RELIGIOUS HOLIDAYS

Villanova University’s Mission Statement calls on the University “to reflect the spirit of St. Augustine . . . by respect for individual differences, and by adherence to the principle that mutual love and respect should animate every aspect of University life.” As a Catholic and Christian University, Villanova seeks to respect and support the diverse religious traditions of the members of the University community. As part of this commitment, the University makes every reasonable effort to allow members of the community to observe their religious holidays, consistent with the University’s obligations, responsibilities, and policies. Students who expect to miss a class or assignment due to the observance of a religious holiday should discuss the matter with their professors as soon as possible, normally at least two weeks in advance. Absence from classes or examinations for religious reasons does not relieve students from responsibility for any part of the course work required during the absence. Faculty, if possible, should try to accommodate students with make-up tests or exams if the absence falls on a day when these tests are being administered and/or provide students with reasonable alternative opportunities to complete their academic assignments.

Faculty members who need to miss classes for the observance of religious holidays -- as for any other reason -- should: (a) inform their department chairs at the beginning of the semester and, (b) with the permission of their department chairs, make arrangements to have the classes covered by other faculty members or arrange appropriate activities for the students that do not require the faculty members’ presence. Generally speaking a faculty member should not miss class on more than two days per semester or three per year for any combination of reasons.

Should a disagreement arise over the implementation of this policy, the matter should be taken to the chair of the department or the program director having jurisdiction over the class in question. If no resolution is reached at that level, the issue will be resolved by the Dean of the College having jurisdiction over the class, and his/her decision shall be final.

Approved at Council of Deans, Academic Policy Committee, and Committee on Faculty June, 2006