Student Services and Support

Support Services

Academic Monitoring

HACC’s academic monitoring system is an early-alert program. This method is used to identify students who may be at-risk of academic success and suggests avenues of assistance available from tutoring and academic coaching services, academic advising, and other college services. Students are notified via email when an alert has been issued by faculty. This alert notification is not meant to be punitive, but supportive. Further support to students and maintenance of the early-alert process is arranged through the Student Success Coaching office.

CARE Center

HACC proudly established the CARE (Consultation Advocacy Referrals Empowerment) Center as a single stop where students can go for assistance with non-academic challenges. This is a free and confidential resource available to all current HACC students. The CARE Center is invested in the success and well-being of our students, and is here to help. The CARE Center views students holistically and creates a “HACC has your back” culture to empower students to overcome obstacles and succeed on their journey to degree completion.

HACC’s first priority is providing a high-quality, affordable, accessible, and inclusive education to all. However, we know that some students need support outside the classroom to succeed inside the classroom. To serve our students, the CARE Center provides immediate assistance and long-term support with community resources in these areas: food and housing insecurity, mental health, transportation, social services, and daily necessities. HACC’s CARE Center understands that our students have complex lives and may need assistance in multiple areas.

Students can contact the CARE Center by completing a CARE Center Intake Form at www.hacc.edu/carecenter. A CARE Center Coordinator will contact you within 72 hours of receiving the Intake Form. The CARE Center Coordinators will schedule a 30-minute meeting to obtain facts and determine needs to customize an individualized, actionable plan for student success and empowerment. For more information visit www.hacc.edu/carecenter. 

Career Development 

Career development is integral to any college student's educational experience. To succeed in the twenty-first century's challenging workforce, students need to be proactive and have the foresight to connect their education to the world of work. Thus, the primary function is to support our students' professional growth and development toward their career goals.

The Career Development offices can help students at all stages of their educational journey. Early in their experience, students can use Career Development resources to explore career options and make informed decisions about majors and occupations. Once a student decides on a major, the staff can help design a career development plan and explore in-field experience options such as informational interviews, job shadowing, internships, etc. As students begin to move toward completing their program, the Career Development team can help them prepare for the job search. Thus, the Career Development office is a "one-stop source" for everything career-related.

Students are encouraged to visit their local career office and explore the Career Development webpage at www.hacc.edu/careerservices to learn more about how Career Development can and should be a vital part of their educational experience at HACC. 

Child Care

Many HACC students are also parents, and for their convenience U-Gro®, Learning Care Group offers childcare on both the Harrisburg and Lancaster Campuses. Children are eligible for acceptance into the center if they are between six weeks and six years of age.

Applications are accepted on a first come, first-served basis and a discount is provided to HACC students who show verification of HACC enrollment. Additional information can be found at u-gro.com or by calling 717-276-0251 for the Harrisburg Campus and 717-366-8550 for the Lancaster Campus.

Capital Area Head Start is available at HACC’s Harrisburg Campus in the Whitaker Hall Building. Programming is available for children ages 3-5 for HACC students, faculty and community. HACC students receive priority. Care is free to eligible families. Call 717-541-1795 to enroll or visit www.keystonehumanservices.org.

Adams County Head Start is available at HACC's Gettysburg Campus and eight other locations across Adams County. Comprehensive preschool services, including health, nutrition, dental, and family engagement services are available for children ages 3-5 and their families. Program services are at no cost to eligible families. Call 717-337-1337 to enroll or visit www.achsaccess.org. 

Mental Health and Wellness

At HACC, we know your overall wellbeing is crucial to your educational success. We provide multiple opportunities to engage in wellness, which includes mental wellbeing.

The WARE (Wellness, Athletics, Recreation and Engagement) department appreciates the unique needs and interests of all our students and strives to provide opportunities for engagement on many levels. Which includes a Wellness Schedule of monthly wellness activities. To learn more about those activities please visit their webpage: www.hacchawks.com/composite_wellness. 

HACC has lots of engagement and enrichment opportunities across the College, which includes events from Student Involvement and Student Programming Board and more. To learn more take a look at our Social Media as well as College Calendar: www.hacc.edu/Calendar.

