Responsible Office: Student Development
Policy Administrator: VP for Student Development
Scope: |Student

Approved By: VP/Provost

Approved Date: 7/1/2017

Effective Date: 7/1/2017

Category: Student

Description/Purpose:

Introduction to University Student Conduct Review Process

Details:

The University's student conduct review process is designed to support the overall mission of the University. The student conduct process at the University is not intended to punish students; rather, it exists to protect the interests of the community and to challenge those whose behavior is not in accordance with our policies. Sanctions are intended to challenge students moral and ethical decision-making and to help them bring their behavior into accord with the University's values and expectations. When a student is unable to conform his/her behavior to community expectations, the student conduct process may determine that he/she should no longer share in the privilege of participating in this community.

Students should be aware that the student conduct process is quite different from criminal and civil court proceedings. Procedures, and rights in student conduct procedures, do not include the same protections of due process afforded by the courts. Due process as defined within these procedures, assures written notice of an Incident Review Hearing or Appeal Hearing. A hearing will be conducted before an objective decision-maker. No student will be found in violation of University policy without a preponderance of evidence showing that a violation occurred. Any sanction(s) issued will be proportionate to the severity of the violation and to the cumulative conduct history of the student.

It should be noted that not all situations are of the same severity or complexity. While the process remains consistent however, procedures such as written notification are flexible, and may not be seen the same in every situation.

The Code of Student Conduct and student conduct review process and procedures apply to behaviors that take place on the campus, at University-sponsored events and may also apply off-campus when the Vice President for Student Development (or designee) determines that the off-campus conduct affects a substantial University interest. A substantial University interest is defined to include:

1. any situation where it appears that the student may present a danger or threat to the health or safety of him/herself or others;
2. any situation that significantly impinges upon the rights, property or achievements of self or others or significantly breaches the peace and/or causes social disorder; and/or
3. any situation that is detrimental to the educational mission and/or interests of the University.