Student Affairs

Purpose

The Student Affairs Division administers student development and leadership programs to support the academic program. Our prime objective is to provide services which supplement classroom programs and offer the opportunity for students to develop themselves personally, socially, and emotionally.

Academic Advising

Students must see an advisor prior to registering for classes each semester. Advisors in the Student Success Center can assist students who need to be advised. The college catalog contains information for each college curriculum. Students seeking a technical degree will follow the curriculum in the catalog. Students seeking a four-year degree should consult with faculty advisors, the transfer institution, and the Student Success Center to determine individual requirements for transfer. The catalog information in a university parallel curriculum is not intended to represent requirements for any particular college or university. In some cases, curricula in the catalog may be modified because of licensing or accreditation standards.

Readmitted students need to complete the readmission application and then proceed to see an advisor within the student’s major field of study. However, if a student attended prior to 1988, the academic advising information can be obtained only from the Student Records Department (SSB-U127).

Transfer students will need to request that their incoming transcript(s) be evaluated through the office of Student Enrollment Services (SSB-U109). Once the transcript is evaluated, the transfer information will be entered into the computer so that an advisor can retrieve the transfer information during the advising session.

Walters State encourages continuous academic advising. Students should feel free to seek academic advice and mentoring throughout their college career.

Student Success Center

The Student Success Center, (CCEN-222), supports students in the development of meaningful educational plans that are supportive and compatible with educational and life goals. The center promotes and facilitates individual advisement and career exploration that aims to meet the unique goals of each student. The Student Success Center educates and empowers students to take responsibility in making informed decisions that help clarify career and personal goals.

The Student Success Center assists students in planning course schedules and ensuring that general education and major course requirements are met. To this end, students will be assessed for individual student goals as they relate to the college curriculum in order to give reliable information concerning the courses and degree programs available.

Academic advising is an important part of Walters State Community College’s commitment to helping students attain educational goals. Academic advising serves an important role in creating an environment that is supportive or student learning and personal development. Advisors provide information regarding degree programs, courses, resources, college policies/procedures, and, as requested, career information. Responsibilities for advising are shared among student support personnel and faculty in academic departments.

Although academic advisors may assist students with decisions throughout their academic career, students are responsible for making decisions regarding personal and educational goals. Students are ultimately responsible for satisfying all graduation requirements, so it is vital that they take an active role in their academic planning. Advisors are willing and able to facilitate that planning, but completing the necessary steps is up to students.

Intercollegiate Athletics

A championship tradition, Hall of Fame coaches, top-notch facilities and tremendous community support are but a few of the characteristics that make Walters State athletics one of the premier programs in the nation.

Walters State has achieved national acclaim in its athletics department by hiring an excellent coaching staff, recruiting and awarding athletic scholarships to the area’s best student-athletes and playing exciting and competitive schedules. Walters State athletics has received the prestigious TCCAA All-Sports Award several times. This award is given to the school with the best tournament results in the sports of baseball, softball, golf and men and women’s basketball.

Since it was founded in 1973, the Senators and Lady Senators have earned a total of 57 national tournament appearances, won 52 TJCCAA/NJCAA Region VII state titles and two national championships. This success can be attributed to our coaching staff as three of our coaches have been at the college for 40-plus years and are among the winningest coaches in the nation at the junior college level. Walters State’s teams are consistently ranked among the Top-20 teams in NJCAA polls and qualify for the national tournament frequently.

Another Walters State team to enjoy success at the national level in 2014 was the Senators golf team. The Senators roared through the regular season and advanced to national tournament claiming the national championship. The Senators golf team has qualified for the national tournament 15 times, won 16 state and region crowns and produced an individual national champion in 1995 - Ryan Cabbage, who is currently an assistant coach at Auburn. Veteran TJCCAA Hall of Fame Coach Bill Gardner has guided the golf program to national prominence. Gardner, the first coach hired by the college in any sport, has also served the institution as men’s basketball coach and baseball coach during his 40-year reign with the Senators.

The Lady Senators softball team has made its presence known since its inception in 1993. Under the direction of Head Coach Larry Sauceman, who played baseball for Walters State and helped lead the Senators to the World Series in 47 1984, the Lady Senators have enjoyed tremendous success. His teams have been among the best-hitting teams in the nation during his twenty seasons as head coach and finished first in the conference and region in 2013 and 2016.

Coach Megan Blaylock has been associated with the Lady Senators Volleyball Program since its birth in 2012. She was a member of the first two volleyball teams before serving two years as assistant coach under the first head coach, Jasmin Coleman.  Megan helped the Lady Senators finish 2nd place in the 2013 Region X tournament as a player in the second year of the program.  As a coach, Coach Blaylock helped coach the 2015-16 team to a 13-5 record and 2nd place finish in the Region X Tournament.

