Appendix 3 AIDS

Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS)

"Gonzaga University belongs to a long and distinguished tradition of humanistic, Catholic and Jesuit education. We, the Trustees and Regents, faculty, administration and staff of Gonzaga, are committed to preserving and developing that tradition and communicating it to our students and alumni...We are inspired by the vision of Christ at work in the world, transforming it by His love, and calling men and women to work with Him in loving service of the human community." (from Gonzaga University's Mission Statement)

I. PURPOSE

In light of its Mission Statement, and concerned with the total health and well being of its members, Gonzaga University's attitude regarding AIDS is one of care and compassion for both the individual and the community. Fundamental to this policy is an educational program for all members of the campus community, a program that provides basic information about AIDS: What is it? How does a person get AIDS? What protection is available against this virus? etc. This policy also addresses the legal and ethical considerations involved with AIDS, considerations such as confidentiality, testing, and the common good of the community.

The Director of the Health Center implements this policy and is advised by a committee of people from the University community: two faculty members appointed by the President of the Faculty Assembly (one from the main campus and one from the School of Law), the Director of Human Resources, and the Vice President for Student Life. An on-going education advisory group, consisting of representatives from the student body, alumni, parents, staff, faculty, and administration will assist the Director of the Health Center and this University AIDS Committee. The Director of the Health Center and the University AIDS Committee will ask various University departments to formulate and update specific operating procedures for AIDS education and protection. Such departments include Athletics, Biology, Custodial Services, Dining Services, Health Center, Human Resources, Physical Education, and Residential Life. The task of reviewing and providing departmental procedures is the responsibility of the Director of the Health Center and the University AIDS Committee.

II. EDUCATION

Extensive medical research indicates that people do not get the AIDS virus through casual contact. People get AIDS by intimate sexual contact, by exposing themselves to blood or blood products, or by sharing intravenous drug needles. Through presentations and printed material, the Education Advisory Group, together with the Director of the Health Center, will assist the University community in learning about the AIDS virus.

III. CONFIDENTIALITY

Gonzaga students with AIDS, ARC or a positive HIV (HTLV-III) and antibody test are protected by the Family Education Rights and Privacy ACT (FERPA) of 1974 and the Washington State Laws against discrimination (RCW 49.60, et.seq.). The University also respects the privacy rights of its employees. Therefore, the University will keep confidential the names of its members who are infected, and will not disclose any specific medical details about an individual without the written consent of that individual. The University also will encourage all infected persons seeking medical, dental, or eye care, to advise the practitioner of their positive antibody status.

IV. NON-DISCRIMINATION AND CARE

Through its admission and employment policies, the University prohibits discrimination against persons with AIDS, ARC or positive HIV (HTLV-III). Therefore, the University does not test for HIV as part of an admission or employment requirement. However, the University strongly encourages individuals so infected to confidentially inform the University physician who will provide them with proper medical care, education and counseling, or refer them to off-campus clinical services and community resources.