In most instances, cases are referred to the Board, although cases of high sensitivity and complexity will continue to be decided by the Dean of Students. The Conduct Officer or the Director conducts a preliminary investigation. The Conduct Officer then assembles a hearing panel, sets a hearing date, notifies the complainant and the accused, and instructs them to assemble their witnesses and evidence. All information assembled in the initial investigation along with a statement of charges is given to the hearing panel. When necessary, the hearing panel is given time to meet prior to the hearing to review the charges and preliminary evidence, and to prepare for the hearing.
Hearings are closed and appropriate confidentiality is upheld.
In a private session, the hearing panel then makes a determination of the responsibility or non- responsibility of the accused student and, when warranted, imposes a sanction. There are procedures for appeal to administrative officers of the findings and sanctions of the Board. The Board may impose the full range of disciplinary sanctions, from a formal warning to expulsion from the university. Actions of the Board may include conciliatory and educational sanctions. Students may be referred to counseling services or may be required to participate in a community service project.