In his 39 years as the head coach of the Senators basketball team, the TJCCAA Hall-of-Fame member Bill Carlyle has averaged over 20 wins per season and led the team to the national tournament numerous times. Coach Carlyle has guided his team to 14 Eastern Division championships and eight state championships. His 2002 team won both the TJCCAA State Championship and the NJCAA Region VII Championship. After a very successful National Tournament appearance, the Senators finished 8th in the national rankings. His 2003- 04 and 2004-05 teams won the TJCCAA Eastern Division, State Championship and the NJCAA Region VII Championship. The team was ranked in the top 20 in the nation at the end of the season. The 2007-08 team finished the year with a 32-3 record, an Eastern Division Championship, a TJCAA State Championship and NJCAA Region 7 Championship and was ranked 12th at the end of the year.  Coach Carlyle has been honored as Coach of the Year 15 times and more than 100 of his players have signed with four-year colleges and universities since 1977.

Another Hall of Fame coach guides the Lady Senators basketball team. Dave Kragel, who enters this 40rd year at Walters State, has led the Lady Senators to twelve national tournament appearances, sixteen state championships and fifteen TJCCAA Eastern Division titles. The Lady Senators finished eighth in the nation in both 1992 and 2005, fifth in 2009 and in 2015 they finished fourth. The Lady Senators have been nationally ranked in 29 of the past 39 seasons. Coach Kragel has been named TCCAA Coach of the Year 18 times and 12 times he’s been named NJCAA Region VII Coach of the Year. He was inducted into the TJCAA Hall of Fame in 2004 and has seen over 90% of his players graduate and go on to finish their education at a four year school.

In 2020, the college re-established its cross country team with the hiring of Raymond Farmer as the coach.

All of Walters State’s student-athletes have the advantage of playing in some of the best facilities in the nation at the two-year level. The physical education/athletic complex is equipped with a fitness center which includes the latest weight training and fitness equipment. There is also a well-equipped training room for treatment of athletic injuries, team locker rooms and a baseball and softball batting cages with pitching machines.

Student-athletes who attend Walters State carry on the proud tradition of excellence that has defined the Senators and Lady Senators for over 40 years and has laid the groundwork for decades of success to come. 

Counseling and Testing Center

The Counseling and Testing Center, located in rooms U138, U141, and U146 of the Student Services Building, is a place where students can find encouragement and support in academic endeavors and in the establishment of a good foundation for future growth. The Center is staffed by professionally trained counselors who provide services for a wide range of educational, vocational and personal issues.

All discussions are confidential, thus allowing students to explore freely any problems or feelings which are of concern. Therefore, all students seeking an open atmosphere to address concerns are encouraged to contact any member of the counseling staff. Students interested in forming small discussion groups may do so by contacting the Center.

Services available through the Center include: career counseling, services for adult students, personal counseling, academic counseling, ACT testing, COMPASS testing, College Level Examination Program (CLEP) testing, and other testing services. Additionally, the Center offers the community an opportunity to complete a high school equivalency exam (HiSet or GED). Contact the testing center at 423-585-6804 for additional information.

The Center provides an assortment of assessments and services that assist in serving the educational preparation needs of current and prospective WSCC students and the community at large. Tests available are as follows:

• American College Testing Program Residual Test (ACT/R) is available for individuals under 21 seeking admission to WSCC or students interested in receiving extra points for consideration of admittance into the nursing program.
• College Level Examination Program (CLEP) is a computer-based program offering students an opportunity to receive college credit in several general education courses.
• Exit Examination is a Tennessee Board of Regents mandated exit testing instrument for WSCC graduating associate degree students.
• Hesi Examination is a computer-based examination program designed for prospective nursing program, physical therapy assistant, surgical technology, and respiratory care applicants.
• HiSet Exam is an alternative to the GED exam to get the high school equivalency diploma.
• Praxis Exam Series® tests measure teacher candidates’ knowledge and skills. The tests are used for licensing and certification processes.
• Authorized Pearson Vue Testing Center that offers over 450 different exams for credentialing and certification.
• Computerized Placement Assessment and Support System (COMPASS) test assesses the general educations skills of those prospective WSCC applicants who are 21 years of age or older or who have a high school equivalency diploma.
• General Education Development (GED) tests offers individuals 18 years of age or older an opportunity to complete their high school equivalency diploma.
• Regents On-Line Degree Program (RODP) and general test proctoring services available for students participating in the state-wide program and for those enrolled in distance learning programs through other four-year institutions.

Further information on each of these programs and testing instruments may be obtained by visiting the Counseling and Testing Center in Room U141 of the Student Services Building on the Morristown Campus of WSCC or by calling 423-585-6800 or 1-800-225-4770, ext. 3, or by visiting the WSCC website address: ws.edu/student-services/counseling-testing/.

Employment Resources

Employment resources are available for students and alumni through receiving job information from employers seeking workers from within WSCC’s student population. Staff within the Center serve as a liaison between employers needing additional employees and current and former students who are in need of employment. Jobs listed may be temporary, part-time, or full-time for both skilled and unskilled students. On-campus recruitment and other placement opportunities are provided by staff within the Counseling and Testing Center. A staff member is also available to assist graduates by distributing credentials to prospective employers to aid graduates in completing the employment process. Information regarding job placement and other related services can be obtained by calling 423-585-6806.

