Student Conduct System Handbook

1.1 Syracuse University is an institution of higher learning where individual growth and development are fostered, excellence is pursued, and the highest standards of integrity are expected in all areas of life. Syracuse University is committed to providing an environment where persons are safe, property is secure, individual rights of all persons are respected, and education of the highest quality is achieved.

1.2 The Trustees and Chancellor of Syracuse University have delegated authority to the University Student Conduct System to adjudicate cases alleging violations of the Student Conduct Code by Syracuse University students and student organizations. The procedures outlined in this handbook apply to the resolution of alleged misconduct in violation of the Code or other University policies, as well as any related matters. Academic integrity cases are handled through a separate process administered by the Center for Learning and Student Success (CLASS).

1.3 Oversight of the Student Conduct System is the responsibility of the Senior Vice President for the Student Experience. Implementation of these procedures is the responsibility of Community Standards. The Student Conduct Code outlines the behavior that is expected of all students at Syracuse University. Having voluntarily enrolled at Syracuse University, all students have entered into an agreement to abide by the rules and regulations set forth in the Student Conduct Code and other University policies. Each student is responsible for conforming their conduct to the requirements of this code and applicable federal, state, and local laws.

1.4 Syracuse University considers its Student Conduct Code as a statement of minimal expectations and seeks to foster a commitment to the highest standards of ethical behavior by the coherent, consistent, and fair way it enforces its rules and regulations. The University views its student conduct process as a learning experience that is intended to result in personal growth, empathy, and understanding.

1.5 Timeframes mentioned in these procedures are estimates only. Conduct cases and specific components of cases may take shorter or longer depending on various factors, including but not limited to, the nature and complexity of the case; availability of parties and witnesses; time of year; numbers of parties; etc.

2.1 University Student Conduct System has jurisdiction over all alleged violations of the Student Conduct Code by any student or student organization that may be brought to its attention. Students and student organizations may be responsible for the conduct of their guests. Jurisdiction extends to alleged misconduct that takes place: on University owned or operated property or on property that is the temporary or permanent residence of a student, including Greek Letter Organization chapter houses; at any University sponsored event; and at any location off campus and/or virtually if it has an adverse impact on the educational mission and well-being of the University Community. The Student Conduct Code applies from the time of a student's acceptance of admission until the time they graduate or otherwise permanently separate from the University including all university breaks and holidays. Admitted students who have not yet matriculated are not entitled to the procedures described in this Student Conduct System Handbook, and the University reserves the right to revoke admission for any conduct that demonstrates poor citizenship and character as determined in the University’s sole discretion.

2.2 The Student Conduct System has jurisdiction over complaints against students alleging sex discrimination including sexual and gender-based harassment, assault, and violence. The Syracuse University Sexual Harassment, Abuse, and Assault Prevention Policy applies to all University programs and activities, and the conduct procedures for cases of sexual harassment are available on the University policies website.

2.3 University student conduct proceedings are administrative in nature and independent of any criminal and/or civil legal proceedings, even when those proceedings are concurrently in process. Student conduct proceedings use the Preponderance of the Evidence, or “More Likely Than Not” standard of proof and are intended to enforce the Student Conduct Code and other University policies at Syracuse University. The University may notify local and federal authorities when a crime is alleged to have been committed. The legal rules of evidence do not apply in the University conduct process.

Certain administrators have been granted authority to take specific administrative actions to promote the safety and well-being of members of the University community and to enforce other administrative policies.

3.1 Assistant Vice President of Student Living, or designee, is authorized to respond to alleged violations of Student Living Residential Policies consistent with the policies published by Student Living. These policies and procedures are independent of the University Student Conduct System. Questions about the Student Living Residential Policies process should be directed to Student Living, 111 Waverly Avenue, Suite 200, or 315.443.3637.

The Assistant Vice President of Student Living, or designee, is also permitted to respond on an emergency basis to behavioral incidents alleged to violate the Student Conduct Code by relocating a student within or removing a student from University housing on a temporary basis pending fulfillment of specific conditions and/or review of the matter by other University officials or resolution by the University Student Conduct System.

3.2 The Barnes Center Clinical Director and Medical Director, or designee are authorized to respond to significant psychological, physical, or substance-abuse related conditions or other student behavior that poses a direct threat to members of the University community. A student who fails to attend and actively participate in an assessment, an educational program, and/or other intervention as required or who engages in behaviors that pose a direct threat to members of the University community may be referred to the interim suspension team for review.

3.3 The Director of Student Title IX Case Management and Student Title IX Coordinator, or designee, is authorized to respond to alleged incidents of sex or gender-based discrimination or harassment, and other federal or state discrimination laws involving students. This includes providing interim relief such as adjusting academic schedules, relocating students in housing, or issuing a temporary no contact order or other actions consistent with the University’s responsibilities. The Chief Equal Opportunity Officer who oversees the Equal Opportunity, Inclusion, and Resolution Services (EOIRS) manages this process for incidents involving faculty/staff. Questions about discrimination or harassment, as well as the implications of Title IX for students, should be directed to Student Title IX Case Management, 005 Steele Hall, 315.443.0211 or titleix@syr.edu.

3.4 The Director of Recreation, or designee, is authorized to respond to alleged violations of fitness center expectations and the Barnes Center Recreation published and/or posted policies. These policies and procedures are independent of the University Student Conduct System. Questions about Recreation policies should be directed to the Barnes Center, 150 Sims Drive, 315.443.8000 or syracuse.edu/bewell.

3.5 The Director of Fraternity and Sorority Affairs, or designee, is authorized to respond to alleged violations of published policies of Fraternity and Sorority Affairs alleged to have been committed by Greek Letter Organizations. These policies and procedures are independent of the University Student Conduct System. Questions about policies of Fraternity and Sorority Affairs should be directed to Fraternity and Sorority Affairs , 138 Women’s Building, 315.443.2718 or fasa.syr.edu.

