Policy on User Responsibilities and Acceptable Use
of Electronic Resources at Theological College

1.1 Theological College makes available computing resources (including computer facilities and services, networks, electronic mail, electronic information and data, and voice mail services) to faculty, students and other authorized persons (“Users”) to support the educational, research, formation and service mission of the College.

1.2 Users are responsible for:

1. Reading academic, administrative and network informational messages and warnings.

2. Back-up of non-system files on individual PCs.

1.3 Users are required to comply with all applicable policies and regulations of Theological College, and federal, state, and local laws with respect to their use of Theological College’s computing resources. Prohibited uses of computing resources include, but are not limited to, the following:

1. Unlawful communications, including threats of violence, obscenity, child pornography, and harassing communications.

2. Any unauthorized use of Theological College’s computing resources for commercial or political activities or fundraising or advertising for unrelated organizations.

3. Misrepresentation or forgery of the identity of the sender or source of electronic communication, alteration of message content or unauthorized deletions.

4. Acquiring or attempting to acquire passwords of others, or using or attempting to use the computer accounts of others, or revealing one’s own or another’s password.

5. Unauthorized access to, reading of or interception of, communications not intended for the User.

6. Intentionally interfering with computer operations, such as by propagating “worms” or “viruses”, sending electronic chain mail, or sending inappropriate “broadcast” messages.

7. Altering or attempting to alter or delete files or systems without authorization. While Theological College generally does not monitor individual usage of electronic resources, it reserves the right to monitor usage if it has reason to suspect a violation of the Policy, or as necessary to evaluate and maintain system efficiency or as otherwise needed. Users should not have an expectation of privacy in their use of electronic resources owned by Theological College.

8. Connecting any computer to any of the Theological College’s networks unless it meets technical and security standards set by the Theological College administration.

9. Copying, installing or using any software or data files in violation of applicable copyrights or license agreements, including but not limited to downloading and/or distribution of music, movies, or any other electronic media via the internet.

10. Modifying or reconfiguring the software or hardware of any Theological College computer or network facility without proper authority.

11. Refusing to allow Theological College computer system administrators to perform their duties fairly.

Violation of this Policy will result in disciplinary action up to and including loss or restriction of user privileges, termination of employment, or dismissal from the Seminary and possible criminal and/or civil legal action.

1/24/06 Approved by the Local Council

Reverend Thomas R. Hurst, S.S., Rector