Student Affairs

The Student Affairs Division of Salve Regina University strives to educate students in all aspects of living outside the formal academic environment. It supports the University Mission by fostering personal and social growth, civic responsibility, and the development of life skills within the context of Catholic values.

Students are expected to be involved in the educational process which occurs in the classroom and extends beyond the classroom into the University and civic community. Participation in various forms of the educational process presents students with opportunities to demonstrate responsibility for their own lives and futures as well as to reach beyond themselves and exhibit concern for others.

Student Rights and Responsibilities

As a Catholic institution of higher learning under the sponsorship of the Sisters of Mercy, Salve Regina University exists to provide educational opportunities for students who choose to live a more perceptive and fulfilling life. The University's purpose is to prepare students for responsible lives by imparting and expanding knowledge, developing skills, and cultivating enduring values. It encourages students to develop their abilities for thinking clearly and creatively, to enhance their capacity for sound judgment, and to prepare for the challenge of learning throughout their lives.

Students are expected to treat all members of the University community with respect and civility and to exercise guaranteed freedoms in a responsible manner consistent with the goals and traditions of the University. Students should acknowledge the interdependence of the University and the surrounding community and should take responsibility for their learning and collective welfare.

Upon enrollment, the student becomes a member of the academic community and thereby accepts both the rights and responsibilities associated with that membership.

It is the student's responsibility to know the policies, procedures, standards, and regulations which affect student rights; and it shall be the student's responsibility to obtain and act appropriately on such information. Ignorance of the information made accessible to the student shall not be cause to waive policies, procedures, standards, and regulations.

Student Handbook

The student handbook contains essential information about policies and procedures directly related to students. All students are expected to be familiar with the content of the student handbook and to act in accordance with the policies and procedures outlined therein.

Student Services

Residence Life

From traditional residence halls to architecturally significant buildings, students at Salve Regina have the opportunity to live in a variety of unique housing options situated throughout our historic campus. Students are supported by the Office of Residence Life, which consists of professional staff members as well as student Resident Advisors.

First-year students live in our traditional residence halls, designed to help them meet classmates and get involved with activities, while most sophomores choose from one-of-a-kind rooms in historic housing. As juniors and seniors, some students choose to live in on-campus apartments with full kitchens, while others reside in the nearby neighborhoods of Newport.

Students residing on campus can easily access downtown Newport on foot or via public transportation. Steeped in history, diversity and religious tolerance, today's Newport is a tourist mecca, with shops, restaurants, museums, galleries and sporting events permeating this "City by the Sea."

Campus Residency Requirement

As a residential institution, Salve Regina University places great value on the contributions a quality residential experience can make to student development. Experience has shown that campus residency during a student's college career is crucial to personal growth and the refinement of social skills. As a result, all full-time first-years and sophomores who are not commuting to campus from their parents' permanent local residence (legal domicile) are guaranteed housing and are required to live on-campus. Students entering in the fall will have a two-year housing requirement for First-year and Sophomore year. Requests for an exemption must be made prior to the year of residency requirement. All resident students are required to maintain full-time academic status.

Office of Student Engagement

The Office of Student Engagement enhances the educational experience by offering a variety of involvement opportunities to students that challenge, enlighten and entertain. Our programs and initiatives teach students to become stronger leaders, develop positive relationships, respect their peers and community, and immerse themselves in their interests. The office works with the Campus Activities Board to create and execute programming efforts, creating an active, lively campus for the student community.

Student Engagement assists recognized student organizations with matters related to group development, finances, and program planning. In addition, the staff is available to help students identify opportunities to establish new student organizations to better serve the academic and co-curricular needs of students. The office works with the Student Government Association to sponsor a monthly Student Organization President meeting designed to increase communication and collaboration between existing student groups.

Whether a student attends a live performance, joins a recognized student organization, or participates in recreational events, Student Engagement encourages all undergraduates to become fully involved in campus activities.

Gerety Hall

The Office of Student Engagement manages Gerety Hall, which serves as the Student Center for the campus community, and is a comfortable place to relax, attend events, grab a bite to eat, and enjoy each other.

The garden level of Gerety Hall features a Makerspace for student organizations, an eSports gaming center and lounge, and Seahawk Radio. There are several arcade games including Guitar Hero, air hockey, ping-pong tables, and plenty of lounge space in which to hang out or study. The first floor features the Fireplace Lounge, host to many events, a meeting space, an expansive lobby area, and also houses the late-night dining option, The Nest. The second floor is home to the Dean of Students, the LGBTQ+ Center, and the Multicultural Center, with the third floor including offices for the Student Government Association and the Campus Activities Board.