The University may impose certain immediate actions while alleged policy violations are investigated and/or conduct charges are pending. These interim measures are not disciplinary outcomes but are utilized to promote safety and prevent negative incidents and interactions.

4.1 The Dean of Students, or designee, determines if an interim suspension or other measures are required to promote the safety and well-being of the University community. Interim suspension limits a student’s ability to be physically present on University property, participate in classes, and participate in all University activities. Unless there are extenuating circumstances, a student who is interim suspended will be notified of any alleged policy violations within five (5) business days of the interim suspension notice. Alleged policy violations are subject to change depending on the information gathered during an investigation. All efforts will be made to investigate the incident further and proceed with the student conduct process in a timely fashion.

4.2 A student who is placed on interim suspension will be given the opportunity to appeal their interim suspension to the University Appeals Board. Any appeal must be made by the student within fifteen (15) business days of the notice of the interim suspension. The University Appeals Board will hear the case to determine whether the interim suspension was appropriate at the time it was issued, and/or if it should be continued or modified.

The University Appeals Board will hear appeals and determine within three (3) business days of receipt of the student’s written request for a hearing. All recommendations of the University Appeals Board are reviewed by the Senior Vice President for the Student Experience, or designee, whose decision is final, and no further review of the interim suspension is available. The decision of the Senior Vice President or designee affirming or modifying the interim suspension will be communicated to the student within three (3) business days of the hearing.

If the student does not appeal the interim suspension, the interim suspension remains in effect pending the outcome of a resolution by agreement meeting or formal hearing, or until the safety or security concern is resolved.

Where an interim suspension or other measures are imposed in a case involving the arrest of the Respondent, the University may require the associated criminal matter to be resolved in full prior to the pending conduct case being heard. In cases of sexual misconduct, the University may be required to proceed with the conduct case prior to resolution of an associated criminal matter.

4.3 Investigative Status is an interim measure imposed on a student organization to protect the safety, security, or well-being of all members of the University Community. A student organization placed on Investigative Status is prohibited from engaging in any organizational activities until a full investigation and any resulting conduct complaint are concluded, or until the Investigative Status is otherwise lifted or modified at the discretion of the Director of Community Standards.

4.4 No Contact Orders (NCO) are issued to prohibit communication between designated students when there is reason to believe that continued contact is not in the best interest of the involved students. NCOs are not considered disciplinary action and are intended to promote student safety and security, and to prevent future negative interactions between the students.

No Contact Orders prohibit all forms of contact between students including, but not limited to, contact via social media, electronic communications, contact via a third party and/or in-person contact.

4.5 When a No Contact Order is issued, both parties receive a written copy of the NCO and both parties are expected to avoid contact with the other. NCOs typically impose mutual restrictions on the parties.

4.6 Temporary No Contact Orders may be issued by the Department of Public Safety, Student Living, or a Title IX Coordinator as a temporary directive to prohibit communication between designated students when there is reason to believe continued contact is not in the best interest of the involved students. Temporary NCOs will be reviewed by the Director of Community Standards, or designee, within two (2) business days of being issued to determine if there is a need to continue the temporary NCO, amend it, or remove it. Both parties will be notified in writing of the decision.

4.7 No Contact Orders issued by Community Standards remain in place unless: amended or rescinded by the Director of Community Standards, or designee; or upon appeal as outlined in Part 4.8; or by the University Conduct Board, Administrative Hearing Officer, or University Appeals Board after the resolution of a conduct case, as appropriate.

4.8 No Contact Orders may be removed or amended through an appeal to Community Standards. In the event of an appeal, either involved student may submit a written request to have the NCO removed or amended. The letter must include:

1. A description of the events that caused the NCO to be issued.
2. Names of those listed on the NCO.
3. Reasons why the NCO should be removed or amended.
4. Plans to prevent any negative incidents from occurring between parties listed if the NCO is removed or amended.

When an appeal has been filed, the other party to the NCO may be permitted to respond in writing within three (3) business days after the appeal has been provided to them. Responses must not exceed two (2) pages, double-spaced, using 12-point font and 1-inch margins (not including attachments.) Any response will be forwarded by Community Standards to the appealing party.

No Contact Orders will not be considered for removal or amendment if all elements of the written appeal are not addressed, the initial basis for the NCO stemmed from an incident involving violence or threats of violence, or if there is evidence of the likelihood of future negative incidents between listed parties.

4.9 Violations of No Contact Orders may result in a student’s interim suspension and the filing of new or additional Student Conduct Code charges.

4.10 No Contact Orders are not part of a student’s conduct record unless there is a related conduct case filed with and resolved by Community Standards.

4.11 In certain instances, to promote the safety and well-being of the University community, the University may impose an interim residential relocation on students while a conduct case is pending. Interim residential relocation is not a disciplinary action.

NOTE: FOR CASES INVOLVING SEXUAL ASSAULT, STALKING, GENDER-RELATED HARASSMENT, DATING OR DOMESTIC VIOLENCE, OR OTHER PROHIBITED CONDUCT AS DEFINED IN THE SEXUAL HARASSMENT, ABUSE, AND ASSAULT PREVENTION POLICY, SEE TITLE IX GUIDE.

5.1 Complainants and respondents may elect to be advised throughout the conduct process by a Procedural Advisor. Except in cases involving sex-based discrimination or sexual misconduct, persons who may serve as Procedural Advisors are limited to full-time students, faculty, and staff of Syracuse University. Parents/guardians, external attorneys, and fact witnesses may not serve as Procedural Advisors.

Community Standards maintains a pool of trained University community members who may be available to provide procedural advice and support to Complainants and Respondents in conduct cases. Procedural Advisor from the Community Standards pool is based on availability and is not guaranteed. Students may always elect to choose a Procedural Advisor who is a student, faculty, or staff member outside the pool. Community Standards will assign a Procedural Advisor for all Formal Hearings unless a student declines or wishes to have an alternate advisor of their choice. In such cases, it is the student's responsibility to ensure their advisor is available for their scheduled hearing.

