Accessibility Resources

Accessibility Resources is dedicated to meeting the needs of the increasing number of college students with disabilities. Our mission is to ensure that students with disabilities have equal access to educational opportunities at Forsyth Tech.

Forsyth Tech strives to empower students in every way possible, believing that by empowering students to maximize their abilities, the foundation for college success is built. In strict compliance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, no otherwise qualified individual with a disability shall solely because of his or her disability be excluded from the participation in, denied benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any program or any activity of this institution.

Students who have a disability and would like to request services and accommodations must register with Accessibility Resources. They will be required to provide documentation of their disability. Information provided by a student is voluntary and appropriate confidentiality is maintained.

Students who need assistance with academic accommodations should contact the Accessibility Resources Office at (336) 734-7378 or (336) 734-7155; or disabilityservices@forsythtech.edu. Accessibility Resources staff are located in the Robert L. Strickland Center, , North Wing, Suite 2314. Services are designed and developed on an individual needs basis, and students may elect to use any or all the services appropriate to their needs at no charge. Staff are available to meet with students in person, by phone, or virtually. Walk-ins are accepted on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

For more information regarding Accessibility Resources, please view our Forsyth Tech Accessibility Resources Student Guide at www.forsythtech.edu/files/services-student/StudentGuideAccResources2021.pdf

The College has a telecommunications device for the deaf (TDD/ TTY). The number is 336.723.3411.

Advising

Forsyth Tech has an advisor/advisee program that is designed to provide a more personal atmosphere for the student and to increase communication between students and faculty. Upon enrollment, each student is assigned an academic advisor who provides information related to program content, course content and prerequisite requirements, graduation requirements, and general information. Academic advisors assist in academic planning, early alert, outreach, and success interventions. and make referrals such as services for personal counseling, financial aid counseling, or academic tutoring.

Career Services

Career exploration and planning assistance is provided to help individuals identify career goals. Individual sessions evaluate the needs of participants using a variety of inventories to help explore interest areas. . In addition, occupational information is available to assist in the exploration of career options and align career paths to Forsyth Tech programs.  Career Assessments are provided for both students and nonstudents at no charge to help match their personalities to their careers. Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments can also be made through Navigate Other sources of helpful information in such areas as career/employment, and educational planning are available on the Career Services’ website at www.forsythtech.edu/students/student-life/career-services.

Students and alumni can register with Career Hub by Simplicity (https://forsythtech-csm.symplicity.com/), to have access to job listings received from regional employers; and build and/or store resumes and portfolios. In addition, Career Services sponsors job fairs, career days, and on-campus interviews. Employment assistance is provided to individual students and alumni in writing resumes, cover letters, and interview preparation. Handouts and resource materials on job search and job market information are available in the Career Services Office and on the Career Services Techlink page (https://forsythtech.sharepoint.com/sites/CareerServices). Classroom and community presentations on resumes, cover letters, interviews, and other job search topics are conducted by a career counselor by request.

Counseling Services

Counseling Services are staffed with trained clinicians who are compassionate and willing to help explore student concerns and provide interventions for effectively dealing with a situation. Counseling Services exist to provide a non-judgmental space where all students feel safe to share their concerns. A student experiencing personal difficulties, mental health, substance abuse, and wellness needs may meet with a Counselor either in person or virtually.

We offer the following types of Counseling Services:

• Short-term Individual Counseling
• Psychoeducation workshops
• Drop-in Counseling
• Crisis Intervention
• Alcohol and Drug Counseling
• Group Therapy
• Consultation Services
• Self-help resources
• Outreach and prevention

Some of the benefits of counseling include regulating emotion, reducing stress, boosting mood, developing confidence, exploring priorities, increasing motivation, strengthening relationships, and improving communication. We provide Referral services to on-campus supports/resources and off-campus referrals to community partners to address mental health and substance abuse wellness needs.

The counseling staff adheres to the ethical standards of the National Board-Certified Counselors. All sessions and consultations are confidential; however, exceptions may be made when students present a danger to themselves or others or under subpoena by court.