Additionally, HACC partners with M&S EAP to provide mental health counseling to currently enrolled students. Information about seeking counseling services is shared regularly with students and is available on www.hacc.edu.

As a community college serving a commuting student population without residence halls or housing, HACC does not have an infirmary or a student health center. Students who become ill or need emergency treatment may be taken to nearby medical facilities for treatment. College Safety & Security officers are trained in basic first aid which is the medical attention that is given to an ill or injured person before medical experts are requested or arrive on the scene. The College neither assumes financial responsibility for medical treatment of students, nor assists with additional medical services. Students who need routine medication or medical assistance must provide for their own care, as the College does not serve such medical needs.

The CARE Center can provide referral to community resources related to medical care and access, to learn more visit their webpage at www.hacc.edu.
 
KEYS Program

The KEYS program is designed to help students succeed in community college. If a student or their family is receiving cash benefits (TANF) or food stamps (SNAP) and they want additional training and education in order to obtain self-supporting employment, this program is for them!

The KEYS Program provides academic support, career counseling, job search assistance, financial aid guidance, personal encouragement, college and community resource information, peer support, participation reimbursements, and incentives for accomplishments. Students enrolled may also be eligible for childcare, books and supplies, and transportation (mileage, repairs, and public transportation) allowances.

The KEYS Program is available at all five HACC campuses, and virtual learners are also eligible. Additional information can be found at www.hacc.edu/keys, and interested students may complete the inquiry form found on the webpage. You may contact the program directly via email at keysprogram@hacc.edu or by calling 717-780-1181.

Learning Commons and Library

The Learning Commons and Library is the academic support hub for students and includes the library, testing, tutoring, and tech support. Services are offered at all five campuses as well as online to meet student needs. The HACC Learning Commons also has study rooms and computer work spaces on each campus for individual or collaborative work. HACC students can use the variety of services in the Learning Commons to reach their academic and personal goals.

To learn more about the Learning Commons, please visit https://libguides.hacc.edu/learningcommons. 

Library faculty teach a range of information literacy topics, including how to choose the best database to start research, evaluation of web or print resources, and how to cite in MLA or APA. Faculty can schedule classroom instruction using the form at libguides.hacc.edu/learningcommons/library/instructionrequest. Visit the HACC Library website at www.hacc.edu/Library to find all the resources available, contact information, online chat connections, and hours of operation.

Tutoring

Professional and peer tutors assist students seeking to improve their skills in a variety of subjects. HACC Tutoring offers the following free services:

• On-campus tutoring

• Remote tutoring (drop-in and by appointment)

• Online essay review (HOWL) libguides.hacc.edu/learningcommons/tutoring/HOWL

• Tutor-led (facilitated) study groups

• Embedded (in-class) tutoring 

• Academic coaching in time management, organization, test preparation, and other academic skills

To make an appointment or see our current schedule, students can visit libguides.hacc.edu/learningcommons/tutoring. Contact the tutoring office at any campus location, or email tutoring@hacc.edu, for additional information.

Tutoring is also home to our in-class tutoring (ICT) program, where a specially trained tutor is paired with particular classes and provides in-class and out-of-class support to students in that specific class. Students should check with their instructors to verify if a tutor has been paired with the class.

HACC’s Online Writing Lab (HOWL) program offers HACC students written feedback via email from a HACC Professional Writing Tutor by submitting writings (journal entries, essays, papers, speeches, etc.). Students also have the opportunity to follow up with a HOWL tutor in a Zoom session to discuss their feedback.

Testing

The Test Center provides a variety of testing services that promote academic success, personal growth, and career development and maintains test integrity and security in a professional environment. 

Exams offered by the Test Center include:

• Academic placement assessments

• Academic and Make-Up Exams

• Extended time and limited distraction accommodation for Student Access Service students

• On-campus and remotely proctored exams (with faculty permission)

• Health Career Admissions Testing (TEAS)

• CLEP Exams (College-Level Examination Program®)

For additional information regarding Test Center services, please visit libguides.hacc.edu/learningcommons/testing.

Tech Support

Getting help is easy. Tech Support provides 24/7 availability via email, support@hacc.edu, or calling 717-780-2570. Assistance includes support with the following:

• myHACC

• Hawkmail

• Zoom 

• Google apps

• Office 365 accounts

• Resetting passwords

For additional information, visit libguides.hacc.edu/learningcommons/usersupport.