Enrollment Development and Retention Services

The office of Enrollment Development and Retention Services, located in the Student Services Building (U109), assists potential students with the college enrollment process and current students in meeting their educational goals.

This office is responsible for planning and coordinating student marketing and recruiting activities, making initial contacts with prospective students, providing pre-admission counseling, scheduling campus visits and tours, assisting students with completing admissions requirements, and providing educational program information to high schools and local industries. Additionally, this office recruits and serves adult students who have delayed or interrupted their college education.

The office of Enrollment Development and Retention Services assists students who need one-on-one attention while enrolled at the college and those struggling with issues that could interfere with their attendance and/or progress at Walters State. This office provides student support services focused on student retention and serves as liaison between students and faculty/staff members on campus. Students who are experiencing academic, personal or financial difficulties and those considering dropping out of college are encouraged to visit the office of Enrollment Development and Retention Services or call 423-585-6938.

Orientation of Students

Prior to their enrollment, all new students who plan to attend Walters State Community College are required to either attend a “new student orientation” program at one of the campuses or complete the on-line version. During these sessions, pertinent information is presented regarding Walters State’s academic programs and other student services that are available. “New Student Orientation” also introduces participants to the advising and registration processes. Students meet with an advisor in their area of study for the purpose of determining the appropriate classes needed for the upcoming semester. Then, students are allowed to register through Walters State’s STAR_NET, the web-based registration system.

Disability Services

In compliance with federal regulations outlined in Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 it is the policy of Walters State Community College to ensure equal educational opportunity and access by making accommodations and other adjustments when necessary for students with disabilities. While all students with disabilities are protected from discrimination, some students may not be eligible for all services provided by the office of Disability Services. The goal of Walters State Community College is to minimize the difference and maximize the student’s chance for success. Walters State Community College focuses on the student as an individual and works toward equal access to all programs and services by providing reasonable accommodations and services to students. Services are designed and developed on an individual case-by-case basis. Students requesting accommodations must complete an interview form for the purpose of self-identification and must provide proper documentation. Students are urged to do this after admission to the college and no later than 30 days before the beginning of the semester due to the time required to make arrangements for some services). This, however, does not preclude a student from seeking assistance at any time during the semester.

At the time of self-identification, students are informed of the policies and procedures about the accommodation process along with the responsibilities of the student and Walters State Community College. No accommodations will be made for individuals until a review of the student’s documentation has been completed by the office of Disability Services. Walters State Community College does not recognize individual educational plans (IEP) as documentation. However, information contained in the IEP may be helpful when evaluating the types of accommodations a student may utilize at Walters State Community College. The student is personally responsible for collecting all relevant documentation for submission. The information to be used in the consideration of eligibility for services should be no more than three years old.

In order to establish eligibility, the documentation must include:

1. statement and description of diagnosis and date of most recent evaluation;
2. description and impact of the disability in the current college environment; and
3. credentials of the diagnosing professional.

The professional must have specific training and expertise in a field related to the type of disability being diagnosed. For example, a psychologist, psychiatrist or educational examiner must make a learning disability diagnosis (or their report must accompany one submitted by a doctor of General Practice). All documentation is and will remain confidential. Walters State Community College does not provide diagnostic evaluation for determining disabilities.

Services and accommodations provided include, but are not limited to the following:

1. extended time on tests, quizzes and in-class writing assignments;
2. tutoring services;
3. note takers, scribes, readers and assistance in arranging interpreters;
4. adaptive equipment;
5. low-distraction environment;
6. alternative test formats; and
7. tape recording of class lectures.

Students who desire accommodations must contact the office of Disability Services prior to the beginning of each semester after registration of classes has been completed. Last minute accommodation requests may be difficult to arrange as additional documentation is often needed. Instructors may not provide accommodations for students prior to the receipt of educational support plans from the office of Disability Services.

For more information, contact Disability Services at 423-585-6860, located in Room U135 of the Student Services Building.

Graduation and Degree Requirements

Applications for graduation are processed through the department of Student Records. To be eligible for graduation and receive a degree or certificate from Walters State Community College, the student must:

1. Complete all academic requirements for the selected degree/certificate program.
2. Complete the minimum number of required semester hours for the selected program of study (minimum of 60 for associate’s degree).
3. Earn an overall Grade Point Average (GPA) of 2.0 in all college level courses with the exception of Associate of Science in Teaching (AST). Students seeking the AST degree must have an overall GPA of 2.75. (Only college-level course taken at Walters State are used to compute the GPA for graduation).
4. Fulfill all courses required for the program as outlined in the college catalog, with 25% of the total number of credits required for the degree completed at Walters State Community College. For the Associate of Applied Science Degree program concentrations in Engineering Technology, students are required to take a minimum of 12 semester hours of technical course work at Walters State Community College.
5. Apply for graduation by completing the Graduation Application, including: Follow-up Survey and Alumni Forms by the deadline listed in the catalog and on the website. The Follow-up Survey section provides the college with information that is needed to keep all programs in compliance with TBR regulations. Further information on the survey may be obtained by visiting the department of Student Support Services  in SSB U130 or calling 423-585-6893. The Graduation Application is available on the Walters State Student Records webpage in the Student Records Department on the Morristown Campus, and in the administrative offices on all other Walters State campuses.
6. Resolve all obligations, financial or otherwise, to the college; and return all library and college materials.

