking for ways to improve communications with our employees. Suggestions are always welcome; please feel free to bring suggestion to the Director of Human Resources.

Section 19: Other Information

Last Updated: 01/05
Applies to: Administrators, Faculty, Staff
Related Policies: Equal Employment Opportunity

The University is committed to the fair and equitable treatment of all employees, as demonstrated by the University's Equal Employment Opportunity Policy.

To foster a working environment that is fair, humane, and respectful, the University has established the following standards.

The University commits to:

• Employing individuals on the basis of operational needs and qualifications, as well as offering promotional opportunities, compensation, and benefits with the assurance of equal opportunity and fair treatment regardless of race, color, sex, age, national origin, disability, or veteran status.
• Offering work conditions, wages, and benefits that are competitive with those offered by comparable employers.
• Complying with all applicable laws.

Encouraging open and direct dialogue between employees and supervisors to foster an environment of cooperation in the resolution of employee concerns.

Last Updated:10/05
Applies to: Administrators, Faculty, Staff
Related Policies: Equal Employment Opportunity

Bethel University is a Christian community of scholars and learners dedicated to building lives of commitment and leadership for the Church, the nation, and the world. Bethel provides liberating programs to challenge the mind, to enlarge the vision, and to equip the whole person for lifelong service.
Bethel University was founded in 1947 as a Christian liberal arts college by the Missionary Church, a denomination with roots in both the Mennonite and Methodist traditions.

In 1944, at the Indiana Annual Conference for the then United Missionary Church, a resolution was passed to the effect that a denomination college be organized. After considering sites in Michigan, Ohio and Iowa, in 1946, the current campus was purchased in Mishawaka, Indiana.

The name Bethel College was selected by J. A. Huffman, longtime education advocate of the Missionary Church, because of its biblical meaning (House of God) and consistency with the publishing arm of the denomination (Bethel Publishing). In 1950, the Nebraska Conference voted to join the other districts in support of Bethel College.

During the 1950-51 school year, the Administration Building was completed, the first major building project of the college. Over the next four decades, six building were added: Shupe Hall (1958), Goodman Auditorium (1959), Hall of Science (1964), Oakwood Hall (1966), Campus Center (1978), and the Bowen Library (1984). In 1993, the nursing wing was added to the Hall of Science; in 1994, the addition and renovation to the Campus Center was completed; in 1996, the Everest-Rohrer Chapel/Fine Arts Center was completed; in 1997, the Wiekamp Athletic Center was completed in 1999, the Vernon R & Doris Sailor Residential Center was completed; in 2000 the Academic Center was completed; and in 2004, the Bethel College Bookstore was opened.

In March 1966, Bethel College was granted “Candidate Status” by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. For the next five years the college engaged in a self-study process, culminating with its first accreditation on March 31, 1971. In 1969, the United Missionary Church and the Missionary Church Association concluded a church merger, which formed the Missionary Church, USA. In 1973, The General Conference of the Missionary Church took action to place authority and responsibility for conducting the affairs of the college with its Board of Trustees. The university continues to maintain a close affiliation with the Missionary Church and in 1992 became the sole college of the denomination.

Last Updated:04/15
Applies to:Administrators, Faculty, Staff
Related Policies: Employment & Recruiting, Alcohol Policy, Gender Identity Policy

Bethel University faculty and staff have an important normative and formative relationship with the students, which is a vital part of the campus community. They are expected to model the virtues that are central to our mission as a Christian university of the Missionary Church. It is the position of Bethel University and the Missionary Church that the Bible establishes our basic principles for living together as a Christian academic community.

These principles and guidelines are essential and foundational. They are to be performed in a spirit and attitude arising from a deep commitment and belief in their verity. All of these principles assume the recognition of the Lordship of Jesus Christ over all of life, and His Word and life as found in the Old Testament and New Testament as our standard to strive for.