Center for Male Engagement 

Our mission and purpose are to support and enhance the rich learning experiences at HACC for male-identifying students to counter historical equity gaps in post-secondary success. The Center for Male Engagement is committed to fostering a sense of engagement, self-advocacy, and success through education, helping students navigate their academic and career journeys while addressing the unique challenges male students face. For more information visit www.hacc.edu. 

Student Access Services
At HACC, it is our goal to support students throughout their educational journey. We remain committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified students with disabilities to ensure they have an equal opportunity to succeed and participate in their college and career goals. The College is in accordance with federal compliance of the Americans with Disabilities Act as Amended (ADAAA), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and Title IX of the Education Amendment of 1972. 

Title IX provides protection for students who are pregnant, parenting and may need to take a medical leave of absence due to pregnancy, childbirth, miscarriage, abortion and or recovery.

No qualified person will be denied access to, participation in or the benefits of, any program or activity operated by the College because of disability or pregnancy or related conditions. Nor will individuals with a disability be subjected to discrimination while participating in College programs or activities due to disability. Whether a student had an IEP in high school or not, they may be eligible for accommodations. We encourage students who feel they may benefit from accommodations to contact us to learn more and review the webpage at www.hacc.edu.

Each HACC campus center provides physical accommodations according to ADA guidelines. Electric doors are installed throughout the campuses providing access for students with mobility impairments. Parking spaces for individuals with disabilities are identified at all campuses. 

Additionally, each campus has identified secure and confidential lactation spaces for employees and students. Learn more by reviewing our Lactation Space Directory which is available on our Title IX page at www.hacc.edu and on our Student Access Services page at www.hacc.edu. 

Student Access Coordinators are pointed to each HACC campus center to assist and facilitate students with inquiring and implementing accommodations. We invite you to connect with us by referring to our contact information listed at www.hacc.edu.

The Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the 21st Century Act (Perkins V)

Students enrolled in career and technical education (CTE) programs who need assistance to successfully complete their programs may have access to support services through the Perkins V Act. These federally funded initiatives help support eligible students with resources such as academic and career advising, tutoring and academic support focusing on equity and accessibility for students in CTE programs.  High school students who complete CTE programs and matriculate to HACC to continue in that program may be eligible for ‘Students Occupationally and Academically Ready’ (SOAR) articulated credits upon completion and submission of requisite paperwork.

Transferring from HACC

Many students attend HACC to earn an associate's degree and transfer to a bachelor's degree program at another college or university. To help students with this process, HACC has formed partnerships with colleges and universities assuring admission with junior standing, providing students meet the following requirements:

• The approved program of study is followed

• Required GPA is maintained

• An associate degree is earned

Many of these partnerships include Dual Admission, scholarships or other benefits for HACC graduates who transfer. A list of these colleges/universities is located at www.hacc.edu/transfer. Transfer services include transfer coaching, information sessions, transfer fairs, opportunities to meet representatives from many colleges and universities and other transfer resources. 

Student Involvement

Student involvement provides leadership and vision in developing, directing, and enriching the student experience at HACC to create a culture of student engagement and success. Student Involvement works collaboratively to provide programming, student leadership opportunities, intercultural programs, volunteer opportunities, civic engagement, and other campus initiatives supporting retention, student success, and out-of-class experience. Additionally, activities are organized at all campus locations and online. HACC offers a variety of activities, and students can consume as much or as little time as they prefer. 

The funds collected as SGA and Institutional fees from currently enrolled students support student groups and activities. Students will find clubs based on shared interests in recreational activities, careers, or special interests. Interested students can form new clubs by contacting Student Involvement. Students may access Student Involvement information online at www.hacc.edu. 

Honor Societies

Alpha Delta Nu: Alpha Delta Nu is the Honor Society for Associate Degree Nursing Programs, established to promote scholarship and academic excellence in the profession of nursing. Membership is offered to nursing students who have maintained a cumulative GPA of 3.0 and have earned a grade of B or better in each nursing class in the program. Students have also demonstrated conduct on campus and the clinical areas that reflect integrity and professionalism. Members of this honor society wear peach colored honor cords at graduation.