5.2 In cases involving sex-based discrimination or sexual misconduct, Complainants and Respondents may be advised by advisors of their choice, including attorneys, throughout all phases of an investigation and conduct process. See the Sexual Harassment, Abuse, and Assault Prevention procedures for more detail.

5.3 The University Conduct Board, University Appeals Board, or an Administrative Hearing Officer may be advised throughout the process by an advisor appointed by the University. The advisor may be internal or external to the University and may include attorneys.

NOTE: FOR CASES INVOLVING SEXUAL ASSAULT, STALKING, GENDER-RELATED HARASSMENT, DATING OR DOMESTIC VIOLENCE, OR OTHER PROHIBITED CONDUCT AS DEFINED IN THE SEXUAL HARASSMENT, ABUSE, AND ASSAULT PREVENTION POLICY, SEE TITLE IX GUIDE.

6.1 Student Conduct Investigation Process - Once a report has been submitted to Community Standards, it may be referred for further investigation at the discretion of the Director of Community Standards or designee if additional information is needed.

6.2 Investigation Initiated – If an investigation is required, the Student Conduct Investigator will contact the reporting party to make them aware that an investigation is taking place. The Student Conduct Investigator will attempt to collect any essential information from the reporting party.

6.3 Notification – If it is determined that interviews are required as a part of an investigation, students will be invited to participate in an interview with an Investigator. This invitation will include the date and time of their interview through their Syracuse University email account. Students are highly encouraged to attend their investigation appointment at the specified date and time.

6.4 Interviews – When conducting interviews, an Investigator will review the student’s rights at the beginning and remind students that participation is voluntary. If the student chooses to participate in the interview, the student may answer questions asked by the Investigator. Relevant information shared with the Investigator will be part of the investigation report written by the Investigator at the conclusion of the investigation. A student will have the opportunity to review an Investigator’s notes of the student’s interviews at the conclusion of the interview.

6.5 Investigation Report - At the end of the investigation, an investigation report is written and submitted to the Director of Community Standards. The Investigator will make a recommendation to move forward with a conduct process if there is evidence of a possible violation(s) by a student Respondent or student or organization. If there is insufficient evidence to establish a Code violation, the Investigator will recommend closing the matter without further action.

6.6 Resolution Process - Alleged violations of the Student Conduct Code resulting from a Student Conduct Investigation are resolved according to Part 7 of the Student Conduct System Handbook.

6.7 Students are not permitted to use recording devices (audio and/or video) of any kind during investigation meetings/interviews. Students may, however, make written notes of the meeting.

NOTE: FOR CASES INVOLVING SEXUAL ASSAULT, STALKING, GENDER-RELATED HARASSMENT, DATING OR DOMESTIC VIOLENCE, OR OTHER PROHIBITED CONDUCT AS DEFINED IN THE SEXUAL HARASSMENT, ABUSE, AND ASSAULT PREVENTION POLICY, SEE TITLE IX GUIDE.

7.1 Reports alleging violations of the Student Conduct Code or other University policies may be submitted to Community Standards by anyone. All reports are reviewed by the Director of Community Standards or designee to determine if the alleged conduct, if proven, would violate the Code or other University policy. Reports may be dismissed outright, referred to an investigator if additional information is needed, or referred to a conduct officer for possible resolution by agreement.

7.2 When there is enough information to move forward with the conduct process, the case will proceed to resolution by agreement, and the subject(s) of the report will receive a meeting request at their Syracuse University email. The letter will include a summary of the alleged incident, the alleged violations of the Student Conduct Code, information regarding support from Procedural Advisors, the process to request disability accommodations, the process for requesting a copy of the report, and the date/time/location of the meeting.

7.3 Students may be accompanied by a Procedural Advisor during any meeting regarding resolution of their case. Procedural Advisors may be any faculty member, staff member, or student; external attorneys are not permitted to serve as Procedural Advisors as outlined in Part 5.

7.4 Resolution by Agreement meetings are not recorded, and recording devices are not permitted. However, students may take notes during the meeting. At the beginning of a resolution meeting, a student will be provided with the following information by a conduct officer:

1. Student’s rights and responsibilities.
2. Overview of the conduct process.
3. Resolution options (e.g., resolving with the conduct officer at the first meeting, requesting to schedule another meeting, or referral to a University Conduct Board hearing).
4. The student’s right to decline the resolution by agreement proposed by the conduct officer and proceed to a formal hearing.

7.5 A Resolution by Agreement meeting may result in one of the following outcomes:

1. A student(s)/organization(s) and conduct officer mutually agree on an outcome, including agreement on any policy violations and sanctions.
2. A resolution between the student and the conduct officer is not reached and the student is referred to a University Conduct Board or Administrative Hearing Officer.
3. The alleged misconduct, if true, would not constitute a violation of the Student Conduct Code.

7.6 If a student/student organization does not attend their resolution meeting without prior notice to Community Standards, or does not respond to the written resolution offer, a decision may be rendered in the student’s or organization’s absence.

7.7  A student(s)/organization(s) may request that a resolution by agreement be reconsidered within five (5) business days. If the student(s)/organization(s) and conduct officer are unable to mutually agree on the proposed new outcome, the matter will be referred to a University Conduct Board or Administrative Hearing Officer. After five (5) business days, the resolution by agreement is considered final.

NOTE: FOR CASES INVOLVING SEXUAL ASSAULT, STALKING, GENDER-RELATED HARASSMENT, DATING OR DOMESTIC VIOLENCE, OR OTHER PROHIBITED CONDUCT AS DEFINED IN THE SEXUAL HARASSMENT, ABUSE, AND ASSAULT PREVENTION POLICY, SEE TITLE IX GUIDE.