The chief motive of all Christian conduct should be to “love the Lord God with our whole being” (Deuteronomy 6:4-5) and “others as ourselves” (Leviticus 19:18; Matthew 22:39). Righteousness, holiness of life, love and wisdom are to be our goal and pursuit.

As part of our employment agreement at Bethel University, we recognize that Bethel holds the following expectations.

1. To pursue a lifestyle that honors God, and to practice and develop Christian morals and virtues, such as listed in 2 Peter 1:5-8, “faith, goodness, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, brotherly kindness and love” (NIV). 1 Peter 4:8 urges us to “love each other unfailingly and deeply” (NIV). These things make us fruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ (Philippians 4:8; 1 Timothy 1:5; Titus 2:5; Hebrews 7:26, 13:4; 1 Peter 5:8).
2. To be a faithful participant at church so that worship of our Redeemer and Creator stay the central part of our lives (Psalm 22:22-24; Hebrews 10:25).
3. To maintain a concerned, professional, positive relationship with students and to avoid any form of racism, exploitation, abuse or harassment toward any member of the university family, thus becoming a co-worker with God in Christ as He brings His people to maturity (Matthew 20:25; Galatians 6:2; I Corinthians 13:4; 1 Thessalonians 5:15; 2 Timothy 2:24).
4. To recognize that the University community and the Church take a strong position against abortion and see human life as sacred in all instances. Faculty and staff are expected to support this position in any public
   statements or conversations with students (Genesis 1:26-28, 5:1-3, 9:6; Ecclesiastes 11:5; Galatians 3:26-28; Ephesians 4:24; Colossians 3:10).
5. To be sexually pure. To avoid any form of sexual activity which the Scripture prohibits, including sexual intercourse outside of marriage or unfaithfulness within marriage. (1 Corinthians 6:9-11; Hebrews 13:4). In fact, to escape the corruption that is in the world and become partakers of God’s character (1 Peter 1:4).
6. To recognize that marriage is between one man (born male), and one woman (born female) is the instruction of Scripture and sexual expression is to be confined to the marriage relationship.  Bethel desires an environment whose people demonstrate behaviors aligned with their birth gender.  See Gender Identity Policy 1.9 for details
7. To avoid lying and profane language so that our speech may be pure, uplifting and honest, and to avoid attitudes and actions which God condemns as sinful (Proverbs 6:16-19), both toward God and toward other persons (1 Timothy 4:12; Titus 2:7; Colossians 3:23-24; 1 Thessalonians 4:11).
8. To recognize that our body is the temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20) and to abstain from any kind of substance abuse (Proverbs 20:4, 23:20, 31:4; 2 Peter 2:19-20).
9. To recognize the diverse views regarding the use of alcohol, avoid its abuse (which is most often indicated by intoxication), and refrain from any alcohol consumption while representing Bethel University (Ephesians 5:18; Galatians 5:19-21; 1 Peter 4:3; 1 Corinthians 5:11).  See Alcohol Policy 1.7 for more details.
10. To do one’s best to use the resources of creation and of Bethel University in a way that is positive and constructive, demonstrating a responsible stewardship of what has been graciously given to us (Genesis 1:28, 6:12; Revelation 11:18).

Last Updated:  02/15
Applies to:  Administrators, Faculty, Staff
Related Policies:  Employment & Recruiting, Covenant of Lifestyle

Bethel University seeks to be a campus of Christ-followers who model Christ-like behavior in our lifestyle.  We believe Scripture makes it clear that Christianity at its core is about loving God foremost and loving others as ourselves (Matthew 22: 37-40).   It is not primarily about bodily habits or behavior.  Only within the framework of fulfilling the law of love can the biblical warnings and instructions about drinking alcohol be rightly understood and applied (Romans 13:10). 

1. Believers find comfort and joy in the Holy Spirit; they do not take refuge in alcohol.  The apostle Paul says, “And do not get drunk on wine, for that is dissipation, but be filled with the Spirit” (Ephesians 5:18). 

2. Scripture mentions the moderate use of alcohol, but condemns its abuse, which leads to drunkenness (Ephesians 5:18; Galatians 5:19-21; 1 Peter 4:3; 1 Corinthians 5:11).