Other guidelines pertaining to graduation are:

7. The student must meet the requirements for graduation under any one catalog in effect during the student’s attendance at Walters State, provided that the catalog used is within seven years of the date of graduation.  Degree requirements set forth in a catalog shall remain in effect for the duration of the period identified on the cover of the catalog. No guarantee is implied that these requirements will be contained in total or in part in future specification of the degree.
8. Transfer credits used to satisfy Walters State’s degree requirements will not be averaged with the student’s grade point average at Walters State for the purpose of calculating the graduation average, or calculating honors.
9. For second or subsequent degrees, there must be at least 16 credit hours difference in requirements between the first and second degrees.
10. The State of Tennessee requires graduates to take a general education exit exam (ETS Proficiency Profile). Students graduating with an AS or AAS in Business are required to take the Business Exit Examination. Notification regarding test dates will be provided. Students may also be required to take other tests by the institution.
11. Students graduating in the fall and summer semesters will attend the commencement exercises in December, unless special permission is granted by the department of Student Records. Students graduating at the end of the spring semester will attend the commencement exercises in May.
12. Graduation honors are calculated at the end of the previous semester to be included in the graduation program, the graduation ceremony, and all news releases concerning graduation.
13. Students who do not graduate by the semester which is indicated on the graduation application, will automatically be carried over to the next semester. Students who do not meet the requirements after the second semester, will have to reapply for a future semester.

Second Degrees/Programs

Students cannot earn a second degree within the same CIP Code (Code of Instructional Programs).  All AA and AS programs have the same CIP code. Certificates, AAS, AST, and AFA codes may differ. Contact the Student Records Office for more information. 

Second degrees may be awarded, if ALL of the following conditions are met:

1. The first degree must have been awarded by Walters State or another associate’s degree-granting institution of higher learning.
2. There must be at least a 16 semester hour difference in coursework between the two programs.
3. All WS academic/program requirements for the second program must be met.
4. A cumulative 2.0 grade point average must be attained on all college-level coursework taken at WS.
5. The CIP code of the second program must be different than that of the first program.

SPECIAL NOTE: Students who do not graduate by the semester which is indicated on the graduation application, will automatically be carried over to the next semester. Students who do not meet the requirements after the second semester, will have to reapply for a future semester.

Graduation Honors

Awards and honors are based on the overall grade point average. Students graduating with the following quality point averages will receive the corresponding honor designations on their diplomas:

Student Tutoring

The office of Student Tutoring assists students in their classroom performance as well as demonstrates methods of academic growth and development. The office is more than a tutorial service; it is a support unit that encourages positive attitudes toward learning. The Student Tutoring office is here to help improve student grades in general education and core course requirements, prepare for quizzes and class exams, learn good study habits, and organize time and thoughts more effectively. Services include but are not limited to: one-on-one tutoring, small group tutoring, and assisting individuals with special needs. The office of Student Tutoring is located in Room L107 of the Student Services Building. Free tutoring services are offered in the Student Services Building, the Claiborne County Campus, Niswonger Campus, and the Sevier County Campus.

Multicultural Engagement

The office of Multicultural Engagement at Walters State Community College continues to create an environment that is dedicated to allowing all students to reach their full potential and development. The Multicultural Engagement office is committed to recruiting, improving the retention rate, and increasing the graduation rate of students of diverse backgrounds and environments. The office conducts high school visits, participates in college and career fairs, and works with early outreach programs. The office of Multicultural Engagement takes part in various community and cultural programs, diversity events, and visits to local churches. Services provided by the office include counseling, financial aid information, and tracking academic progress. The office of Multicultural Engagement is located in Room U144 of the Student Services Building.

Financial Aid

Walters State’s office of Financial Aid strives to enhance the growth, development and performance of all qualified students by providing financial resources and information that will enable students to maximize their educational experience. Students may also apply for Federal aid on the web at www.fafsa.ed.gov. Financial Aid’s webpage contains regularly updated financial aid information for current and prospective students. The office of Financial Aid is located in the Student Services Building, (U161). 

The financial aid programs at Walters State Community College are designed to aid students who find it difficult or impossible to attend college without financial assistance. Walters State offers a comprehensive program of financial aid in the form of grants, scholarships, and part-time employment. The various programs, brief descriptions, eligibility requirements, and application procedures are listed below. Information is available concerning methods by which aid is distributed to qualifying students, satisfactory academic progress standards for financial aid recipients, refund and repayment policies, and the costs of attending WSCC.