8.1 Student conduct cases that are not resolved through a resolution by agreement meeting will proceed to a formal hearing before the University Conduct Board or an Administrative Hearing Officer. The University Conduct Board or Administrative Hearing Officer is responsible for considering all relevant information, determining facts, responsibility, and sanctions, if appropriate. This process will take place in a timely manner, usually within thirty (30) business days after the complaint is received.

8.2 Each party will be given written notice of the charges stating: the incident report(s) and any associated evidence; the alleged Student Conduct Code violations; the procedures to be used in resolving the charges; and the date, time, and location of the hearing. Notice will be emailed at least five (5) business days prior to the hearing to the parties’ syr.edu email address. Parties will be granted access to the case file for review.

8.3 The order of the formal hearing is typically as follows:

1. introductions and reading of the complaint/appeal by the hearing chair,
2. reading of the alleged charges against the Respondent, and the Respondent's response to these charges;
3. opening statements;
4. presentation of information/witnesses by the Case Presenter, questioning of participating parties/witnesses through the Hearing Chair/Administrative Hearing Officer;
5. presentation of information/witnesses by the Respondent, questioning of the Respondent through the Hearing Chair/Administrative Hearing Officer.
6. closing statement by the Complainant and/or Case Presenter;
7. closing statement by the Respondent.

8.4 Each party may object to the participation of a Board member due to conflict of interest. Any objection will be decided by the Hearing Chair, or by vote of the majority of the Board if the objection is to the Hearing Chair’s participation. If there is an objection to an Administrative Hearing Officer, the objection should be communicated to the Director of Community Standards.

8.5 At the conclusion of the hearing, all parties and the Case Presenter are dismissed, and the University Conduct Board/Administrative Hearing Officer begins deliberations regarding responsibility, and if appropriate, sanction(s).

8.6 The University Conduct Board is a three (3) member panel comprised of students, faculty, staff members, or external professionals as determined by Community Standards. The University Conduct Board members receive training each year and are advised by a trained designee of the Director of Community Standards, who may be internal or external to the University.

Administrative Hearing Officers, who may be faculty or staff members or external professionals, are appointed by the Director of Community Standards and receive training on the University Conduct System.

8.7 An audio recording will be made for all formal resolution hearings. Recordings will not include deliberations. Either party may request that a written transcript of these recordings be made at the expense of the requesting party (except in cases of disability accommodation) or have access to the recordings by arrangement with the Director of Community Standards. Printed transcripts will be redacted as required by Federal and Student privacy laws prior to being released. Additional recording devices (audio and/or video) of any kind are not permitted for use during formal resolution hearings. Students may take notes during the proceedings.

8.8 If a party would like to call witnesses regarding the facts of the case, names of potential witnesses and a summary of the facts to which they will testify, must be submitted to Community Standards by the date outlined in the formal hearing notice. Parties and Case Presenters are limited to five (5) witnesses each for a hearing. If a party or Case Presenter believes they need the testimony of more than five (5) witnesses, these additional witnesses may submit a written statement. Witness lists will be made available to the other party. Character witnesses are not permitted.

The chairperson/Administrative Hearing Officer will have the discretion to allow or exclude witnesses proposed by either party when the information offered by a witness would be duplicative or irrelevant, or the witness would unnecessarily compromise the confidentiality of the hearing. No witness may be compelled to attend any formal resolution hearing.

8.9 All parties are encouraged to appear at a formal hearing. If a party fails to appear, the hearing may proceed or be rescheduled at the discretion of the University Conduct Board/Hearing Chair/Administrative Hearing Officer. In cases where either party is unable to appear, alternative means for participation may be made available at the discretion of the Director of Community Standards or designee.

8.10 All parties are expected to be respectful of the proceedings and the rights of all individuals involved. It is the responsibility of each party to ensure advisors, witnesses, and other affiliates act in a respectful manner. The Hearing Chair/Administrative Hearing Officer may discontinue the hearing and forward the case for administrative resolution by the Director of Community Standards, or designee, when the behavior of any participant might be detrimental to the outcome of the hearing.

Attendance at hearings is limited to the University Conduct Board/Administrative Hearing Officer and their advisor, the Case Presenter, and the parties immediately involved and their Procedural Advisors. Witnesses are permitted in the hearing solely for their own testimony. Witnesses should not discuss their testimony with any other witnesses who have not yet testified.

Only the University Conduct Board /Administrative Hearing Officer and their advisors are permitted in deliberations.

8.11 At the hearing, parties are expected to provide all relevant information including statements, witnesses, and tangible/physical evidence. Failure to provide relevant information available at the time of the hearing may not later be used as a ground for appeal as outlined in Part 10.

8.12 Relevance of information will be determined at the Hearing. The University Conduct Board/Administrative Hearing Officer may ask relevant questions at any time.

8.13 All participating parties and the Case Presenter will have the opportunity to ask relevant questions indirectly of the other participating parties and witness(s) through the Hearing Chair/Administrative Hearing Officer if it is deemed relevant to the matters at issue.

8.14 As this is an administrative University process, formal rules of evidence found in legal proceedings do not apply. Any information or statement maybe admitted (including hearsay) at the discretion of the Hearing Chair/Administrative Hearing Officer.

8.15 After the closing statements, the University Conduct Board/ Administrative Hearing Officer will deliberate on and determine the finding of responsibility for each alleged violation. University Conduct Board decisions on responsibility are made by a majority vote of the Board members using a Preponderance of the Evidence, or “more likely than not” standard.

8.16 If a student or organization is found responsible for any violations, the University Conduct Board/Administrative Hearing Officer will consider appropriate sanctions (see Part 9).

