The University Commons is the center of student life on campus. The Commons Complex includes the Student Lounge; meeting rooms; student government offices; a branch of the campus credit union; two ATMs; the UCR Bookstore; and the Exchange/Ditto, a student-owned store and note-taking service. Offices for most Student Services programs are in the complex and in neighboring Costo Hall. A variety of food service areas is also housed in the Commons, including the Main Cafeteria, the Pub, the Grille, and Johnathan's coffeehouse.
At the Main Desk it is possible to cash personal checks ($30 limit), send and receive faxes, and obtain change. Quiet games, Ping-Pong and pool equipment are available for check-out. Other Main Lounge facilities include a Ping-Pong and pool room, video games, TV, and vending machines.
The UCR Connection debit card may have cash value added at the Main Desk, and the card can be used for food and other items at several campus locations.
The Commons provides a pleasant and comfortable setting for students, faculty and staff. Entertainment and activities are regularly scheduled in the Lounge and on the patios.
Operations of the Commons are guided by the University Commons Board of Governors. Nine of the eleven members of this board are students, and they play an important role in its activities.
The Commons Main Lounge is open from 7:30 a.m. to 9:45 p.m., Monday through Thursday; 7:30 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. on Friday, and from 2 p.m. to 9:45 p.m. Saturday and Sunday during the academic year.
All students are required to carry and show a permanent photo ID card for identification, most official transactions, to check out books from the libraries, and for entrance into the Student Recreation Center. The UCR Connection card is also the meal and building access card for students living in the residence halls. The card may be used as a debit card for purchases or payments in all food service locations as well as at the Cashier's Office, Copy Center, Bookstore, vending machines, copiers, libraries, Commons Main Lounge, and laundry machines in the residence halls and campus apartments.
Cards may be obtained from the Office of the Commons, in the Commons Student Lounge. Photos will be taken from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday during the first two weeks of each quarter. The schedule for the remainder of the quarter is 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday, or by appointment. UCR Connection cards are $15 for all students, faculty, and staff. Replacement cards are provided for a $15 fee.
At the UCR Bookstore, students can purchase all textbooks needed for their classes, as well as most necessary school supplies. The Bookstore also carries a large selection of general interest books on topics ranging from art to zoology, children's books, reference books, and magazines.
In addition, the Bookstore sells gift items, backpacks, greeting cards, posters, art supplies, photographic supplies, office products, electronics accessories, and a large variety of UCR-imprinted sportswear, gifts, mugs, class rings, graduation caps and gowns, graduation announcements, and other associated merchandise.
CompUCR, located in the Bookstore, sells a variety of computer hardware platforms, printers, and supplies, along with a large selection of computer books and software.
A special order service is available for any book in print through the General Book Department. Special order services are available in each department of the Bookstore. Other services include phone cards, film processing, check cashing, computer-automated "books in print" information service, and faculty cap and gown rental.
During the first and last week of each quarter, students may sell used textbooks back to the Bookstore for up to 60 percent of their retail value. Students can also sell textbooks back at any time during the school year for wholesale value. Check with the Bookstore for more detailed information and specific requirements associated with book buy-back.
Students can cash checks for $10 over the amount of purchase with a valid UCR student ID or California driver's license. Faculty and staff can cash checks to a maximum of $50 a day, no purchase required. To make use of this service, faculty and staff need to apply for a check-cashing card at the Bookstore.
The UCR Bookstore is located northeast of the University Commons. Bookstore hours are Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m.-5:30 p.m. and Friday 8 a.m.-5 p.m. For further information, call (909) 787-4211; fax (909) 276-9105; or check online at http://www.bookstore.ucr.edu.
Built in 1916, the Barn is one of the oldest buildings on campus and originally served as a stable for campus horses. After the horses' departure, the building was remodeled to serve as the first campus cafeteria. Over the years the Barn has been used for dances, poetry readings, musical performances, and food and beverage service.