June 30 is the priority deadline for applying for financial aid for fall semester. Applications received before July 1 will be considered first in the allocation of financial aid funds. However, applications will be accepted at any time and awards will be made to eligible students on a first-come, first-serve basis as long as funds are available. Applications are processed in the order received. (Eligibility determination may take up to 8 weeks to complete.) Applications or required information received after July 1 for fall or October 31 for spring may not be completed by the time fees are due for each term. Thus, students may be required to pay out of pocket pending completion of an eligibility determination. It is imperative that students apply early to avoid delays in processing. Students must reapply annually for all programs.

Things to Remember

Students are encouraged to complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) as soon as possible on or after October 1 each year. The information provided on the FAFSA is also used to determine student eligibility for some state and institutional scholarships. This aid is often provided on a first-come, first-serve basis and some funds are limited, so apply early. READ everything sent to you regarding your financial aid awards. You may receive a request for additional information before your award can be processed. KEEP copies of everything you submit to Financial Aid. Please note that students have access to their financial aid information on the MyWS account and the primary mode of communication will be by e-mail. Please activate your Sentors mail account and monitor frequently as updates and notices from the Financial Aid office will be sent to this account.

Federal Pell Grant

The Federal Pell Grant program is designed to provide financial assistance to undergraduate students who need assistance to attend post high school educational institutions. To be eligible to apply, an applicant must: (1) be a U.S. citizen or be in the United States for other than a temporary purpose and intend to become a permanent resident, (2) be enrolled in an undergraduate program of study leading to a degree or certificate, (Not all WSCC certificate programs qualify. Check with the Financial Aid Department to find out which ones qualify), and (3) have not previously received a bachelor’s or professional degree from any institution.

To apply, a student must complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and submit it to the Central Processing Center (CPS) electronically at www.fafsa.ed.gov. Once the FAFSA application is processed by CPS, the student will receive a Student Aid Report (SAR) by email. If the student does not list an e-mail address on their FAFSA, then the student will receive a notice by postal mail once their application is processed by CPS. In order for WSCC to receive an electronic record of the student’s FAFSA application, WSCC’s school code (008863) must be listed in the college section of the FAFSA. Once the electronic record has been received and reviewed by the Financial Aid Department, the student will receive notification concerning their award. This notification may be an award letter or a request for additional information. Please monitor your MyWS account as additional information may be requested. A notice will be sent to the student Senators mail account when all guidelines have been met and a student award has been packaged. Remember it is the student’s responsibility to find out if WSCC received their information electronically and all paper work has been accurately and properly submitted for the completion of their application.

WSCC Campus Based Programs

The Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG) and Federal Work Study Program (FWSP) are referred to as “campus based” because financial aid department personnel at the college determine, according to applicable regulations, who will receive assistance from each of these federal programs.

Students are eligible for assistance from FSEOG, or FWSP if: (1) they are U.S. citizens or are in the United States for other than a temporary purpose and intend to become citizens, (2) they are computed to have financial need, (3) and enroll in an undergraduate program leading to a degree or certificate.

Campus based programs are administered in conjunction with a nationally established policy and philosophy of financial aid for education. The basis of this philosophy is the belief that parents are the primary and responsible resource for helping a dependent student meet educational expenses. The independent student is expected to help with education costs. The college views its responsibility as supplementing or filling the gap after the family has contributed all it can. The amount of contribution expected from parents and students is related to consideration of the family’s financial strength. Important considerations are net family income, number of dependents, allowable expenses and indebtedness, and assets. A determination is also made of the amount a student living with parents may reasonably be expected to contribute through savings and employment. The difference between the amount a student and the family can be expected to provide and the expenses of attending Walters State for the academic year is considered to be the student’s financial need. Expenses for attending Walters State include tuition, allowances for books and supplies, miscellaneous expenses, transportation, and living expenses. These expenses (cost of attendance) are published and available upon request from the Financial Aid Department.

To assist in the determination of a student’s financial need, Walters State Community College utilizes the Free Application for Federal Student Aid.

Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG)

The Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant Program provides grants to students with exceptional financial need. The amount of financial assistance a student may receive depends upon need and availability of funds.

Federal Work Study Program (FWSP)

The Federal Work Study Program provides funds for the employment of students who demonstrate need in order to continue their education.

Students who qualify for participation in this program may work during the academic year and under special conditions during periods of non-enrollment. The number of hours a student may work is determined by the Financial Aid Department based on the student’s “need.” Types of employment cover work opportunities in areas such as the Library, laboratories, faculty and administrative offices and in community service jobs.

Pay rates under this program are compatible with Federal Minimum Wage Standards and Walters State scales. Terms and conditions of employment will be furnished to students at the time their work assignment is made. To apply, students must complete the FAFSA application and the WSCC FWS application. Award amounts are based on availability of funds. Students must also be enrolled in a minimum of six credit hours to be eligible to participate in the program.

Tennessee Student Assistance Award Program

The State of Tennessee has established a grant program to assist eligible Tennessee residents who will be enrolled as undergraduate students at eligible Tennessee colleges and universities. The grant is based on financial need and availability of funds. It is administered through the Tennessee Student Assistance Corporation.

Those who wish to be considered for this grant are strongly encouraged to submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as soon as possible after October 1 each year.