8.17 Decisions of the University Conduct Board/Administrative Hearing Officer are reviewed and confirmed by the Director of Community Standards, or designee. The Director can, as appropriate, interview any participant in an earlier proceeding, modify the decision, alter the sanction, or return the case to the Board for further process. Following the review and confirmation of the decision, each party will receive written notice of the confirmed decision no later than eight (8) business days after the hearing has concluded. Decisions and sanctions may become effective immediately, except while an appeal is pending, unless otherwise stated by the Director of Community Standards or designee. The timing of any sanctions will be specified in the written notice of the decision.

8.18 Complainants and Respondents may appeal formal resolution hearing decisions using the procedures outlined in Part 10.

The primary goal of the University Student Conduct System is education. In addition to educational sanctions, the University may issue sanctions that affect a student or student organization’s status at the University. All sanctions are official actions of the University. Failure to comply with sanctions or with specific conditions related to the safety and security of any persons or property while a case is pending may result in further conduct charges.

9.1 Sanctions are assigned based on the context and nature of the violations and the status of the Respondent. Specifically, Conduct Officers (Resolution by Agreement) and University Conduct Boards Administrative Hearing Officers (formal hearings) will consider the following:

1. the extent of harm caused or impact on individuals and the community (living environment, University community, and the surrounding community) including the level of intervention necessary;
2. the potential for ongoing risk to the student, other individuals, the community, or property;
3. a student’s disciplinary record and history of past conduct sanctions;
4. student’s intent, remorse, cooperation, and willingness to take responsibility for their actions;
5. evidence that the student’s conduct was motivated by bias regarding an individual or group’s real or perceived race, color, creed, religion, political or social affiliation, sex, gender, reproductive health decisions, national origin, citizenship, ethnicity, marital status, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression, and/or veteran status;
6. whether the student or student organization engaged in help-seeking behavior; and,
7. sanctions issued in prior similar University conduct cases involving similar or analogous misconduct.

9.2 The following sanctions, or any combination thereof, may be applied to any individual student or student organization, for violations of the Student Conduct Code and related University policies:

1. Educational: The primary goal of the University Student Conduct System is education. Respective Boards, Administrative Hearing Officers, and Conduct Officers may design sanctions that are specific to an individual case when it is determined that educational value may result, and the interests of the University community are maintained. Examples of educational sanctions include, but are not limited to, community service, community involvement assignments, decision-making assignments, civility workshops, monetary restitution, and research and writing assignments.
2. Access Restriction: Restriction to certain areas/campus facilities and/or events as appropriate, which may include, but not limited to: residential areas, recreational spaces, dining facilities, athletics spaces, or others as deemed necessary based on the Respondent’s conduct.
3. Residential Warning: This status is a formal warning on behalf of the residential living program and is intended to clearly document in a student’s disciplinary file that the student’s behavior is unacceptable. The length of this status will be determined by the Conduct Officer or hearing body/official.
4. Residential Probation: This status indicates a student is no longer in good standing within the University’s residential living program. Further violations may result in the immediate loss of eligibility to live in or visit the University’s residence and/or dining facilities
5. Residential Relocation/Suspension/Expulsion: These statuses indicate a student is not eligible to live in or visit some or all the University’s residential and/or dining facilities. A residential relocation involves the reassignment of a student’s living unit within University housing and usually prohibits the student from returning to the residential area associated with the former living assignment. A residential suspension or expulsion involves the student’s removal from University housing altogether. These statuses may extend for a specific period, until the completion of specific conditions, or permanently. These statuses may be limited to a specific facility or applied to all facilities.
6. Social Probation: This status is applied for a breach of specific expectations by a student organization. Its primary effect is to suspend a privilege related to the nature of the offense and/or restrict access to specific campus facilities or programs.
7. Conduct Warning: This status is a formal warning on behalf of the University and is intended to clearly document in a student’s or student organization’s disciplinary file that their behavior is unacceptable. The length of this status will be determined by the Conduct Officer, or University Conduct Board/Administrative Hearing Officer.
8. Conduct Probation: This action indicates that a student or student organization is at risk of losing matriculation or affiliation with the University unless certain standards are adhered to. The student or student organization is permitted to remain enrolled or retain recognition by the University under stated conditions based on the nature of the violation and the potential learning that may derive from specific restrictive measures. Students on conduct probation may not hold or run for elected or appointed leadership positions including, but not limited to, resident assistants, peer leaders or mentors, orientation leaders, teaching assistants, Student Association leaders and leadership positions in recognized clubs and organizations, including professional and social fraternities and sororities. Student organizations, recognized clubs, and fraternities and sororities on conduct probation and found responsible for subsequent violations of the Code may be suspended or lose their recognition. Further violations may result in immediate suspension or expulsion from the University. The length of this status will be determined by the Conduct Officer or hearing body/official.
9. Suspension: This action results in a student’s immediate involuntary withdrawal from the University, or for a student organization, the loss of University recognition and related privileges, for a stated period of time as determined by the University Conduct Board/Administrative Hearing Officer. A suspended student or student organization is prohibited from any presence or activity on University-owned, operated, or controlled property, including but not limited, to University-owned property leased to a non-University affiliated party, and from participation in any class or program offered by Syracuse University.
10. Expulsion: This action results in the permanent separation of the student or student organization from the University, its programs and facilities. It is the most severe disciplinary action the University Student Conduct System can impose. Students expelled prior to degree conferral will not receive a Syracuse University diploma.

9.3 Sanctioning Guidelines

Sanctioning guidelines have been adopted to respond to violations of the Student Conduct Code. Syracuse University is deeply concerned about the extent to which some students engage in underage consumption of alcohol, unlawful use of drugs, and/or consumption of alcohol or other drugs to a degree that renders them in need of emergency medical intervention or other extraordinary assistance. In addition, Syracuse University seeks to deter students from engaging in conduct that poses a risk to the safety and well-being of the individual student and/or the University community. Sanctioning guidelines are intended to alert students and other members of the University community to the seriousness of alcohol- and drug-related behaviors, violence, and safety violations; provide meaningful consequences for violations of University expectations and community standards; and ensure that students are provided opportunities to access education, counseling, and support.