Open to students, faculty, and staff, the Barn currently provides food services and offers entertainment on weekends. The University Club, a membership organization, is also located in the Barn.
The UC Riverside Office of Cultural Events serves as a cultural, intellectual, and educational resource for the University and the surrounding communities, exposing audiences to artists whose work has laid the foundation of the performing arts as well as those whose creative visions are shaping the arts for the next century.
Performing Arts Series. In the past 29 seasons, the UCR Cultural Events program has presented nearly 400 performances by some of the world's most distinguished talents. The roster of artists who have performed in the series includes: the dance companies of Bella Lewitsky, Donald Byrd, Mark Morris, Garth Fagan, and Ballet Hispanico; classical musicians such as the Juilliard Quartet, Chanticleer, and the Tokyo String Quartet; jazz legends Dr. Billy Taylor and Wynton Marsalis, world music artists Pancho Sanchez and Tito Puente; and theatrical troupes including the National Theatre for the Deaf and the California Shakespeare Festival.
UCR Master Classes. In addition to performing, visiting artists also conduct master classes for UCR students. In coordination with academic departments and student services programs, students have the opportunity to interact with professional choreographers, composers, actors, and musicians who are at the top of their field, thus enhancing their educational experiences.
Chalk the Walk. Chalk the Walk is a five-day arts festival event in which students use their artistic ability to create spectacular works of art in chalk on the Commons pavement. Cash prizes are awarded in two categories: Original Works and Copies of the Masters. 1999-2000 will mark the 11th annual "Chalk the Walk" event. This event is co-sponsored by ASUCR and the Residence Halls.
Music by the Tower Summer Concerts Series. The Music by the Tower Summer Concerts Series consists of festival concerts in July. Early Sunday evenings, families gather on the lawn surrounding the bell tower on the UC Riverside campus. Activities are available for children, such as face painting and hands-on art projects. The Concerts by the Tower Series attracts family audiences from all over the Inland Empire. In past seasons, more than 5,000 people have attended the summer series, making it one of the most successful free, family activities in the region.
Visit the Cultural Events web site at http://www.cultural-events.ucr.edu. The Office of Cultural Events is located at 133 Costo Hall. Phone (909) 787-4629, fax (909) 787-2221.
The 1999-2000 Schedule of Events includes the following artists:
La Tania, the Vienna Choir Boys, American Brass Quintet, Perla Batalla, Kartik Seshadri Ensemble, Fiesta Navidad, Concord Ensemble, Danny Hoch, Alvin Ailey Repertory Ensemble, Altan, Debussy String Quartet, Paul Galbraith, Festival of One (Shishir Kurup, Maria Elena Gaitan, Bridget Hanley, Lauren Tom), Anthony de Mare, and the Joe Good Performance Group.
UCR's 178 student-athletes currently compete on 11 National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division II sports teams in the California Collegiate Athletic Association.
In 1998-99, UCR placed two teams in the top 20 nationally (baseball and volleyball), and had three All-Americans in track and baseball. Although not NCAA affiliated, the UCR karate program is one of the finest in the nation, with seven team national championships to its credit.
In April 1999, UCR declared its intent to move to Division I of the NCAA. UCR will begin Division I competition in the 2000-2001 academic year and is seeking a conference affiliation.
UCR offers five teams for men interested in participating on the collegiate level: basketball, baseball, cross country, tennis, and track and field. Women's sports are basketball, cross country, softball, tennis, track and field, and volleyball. As part of the move to Division I, golf and soccer will be added for both men and women in the 2001-2002 academic year.
Athletic programs are supported by student fees and by private gifts developed through the work of the UCR Athletic Association and the UCR Athletic Development Office.
UCR student housing provides an environment which encourages academic pursuits and personal growth. Living on-campus allows students to be part of the college community, with opportunities to participate in activities that complement their in-classroom educational experience.