Tennessee Education Lottery Scholarship Program 

Eligibility Requirements

1. Be a Tennessee resident for one year by September 1 of the year starting college.
2. Apply with the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or renewal FAFSA. FAFSA applications must be received by September 1 for fall enrollment and February 1 for spring and summer enrollment. Application available at (www.fafsa.ed.gov.) Early application highly recommended.
3. Enroll in a Tennessee public college/university accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS).
4. Graduate from an eligible Tennessee high school, home school or GED program. (Contact Financial Aid for eligibility requirements.)
5. Enroll within 16 months immediately following graduation or completion of a home school or GED program.
6. Comply with Selective Service requirements.

Tennessee HOPE Scholarship Renewal Criteria:

GPA eligibility will be reviewed by the institution at the end of the semesters in which the student has attempted a total of 24, 48, 72, 96, and 120 semester hours. The student:

• Must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75 after 24 and 48 attempted semester hours; AND
• Must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 after 72, 96, and any subsequent multiples of 24 attempted semester hours thereafter; OR
• Must have between a 2.75 - 2.99 cumulative GPA after 72, 96 and any subsequent multiples of 24 attempted semester hours thereafter and have a semester GPA of at least a 3.0 in the semester in which the student attempted 72, 96, and any subsequent multiples of 24 attempted semester hours thereafter. (The student will be reviewed on a semester-by-semester basis and must maintain full-time enrollment)
• If a student ceases to be academically eligible for the HOPE Scholarship, the student may regain the award one-time only. The award may be re-established once the student meets any of the above criteria and continues to meet non-academic requirements.
• Must be continuously enrolled at an eligible post-secondary institution in the fall and spring semesters and maintain satisfactory academic progress.

For a list of terminating events, the Lottery Recipient Retention Requirements can be found online at: http://www.ws.edu/_media/pdf/financial-aid/lottery/TELS-lottery-retention-handout-20130208.pdf

Students must maintain their enrollment status as of the 14th day of the term. Thus, students may adjust their schedule prior to the 14th day of each term without losing their scholarship for future terms. Students should check with the Financial Aid Office prior to withdrawing or dropping a course.

Tennessee Promise

The Tennessee Promise is a last dollar scholarship program that will cover tuition and mandatory fees only after tuition waivers/discounts and all gift aid (Pell, TSAA, TELS) have been applied. The program is available to Tennessee high school graduates beginning with the class of 2015. Each student will be placed with a mentor to help guide them through the college application and matriculation process. Students must meet a series of deadlines, attend mandatory meetings with the partnering organizations and complete community service requirements. Additional information is available at: http://tennesseepromise.gov.

Tennessee Reconnect

The Tennessee Reconnect is a last dollar scholarship program that will cover tuition and mandatory fees after tuition waivers/discounts and all gift aid (Pell, TSAA, TELS) have been applied.  The Tennessee Reconnect Grant is available for eligible adults (deemed independent by the FAFSA) who want to pursue an associate degree, technical degree, or technical diploma at a Tennessee community college or technical college.  To be eligible, students  must:

• Complete the Free Applicatiton for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and be deemed an independent student;
• Have been a Tennessee resident for at least one year preceding the date of application for the grant;
• Be admitted to an eligible institution and enroll in a degree or certificate program at least part time (6 semester hours).

Additional information is available at www.tnreconnect.gov

Scholarships

Several scholarships are available to qualified students attending or planning to attend Walters State. These scholarships are awarded primarily on the basis of academic achievement and approved by the WSCC Scholarship Committee.

WSCC Senators Scholars

This is a guaranteed scholarship in the amount of $1000 per semester available to all high school seniors with a 75 hour obligation to the institution per semester. Students must meet the following criteria:

• High school seniors with a minimum grade point average of 3.7 and minimum ACT composite score of 24 on a national or state test.
• Must enroll and attend in the term immediately following high school graduation, excluding summer.
• Recipients must maintain a cumulative institutional GPA of 2.75 per semester.
• Recipients must be enrolled full time (at least 12 credit hours).
• May be eligible to receive the award for up to four semesters if student maintains continuous enrollment (excludes summer)
• Student must be in compliance with the institutional Satisfactory Academic Progress Standards.

Recipients of the Senators Scholars Scholarship may also qualify for a supplemental or Senators Scholar Dual Enrollment Award in the amount of $500 per semester if they have met the above criteria and also earned a minimum of 12 credit hours in Dual Enrollment coursework at Walters State Community College with a 3.0 institutional college GPA. The Senators Scholars Dual Enrollment Award may also be received for up to four semesters if the students meets the above criteria, including continuous enrollment.

WSCC Dual Enrollment Achievement Award

This is a guaranteed scholarship in the amount of $1,000 per semester available to all high school seniors with a 40 hour obligation to the institution per semester. Students must meet the following criteria:

• High school seniors that have earned a minimum of 12 credit hours in Dual Enrollment coursework at Walters State Community College with a 3.0 institutional college GPA.
• Must enroll and attend in the term immediately following high school graduation, excluding summer.
• Recipients must maintain a cumulative institutional GPA of 2.75 per semester.
• Recipients must be enrolled full time (at least 12 credit hours)
• May be eligible to receive the award for up to four semesters if student maintains continuous enrollment (excludes summer)
• Student must be in compliance with the institutional Satisfactory Academic Progress Standards.