In all cases the appropriate sanction(s) will be determined on a case-by-case basis considering all the relevant circumstances. The presence of substantial mitigating or other appropriate circumstances may result in the reduction or augmentation of sanctioning guidelines.

9.4 Sanctioning Guidelines for Substance-Related Violations

CATEGORY	FIRST VIOLATION	SECOND VIOLATION	THIRD VIOLATION
Use, possession, or purchase of alcohol under Prohibited circumstances	Amnesty Conduct Warning and educational activities including community involvement referral and/or educational project(s)	Conduct Probation and educational activities including: Options Program referral and Community Involvement referral and/or other educational project(s)	Suspension
Supplying alcohol to underage person(s)	Conduct Probation and educational activities including community involvement referral, community service, and/or educational project(s)	Suspension	Suspension or Expulsion
Extreme alcohol intoxication posing a substantial risk to the health and well-being of self and/or others	Amnesty Conduct Warning and educational activities including Options Program referral and educational assignments	Conduct Probation and educational activities including Options Program referral, community involvement referral, and/or other educational project(s) Residential Relocation	Suspension
Manufacture or sale of alcohol under prohibited circumstances	Conduct Probation and educational activities including community involvement referral, community service, and/or educational project(s)	Suspension	Suspension or Expulsion
Driving any motor vehicle while intoxicated or while under the influence of drugs	Conduct Probation and referral to Substance Abuse Counselors Program	Suspension or Expulsion	Expulsion
Use or possession of marijuana or marijuana paraphernalia	Amnesty Conduct Warning and educational activities including Options Program referral, community involvement referral, community service, and/or other educational project(s)	Conduct Probation and educational activities including Options Program referral, community involvement referral, community service, and/or other educational project(s)	Suspension
Manufacture, sale, purchase, or distribution of marijuana or marijuana paraphernalia	Conduct Probation with educational activities or suspension	Suspension	Expulsion
Use or possession of illegal drugs (other than marijuana) or controlled substances without an appropriate prescription	Conduct Probation and educational activities including Options Program referral, community involvement referral, community service, and/or other educational project(s) Suspension	Suspension	Suspension or Expulsion
Manufacture or sale of alcohol under prohibited circumstances	Conduct Probation and educational activities including community involvement referral, community service, and/or educational project(s)	Suspension	Suspension or Expulsion
Extreme drug intoxication or abuse-related behavior posing a substantial risk to the health and well-being of self and/or others	Conduct Probation and educational activities including Options Program referral, community involvement referral, and/or other educational project(s) Residential relocation	Suspension	Suspension of two (2) semesters or greater
Manufacture, sale, purchase with intent to distribute, or distribution of illegal drugs or controlled substances other than marijuana	Suspension or Expulsion	Expulsion

9.5  Sanctioning Guidelines for Weapons-Related Violations

CATEGORY	SANCTION
Possession of a prohibited weapon or other dangerous object, including but not limited to, firearms, BB-guns, sling shots, airsoft guns, air rifles, explosive devices, fireworks, or any other dangerous, unlawful, or hazardous object or material	Conduct Probation, Suspension, or Expulsion Expulsion from student housing Community service and/or other educational sanctions
Any improper use, attempted use, brandishing, or threat of use of a weapon or other dangerous, illegal, or hazardous object; any improper use as a weapon of any otherwise permitted object or material	Suspension or Expulsion

9.6 Sanctioning Guidelines for Violence-Related Violations

CATEGORY	SANCTION
Physical harm or threat of physical harm without a weapon resulting in little or no physical injury to involved persons	Conduct Probation or Suspension Participation in the Conflict Resolution Program and the Options Program if alcohol or other drugs were a factor in the incident Community service and/or other educational sanctions
Physical harm without a weapon resulting in significant physical injury to another person	Suspension or Expulsion
Targeted bullying without physical violence	Conduct Probation or Suspension

9.7 Sanctioning Guidelines for Safety and Fire-Related Violations

CATEGORY	SANCTION
Tampering with smoke detectors in on-campus residential facilities	Conduct Warning, educational projects, and residential probation
Interference with, improper activation of, or damage to any elevator, or safety or emergency equipment, including, but not limited to: fire alarms, fire extinguishers, sprinkler systems, and blue lights; lighting any unauthorized fire on University property	Conduct Probation with appropriate educational sanctions or Suspension

9.8 Sanctioning Guidelines for Gender-Related Violence/Harassment

CATEGORY	SANCTION
Sexual harassment including unwanted sexual advances, requests for sexual favors and some visual and physical conduct of a sexual nature; stalking without threats of violence	Conduct Probation with appropriate educational projects Suspension
Sexual assault, including, but not limited to sexual touching without consent, forcible touching; stalking with threats of harm; use of physical violence in a dating or sexual relationship	Suspension Expulsion
Sexual intercourse without affirmative consent	Suspension of two (2) semesters or greater Expulsion
Retaliation against an individual who has filed a report of gender-related violence/ harassment	Conduct Probation with appropriate educational projects Suspension Expulsion

9.9 Sanctioning Guidelines for Bias-Related Violations

CATEGORY	SANCTION
Evidence that the student’s conduct violation was motivated by bias regarding a targeted individual or group’s real or perceived race, color, creed, religion, sex, gender, reproductive health decisions, national origin, citizenship, ethnicity, marital status, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression, and/or veteran status.	Enhanced sanction may include: Conduct Probation Suspension
Evidence that a student’s conduct was motivated by bias and forcibly threatened the physical health, mental health, or safety of a targeted individual or group.	Enhanced sanction may include: Suspension Expulsion