RESIDENCE HALLS
UCR provides for about 2,300 students in double and triple rooms, 40 to 60 residents to a living unit. All halls on all floors are coeducational, and some feature a common academic or social interest which residents share. All rooms are furnished and air conditioned. Advantages of residential life include educational, social, cultural, and recreational programs; counseling and guidance services; prepared meals; a supportive study environment; wheelchair accessibility for disabled students and visitors; and job opportunities. Residents may choose from three convenient payment plans. Staff and residents work together to provide a multitude of activities and programs that develop a sense of community and provide social interaction. Educational support includes academic study groups, tutorial assistance programs, a computer lab, various seminars, study rooms, and scheduled study hours. Additional activities include weekly corridor competitions, trips to the mountains and beaches, theme dances, special dinners, game shows, cultural events, and intramural teams.
Residents have a choice of various dining plans and dining facilities. Meals offered are breakfast, lunch, and dinner, Monday through Friday, plus brunch and dinner on Saturday and Sunday. Meal hours are flexible to accommodate student schedules. A wide variety of food is featured daily. Three hot entrees are available at every meal, along with a salad buffet, deli bar, daily specials, assorted desserts, fresh fruit, and much more.
Residents can use recreational centers which feature: TV lounges, pool and Ping-Pong tables, video game machines, fitness rooms, piano rooms, and social lounges. In addition, there are bike storage areas, tennis and volleyball courts, vending machines, and laundry rooms. Small convenience stores/coffeehouses managed and operated by the UCR Dining Services are located in the residence halls. These stores sell cappuccino, snacks, school supplies, toiletries, and more.
Advice and information about residence hall living accommodations can be obtained by writing Residence Halls, University of California, Riverside, 500 W. Big Springs Road, Riverside, CA 92507-3932, or by calling (909) 787-5972, or e-mail reshalls@housing.ucr.edu.
FAMILY STUDENT HOUSING
The Canyon Crest Family Student Housing complex is conveniently located within walking distance from the center of campus. There are 202 two-bedroom and 66 three-bedroom houses available to married and single-parent students. The recently remodeled units are moderately priced and unfurnished, except for stove and refrigerator. The University provides grounds maintenance, repair service, water and trash removal. Students are responsible for the remainder of the utilities. Nestled in the center of the complex is a park which includes a recreation area, playground equipment, barbecue pits and picnic facilities. Contact the Campus Apartments Leasing Office, located at 3595 Canyon Crest Drive. Call (909) 787-6350, or e-mail campusapts@housing.ucr.edu for more information.
BANNOCKBURN VILLAGE & PLAZA AND STONEHAVEN
The Bannockburn Village & Plaza and Stonehaven Apartment complexes offer a wide variety of apartments and suites, as well as residential and commercial services. Apartment-style living is available to all transfer and continuing students. Apartments are either furnished or unfurnished and come equipped with refrigerators, ovens and stoves, carpeting, window blinds, heating and air conditioning.
Residents enjoy access to swimming pools, a Jacuzzi, picnic areas and barbecues, a fitness room, recreational and study rooms, computer and typewriter labs, TV lounges, vending machines, bike storage, secure laundry rooms, and sport courts. Other services include equipment check-out, emergency assistance, and fax and copier availability. Campus Apartments residents can buy residence hall meal plans for added convenience. For information contact the Campus Apartments Leasing Office at 3595 Canyon Crest Drive. Call (909) 787-6370, or e-mail campusapts@housing.ucr.edu.
COMMUNITY LIVING
The Community Living Office assists students, faculty, and staff in obtaining suitable off-campus accommodations by providing detailed listings of apartments, rooms to rent, and people seeking to share housing. Numerous modern apartment complexes are located within a three-mile radius of the campus.
The University does not inspect off-campus accommodations and is not a party to negotiations between landlord and student. Students, faculty and staff are encouraged to consider living arrangements early in order to secure accommodations near campus by the beginning of school. Visit the office located at 3595 Canyon Crest Drive, call (909) 787-6370, or e-mail campusapts@housing.ucr.edu for more information.
