Definitions

For purposes of the student conduct process, the following definitions apply:

  1. Advisor - An individual of the student’s choosing who assists a student or student organization with Student Conduct Conference or Student Conduct Board preparation. Advisors may be present at Student Conduct Conferences and Student Conduct Board Hearings, but may not present the student’s case on their behalf.
  2. Appeal- A student who accepts responsibility or is found responsible for violating the Code of Student Conduct may appeal the outcome in writing. The appeal is heard and decided by the Dean of Students/Associate Vice President for Student Affairs or his/her designee. (See “Appeals Process for further information)
  3. Preponderance of Evidence - The standard of proof used in Student Conduct Conferences and Student Conduct Board Hearings. Evidence that suggests that the student charged with misconduct “more likely than not” actually engaged in the alleged misconduct.
  4. Recognized Student Organization (RSO) - Terms such as “student organization,” “recognized student organization,” or “RSO” refers to a group of students who have complied with the formal requirements for university recognition through the Office of Student Engagement.
  5. Sanction- A student who accepts responsibility or is found responsible for violating the Code of Student Conduct will have an outcome to complete. The outcomes are meant to be educational in nature and assist the student in preventing further violations.  All sanctions are listed in the Code of Student Conduct.
  6. Student- For the purposes of student conduct, the University considers an individual to be a student when an offer of admission has been extended and thereafter as long as the student has a continuing educational interest in the University.
  7. Student Conduct Board Hearing- A formal process utilized when the alleged violations of the Code of Student Conduct rise to a serious level. A panel of students is used to decide the outcome of the incident reported and suggest sanctions to the Office of Student Conduct. 
  8. Student Conduct Conference - A meeting with a student, group of students, or an RSO to discuss policy violations, review procedures, and, if possible, resolve an alleged violation.
  9. University Official - Any person employed by the University, whether paid or volunteer, performing assigned administrative, professional, or staff responsibilities.