The Chi Zeta Chapter of the Sigma Phi Dental Hygiene Honor Society

The Honor Society was founded in 1958 by members of the Section on Dental Hygiene Education of the American Dental Education Association. It is the vision of Sigma Phi Alpha to enhance the dental hygiene profession's role and image in the delivery of quality healthcare to the public.Sigma Phi Alpha is the national honor society of the dental hygiene profession. Membership in Sigma Phi Alpha is composed of elected dental hygiene educators and of graduates from accredited dental hygiene programs with high scholastic achievement. The purpose of Sigma Phi Alpha is to promote, recognize, and honor scholarship, leadership, and service among dental hygiene students and graduates of dental hygiene programs. Thereby, the Honor Society encourages members to contribute to the advancement of the dental hygiene profession.

Lambda Beta National Honor Society for Respiratory Care: Lambda Beta is a national honor society for those in the profession of respiratory care. The purpose of the society is to promote, recognize and honor scholarship, scholarly achievement, service and character of students, graduates and faculty members of the profession. The name of the society is based on the goals of the profession: sustaining life (lambda) and breath (beta) for all. Lambda Beta members can be recognized by the blue and green honor cords worn on their gowns. The HACC Chapter was formed in 2010.

Phi Theta Kappa International Honor Society: HACC is home to the Alpha Nu Omega chapter of Phi Theta Kappa (PTK), the national honor society serving two-year colleges. Since founding in 1918, Phi Theta Kappa has sought to recognize and encourage scholarship among associate degree students. HACC’s chapter has received national recognition for the excellence and integrity of its programs. Membership in Phi Theta Kappa is extended by invitation. To be considered, a student must be enrolled in classes, have completed at least twelve hours of coursework leading to an associate degree, have a grade point average of at least 3.5, have established a record of academic excellence as judged by the faculty, be of good moral character, and possess recognized qualities of citizenship. For more information, see www.hacc.edu or www.ptk.org. 

Intercultural Programs

HACC is committed to fostering an engaging and supportive learning environment by encouraging meaningful interactions among students from various backgrounds. Engaging with others with different perspectives and experiences helps students develop valuable skills for academic, professional, and personal success. Through campus events and activities, HACC provides opportunities for students to connect, learn, and celebrate our community's many cultures and traditions. Intercultural celebrations and programs create spaces for students to engage with new ideas, broaden their perspectives, and build connections that support their persistence and success.

For more information on intercultural programming and engagement opportunities, email studentinvolvement@hacc.edu or visit the HACC Student Involvement webpage.

Military and Veterans Affairs

The Military and Veteran Affairs (MVA) team is located at each HACC campus. MVA staff provide information about GI Bill® benefits for veterans, eligible family members of veterans or actively serving armed forces members, members of the National Guard, Selected Reserves and Active Duty service persons. The Military and Veteran Affairs team also assists students in applying for veteran education benefits in addition to others. Students may contact the MVA at 717-780-2331 or by email at vaoffice@hacc.edu. HACC also has a VetSuccess on Campus (VSOC) counselor. They can be reached by email at vsoc@hacc.edu.

HACC’s MVA team also encourages all MVA students to apply for the VA work-study program. For more information about the program, please contact HACC’s MVA team at 717-780-2331 or via email at vaoffice@hacc.edu.  

VA tutorial assistance may also be available for student veterans and eligible dependents.  

Students should refer to the Military and Veteran Affairs page at www.hacc.edu or email vaoffice@hacc.edu. Information and current benefit rates can be found at www.benefits.va.gov/gibill. The major VA education benefit programs are:

GI Bill® – Chapters 30, and 33 (Post 9/11 both veteran and eligible family members)

GI Bill® – National Guard & Selected Reserves – Chapter 1606

Survivors & Dependents Education Assistance Program – Chapter 35

Veteran Readiness & Employment (VR&E) – Chapter 31

PA National Guard Education Assistance Program (EAP)

PA National Guard Military Family Education Program (MFEP)

Federal Tuition Assistance (FTA/TA)

Application: Student veterans, US service members and eligible family members must complete an initial application for GI Bill® benefits at www.benefits.va.gov/gibill. A HACC’s Veterans Benefits Request Form (Yellow Sheet) must be completed each term to receive benefits. The Yellow Sheet is found in your myHACC account under Registration/Records and under the Veterans Benefits block.

