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Weapons on Campus

Neither the possession of weapons or the use of weapons is permitted on the Guilford campus, pursuant to North Carolina law and the Quaker testimonies of the College.

Purpose/Reason for Policy: The College seeks to fulfill its obligations to [1] live the Quaker testimonies, [2] keep members of the campus community safe, and [3] uphold the state law regarding weapons on college campuses. 

Scope/Covered Persons: All members of the Guilford College community and visitors to the campus. 

Note: This policy does not apply to sworn police officers that may be on campus either to attend classes or to complement on-campus security staff for special events and emergency calls.

Definitions: Weapons referred to in this policy covers, but is not limited to: 

  • BB guns
  • paintball guns or air pistols
  • realistic toy guns
  • knives (non-kitchen utensils, longer than four (4) inches)
  • fireworks of any type
  • firearms of any type
  • ammunition

The Policy:  

North Carolina law prohibits the possession of weapons, concealed or otherwise, on private or public campuses. The only exception is for “a weapon used solely for educational or school-sanctioned ceremonial purposes or used in a school-approved program conducted under the supervision of an adult whose supervision has been approved by the school authority.” 

Possession of non-edged weapons such as swords used in martial arts must be approved by the Associate Dean of Students. 

In addition, the possession, storage or use of any instrument, device or substances that intentionally or recklessly creates a reasonable apprehension of imminent bodily harm to the person or property of another on College or College-related premises is strictly prohibited. 

Roles and Responsibilities: 

Associate Dean of Students: Review and approve any exceptions to this policy requested by a Guilford College student.

Public Safety: Enforce this policy and respond to any reported violations of the policy in order to do so.  

Compliance: 

  • Consequences to students for not following the policy will be addressed through the Student Conduct Process
  • Consequences to employees for not following the policy will be addressed through the appropriate employee disciplinary procedures
  • Consequences to campus visitors for not following the policy will be addressed through Public Safety.

Other related Policies, Regulations, Statutes and Documents: North Carolina General Statute Section, 14-269.2

Approval Authority: President of the College

Responsible Office: Dean of Students

Revision History: Included in Student Handbook 2017-18; revised 10-9-2017