Student Government Association

The Student Government Association (SGA) serves as the primary representation for Salve Regina University students in university affairs, elected by the student body and overseen by the Office of Student Engagement (OSE). SGA's mission is to enhance the student experience and contribute to the University's collective success by acting as the liaison between students and university staff, faculty and administration. Through advocacy and representation, SGA ensures that student voices are heard and considered in all decisions impacting campus life.

SGA consists of 30 elected senators, additional appointed representatives as needed, five elected Executive Board members, one appointed Chief Justice, and five advisors. The Senate interacts with the student body through five external committees: Academic Affairs, Diversity, General Administration, Institutional Enhancement, and Student Affairs. SGA addresses any issue affecting the student experience and also collaborates with OSE and the Director of Recreation to oversee all student organizations. 

Campus Activities Board

The Campus Activities Board (CAB) is a student-run club at Salve Regina University dedicated to enhancing campus life through innovative programming and events. CAB works closely with student clubs and organizations, as well as external vendors and businesses, to create experiences that foster community. Overseen by the Office of Student Engagement (OSE), CAB plays a central role in enriching the student experience with events that bring excitement and energy to campus.

CAB is open to all students and consists of a General Board for those looking to participate in working events, sharing ideas and submitting feedback, and an Executive Board for students seeking leadership opportunities. Signature events hosted by CAB include celebrity speaker appearances, the annual spring concert, a campus-wide carnival, and CAB Spring Week. Through collaboration and creativity, CAB ensures that students have access to diverse, memorable programs that contribute to a vibrant campus culture.

The Student Organization Recognition Committee (SORC) reviews student organization applications. The committee seeks to create diverse involvement opportunities on campus by approving student organizations which enhance the quality of life at Salve Regina University. Students wishing to start a new student organization should contact Student Engagement or visit Gerety Hall 309/310.

The Activities Funding Board (AFB) has the primary responsibility of allocating funds collected through the student activity fee. The AFB reviews funding requests submitted by officially recognized student organizations.  

Salve Recreational Sports

The philosophy of the Salve Regina Recreational Sports program is to provide opportunities for members of the community to foster development of the mind, body, and soul. These activities are aimed to positively teach and enrich the intellectual, spiritual, and physical lives of all those who participate. From hiking to ping-pong to yoga, students will enjoy year-round activities with their classmates. We offer a variety of levels of participation to include:

Club Sports

Salve Regina Club Sports consist of men's, women's and coed teams that practice and compete. Some teams may participate on an intercollegiate level, but they do not compete under the NCAA guidelines and are not affiliated with the university's varsity athletics program. Club Sports are developed in response to student interest with team members electing an executive board to carry out the administration of the organization. Club Sports are provided the opportunity to have a head coach appointed by the Director of Recreation.

Intramural Sports

Intramural Sports are athletic competitions held between Salve students. These are offered in a league or tournament format and are seasonal based on student interest. Captains may enter teams or students may sign up as individuals and be assigned to a team.

Fitness Classes and Facilities

A wide variety of fitness classes are offered throughout the year, on and off campus. These include such programs as Cardio Hip Hop, Yoga, and High Intensity Interval Training. Students also have access to the Rodgers Recreation Center, including the Sullivan Fitness Center for strength and conditioning.

Recreation Events

Excursions and workshops to explore a variety of sport experiences are offered for students throughout the year. These include ski trips, professional game attendance, CPR and first aid certification classes, and more.

Student Organizations

Student organizations provide students with the opportunity to learn and develop new skills and sponsor programs that enhance the quality of campus life. Students interested in learning more about a student organization should contact the Office of Student Engagement in Gerety Hall, Room 309/310 or visit the Student Engagement website. A complete list can be found online by visiting the Student Engagement website.

Center for Spiritual Life

The Center for Spiritual Life (located in the Mercy Commons), in keeping with the mission of Salve Regina University, is a community that welcomes all people. By virtue of our Catholic heritage and the charism of the Sisters of Mercy, we seek to create a hospitable and nurturing environment that affirms and empowers our students in their search for meaning. We encourage students to build community, to deepen their faith, to engage in service, to seek justice and to become leaders formed by Mercy. The Center for Spiritual Life enhances the University’s mission to provide an educational experience that is personally transformative and is committed to making manifest God’s love and Mercy to all. 

Mercy in Motion is an energetic and welcoming community of students from diverse religious traditions, majors and interests. In collaboration with the professional staff of the Center for Spiritual Life, students meet weekly to plan a variety of events, engage in service, reflect and pray together or simply take a break from hectic schedules. Student leaders of Mercy in Motion enjoy the opportunity for leadership training in the Mercy tradition.

