Community Standards and Student Conduct Process

I. INTRODUCTION

Wheaton College is dedicated to fostering a living and learning environment that promotes discussion and collaboration between and among its community members – an environment that empowers and enriches every student. The students of Wheaton College developed an Honor Code which has created an ethos of mutually shared respect and offers individual freedom to explore interests and learn in an open and collaborative environment. The Community Standards have been formulated to reaffirm those ideals and principles encompassed in the Wheaton College Honor Code.

Specifically:

As members of the Wheaton community, we commit ourselves to act honestly, responsibly, and above all, with honor and integrity in all areas of campus life. We are accountable for all that we say and write. We are responsible for the academic integrity of our work. We pledge that we will not misrepresent our work nor give or receive unauthorized aid. We commit ourselves to behave in a manner which demonstrates concern for the personal dignity, rights and freedoms of all members of the community. We are respectful of college property and the property of others. We will not tolerate a lack of respect for these values.

II. EXPECTATIONS

As Wheaton’s Honor Code mandates, all members of the Wheaton community are expected to behave in ways which demonstrate care and respect for the personal dignity, rights, and freedoms of all members of the community, and to demonstrate care and respect for College property and the property of others. As members of the Wheaton community, we all share responsibility for safeguarding the rights and freedoms of other members and for maintaining community standards. Specifically, these shared expectations and responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:

To observe the Honor Code and Community Standards and to comply with appropriate requests and to adhere to them;
To accept responsibility for and monitor the behavior of guests and visitors; and
To address violations of the Honor Code and Community Standards.

Wheaton College assumes that students are adults and responsible for their own conduct. The fact that the College takes proactive steps to address violations, actions, or activities that may pose a risk to the well-being of the community does not absolve students from taking responsibility for their own behavior. As such, students and student organizations, teams, and groups who breach the trust and values of the Honor Code shall be held accountable for their actions. This document, known as the Community Standards, defines the rights and responsibilities of students and provides a process for responding to allegations of student misconduct in a way that accords with the values of the College.

III. JURISDICTION

Any behavior that adversely affects the College community or the pursuit of its objectives or calls into question the suitability of a student as a member of the Wheaton College community is subject to the College’s Student Conduct Process. All matriculated students at Wheaton College are considered members of the Wheaton community and therefore must adhere to the Honor Code and Community Standards.

1. Each student shall be responsible for their conduct from the time of admission through the actual awarding of a degree, even though conduct may occur before classes begin or after classes end, as well as during the academic year and during periods between terms of actual enrollment (and even if their conduct is not discovered until after a degree is awarded).
2. The Community Standards shall apply to a student’s conduct even if the student withdraws from the College while a Community Standards matter is pending. The College may, at its discretion, continue with the student conduct process even after a respondent has withdrawn, graduated, or taken a leave of absence if the alleged violation occurred while the respondent was an active student.
3. Each Student Organization may be held responsible for the conduct of any of its members or guests in addition to any sanctions received by any student members in their individual capacity.
4. Generally, College jurisdiction shall be limited to conduct that occurs on or about College premises or in connection with College-sponsored, College-supervised or College-affiliated events, programs, and activities (including students involved with off-campus internships, study abroad programs, and recognized or unrecognized Student Organizations). However, the College may apply the Community Standards to students, Student Organizations, and unrecognized Student Organizations whose misconduct may have an adverse impact on the College, members of the College community, and/or the pursuit of College objectives regardless of where such conduct may occur.
5. While the College does not regularly monitor the language and/or actions of students on public social media platforms, the College may hold students accountable for use of social media that violates the Community Standards, law or College Policy. Examples of such conduct include but is not limited to harassing and threatening behavior.