3. Scripture instructs us to not judge one another for drinking or not drinking (Romans 14:3-4).

4. Scripture compels us to live a life of conviction aware of those we are given the privilege to impact and influence. It is wrong to put a “stumbling block” in another believer’s way (Romans 14:13).

5. We are to be concerned for the welfare of others and not merely for our own personal interests (Philippians 2:4). 
 
Bethel recognizes there are diverse views regarding the use of alcohol.  Some choose a testimony of abstinence for a variety of legitimate and honorable reasons while others believe they can use alcohol occasionally and moderately without harm to their body, spirit or relationships with others.  Therefore, faculty and staff are encouraged to avoid the use of alcohol and are prohibited from the following: 

1. The abusive use of alcohol, which is most often indicated by physical, mental, emotional, or job function impairment attributable to alcohol intoxication.
2. The use of alcohol while representing Bethel University.

Most important we desire for our leaders to live a life worthy of the calling God has placed upon you, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace (Ephesians 4:1-3). 

Last Updated:  06/16
Applies to:  Administrators, Faculty, Staff, Students
Related Policies:  Employment & Recruiting, Covenant of Lifestyle

In an effort to maintain a campus environment that supports and encourages the dissemination of knowledge, the University will provide a drug and alcohol abuse prevention program in compliance with the Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988 and Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act Amendment of 1989. All students and employees share in the responsibility for protecting our environment and are expected to demonstrate high standards of professional and personal conduct. The unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensation, possession or use of alcohol; illegal drugs; or controlled substances by members of the Bethel University community adversely affects the educational environment. Therefore, the University is committed to having a drug-free campus.

The following material will provide you with information concerning:

• The annual distribution of the policy to each student and employee.
• Standards of conduct that clearly prohibit the unlawful use of alcohol, illegal drugs or controlled substances by students and employees on its property or any university activity.
• A description of applicable legal sanctions under law for the unlawful possession or distribution of illegal drugs or alcohol.
• A description of health risks associated with the use and/or abuse of illegal drugs or the abuse of alcohol. 
• And a clear statement that Bethel University will impose disciplinary sanctions on students and employees for violations of this policy.

All employees and students are expected to adhere to this policy during the course of employment and/or enrollment at Bethel University.

Alcohol, Drugs and Tobacco
Bethel University is committed to maintaining a safe and healthy educational environment free from alcohol, drugs and tobacco.

Health Risks
The use of such products are known to be harmful to one’s physical and psychological well-being. Their use is associated with a wide variety of health risks. Some of the most commonly known risks include severe weight loss, malnutrition, physical and mental dependence, changes in the reproductive system, high blood pressure, stroke, heart problems, damage to the liver and/or lungs, and even death.

Standards of Conduct
The use, possession, or distribution of alcoholic beverages and illicit drugs, all forms of hallucinogenic drugs, or the abuse of legal substances, are prohibited on campus. Furthermore, the college prohibits smoking, including e-cigarettes/vapor cigarettes, and all forms of tobacco use or possession everywhere on-campus. Campus visitors are expected to comply with these standards.

      Students - The use, possession, or distribution of alcoholic beverages and illicit drugs, all forms of hallucinogenic drugs, or the abuse of legal substances, are prohibited on or away from campus.  Furthermore, the university prohibits smoking, including e-cigarettes/vapor cigarettes, and all forms of tobacco use or possession everywhere on-campus by students.  Students may not be present at a nightclub, bar, party, or off-campus gathering where alcohol is served. Note: if a student enters any social gathering and observes alcohol, he/she must leave immediately. Students may not be employed where alcoholic beverages are the primary source of revenue.

In situations where a student’s actions, words, behavior, and/or other related factors (such as the smell of alcohol on their person or breath) are consistent with a person who has consumed alcohol or drugs, he/she will be confronted by university personnel. The university reserves the right to require a student to take a breathalyzer or drug test. If a student refuses to take the test, he/she may be held accountable for consumption based on the original evidence. Any charges incurred for an outside assessment or for treatment will be the responsibility of the student. If a student tests negative for drug use, the university will be responsible for the costs of the test.