WSCC Access Achievement Award

Recipients of these scholarships provide a service to the college utilizing their individual talents and skills within the Debate Team, WSCC Choir, WSCC Theatre, WSCC Professional Entertainment, Baseball, Basketball, Softball, Cross Country, Volley Ball or Golf. The amount of the award is determined each year by the scholarship committee based on recommendations from the Business Office, Financial Aid, and approved by the President.

• Recommendations will be provided by the respective area’s designee.
• Applicants must be high school seniors with a minimum grade point average of 3.0 and ACT composite score of 19 or above, SAT equivalent, and planning to attend Walters State full-time.
• Recipients must maintain a 2.50 semester and cumulative grade point average while at WSCC.
• Recipients must be enrolled in 12 or more hours.

Scholarships and Endowments Administered by the WSCC Foundation

Many area individuals, businesses and organizations make contributions for academic and athletic scholarships through the Walters State Foundation. Students interested in receiving assistance from these scholarship funds need to apply by submitting the WSCC scholarship application to the WSCC Financial Aid Department. There is a March 15 priority deadline.

ADDITIONAL GRANT SOURCES – Many students receive assistance through Vocational Rehabilitation, Veterans Benefits, Workforce Investment Act, the Department of Human Services Programs and the Morristown Veterans Council. Contact the appropriate agency for information.

Satisfactory Progress Policy for Financial Aid 

Walters State Community College, as required by the U.S. Department of Education, has established a Satisfactory Academic Progress Standard for all recipients of financial assistance through any Title IV program (Federal Pell Grant, Federal Supplemental Education Opportunity Grant (SEOG), and Federal Work Study Program (FWSP). These standards require that a student be making progress toward a degree or certificate by evaluating a student’s cumulative grade point average, credits earned in relation to attempted hours (pace), and the length of the academic program. These standards will be measured at the end of each academic term for all students. Please refer to the guidelines of the specific scholarship or any third party sources of financial aid as these standards may apply in addition to other requirements. Printed copies of the Satisfactory Progress Standards can be obtained from the WSCC Financial Aid office and are posted on the WSCC website.  The student may view their status by accessing their MyWS account.

Veterans’ Services

The Veterans’ services Department is responsible for maintaining VA student’s records in accordance with federal guidelines, as well as approving and certifying students’ enrollment for military educational benefits. Upon accepting veterans’ educational assistance, the student assumes responsibility for all rules and regulations of the Veterans Administration and Department of Defense. Please contact the Veterans’ Affairs Department (SSB U181) for information regarding eligibility under the various chapters of the G.I. Bill and Federal Tuition Assistance.

Services Offered

Counseling

Counseling is available to all veterans in the Veterans’ Services Department whenever needed. The department works closely with the Counseling Center so that our veterans at Walters State may receive any counseling that may be needed.

Work Study Program

Funds are available, under the G.I. Bill, for work study students working for the Veterans’ Services Department. This program pays the federal or state minimum wage, whichever is higher. The current rate is $7.25 per hour.

Tutorial Services

An eligible veteran, or dependent of a veteran, attending college on a half-time or more basis who has a deficiency in a subject may receive individual tutorial assistance in order to continue in an approved program at an educational institution. A veteran who qualifies may receive an allowance to pay for special tutorial service. The educational institution must certify that individual tutorial assistance is required, that the tutor is qualified, and the charges do not exceed the customary charge for such service. Walters State currently offered free tutoring services to all veterans. For more information please contact the Tutoring Center at (423) 585-6920.

Anyone having questions concerning eligibility or about the G.I. Bill should contact the Veterans’ Affairs Department for assistance.

Housing

Under Tennessee Board of Regents policy, Walters State Community College assumes no responsibility for student housing. This institution is primarily a commuting college and has no dormitories, fraternity or sorority housing.

Even though the college is unable to assume responsibility for student housing, the college is vitally concerned with the welfare and well-being of all students, and desires they have accommodations commensurate with their needs. Toward this end, the office of Student Affairs maintains a housing referral list.

The prospective student, and parents, should be aware that these listings are not college-supervised nor college-inspected accommodations. Students should plan to arrive in this community in advance of the orientation and registration dates in order to secure suitable housing.

Students are required to register local addresses with the department of Admissions during registration each semester. Any change of address should be reported to the department of Admissions and Registration Services, (SSB-U109), or call 585-2685.

Student Complaints

Related to Accreditation or Violations of State Law

Students or prospective students who wish to file a complaint related to accreditation or regarding violations of state law not resolved at the institution may submit a Student Complaint Form to the Tennessee Board of Regents at 1 Bridgestone Park, Nashville, TN 37214, or by going online and filing out the form electronically at (https://www.tbr.edu/contacts/submitting-comment-complaint-or-request). Under Tennessee’s open records law, all or parts of complaints - except confidential reports of fraud, waste or abuse - will generally be available for review upon request from a member of the public.

