Disciplinary Officer Cases: Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Disciplinary Officer?
A Disciplinary Officer (DO) is a staff member who has been appointed and trained by the Senate Committee on Student Discipline to adjudicate alleged violations of the Student Code. If the allegations do not rise to the level of suspension or dismissal, the Disciplinary Officer may adjudicate the case based upon the direction from the Senate Committee.
Do I have to meet with the DO when I receive a letter/email from them?
Yes. At the meeting, you will have the opportunity to learn about the allegations, provide input or correction from your point of view, and participate in an educational dialogue about the incident. Without attending the meeting, the DO may make a decision in your absence based upon the preponderance of the available information, or a "more likely than not" standard.
How long will the meeting take?
Typically, most meetings with a DO will last anywhere from 15 to 30 minutes.
What is the purpose of this meeting?
The purpose of this meeting is to get clarification about the allegations, discuss the University's standards for behavior, and to determine the most appropriate response to any violation of those standards. We need all sides of the story in order to make the most educated decisions.
Can I bring an advisor/legal counsel/parent to this meeting?
Yes. The main purpose is the discussion between the student and the DO. It is an informal discussion, and the role of the advisor, legal counsel, or parent will be very limited.
Where are the meetings located?
There are a variety of DO's on our campus. The Associate Dean and Assistant Dean of the Office of Student Conflict Resolution are located on the third floor of the Turner Student Services Building. The Assistant Dean/Assistant Director of Housing is located in room 300 Clark Hall. There are four Area Coordinators within University Housing that hear cases involving University Residence Hall Students. Their offices are located in different residence halls throughout campus. Pay close attention to the location listed in your letter and be sure to confirm this location when you call to schedule the meeting.
Why is the hearing officer I am meeting with not located within the Office of Student Conflict Resolution?
There are seven primary hearing officers across campus. For those respondents who reside in University Housing or Private Certified Housing Units, typically we will assign you to a DO closer to your living environment.
Can I appeal a decision of a DO?
Yes. Please refer to the frequently asked questions regarding appeals.
What happens if I do not complete my disciplinary sanction?
A disciplinary hold will be placed on your student account. This hold will not allow you to register for or drop any classes. You also will not be able to view grades with this hold in place. If you do not complete your disciplinary sanction, you could also be assigned additional sanctions. Additional disciplinary charges could also be filed against you that might result in a disciplinary hearing before the appropriate disciplinary subcommittee.
Why is the University calling me in about something that didn't even happen on campus?
The jurisdiction of the Student Code is applied based on an individual's relationship with the university rather than the geographic location of the offense. The University has high expectations of students when they are on and off campus to be productive members of the community.
Can I have a formal hearing with witnesses if I request one?
You can suggest witnesses to be interviewed by the DO and a decision could be delayed while the DO continues the investigation. However, if the alleged violation does not rise to the level of suspension or dismissal from the University, a formal hearing will not take place.