For information on how to make counseling appointments and/or referrals, please visit: www.forsythtech.edu/counseling. 

For more information about counseling services, please call 336-734-7280 or email counselingservices@forsythtech.edu. Counseling is located on Main Campus, Robert L Strickland building, 2^nd floor.

Currently Enrolled Students

Each semester, returning students admitted to a program may register early. To register for courses, returning students should develop an academic plan with their academic advisor and use this plan to register for the appropriate courses for current and future terms. Returning students may register for classes via my.forsythtech.edu or Navigate. Any questions arising during this registration period concerning transfer credit from another college for course(s) credit should be directed to the Admissions & Records Office at records@forsythtech.edu. An official transcript from colleges or universities attended is required to receive transfer credit for courses taken.

Forsyth Tech CARES

The Forsyth Tech CARES department takes a comprehensive approach to student success, focusing on student well-being and eliminating non-academic barriers that impact a student's ability to succeed. FT Cares is divided under two umbrellas: Student Outreach and Support Services and Wellness and Belonging. The programs that fall under these umbrellas include Counseling, Shugart Women’s Center, Veteran’s Resource Center, and the Student Outreach and Support Navigators (formerly known as CARE Navigators).

James A. Rousseau II Minority Male Success Initiative

The James A. Rousseau Minority Male Success Initiative is designed to increase the progression and completion rates of minority male students attending Forsyth Tech. To accomplish this mission, we will (1) Provide integrated and targeted supports and interventions when they are most effective, (2) Aid student’s progress through programs that lead to valuable credentials, without unnecessary detours, and (3) Assist students in making informed decisions which result in understanding the requirements and processes to succeed.

More specifically, the initiative seeks to address the following objectives:

• Increase the progression of first-year minority male students
• Increase minority male utilization of campus resources and services through deliberate and intentional interactions between students and the campus community

For more information about this program, contact the Minority Male Success Initiative Office on the main campus, Allman Building (1^st Floor-Suite 114); by phone at 336.734.7385 or by email to minoritymalementoring@forsythtech.edu.

Learning Resources 

Library

Located on the 1^st floor of Ardmore Hall, Main Campus. The library offers an extensive collection of both print and digital materials accessible to all patrons in a variety of formats and languages. The library staff is always available to assist students, faculty, staff, and community borrowers in finding resources and learning how to utilize the library.

The library does not charge overdue fines or fees, however; patrons are responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged items. The library offers printing, study rooms, computers, and laptops for students to use while visiting the library.

Library Cards

We encourage patrons to visit the library to obtain their library cards. Library cards do not renew automatically so students should visit the library annually to keep their cards active. Certain library databases and services do require a library card for access.

Digital Library

Our library boasts an extensive digital collection, aiding students in conducting research, finding scholarly articles, exploring career options, and accessing test guides. Additionally, faculty and staff can discover Open Educational Resources (OER) and Libguides in our digital collection to enhance instructional support. The digital library is accessible and always open to all students regardless of which physical campus they attend.

Navigate appointments

Students have the option to schedule individual appointments with librarians via Navigate to receive assistance with research projects. Instructors can also use Navigate to request library tours and instructional support from the library.

To learn more about library services visit the Library’s Techlink site under “College Services” or call the Circulation Desk at 336-734-7219.

Academic Success Center Learning Center

The Science Technology Engineering & Mathematics (STEM) Lab is in the Strickland Center (Room 2343) and the Open Writing Lab (OWL) is in Ardmore Hall (Room 161).

Welcome to the Learning Center, your hub for academic support located on Main Campus in Room 143 of Ardmore Hall. We offer a diverse range of services and programs tailored to meet the needs of both faculty and students.

Tutoring Services

For students seeking academic support, the Learning Center provides free tutoring services in both one-on-one and small group settings, available in-person or virtually. Academic assistance spans a wide array of courses, and students can take advantage of drop-in tutoring labs for mathematics, science, and English. The Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics (STEM) Lab is located in the Strickland Center (Room 2343), and the Open Writing Lab (OWL) is in Ardmore Hall (Room 137). Additionally, online tutoring through Upswing is available 24/7 for currently enrolled students.