Advance pay: HACC MVA students may request Advance Pay (GI Bill® Chapters 30, 35 & 1606 only) if they are new students or have more than a 30-day break between terms. Advanced pay forms must be submitted 30 days prior to the start of the term. Advance Pay checks are sent directly to the school.

Service-connected disabled Veterans: Veterans with service-connected disabilities can contact a VA VR&E Counselor at 717-810-6990 or connect with HACC’s VSOC team by visiting www.benefits.va.gov/vocrehab/vsoc.asp to discuss potential benefits.  

Student Access Services (SAS): Veterans with service-connected disabilities can receive accommodations at HACC. Student Access Services provides reasonable accommodations, auxiliary aids and support services. To learn more, contact the nearest campus SAS office or visit www.hacc.edu. Our web pages have a wealth of information including contact information and ways to submit documentation securely.

Eligibility: All credit programs offered by HACC are approved for VA Education Benefits. Most workforce development programs are also approved for benefits. Please contact HACC’s MVA team for additional details. HACC is a fully accredited Service members Opportunity College, NAVPA, AVECO, and a ConAP member.

Financial Aid: MVA students are encouraged to apply for financial aid by submitting a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

PA National Guard members: Education Assistance Program (EAP), Federal Tuition Assistance, and Loan Repayment Program may be available. Students should contact their unit of assignment on these additional programs. Family Member Education Program (MFEP) is also available for those family members who qualify.

Satisfactory Progress: MVA students should be aware of the requirements for satisfactory academic progress mandated by the Department of Veterans Affairs in accordance with College academic policy described in this catalog. The VA will be notified when a student is not making satisfactory progress.

Selected Reserves: Federal Tuition Assistance and other benefits may be available. Students should contact their unit of assignment on these additional programs.

Summer terms: Summer benefit rates will vary for each summer term. A Training Time Equivalency Table can be found on HACC’s MVA webpage. HACC’s MVA team can  assist students in calculating their benefit estimate.

VA Work-Study Allowance Program:  MVA students attending ¾ time or more and receiving GI Bill ®  benefits may apply for VA Work-Study to work in the Military and Veteran Affairs offices on a HACC campus. For more information on this program call 717-780-2331.

Veterans Benefits Request Form (Yellow Sheet): This form must be completed each term a MVA student registers for classes in order for HACC to certify attendance to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Failure to complete this form will result in an interruption of benefits.

Veterans’ Benefits and Transition Act of 2018:  HACC complies with this act by ensuring a covered individual (is any individual who is entitled to educational assistance under chapter 31, Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment, or chapter 33, Post‐9/11 GI Bill® benefits) will not be penalized, including the assessment of late fees, the denial of access to classes, libraries, or other institutional facilities, or the required to borrow additional funds because of the individual’s inability to meet his or her financial obligations to the institution due to the delayed disbursement funding from VA under chapter 31 or 33. In order to become a covered individual, a student must provide a copy of their VA Certificate of Eligibility or a “Statement of Benefits” (obtained from the Department of Veterans Affairs’ (VA) website – eBenefits) for Chapter 33 students or provide a VAF 28‐1905 for Chapter 31 students.

Student Engagement Groups

Student Engagement Groups are formed around shared interests, goals, or experiences to provide connections, support, and meaningful dialogue opportunities. These groups are platforms for building relationships, fostering engagement, and enhancing the student experience. All students are welcome to join a group that aligns with their interests or experiences.

Student Government Association (SGA)

The governance body for students and the official agency for student representation at HACC. It is also the group responsible for overseeing student clubs. SGA officers and senators are chosen through general elections in which all students can participate as electors. Student candidates must follow eligibility guidelines outlined in the SGA Constitution and Bylaws. The SGA prepares a budget that allocates funds to student organizations and events. SGA represents students' views on current issues to the faculty and administration. Student representatives participate in the college’s Shared Governance process, ensuring the student voice is heard about the HACC student experience. Further information about the Student Government Association at HACC may be obtained by contacting SGA@hacc.edu or at www.hacc.edu. As a resource for students, the Student Handbook is published online in myHACC and at www.hacc.edu/Students/GetInvolved/Student-Handbook.cfm, which includes information about College resources, student activities, and school regulations. 

