Student Conduct Information for Parents
Information for Parents/Guardians
Q: My student was involved in an incident. What happens next?
A: It depends on their involvement. The first part of the process is to have a fact finding meeting with either a Residence Hall Director or the Director of Student Conduct, depending on the location and/or severity of the incident. At this meeting, it is determined the person's involvement in the incident. This can occur before or after the student receives a charge letter.
When a student is charged with a violation, they have the option to accept responsibility for the charge(s). If the student chooses to do this, they waive their right to a hearing and an appeal.
If the student wishes to dispute the charge(s), they would need to contact the Office of Student Conduct. During the academic year, the student would have the option to have their case heard in front of the University Judicial Board or an Administrative Board. (During winter break and summer, the student only has the choice of an Administrative Board) See here for more details on the hearing process.
Q: Can the student appeal the Judicial Board's decision if they've been through a hearing?
A: Yes. A student can submit a written appeal within 5 days of receipt of their finding letter. The student can appeal on two grounds: that there was a procedural due process error or that there was evidence that was not entered at the hearing that would significantly change the outcome of the hearing.
Helpful resources
College is a time when students grow, both mentally and personally. Through the maturation process, students test values that at times can be converse to the ones that were instilled through childhood. While there may be behavior that is befitting of this transitive stage in life, parents/guardians should be keen to look out for major changes in moods, behavior, etc.
If you see something in your student that does not seem right, you should seek help. Our campus has many resources: our Counseling Center can provide assistance both in conversation as well as in sharing helping resources. Residence Life and Campus Life can also be helpful in discussing the many opportunities your student has to be involved in the campus. The Office of Student Affairs is also another great resource for general questions.