In addition to course-specific tutoring, the Learning Center offers guidance in essential learning skills such as time management and study techniques. Our collective tutoring services aim to boost student retention rates while fostering the development of independent, lifelong learners.

JumpStart Program

Prepare for a successful semester with our JumpStart program, designed to familiarize students with the technology they'll encounter in their courses. JumpStart covers key platforms like Blackboard, Outlook, Navigate, and more. Beyond technology, the program also provides insights into the resources available on campus to help students overcome challenges and achieve success, no matter what life throws their way.

Computer Services

Limited computers are available in the Learning Center for various academic tasks, including typing and printing assignments, accessing the Internet, completing Blackboard assignments, and utilizing specialized computer applications for specific classes.

For additional information about the Learning Center, its services, or the JumpStart program, please contact us at 336-734-7480 or via email at tutor@forsythtech.edu. We're here to support your academic journey and enhance your learning experience.

New Student Onboarding (NSO)

The purpose of New Student Onboarding is to prepare students for a successful first semester start to their college career with Forsyth Tech and provide new students with a comprehensive orientation to Forsyth Tech. The New Student Onboarding experience provides a relational experience for students to establish relationships and build a sense of belonging through engagement with students, staff, and the campus community.

New Student Onboarding is a two-part program consisting of online orientation and 1st Advising sessions. Online orientation is a short series of modules that introduce students to campus resources and should be completed before attending 1st Advising.

Once a student completes the online session a prompt will be given to move to schedule the 1st Advising. 1st Advising Sessions are available in person on the main campus and virtually. During this session, students will complete their initial advising session, register for classes, and complete additional steps to be prepared to successfully start their academic journey at Forsyth Tech. 

Shugart Women’s Center at Forsyth Tech

The mission of the Shugart Women’s Center at Forsyth Tech is to support and enhance the academic, professional, and personal development of all women and individuals that identify as women. The Shugart Women’s Center is committed to promoting equitable opportunities in an inclusive, safe, and supportive environment that values and celebrates the diversity of all women, regardless of race, color, ethnic origin, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, or disability.

The coordinator of the Shugart Women’s Center can provide limited counseling and appropriate agency referrals for specific women’s issues like domestic violence and sexual assault.

 The Shugart Women’s Center has continuous programming and workshops throughout the year that provide education and information in relation to issues affecting women and their families. Topics include relationships, health awareness, self-image, and parenting.

The Shugart Women’s Center Women and Children’s Boutique provides professional and casual clothing for female students and their children. In addition, the boutique is also stocked with diapers and wipes.

 For more information about this program, contact the Shugart Women’s Center at 336.734.7280 or swc@forsythtech.edu. The Center is in room 2479 of the Robert L. Strickland Building.

Student Outreach and Support Services

The Student Outreach and Support Navigator provides holistic, wrap-around services and resources to assist students with “when life happens” situations. The navigator actively meets and follows up with students who are experiencing insecurity with food, housing, and other basic needs.  We offer bus passes, FT Connect, which is the food pantry, childcare resources for grants and location of childcare facilities, drop-in childcare for emergencies, and much more. All questions are good questions and we are here to assist students.

 For more information, contact the Student Outreach and Support Navigators at ftcares@forsythtech.edu or 336-734-7195.

TRiO Programs

TRiO Student Support Services

Student Support Services (SSS) is a federally funded TRiO program designed to assist college students with academic skills and motivation to successfully complete a postsecondary education degree. The goal of the Student Support Services program is to increase the college retention and graduation rates of its participants. The program serves 140 eligible students of all majors each year. Eligibility criteria is any combination of the following: first generation, low-income, or disability. Selected students are also eligible to receive grant aid awards of at least $700.00.