Visual and Performing Arts

The Rose Lehrman Arts Center is located on HACC's Harrisburg Campus. It houses two theatres (a flexible black box Studio Theatre and a proscenium Main StageTheatre) in addition to classrooms, labs, and facilities for Visual and Performing Arts. The theatres host performances by HACC Film and Theatre and the Music Business Industry programs as well as lectures and events by regional performing arts groups. Follow the Rose Lehrman Arts Center on Facebook at www.facebook.com/RoseLehrmanArtsCenter and HACC’s Film and Theatre Program at www.facebook.com/HACCFilmTheatre. Please visit www.hacc.edu/Visual_Performing_Arts to learn more about the visual and performing arts at HACC.

The Film and Theatre (FMTH) Program produces diverse offerings to include the classics, contemporary works, screenplays. The Theatre for Young People, a specialty theatre group, annually produces professionally mounted children’s theatre. Additionally, the FMTH program hosts an annual New Works Festival that produces an original screenplay as a short film. The Associate in Fine Arts (AFA) degree program emphasizes acquiring hands-on skills that support career goals in the industry. Auditions for productions are open to all students, staff and the community. 

The Visual Art (ART) Program establishes a strong foundation in the arts for students who plan to transfer to four-year institutions for further study. Through diverse course offerings, students will work with many successful professional artists. Students gain technical experience using different materials and practice many techniques for creative expression. They expand their creativity and problem-solving skills as they develop knowledge bases in global art practices. In preparation for work in the many possible paths in visual arts, students gain practical professional skills and develop portfolios. HACC’s highly rated Art programs are accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD), which is a specialized accrediting agency for schools of art and design that is recognized by the United States Department of Education. 

Wellness, Athletics, Retention, and Engagement (WARE)
The WARE department recognizes all students' unique needs and interests and strives to provide opportunities for engagement at multiple levels.

The HACC Athletics program includes seven varsity intercollegiate teams and an esports program. The varsity teams compete in the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) and include:

• Men's and women's basketball

• Men's and women's soccer

• Men's and women's cross country

• Women's volleyball

• Women's flag football

Participation is open to students from all HACC campuses, provided they meet eligibility requirements.

At the Harrisburg Campus, students with a valid HACC ID can access the Evans Center and outdoor athletic facilities, which include:

• Twelve pickleball courts

• Fitness center

• Gymnasium

• Racquetball court

• Sand volleyball court

• Putting green

• Athletic fields

The Lancaster Campus offers a fitness center, and an Esports Lounge is coming soon to the York Campus.

Wellness activities include yoga, circuit training, Zumba, strength training, meditation sessions, and informational programs designed to enhance individual well-being. These activities are available both online and in person when possible. The schedule is posted at www.hacchawks.com/composite_wellness.

In 2020, the HACC Hawks introduced Esports as an intercollegiate program. The co-ed program competes in the National Junior College Athletic Association Esports (NJCAAe) against institutions in the U.S. and Canada. It runs throughout the academic year and features a variety of team games each semester.

In fall 2022, NJCAAe launched an intramural Esports program open to all students, which does not compete at the intercollegiate level. Matches can be viewed live on the Esports Hawks Twitch Channel at www.twitch.tv/haccesports.

Intercollegiate Esports game offerings vary each semester based on interest and availability. Typically, the following games are included:

• Super Smash Bros. Ultimate

• Call of Duty

• Rocket League

• Overwatch

For more information about WARE, visit www.hacchawks.com.

HACC Alumni Association

HACC alumni are those who have earned credit certificates, diplomas or degrees from HACC and those who have completed financial-aid eligible programs. 

Alumni benefit from HACC through networking and volunteer opportunities, career services, social events, professional development and philanthropy to support students and/or programs. Alumni are also eligible to receive a variety of benefits and services through the Alumni College Card.

For more information about the HACC Alumni Association, please visit us at www.hacc.edu/Alumni.