Student Conduct proceedings may be initiated against a student or student organization charged with conduct that potentially violates both the criminal law and community standards (that is, if both possible violations result from the same factual situation) without regard to the pendency of civil or criminal litigation in court or criminal arrest and prosecution. Proceedings under the Community Standards may be carried out prior to or simultaneously with civil or criminal proceedings at the discretion of the Procedural Coordinator, or designee. The College cooperates with law enforcement, or other agencies, in the enforcement of laws on campus and in regards to its students. This includes providing information requested by subpoena or as otherwise permitted by law. Determinations made or sanctions imposed under the Community Standards shall not be subject to change because criminal charges arising out of the same facts giving rise to violation of college rules were dismissed, reduced, or resolved in favor of or against the criminal law defendant.
Sexual and Gender-based Misconduct, including but not limited to, sexual assault, dating violence, domestic violence, stalking, and sexual harassment are prohibited under the College’s Sexual and Gender-Based Misconduct Policies and will be responded to via the policies found here
Violations involving Academic Integrity violations of the Honor Code will be adjudicated under the procedures set out in the Faculty Handbook.
Generally, the influence of drugs and/or alcohol on a student’s judgment or behavior will not be accepted as a mitigating factor with respect to the resolution of an act of misconduct.
Students are responsible for the consequences of their actions even when the conduct may have been influenced by their physical or emotional state (irrespective of any medical or clinical diagnoses). Students seeking an accommodation are encouraged to review Section VI.3.I: Accommodations for Students with Disabilities of this document for additional information.
Students are responsible for the contents of their rooms, cars, lockers, or person regardless of claims of personal ownership. Students may also be held responsible for shared common areas.
Students and Student Organizations are responsible for the conduct of their guests and should be with guests at all times. Guests may be removed from the College at the discretion of Campus Safety and the Dean of Students..
If an incident report involves more than one charged student, or if there is more than one incident involving the same student, the Procedural Coordinator, or designee, in their discretion, may determine whether a Conduct Review Meeting concerning each incident will be conducted either separately or jointly.
Student Groups and Organizationsmay be held accountable under the Community Standards for the Student Organization’s misconduct and/or for the misconduct of any one or more of its leaders, members, guests, or other representatives.
Student Groups and Organizations are prohibited from conducting their own disciplinary proceedings prior to resolution of alleged violations of the Community Standards.
Nothing in the Community Standards shall preclude holding students who are members of a Student Organization responsible for their individual violations of the Community Standards committed in the context of or in association with the Student Organization’s alleged violation of the Community Standards. Both the Student Organization and individual students may be found responsible for violations of the Community Standards in connection with the same behavior.
Parental Notification: As permitted by the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), the College may notify parents/guardians when students under the age of 21 have been found responsible for violating the College’s alcohol or drug policies.
Inter-departmental Notification: As permitted by the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), the Procedural Coordinator, or designee may notify other College officials with a legitimate educational interest. Therefore, the Procedural Coordinator, or designee may notify other offices and departments, including but not limited to, Athletics, SAIL, Academic Advising, and Global Education in situations with potential impact on a student’s ability to participate in activities sponsored by these offices and/or continue their education at Wheaton College.

IV. DEFINITIONS

Advisor. Any person who accompanies a respondent or complainant, for the limited purpose of providing support and guidance. An advisor of your choice may not directly address the Conduct Officer or Appellate Officer, question witnesses, or otherwise actively participate in the Community Standards process. An advisor cannot be a complainant, respondent, witness, or other party involved in the case being discussed. Typically, requests to change proposed meetings to accommodate an Advisor’s schedule will not be considered.

Appellate Officer. The Vice President of Student Affairs, or designee.

Business Day. Any day, Monday through Friday, when the College is open.

Campus Safety. Responsible for the general safety of the Wheaton community. More information can be found on the Campus Safety website.

College. Wheaton College.

College Official. Any person authorized by the College to perform administrative, instructional, or professional duties.

College Hearing Board. A board composed of students and faculty to adjudicate alleged violations of the Honor Code and Community Standards, assigned by the Procedural Coordinator.

College Premises. All land, buildings, facilities, and other property in the possession of or owned, used, or controlled by the College.

Community Member. Any student, faculty, College official, alumni, or any other person employed by the College. The VPSA, or designee, will determine a person’s status.

Student Conduct File. Any printed, written, or electronic file which may include but is not limited to incident report(s), correspondence, academic transcript, witness statements, and student conduct history.

Complainant. The College or any individual who believes they experienced a violation of the policies outlined in the Honor Code and/or Community Standards and becomes a party to the Student Conduct Process.

Conduct Officer. A College official designated and trained by the Procedural Coordinator or designee, to facilitate an Educational Conference or Conduct Review Meeting, determine responsibility of alleged violations of the College’s Community Standards and impose sanctions.

