Religious Observance Accommodations
Keuka College is committed to respecting the religious beliefs and spiritual traditions of its entire community of faculty, staff, and students, and will comply, in good faith, with all relevant portions of the New York State Law and the Office of Civil Rights on religious observances. Students unable to complete coursework, attend class, and/or athletic practice/contest because of religious beliefs or spiritual traditions will be provided an equivalent opportunity to make up any absences, examinations, study, work requirements, or practice with no adverse or prejudicial effects.
This process is intended to guide a student who needs an exemption if a religious holiday conflicts with classroom or athletic responsibilities. To avoid last minute complications, students should complete this process prior to the start of the semester, leaving time for the faculty/coach and student to make the necessary arrangements. Submissions after the start of the semester will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
The College’s process to assist a student seeking a religious exemption from classroom or athletic responsibilities is as follows:
- The student meets with the College Chaplain to learn steps on how to advocate for an exemption request. If the student wants to go forward with the exemption request, the student will provide the names of the faculty member(s)/coach to whom the request is being made, complete the Religious Exemption for Class or Class Work form, and the chaplain will notify the faculty member/coach that an exemption request has been made.
- Students meet with faculty member/coach to make arrangements to satisfy class, classwork, or practice requirements.
- If there are problems in honoring the exemption, either party can appeal to the College Chaplain for assistance who will then notify the provost (Academics) or VP for Student Development (Athletics) to step in and resolve the issue. The student and faculty member/coach will complete the Religious Exemption Agreement form together. (Form to be submitted by the faculty member.)
Please note:
- Religious Exemptions for Class must be submitted annually.
- Students are encouraged to keep a copy of the documentation that has been submitted.
- While the timelines noted in this process are the standard, exceptions may be made for extenuating circumstances.
Please refer to the Student Handbook for policies regarding religious exemptions for housing and/or dining services.