9.10 Sanctioning Guidelines for Hazing-Related Violations

CATEGORY	SANCTION
Participation in, promotion of, or perpetuation of hazing.	Suspension Expulsion
Knowledge of hazing and failing to report or intervene in a situation that threatens the health and safety of another individual.	Suspension Expulsion

9.11 Sanctioning Guidelines for Student Leaders

CATEGORY	SANCTION
For student leaders, failure to intervene or notify the University when the student leader knows of a situation that threatens the health and safety of another individual or the campus community.	Conduct Probation and educational sanctions
For student leaders, participating and/or assisting in a situation that threatens the health and safety of another individual or the campus community.	Conduct Probation and educational sanctions Suspension

9.12 Sanctioning Guidelines for perpetuating an unrecognized organization

CATEGORY	SANCTION
Assistance, participation in, or promotion of a student organization that has lost University recognition on a temporary or permanent basis.	Suspension

NOTE: FOR CASES INVOLVING SEXUAL ASSAULT, STALKING, GENDER-RELATED HARASSMENT, DATING OR DOMESTIC VIOLENCE, OR OTHER PROHIBITED CONDUCT AS DEFINED IN THE SEXUAL HARASSMENT, ABUSE, AND ASSAULT PREVENTION POLICY, SEE TITLE IX GUIDE.

10.1 Decisions of the University Conduct Board or Administrative Hearing Officer are effective immediately, unless a written notice of intention to appeal has been received by Community Standards within two (2) business days after the decision is made available.

10.2 Appeals must be based on one or more of the following:

1. New information is provided that was not reasonably available at the time of the original hearing.
2. Procedural error that can be shown to have had a detrimental impact on the outcome of the hearing.
3. Errors in the interpretation of University policy so substantial as to deny either party a fair hearing.
4. Grossly inappropriate sanction having no reasonable relationship to the charges.

10.3 Either party may appeal the decision of the University Conduct Board or Administrative Hearing Officer in writing within five (5) business days after the written decision is made available, or new information is discovered that was not reasonably available at the time of the conduct hearing. All appeals must be authored and signed by the submitting party. Appeal submissions must not be more than two (2) pages per ground for appeal.

Appeals submitted to Community Standards will be reviewed by the Dean of Students, or designee, to determine if the party’s narrative supports the selected ground(s) for appeal listed in Part 10.2. If the appeal is timely and contains sufficient information, it will be forwarded to the University Appeals Board within three (3) business days. If the appeal is late or does not contain sufficient information, it will be dismissed and will not be reviewed by the University Appeals Board.

10.4 An appeal forwarded by the Dean of Students to the Appeals Board will be forwarded by Community Standards to the other party for response in writing. The responding party shall have five (5) business days to submit their response to Community Standards. Extensions for appeals may be requested of the Director of Community Standards in the event there are extenuating circumstances. If the request for an extension is granted, both parties will be notified and have the same extension.

10.5 The University Appeals Board is comprised of three (3) members who may be students, faculty, staff, or external professionals, as determined by Community Standards. The University Appeals Board has authority to hear appeals of decisions from any non-academic Conduct Board, as well as any Administrative Hearing Officer described in these procedures. The University Appeals Board is advised by the Director of Community Standards if the director has not been involved in the original hearing, or by a designee.

10.6 The University Appeals Board may affirm the decision, modify the decision, reduce the sanction, or return the case to a University Conduct Board/Administrative Hearing Officer for further process. If the University Appeals Board believes the sanction imposed is insufficient in light of the misconduct at issue in the case, it shall return the case to the University Conduct Board/Administrative Hearing Officer for reconsideration of sanction(s).

10.7 The University Appeals Board will make a decision based on the written submissions within five (5) business days after all written submissions are received.

10.8 Decisions of the University Appeals Board will be final when reviewed and confirmed by the Senior Vice President for the Student Experience (SVP), or designee. The SVP, or designee, may interview any participant in an earlier proceeding, modify the decision, alter the sanctions imposed, or return the case to the University Appeals Board or another hearing Board for further process. Decisions of the SVP, or designee, are final. Review and confirmation by the SVP, or designee, will be made within five (5) business days after the decision of the University Appeals Board is communicated.

11.1 Syracuse University reserves the right to modify its conduct procedures and appeals processes with written notice to the Complainant and the Respondent in circumstances where, in the University’s sole discretion, the procedures described herein are insufficient to meet the objectives of educating and protecting members of the University. This includes, without limitation, when classes are not in session, while any involved individual is studying abroad, during winter or summer breaks, when safety and security so demand, or when special expertise is needed to ensure a well-reasoned decision. Modified procedures, will provide students with required elements of fundamental fairness.

12.1 Syracuse University encourages all community members to care for themselves and others. Therefore, when a student(s) or student organization initiates help from a campus or community resource for medical assistance related to alcohol and other drugs, the health and safety of the student at risk will be the University’s priority. 

12.2 The student receiving medical assistance, and the student(s) or student organization who called for help, will not be referred to Community Standards for alleged violations of alcohol and other drug policies if the following apply:

1. The students involved cooperate with staff and first responders by providing honest and complete answers to their questions; and
2. The students involved meet with a member of Student Outreach and Support for a follow-up non-disciplinary (educational) meeting. Student Outreach and Support will reach out to students involved to set up a time to meet. 

12.3 Failure to meet the two (2) requirements above may result in a referral to Community Standards.

12.4 A student receiving medical assistance, and the student(s) or student organization who initiates help, are eligible to use the Medical Amnesty Policy – Alcohol and Other Drugs on more than one occasion. However, repeated use of the policy may be a cause of higher concern for an individual’s well-being. Students involved in repeated use of this policy may be referred to the Barnes Center at the Arch for evaluation or Community Standards for possible conduct violations depending upon the relevant circumstances, after evaluation and assessment by the Dean of Students. 