The Mercy Commons is a community room, located in the lower level of the chapel, which is open to the entire campus. It is furnished with comfortable chairs and couches, snacks, coffee, tea, a large screen TV, a kitchen which you can use to bake or cook a meal, and plenty of space to relax, study and be with friends. The Mercy Commons is home to the Center for Spiritual Life and the Center for Community Engagement and Service. 

Our Lady of Mercy Chapel is a place of peace. Whether attending Mass or simply enjoying some quiet time in the chapel, we hope you will find nourishment for your spirit. In whatever manner you decide to use the chapel, you will have a safe place for meditation, religious expression and prayer.

The Multifaith Prayer Space is open to all students, faculty and staff regardless of religious or spiritual affiliation. Located within the Walgreen Courtyard, the Multifaith Prayer Space is a place of prayer, peace, meditation, reflection, and stillness from the busy world. The space is open daily from 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM.

Please check the Salve Today calendar for the Mass schedule or call the Center for Spiritual Life at 341-2208.

The Center for Community Engagement and Service

The Center for Community Engagement and Service offers students a unique opportunity to connect with the Aquidneck Island community and build strong bonds with community partners and fellow students. Our partners are committed to various social causes that align with the critical concerns of mercy: earth, immigration, racism, women, and non-violence. The Center for Community Engagement and Service also provides a variety of leadership opportunities, through the Service Advocate Program, work-study positions, Thompson Academy at Salve, and Service Immersions.

Our Mercy mission calls on us to find meaning and purpose through solidarity and service and make a positive impact on our local communities through our mercy education. The First Year Studio is dedicated to fostering a culture of solidarity and service that encourages students to identify their talents and use them to address the world's needs. The Feinstein service requirement embedded in the First Year Studio is designed to provide students flexibility to complete their service projects with the community partner they begin with during New Seahawk Orientation, or switch to another project of interest. Within this course students are encouraged to participate in a total of 10 service hours.

Feinstein Enriching America Program

Since 1996, Salve Regina University has been a part of the Feinstein Enriching America Program. As part of the Feinstein Enriching America Program, all undergraduate students must serve a minimum of ten hours within the state of Rhode Island. The million-dollar grant awarded by Alan Shawn Feinstein and the Feinstein Foundation has helped Salve create opportunities and strengthen programs that are mutually beneficial for Salve Regina University students and our community partners. Through this grant, The Center for Community Service and Engagement became home to the Service Advocate Program, Service Immersion Trips and The Thompson Academy at Salve Program.

Service Advocate Program:

Offering outstanding students an opportunity to participate in yearlong civic engagement and service, the Service Advocate program provides students with the knowledge and skills to become active leaders through embedding the Critical Concerns of Mercy into their work. Highlighted by regular training, direct service and reflection activities, students engage in valuable leadership experiences in the Aquidneck Island Community and endeavors to promote a positive culture of service and civic engagement on campus.

This service and leadership program is designed to help inspire a sense of real community activism among undergraduate students, promoting change throughout their time at Salve Regina University. Creating leaders in service through the Critical Concerns of Mercy, dedication, passion and motivation are the goals of the program. Service Advocates are students dedicated to making a difference in the community through volunteer efforts. Through their dedication, passion and motivation, Service Advocates complete 100 hours of service at an approved community partner site throughout the academic year.

Service Immersions: 

• The Dominican Republic service immersion, run through Mustard Seed Communities, serve children with serious physical and mental disabilities, children affected by HIV/AIDS, and teenage mothers and their babies.
• Service Plunge and Service Plunge 2.0 provide students with challenging and fun opportunities to lead and learn through direct and indirect service throughout Rhode Island.
• Spring Break Immersion works through ARISE, a community-based program that works with families to strengthen their communities along the border. ARISE is a co-sponsored ministry of the Sisters of Mercy and staffed by Mercy associates. ARISE offers programs that support children's education, family's strength from within, all people in cultural transitions, and a sense of responsibility to make a better community.
• The August Service Immersion works in partnership with the Mercy Eco-Spirituality Center in Vermont to help participants embrace solace and find a place to refresh their spirit.

The Thompson Academy at Salve Program: This program offers students from Thompson Middle School the chance to explore Salve Regina's campus, collaborate with college students, and participate in a diverse range of projects and activities. The program is run by Salve student volunteers who serve as leaders and positive role models. It is designed to foster an enthusiasm for higher education and pave the way for future success with a focus on career exploration. The curriculum focuses on developing and deepening knowledge and skills that will provide the necessary foundation for students to succeed in work and in life.