UCR has its own police department, as do the other eight UC campuses. The University of California Police Department (UCPD) operates 24 hours per day, 365 days a year. The Department's twenty-one police officers have full police powers and are responsible for all law enforcement activities and criminal investigations on the UCR campus. Police officers work in uniform or plain-clothes patrolling the campus in marked and unmarked vehicles, on bicycles, and by foot. Five University police officers, along with five officers from the Riverside Police Department, are assigned to the University Neighborhood Enhancement Team (UNET) and provide police services for the area surrounding the UCR campus.
Emergencies. The UCPD Communications Center is the Public Safety Answering Point for all 9-1-1 emergency calls originating on campus. The telephone reporting procedure for police, fire, and medical emergencies is as follows: (1) If there is a 9-1-1 instruction sticker on the phone, follow the directions on the sticker; (2) On any campus phone requiring a 9 to be dialed for an off-campus line, dial 9-9-1-1; (3) On any campus phone requiring an 8 to be dialed for an off-campus line, dial 8-9-1-1; (4) On any campus pay phone, dial 9-1-1.
Emergency call boxes are located in or near most parking lots around the campus. Use these call boxes to report directly to the Police Department communications center any emergency or suspicious activity.
Nonemergency business calls to the Police Department should be placed by dialing (909) 787-5222.
Reporting Crime. All thefts, other criminal incidents, and suspicious activity occurring on campus should be immediately reported to the University Police Department by phoning, using emergency call boxes, or going to the police station. The police station is located at 3500 Canyon Crest Drive, adjacent to Parking Lot 24. Reporting crimes to the Police Department better enables the police to return stolen property and helps the police protect other members of the campus community from similar incidents. Reporting suspicious activity helps prevent crimes and apprehend offenders.
Programs. The Department's programs stress crime prevention, security, and personal safety. Seminars are offered to instruct members of the campus community on how to better protect themselves and their property. Call (909) 787-5387 for crime prevention information.
Lost and Found. Found property should be turned in to the Police Department. Report lost property so the Department can watch for it. Office hours for lost and found are 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Friday. Call (909) 787-5212 for information.
Additional Information. For more detailed information on the University Police Department, incident reporting, and campus security see appendix C. For campus crime statistics see appendix D or call the Department at (909) 787-5222.
The Parking Services operation is totally supported by revenue derived from the sale of parking permits. All vehicles which park on the UCR campus must display a valid regular or visitor UCR parking permit from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. Parking permits may be obtained at the Parking Services office located on Linden Street near Lot 22, open from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays, or the information kiosks near University Avenue and Martin Luther King Boulevard, which are open Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Saturday from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Parking Services arranges special parking for disabled people. For help with special parking problems or for additional information about parking, such as carpool incentives, call (909) 787-4395. Or visit the Parking Services web site at http://www.parking.ucr.edu.
The role of the Ombudsman is to ensure that all members of the university community--students, faculty, administrators, and staff--receive equitable treatment within the university. Anyone who has a university-related problem, or is in conflict with someone on campus, or has been treated unfairly can seek the assistance of the Ombudsman.
The Office of the Ombudsman provides an avenue for informal conflict resolution. The Ombudsman explains what policies apply to a particular situation and develops strategies for dealing with the problem. The Ombudsman also investigates complaints, facilitates communication between the parties in conflict, negotiates, mediates, and otherwise supports informal conflict resolution. The Ombudsman can recommend changes in University regulations.
Some topics that have been brought to the Ombudsman include grading practices, graduation requirements, disputes about fees, and conflicts with supervisors and instructors.
All records and communications are confidential. Complaints are pursued only with the consent of the complainant. The Office of the Ombudsman functions independently of the usual administrative structures. For more information, visit the Office of the Ombudsman in the University Cottage, call (909) 787-3213, or e-mail abriggs@ucrac1.ucr.edu.
Information regarding student conduct and policies can be found in appendix F: Campus Policies and Regulations Applying to Students.