Program services include:

• Advice and assistance in postsecondary course selection
• Information on both the full range of student financial aid programs and benefits
• Assistance in completing financial aid applications, including the FAFSA and scholarship information
• Education or counseling services designed to improve the financial and economic literacy of students
• Assistance in applying for transfer admission to, and obtaining financial assistance for enrollment in, four-year post-secondary education programs
• Individualized counseling for personal, career, and academic matters
• Career exploration
• Exposure to cultural events, academic programs, and mentoring programs

TRiO Upward Bound

Upward Bound is a federally funded TRIO program granted by the U.S. Department of Education designed to assist high school students starting grades 9 through 12. The program provides opportunities that are aimed to enhance first-generation and limited-income students’ academic development, engage in career exploration, assist students with their academic progress, and motivate students toward successful completion of their high school education while preparing for post-secondary education opportunities.

Program services Include:

• Assistance in applying for admission to, and obtaining financial assistance for enrollment in, two and four-year postsecondary education programs
• Summer Residential Program and Instruction
• High School academic instruction and tutoring in various subjects
• ACT and other test preparation
• College and Life skills development through workshops
• Academic, career, and cultural enrichment
• College and Business tours
• Resources for locating public and private scholarships
• Assistance in completing financial aid applications, including the FAFSA
• Education or counseling services designed to improve the financial and economic literacy of students, including financial planning for post-secondary education

For more information about TRiO Programs visit their office located on the 2^nd floor of the Robert L. Strickland Center or 336-734-7120.

Veteran Resource Center

The Veteran Resource Center is designed to provide holistic support services and referral resources for student veterans and their dependents to assist them in meeting their educational and career goals. The VRC is the one-stop shop for all military-affiliated students/MAS, veterans, active duty/reserve, spouses, and dependents.

The VRC offers veterans a range of services to ensure academic success, including personal, confidential counseling; academic advising; New Student Veteran Orientation; First Year Experience; Student Veterans Association/SVA; peer support team; digital literacy team; Student Veteran Lounge; VA benefits; and GI Bill® information.

Veterans are encouraged to visit the Veteran Resource Center in person or online at www.forsythtech.edu/veterans-resource-center for more information.

The Veteran Academic Counselor will provide academic advising and short-term counseling to student veterans to help them navigate the change from a military environment to a civilian academic setting. Counseling is also provided on a short-term basis to help with personal and academic issues. The School Certifying Office provides guidance and assistance with issues that are specific to the GI Bill® and VA benefits. The Veterans Resource Center staff will provide campus and community referrals as needed.

The Veteran Counselor adheres to the ethical standards of the American Counseling Association and the National Board for Certified Counselors. All discussions and consultations are confidential; Counseling is provided with compliance with guidelines within an educational setting.

For more information about veteran services, please contact the VRC at 336-757-3454 or vrc@forstythech.edu. Veteran Resource Center is located on Main Campus, Robert L. Strickland Building, 2nd floor.

Other Services

Bookstore

Forsyth Tech operates five college bookstores as a service to students, faculty and staff. The Main Campus Bookstore (1st floor), Technology Student Services Building, Main Campus offers a full line of traditional college store merchandise, including textbooks, school supplies and other course-related material, plus first-quality backpacks, emblematic apparel, Forsyth Tech gift items and educationally priced computer software. The bookstore stocks many “used” texts and “rented” texts, at the beginning of each semester. While supplies last.

Hours of operation for the College bookstores are posted at each location and on the website www.forsythtech.bncollege.com.

Book Return Policy

• A full refund will be given in your original form of payment if textbooks are returned during the first week of classes with the original receipt.
• With proof of a schedule change and original receipt, a full refund will be given in your original form of payment during the first 30 days of class. Financial aid refunds will only be allowed during the financial aid charging period at the bookstore.
• No refunds on unwrapped loose-leaf books or shrink-wrapped titles that do not have the wrapping intact.
• No refunds on Digital Content once accessed.
• Textbooks must be in their original condition.
• No refunds or exchanges without an original receipt

Carol L. Danforth Early Childhood Lab School

The Carol L. Danforth Early Childhood Lab School at Forsyth Tech provides a facility where our students may observe, practice, and learn to be teachers of preschool children in partnership with our Teacher Education Program.  All employees have a strong educational background and experience in Early Childhood Education.  The curriculum encourages age-appropriate growth and development of young children. Curriculum activities are designed to meet the needs of each child in a classroom serving ages 3-5 years old.   Forsyth Tech students have priority in enrollment considerations.