      Employees - The use, possession, or distribution of illicit drugs, all forms of hallucinogenic drugs, or the abuse of legal substances, are prohibited on or away from campus. Bethel University also prohibits the abuse of any drugs and/or alcohol which impairs the ability of persons to function as an employee in a normal, safe and alert manner.  See also HR Policy 1.7 -Alcohol Policy for Employees.

University Sanctions

     Students - Students violating this policy will be subject to the disciplinary procedures ranging from probation to dismissal. A student placed on probation must complete the college’s ASAP (Alcohol and Substance Abuse Program), including all recommendations associated with the program. The student is responsible for all costs associated with the program.

     Employees - Failure on the part of the employees to comply with this drug-free policy will result in one or more of the following actions:
• Intoxication. Any employee who violates the University’s prohibition against intoxication and abuse of substances as described above will be suspended or terminated, depending upon the circumstances.
• Possession and Use. Any employee who violates the University’s prohibitions against possession or use will be subject to corrective action. Possession or use of illegal drugs will automatically result in immediate termination.
• Off-Duty Illegal Drug-Related Activity. Any employee who is convicted of off-duty illegal drug-related activity, including use, possession, manufacture, dispensation, distribution, or sale of drugs, or who otherwise is determined to have engaged in off-duty illegal drug-related activity will be immediately terminated by the University.
• Driving Under the Influence. Any employee who pleads guilty to or otherwise is convicted of driving under the influence of alcohol will be suspended and/or terminated.
• Notification of local police if the violation is more serious than a “personal misconduct” which may include arrest.

Employees who are suspended will have clear criteria for required behavioral changes and/or counseling with an evaluative review at the end of the probationary period. This may include mandatory participation in substance abuse education or rehabilitation program (at employee’s expense) as a condition of continued employment at Bethel University.

Employees suspected of violating this policy should be reported to their supervisor or the Office of Human Resources. Working with the appropriate Vice President, Human Resources will assist, conduct or oversee an investigation of the alleged violation and recommend appropriate corrective action. Corrective action will be carried out immediately upon conclusion of such an investigation.

Legal Sanctions
In addition to college sanctions, Indiana and Federal law allows for fines and/or imprisonment for the unlawful possession, sale, manufacture, or distribution of drugs or alcohol. The amount of the fines and the length of imprisonment vary according to the type and amount of the substance involved, the offenders past record for such offenses, and a number of additional factors.

It is impractical to list all the alcohol and drug-related state and federal crimes and penalties.  But all persons should be aware of the following:

• In Indiana any person under 21 who possesses an alcoholic beverage, and any person who provides alcohol to such person, is at risk of arrest.
• Any person who is intoxicated in public risks arrest.
• A person convicted of driving while intoxicated may be punished by fine, be jailed, and lose his or her driver's license.
• Any selling of alcoholic beverages without a license is illegal.

Possession, use, distribution or manufacture of controlled substances (drugs) illegally can result in arrest and conviction of a drug law violation and:

• Fines up to $10,000 (Indiana);
• Fines up to $10 million for a first offense (federal);
• Imprisonment up to 50 years (Indiana);
• Imprisonment up to life (federal); and
• Confiscation of property

Support

     Students - Students who express the need for help in dealing with drug or alcohol dependencies are encouraged to contact someone in the Student Development Office or visit the Bethel University Wellness Center. The Wellness Center is staffed with counselors who have training and experience in this area. In addition, contact information for off-campus agencies and programs can be provided through the Wellness Center.

     Employees - Bethel University does not provide counseling, treatment, or rehabilitation services for employees.  Employees who express need for help in dealing with drug or alcohol dependencies are encouraged to contact the Bethel University Wellness Center.  They can provide contact information for off-campus agencies and programs.