Conduct Review Meeting. A formal meeting between a Respondent and a Conduct Officer, to determine if a violation of the Honor Code or Community Standards has occurred based on the preponderance of the evidence.

Designee. A staff or faculty member who is responsible for implementing or administering the Student Conduct Process, in part or in whole, at the direction of the Procedural Coordinator, or other College official.

Disciplinary Hold. An administrative hold placed on a student’s record or on a Student Organization’s activities or privileges when the student or Student Organization does not respond to the request of a College official to attend a Conduct Review Meeting has not completed an assigned sanction, or, with respect to a student, has withdrawn from the College while a conduct matter is pending.
Good Standing. In order to participate in leadership positions, study abroad programs, and a variety of other programs and opportunities, students must fulfill their academic and social responsibilities to Wheaton College through maintaining “Good Standing” in each of these areas. More specifics are included in the section below.

Guest. A non-student who is an associate or invitee of a student and/or Student Organization.

Honor Code. The Honor Code serves as an ethos of understanding on how the Wheaton College community should act in all areas of campus life.

Incident Report. A written summary of an incident.

Interim Action. Non-disciplinary, immediate action taken by the College to protect its community when there is information to indicate that alleged behavior is threatening the health or well-being of a community member or the community at large. Interim decisions may include but are not limited to, an Order of No Contact, interim restrictions, removal from campus, relocation within the residential system, etc.

May. A term that is used in the permissive sense.

Preponderance of the Evidence. Determinations of responsible or not responsible are based on the preponderance of evidence (i.e., “more likely than not”), either through an Administrative Hearing or the College Hearing Board.

Procedural Coordinator: The Associate Vice President for Student Affairs, or designee responsible for the day-to-day oversight of the Student Conduct Process.

Respondent. A student alleged to have violated the Honor Code and/or Community Standards and who becomes a party to the Student Conduct Process.

Shall and Will. Words that are used in the imperative sense.

Safety Always Matters Most (SAMM). Student health and safety is a responsibility shared by all members of the Wheaton community and it is our obligation to act with care and respect for each other. Students who seek appropriate medical aid due to an incident of intoxication (alcohol or other intoxicants) either for themselves or for other students generally will not be subject to disciplinary action through the Student Conduct Process.

Sanction(s). Assigned outcomes that a Respondent must abide by and/or complete when found responsible for violating the Honor Code and/or Community Standards.

Student. Any person who has been admitted to, registered or enrolled in, or attends, attended or attending the College, any College course, or College-sponsored program.

Student Organization. An association or group of persons, including, but not limited to, any student organization, team or club, that has complied with the formal requirements for College recognition or are recognized by the College.

Witness. Any person with knowledge of an alleged violation of the Honor Code and/or Community Standards and may become a party of the Student Conduct Process.

Good Standing Policies

Academic Good Standing is achieved through the following:

Earning the appropriate number of credits and maintaining a satisfactory G.P.A.
Abiding by the College’s Academic Policies and abiding by any other standard or policy of the College which applies to academic conduct.

Questions regarding issues relating to academic good standing and related academic matters may be directed to the Registrar’s Office or the Office of Academic Advising.

Social Good Standing is achieved through abiding by:

The Honor Code and Community Standards
Any other standard or policy of the College which applies to community standards
Students placed on conduct probation are not considered to be in Good Social Standing with the College.

Questions related to social good standing and expectations of conduct may be made to the Dean of Students Office.

V. COMMUNITY STANDARDS

The following list of behaviors is intended to represent the types of acts that constitute violations of the Community Standards. Although the list is extensive, it should not be regarded as all-inclusive. All community members are responsible for knowing and observing all Policies.

Abuse of the Student Conduct Process
Any conduct that disrupts, discourages participation, or manipulates the Student Conduct Process including, but not limited to:

Disruption or interference with the orderly conduct of a student conduct proceeding.
Falsification, distortion, or misrepresentation of information to a Conduct Officer or the College Hearing Board.
Influencing or attempting to influence another person to commit an abuse of the Student Conduct Process.
Attempting to discourage an individual’s proper participation in, or use of, the Student Conduct Process.
Attempting to intimidate or retaliate against a member of an investigator, Conduct Officer or other hearing body, a complainant, respondent or witness, prior to, during, and/or after a student conduct proceeding.
Institution of a student conduct proceeding in bad faith.
Failure to comply with the sanction(s) imposed as a result of the Student Conduct Process.