Counseling Services

Counseling Services is available to full-time undergraduate students during the academic year. Counseling Services provides individual counseling, crisis intervention, special programs, consultations, and opportunities for community referral. These interactions are confidential and are performed in accordance with the legal and professional guidelines of the State of Rhode Island.

Specifically, Counseling Services addresses mental health and developmental issues from a therapeutic, educational, and preventative perspective. We make every effort to collaborate with students in planning treatment to address the dynamic nature of students' life experiences. Our goal is to provide services that respect and support the ever-changing and unique needs and experiences of each individual.

Health Services

The nurse practitioners and physicians in the Office of Health Services provide student-centered, confidential, evidence based medical care to the undergraduate student community during the academic year. Services are provided through a team approach of nurse practitioners and a visiting physician.

Health Services offers acute, chronic and urgent care on-site and refers to Newport Hospital Emergency Department for emergent care. Follow-up care is provided after discharge to facilitate recovery.

Health Services staff will refer to medical specialists in the community in order to address specific health needs. A variety of microbiology testing can be collected on site and processed by our local Lifespan Laboratories. Other laboratory and radiology orders are forwarded to Newport Hospital for collection and processing. EMTs are available on campus after hours and on weekends to address any student emergent needs.

International Students

International students should report to the International Student Advisor upon arriving at the University and are required to attend the mandatory international student orientation run by the Center for Global Education & Fellowships. The International Student advisor is available to assist international students with their adjustment to academic and personal life on campus, maintaining appropriate F-1 student status and keeping up-to-date with all immigration regulations.

Miley Hall Services

Miley Hall is a student residence and the primary dining facility on campus. Miley is co-located next to Walgreen Hall, another student residence. In addition, the Office of Residence Life, University Health Services, Counseling Services, and the Salve Regina University Bookstore are located in the Miley and Walgreen complex. The services, including a large lounge with Starbucks, are open to all students.

Bookstore

The University Bookstore offers a wide variety of products including textbooks, imprinted clothing and gifts, and a full line of school and computer supplies. In addition, dorm supplies, greeting cards, snacks, beverages, and health and beauty aids are also offered. Textbooks may be rented or purchased, and many are offered in a digital format. Master Card, Visa, American Express, Discover Card, checks and the Salve Regina universal card are accepted. Online orders may also be placed at www.salve.bkstr.com.

Bursar Office

The Bursar Office, located in Ochre Court, maintains the University's record of financial transactions relating to individual students. Payments to the University from tuition fees and other financial obligations are made to this office.

SALVE Card

The Salve Card serves as an identification card for members of the Salve Regina University community and can grant access to a multitude of services. Students are required to carry their student identification card with them at all times.

The Salve Card is utilized on campus for purchases in the Miley cafeteria, Jazzman's Cafe/Sandella's Cafe, McKillop Library Cafe, Miley Mart/Starbucks and the Nest; access to Rodgers Recreation Center and the Sullivan Fitness Center; various vending machines; Health Services (prescription payment); the bookstore; your library card and for printers; RIPTA; and at the mailroom to pick up packages. 

If the card is lost, it can be disabled almost immediately. All lost cards should be reported as soon as possible to the card office, located on the garden level of McKillop Library, Room 002, or by calling 341-7777.

Deposits can be made to the Salve Card online with MasterCard or Visa, in person at the Bursar Office with cash or check, or by mail with a check. Salve Cards may not be used as a cash card. Money deposited will remain until the student leaves Salve Regina. Any money left on the card when a student leaves the University will be returned to the student tuition account if the balance is over $5.

Copy Center

The Copy Center, located on the garden level of the McKillop Library, offers photocopying, duplicating, and binding services.

Food Services

The University provides five meal plans through Sodexo Dining Services. All resident students are required to participate in one of the minimum required meal plans based upon class standing. Freshman students must participate in the unlimited meal plan. Sophomore students must participate in the 14 meal plan at a minimum. Junior and Senior students must participate in the 7 meal plan at a minimum. In all instances, students may participate in a meal plan that is greater than the minimum plan. Lastly, the 5 meal plan is available for commuter students only. All changes in meal plans must be communicated with Residence Life by the end of drop/add. After drop/add, meal plans are fixed until the end of the semester. Miley Cafeteria is the primary on-campus dining facility for resident students where all meal plans are accepted. All meal plans may allow limited service at the additional food services locations on campus including the Jazzman's Café in O'Hare Academic Center, the McKillop Library Café in McKillop Library, and The Nest at Gerety Hall. Please consult the student handbook or the dining services brochure for more details.

Special Diets

Students with special dietary concerns may contact the General Manager, Mark Rodrigues at mark.rodrigues@salve.edu.