What does SU's new policy on religious accommodations for students require?

Seattle University has adopted a new Policy on Religious Accommodations for Students to comply with changes in state law, Provost Shane P. Martin announced to faculty on July 18. 

Substitute Senate Bill 5166, which was signed into law this year, amends RCW 28.10.039 and requires colleges and universities to adopt policies requiring faculty to reasonably accommodate students who, due to the observance of religious holidays, expect to be absent or endure a significant hardship during certain days of the academic course or program. The amendments to state law go into effect July 28. 

In accordance with state law, all course syllabi are required to include a link to the new policy. 

The provost shared FAQs regarding the new policy as well as a Student Academic Religious Accommodations Request Form available on the Academic Affairs website to help faculty process requests from students. Questions on the policy can be addressed to the Office of Institutional Equity at (206) 296-2824 or oie@seattleu.edu. 

“Thank you for your ongoing commitment to diversity, inclusive academic excellence and care for our students,” Provost Martin wrote.