Due Process

Students are expected to proactively work with Judicial Affairs for situations of general misconduct (fighting, stealing, threats, disruptions) or the academic department for academic misconduct (cheating, plagiarism), in order to resolve the situation.

The University’s resolution process is not a legal process. A student may be found in violation of the Code of Conduct using the preponderance of evidence standard, or whether it is more likely than not that misconduct occurred.

You have the right to be heard if an accusation is brought against you. Your side of the story in your own words is important to the resolution process. You may be asked to put your statement in writing.

APPEALS

If you are found responsible for a violation of the Code of Conduct, you may appeal disciplinary action in writing within ten (10) school days of the date you were notified of the outcome.

Appeals are typically considered on the following bases:

  • Demonstration of a significant procedural error
  • The availability of compelling new information or "evidence"
  • Demonstration of bias on the part of a member of the Campus Board of appeals involved in the case
  • Misconduct on the part of a conduct officer or conduct advisor, or
  • Demonstration that any right of the accused student as outlined in the Code of Conduct ahs be violated.

Summary of appeals process for Academic Misconduct

  • Attempt to resolve informally with your instructor.
  • A faculty's determination may be appealed to the relevant department chair
  • A department chair’s determination may be appealed to the relevant academic dean.

Summary of appeals process for General Misconduct

  • Appeal a determination made by the Director of Judicial Affairs to the Campus Board of Appeals
  • Appeal the determination of the Campus Board of Appeals to the Dean of Students.
  • Student may also appeal a determination made by the director of Judicial Affairs directly to the Dean of Students.
  • Appeals to the Dean may be submitted directly to the Dean of Students Office.
  • Appeals to the Campus Appeals Board must be submitted to Judicial Affairs.

See the Appeals and Due Process section of the Code of Conduct for more detailed information.

Due process flow chart