For further information about the lab school and other childcare options, contact Dr. Crystal Harvey, Lab School Coordinator, at charvey@forsythtech.edu or 336.734.7974.

Housing Information

Since Forsyth Tech has no residence halls, students must make their own housing arrangements. Limited housing and apartment information may be obtained from the college information desk or student support resources.

Health Services

Limited health services are provided through the Campus Police. First aid supplies are in the shop areas; however, injuries requiring more than minor first aid will be treated in the emergency room of either Novant Health or Wake Forest Baptist Health.

Food Services

Blaze Grill, located on the lower level of Hauser Hall, Main Campus offers breakfast and lunch daily, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. during spring and fall. Summer term hours may vary.

Vending services are available in the Technology Student Services Building, Snyder Hall, Allman Center, Parkway Building, Carolina Building, and Greene Hall (all located on Main Campus); the Swisher Center; West Campus; the Woodruff Center; the Northwest Forsyth Center; the Transportation Technology Center; and the Robert L. Strickland Center.

Lost and Found

The Campus Police handles lost and found articles on the Main Campus. On other campuses, the Information/Registration Centers handle lost and found articles. All lost articles of value should be reported to the Campus Police.

Testing Services

The Testing Center supports faculty, students, and the local community by providing various proctoring services, including placement tests, proficiency exams, classroom and distance learning exams, employment assessments, and certification exams. The Testing Center is prepared to provide special accommodations in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Additional testing information may be obtained by calling 336.734.3657.

Campus Information

Telephone Calls to Students

Forsyth Tech does not have the facilities to forward general telephone messages to students and will not do so except in the case of an emergency. Emergency calls should be directed to Campus Police. Those calling in an emergency will be asked to state the nature of the emergency and to give their name and a return telephone number.

The policy of Forsyth Tech is not to give out identifying information about students to telephone callers and/or unidentified persons without the permission of the student (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act). The Records Office only handles inquiries concerning students’ records.

Use of Facilities

The buildings and their contents exist solely for the education of Forsyth Tech’s adult population and the use of these facilities for any other purpose is strictly prohibited.

Effective August 15, 2010, smoking shall not be permitted in any building or the surrounding grounds owned or used by Forsyth Tech. This includes all campuses, centers, and locations. Smoking shall not be permitted in any College, government, or private vehicle operated or parked on grounds owned or used by Forsyth Tech.

The revised Smoking Policy, effective January 2014 states:

Purpose

Understandable concern about the potential health consequences of smoking in Forsyth Technical Community College campus has mounted in recent years. Accordingly, some additional regulation of the smoking policy on the college campus is authorized.

I. Policy

Smoking is prohibited on all Forsyth Technical Community College property except in designated smoking areas. These areas are identified by signage and therefore smoking outside of these marked areas will be considered a violation of the code of conduct.

II. Definitions

A. Tobacco products include cigarettes, cigars, cigarillos, blunts, pipes, hookahs, electronic cigarettes, or any other items containing or reasonably resembling tobacco or tobacco products that can fashioned in a smoking manner. Usage of these items is only allowed in the designated smoking areas.

B. College premises are defined as any property in use by the College including property that is leased, owned, used for college functions, or used by the College in the conduct of any of its courses.

Animals are prohibited inside buildings (except for service animals). Any animal on the campus grounds must be on a leash in compliance with the City of Winston-Salem Leash Law (City Code Ordinance chapter 6-16 Section 3-18).

Children are not allowed in classrooms or shop areas during class sessions, nor may they be left unattended in the library, The Grill, student lounge, or on campus grounds.