12.5 The Medical Amnesty Policy – Alcohol and Other Drugs only extends to situations in which medical assistance is sought and does not provide relief from referral to Community Standards for other possible violations of the Student Conduct Code. 

12.6 For information on amnesty related to reports of sexual assault, sexual harassment, stalking or dating/domestic violence see Amnesty for Reporting Students in the Sexual Harassment, Abuse, and Prevention Policy.

13.1 A student’s request to access and inspect their disciplinary records maintained by Syracuse University is handled in accordance with the Federal Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act.

Syracuse University will notify parents or guardians of conduct issues involving minor (non-adult) students.

Except in unusual circumstances, Syracuse University will notify parents or guardians of conduct issues involving tax dependent students as follows:

1. In an emergency;
2. After assignment of educational interventions, for a case involving amnesty for help-seeking behavior;
3. After final outcome and finding of responsibility in all alcohol and drug-related violations; and
4. After final outcome and finding of responsibility in all violations resulting in disciplinary probation, suspension or expulsion.

13.2 Disciplinary records are retained for seven (7) years from the date of the student’s most recent violation or until one (1) year after the student has graduated from the University, whichever is longer. Records of students suspended, expelled, prohibited from future enrollment, or otherwise withdrawn for disciplinary reasons are retained indefinitely. Records retention policies for academic dishonesty cases may vary and are maintained by the Center for Learning and Academic Student Success.

13.3 Students found to be responsible for non-violent conduct violations who are suspended or expelled will have the following notation listed on their transcript: “Administrative Withdrawal – University Initiated.” Students found responsible for violence-related conduct (as defined by the Clery Act) who are suspended or expelled will have their University transcripts issued with the following notations:

1. In cases of suspension – “Suspended after a finding of responsibility for a Student Conduct Code violation.”
2. In cases of expulsion – “Expelled after a finding of responsibility for Student Conduct Code violation.”
3. If a student alleged to have been involved in an incident that could carry a sanction or suspension or expulsion, withdraws from the University with an investigation or conduct case pending, the following notation will be listed on their University transcript: “Withdrew with Conduct Charges Pending.”

Suspended students may appeal the notation on their transcript after one (1) year. Notations for expulsion will not be removed.

13.4 Students may appeal a suspension notation on their transcript under the following conditions:

1. Appeals submitted prior to one (1) year after the completion of the suspension will not be considered.
2. If a student is responsible for any additional conduct related incidents which took place after the start of the suspension, appeals will not be considered.
3. In order to appeal a suspension notation on a University transcript, all readmission or other sanction requirements must be completed at the time of the request.
4. Requests for removal of a suspension notation should be submitted in writing to Community Standards, 804 University Ave., Suite 106, Syracuse, NY 13244 or via email at studentconduct@syr.edu. Submissions should contain the following:
   • A brief description of the incident and the sanction imposed.
   • Reflections on the student’s actions, how they have impacted the student as well as others.
   • An account of the student’s decision-making and behavior since the incident.
   • An explanation as to why the student believes the transcript notation indicating suspension should be removed from their transcript.
   • Any optional supporting material (letters of recommendation, verification of community service and/or employment).
5. All requests will be responded to in writing. If the request is granted, the suspension notation will be removed. A “withdrawal date” will remain on a transcript to reflect a student's time away from the University.

13.5 Expungement Policy:

A student found responsible for violating University policy may request expungement from the Director of Community Standards, or designee.

A student may initiate the request by completing the Request for Expungement Form with Community Standards.

A student is eligible to request expungement if:

1. The student has completed all assigned sanctions by the assigned deadlines;
2. The student is in good standing with the University; and
3. The student remained free of any Conduct Code violations for two (2) consecutive academic semesters since the violation at issue.

A student whose violation occurs the semester in which they graduate may apply for expungement if they have met all other requirements and can demonstrate they are applying to professional or graduate school.

Expungement will not be granted for:

• Records of expulsion
• Incidents involving violations determined to be motivated by bias
• Academic Integrity violations
• Incidents involving hazing
• Incidents involving sale or distribution of drugs/controlled substances
• Incidents causing significant damage to property
• Incidents causing significant injury
• Incidents involving violations of the University’s Sexual Assault, Stalking, Gender-Related Harassment, Dating or Domestic Violence, and/or Sexual Harassment, Abuse, and Assault Prevention policies.

All requests are subject to approval by the Director of Community Standards or designee. Expungement requests that are denied may be appealed to the Dean of Students or designee, whose decision shall be final.

14.1 The University reserves the right to place a hold on a Respondent student’s academic records until an investigation and subsequent conduct case (if any) is resolved. The hold may prevent the student from registering for classes or obtaining a copy of their academic transcript.

A student who attempts to withdraw from the University rather than participate in the conduct process may be classified as having been withdrawn for disciplinary reasons. This status will be noted on the student’s transcript as “Withdrew with Conduct Charges Pending.” A student who withdraws under these circumstances is not permitted to enter onto Syracuse University owned, operated, or controlled property, including but not limited to, University-owned land leased to a non-University affiliated party, and may not participate in any course or program offered by Syracuse University until the pending matter is resolved.

15.1 In order to obtain a Syracuse University degree (undergraduate or graduate), students must be in good standing with the University. That includes a requirement that all matters pending before the University Student Conduct System have been fully and finally resolved including full satisfaction of any sanctions imposed. Students who are not in good standing will not be granted a degree, will not have access to transcripts, and are not eligible to participate in graduation ceremonies.

16.1 Syracuse University reserves the right to involuntarily withdraw a student from the institution to protect the safety, security, and well-being of the student and all members of the University community. Such action of the Dean of Students, or designee, will be done with appropriate professional consultation. The student will be provided written notice of the reason(s) for the withdrawal and an opportunity to be heard by the Senior Vice President for the Student Experience, or designee, as deemed appropriate under the circumstances.