Alcohol and Addictions Resource Center
818 East Jefferson Boulevard
South Bend, IN 46617
574.234.6024

Life Treatment Centers
1402 South Michigan Street
South Bend, IN 46613
574.233.5433

Oaklawn Addiction Services
415 East Madison Street
South Bend, IN 46617
574.283.1234

Most disciplinary cases involving alcohol and drugs result in a counseling referral.

Annual Dissemination

     Students - Students receive the policy and its procedures electronically at the beginning of each academic session through campus email and the student newsfeed.  It is also found in the Student Handbook, which is distributed annually and available online.

     Employees - The policy and its procedures are distributed to all newly hired Bethel University employees at the beginning of their employment, and to all current employees on an annual basis through campus email.  It is also available in the Employee Manual which is available online.

Annual and Biennial Review

The Drug and Alcohol Abuse Prevention Policy and Procedures will be reviewed annually by the Vice President for Student Development and Director of Student Life.  A biennial review is conducted by the Vice President for Student Development, Director of Student Life, Director of Campus Safety and Director of Human Resources to determine the effectiveness of the program and ensure that the disciplinary sanctions described in the program are consistently enforced.

Last Updated:  04/15
Applies to:  Administrators, Faculty, Staff, Traditional Students
Related Policies:  Employment & Recruiting, Covenant of Lifestyle

We believe the Bible teaches that God designed sexuality as a unique expression of love and unity between a man (born male) and a woman (born female) who have committed themselves to a lifelong marriage. This is the context in which childbearing is to take place. Therefore the Bible explicitly forbids both sexual behavior outside of marriage for heterosexuals, and all homosexual behavior, as sin (I Corinthians 6:9-11). Additionally, Bethel University understands gender to be a matter of chromosomal identification and primary, overt sexual anatomy at birth, except in the rare cases in which both chromosomal identification and physical anatomy are both indeterminable (Matthew 19:4, Mark 10:6). We believe marriage is between one man (born male) and one woman (born female), and all students and employees -- regardless of age, residency or status – should abstain from sexual cohabitation, any involvement in premarital or extramarital sexual activity, and homosexual activity (including same-sex dating behaviors).

We believe this is a Biblical instruction, illuminated by the Holy Spirit and validated by the larger Body of Christ. While some Christians or Christian institutions may disagree, Bethel holds to this doctrinal position as orthodox and faithful to both the Bible and historic Christianity. Moreover, Bethel shares this conviction with our parent denomination, the Missionary Church, as expressed in their Constitution and doctrine.

Neither same-sex attraction nor gender dysphoria is sin. People who experience these feelings are to be loved and valued. All people deserve dignity and respect, and we condemn any malice directed toward those who experience same-sex attraction or gender dysphoria. We encourage all of our community members to engage others with civility and respect regardless of their convictions.

Occasionally, members of our community navigate same-sex attraction or gender confusion, but when their feelings lead to improper behaviors, it can disrupt our desire to maintain a community that is committed to a Biblical sexual identity and personal holiness. For this reason, Bethel University will not permit cross-dressing or other expressions or actions that are deliberately discordant with birth gender, and will respond to such matters within the appropriate spiritual and accountability processes of the university.

More specifically, traditional students whose behaviors violate our community standards regarding sexual expression will be required to meet with a member of the Student Life Staff and will be treated in a loving, redemptive manner throughout the process. In the case of Employees, the individual will meet with the HR Director and relevant Supervisor(s). The university reserves the right to terminate employment, terminate enrollment, or deny enrollment in cases where individuals, after counsel, continue to show disrespect for policies related to sexuality by promoting, advocating, or behaving in an intractably contrary way to this community commitment.

Bethel University acknowledges the need (and therefore reserves the right) to examine each situation on an individual basis, interpreting this policy according to the unique characteristics of a person or context, while upholding the policy.

Ultimately, we believe a community dedicated to honoring God by this policy can act lovingly, graciously, and redemptively on matters of such sensitivity.