From: Bolster, Deborah
Sent: Thursday, September 03, 2009 10:31 AM
To: Trinity Faculty/Staff; Trinity Students
Subject: Religious Holidays

(Distributed on behalf of Rev. Stephen Nickle)

Dear Members of the Trinity Community,

            Do recall and be guided by our guidelines regarding Excused Absences from Class While Representing the University (passed by the Faculty at the December 12, 2003 meeting) which reads, in part:

            Students who are absent from class in order to observe a religious holiday, or who are absent from the campus because they officially represent the University in such sponsored activities as intercollegiate athletics, debate tournaments, and tours will be excused from classes under the following circumstances:

• A student’s absence from class does not excuse the student from any work missed during the absence. Students may not be penalized for excused absences; the student and instructor will devise an appropriate substitute for missed work, classes, and examinations.

• The responsibility to make up work lies solely with the student, who should discuss the missed assignments with the instructor.

• Students must discuss with the instructor as far in advance as possible the fact that they will miss classes to observe a religious holiday or to represent the University.

In particular, be aware that we are in the midst of the Muslim month of Ramadan, involving practitioners in fasting from sunrise to sunset. Also, be aware that the Jewish holiday, Rosh Hashanah, is approaching, from sunset on September 18^th through sunset on September 20^th. For other religious holidays, please consult the religious life home page at http://www.interfaithcalendar.org/2009.htm .

Thank you!

Stephen R. Nickle, chaplain

"To lead those who follow Christ, support those of every faith, and serve all who call Trinity home."

Margarite B. Parker Chapel 

Trinity University

San Antonio, Texas
(210) 999-7311
http://www.trinity.edu/departments/chapel/index.htm