Complaints regarding accreditation can also be made by contacting the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033, telephone: 404-679-4500, web: (http://www.sacscoc.org/).

Complaints of fraud, waste or abuse may be made by email at reportfraud@tbr.eduor by calling the Tennessee Comptroller’s Hotline for Fraud, Waste and Abuse at 800-232-5454.

Related to Non-Tennessee Resident Students in State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement States, commonly known as SARA

Student complaints relating to consumer protection laws that involve distance learning education offered under the terms and conditions of the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement (SARA), must first be filed with the institution to seek resolution (see section entitled Related to Student Issues for procedures for filing student complaints with Walters State Community College).

Complainants not satisfied with the outcome of the Institution’s internal process may appeal, within two years of the incident about which the complaint is made, to the Tennessee HigherEducation Commission(https://www.tn.gov/thec/bureaus/student-aid-and-compliance/postsecondary-state-authorization/request-for-complaint-review.html).

For purposes of this process, a complaint shall be defined as a formal assertion in writing that the terms of SARA or the laws, standards or regulations incorporated by the SARA Policies and Standards (http://www.nc-sara.org/content/sara-manual) have been violated by the institution operating under the terms of SARA.

For a list of SARA member States, please visit the NC-SARA website(https://www.nc-sara.org/sara-states-institutions). Students residing in non-SARA states should consult their respective State of residence for further instruction for filing a complaint.

Related to Student Issues

Walters State has established procedures for receiving and responding to student’s issues and complaints. Grade appeals are resolved through the vice president for Academic Affairs. Academic integrity violations are reviewed jointly by the vice presidents for Academic Affairs and Student Affairs. All other student complaints including: student discipline, disclosure of student records,  and disability accommodations are resolved through the vice president for Student Affairs. Sexual harassment complaints and complaints of racial harassment and discrimination are handled by the vice president for Student Affairs and the College’s Equity Officer, following TBR Guideline P-080. If a student has any question about the applicable procedure to follow for a particular complaint, they should consult with the vice president for Student Affairs. In particular, the vice president for Student Affairs should advise a student if some other procedure is applicable to the type of complaint a student has expressed.

Initially, students are encouraged to attempt to resolve complaints informally with the appropriate faculty or staff member, director, department head, dean, or vice president to facilitate an informal resolution.If informal resolution is unsuccessful, or if the student does not pursue information resolution, the student may file a written complaint to the vice president for Student Affairs.
 

1. The written complaint to the vice president for Student Affairs shall be filed within 30 calendar days of the alleged issue unless there is good cause shown for delay, including but not limited to delay caused by an attempt at informal resolution. The written complaint shall be specific as possible in describing the issue of complaint.
2. The vice president for Student Affairs shall promptly notify the individual(s) of the complaint filed against him/her/them, with emphasis on stating that the filing of the complaint does not imply any wrongdoing has occurred and that he/she/they (the defendant) must not retaliate in any way against the student who has filed the complaint.
3. Once the written complaint is received and reviewed, the vice president for Student Affairs will consult with the appropriate vice presidents, dean, directors, department heads, faculty and/or staff.
4. The vice president for Student Affairs shall separately interview the complaining student, the alleged perpetrator and other persons to the extent necessary to conduct the investigation. If the vice president believes it would be helpful, he or she may meet again with the student and the alleged perpetrator after completing the investigationin an effort to resolve the matter. The complainant and the defendant have the right to have a representative present during the initial meeting, the interview and any post-investigationmeeting.
5. At the conclusion of the investigation, the vice president for Student Affairs shall issuea written report setting forth his or her findings and recommendations. In ordinary cases, it is expected that the investigation and written report should be completed within 30 days of the date the complaint wasfiled.
6. If either the student or the alleged perpetrator is not satisfied with the report of thevice president for Student Affairs, the student or defendant may file a written appeal to the college president within 10 calendar days of receiving the report. The president may choose to establish an Appeals Committee to review the findings of the report by the vice president for Student Affairs. The Appeals Committee may or may not choose to conduct another investigation following the review of the written report. The Appeals Committee shall make their recommendation to the president within 20 calendar days of receiving theappeal.
7. After the president’s review, if the complaint is still not resolved, the student will be advised that he/she can contact the State Postsecondary Program Review office at the Tennessee Higher Education Commission at 615-741-3605.
8. In the event the complaint filed by the student relates to a Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) issue, complaints of violation by the institution may be filed with the Office of the Secretary, United States Department of Education.

Partners in Education

Partners in Education provides the opportunity for students to allow the disclosure of information protected by the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act. 

Joining Partners in Education

To become a member of Partners in Education, a student must sign and return the Student Release of Confidential Information form. (The release does not apply to personal counseling, health, or financial information protected by FERPA; however, if students are experiencing problems in these areas, WSCC staff will be happy to assist in identifying available resources.) The student has the right to withdraw the release at any time. The release is no longer in effect once the student reaches the age of 21.