Academic Integrity
Any conduct that threatens the high standards of academic integrity and the College’s Honor Code, including, but not limited to:

Cheating: Using or attempting to use unauthorized materials, information, or study aids. Cheating may occur on an assignment, examination, test, quiz, laboratory work report, theme, online work, or on any other work submitted by a student. This applies whether the work is performed in class or out of class. Cheating includes but is not limited to:
- Copying from the work of another student, unauthorized notes or textbooks, unauthorized electronic devices, or other unauthorized materials. The instructor has final authority to determine what devices or aids are permissible. In the absence of guidance, the University expects that students will consult with the instructor.
- During a quiz, test, or examination, or in-class assignment, all materials information or aids are considered unauthorized unless specifically permitted by instructor. The mere presence of unauthorized materials, information or aids in the testing area or in bathrooms during the administration of a quiz, test, examination or in-class assignment is a violation of this policy.
- The substantive use of translation services (online translation, in-person language tutors, or other assistive persons, applications, or devices) without prior authorization. For example, the use of the translation services becomes substantive when the aid is more than to correct mere word choices or the structure of particular sentences.
- Giving or receiving substantive information or assistance on assigned work when it is expected that students will do their own work or engaging in any similar act that violates the concept of academic integrity. The general expectation is that all students will work independently on all assignments unless specifically authorized by the instructor in the syllabus or assignment materials.
Plagiarism: Representing the works of another as one’s own. Plagiarism may occur on any paper, report or other work (including design and distance learning work) submitted to fulfill course requirements or as part of an educational activity (e.g., design shows, conferences). This includes submitting work done by another, whether a commercial or non-commercial enterprise, including websites, as one’s own work. Plagiarism includes, but is not limited to:
- Misrepresentation caused by failure to document acknowledged sources accurately, thoroughly and appropriately;
- The use of unacknowledged sources: use of information or phrasing from any source not cited or included in the bibliography and references by the student;
- Submitting as one’s own work done by, copied from, substantively translated by or purchased from another person or entity.
Falsification: Invention or alteration of any information or citation. Falsification includes knowingly reporting data, research or reports so that either the process or the product is shown to be different from what actually occurred; falsely reporting having met responsibilities of attendance or participation in class, practicum, internship or other types of field work experience; or submission of falsified excuses for tardiness or not attending or participating in such experiences.
Text recycling or self-plagiarism: The submission of work to meet the requirements of one assignment when it was done in whole or in part to meet the requirements of another assignment, exercise or similar academic purpose, unless approval to do so has been granted by the instructor.
Facilitating or soliciting academic dishonesty: Soliciting the assistance of another to commit an act of academic dishonesty; intentionally or knowingly helping or attempting to help another commit an act of academic dishonesty. Facilitation is any offer, whether acted upon or not, for unauthorized assistance on any academic work. Solicitation is any request, whether acted upon or not, for unauthorized assistance on any academic work. Students should be aware of a request or assistance that violates this code, because it either violates another provision of this code, such as plagiarism, cheating or falsification, or it is expressly forbidden by the instructor or the culture of the academic discipline.
Fraud or misrepresentation in academic claims: Fraud or misrepresentation is the verbal or written submission of any information or document to a College official, which the respondent knows or reasonably should have known to be inaccurate, false, fraudulent or otherwise misleading. The College does not need to have relied on this information in order for the act to be fraud or misrepresentation. For example, fraud or misrepresentation may occur at any point in the admissions process. Examples of behaviors that would constitute fraud or misrepresentation in the admissions process include, but are not limited to, failure to disclose student disciplinary or criminal record, falsely reporting grades or test scores and submitting forged transcripts, letters of recommendation or other records.
Other academic misconduct: No specific set of rules or definitions can embrace every act of academic misconduct. A student who employs any form of academic deceit has violated the intellectual enterprise of the college.

Acceptable Data/Network Use
Students are expected to maintain appropriate use of the Wheaton College campus data network, including in-room connection services in all residence halls, computer systems, and other electronic services, in compliance with all College, Town, County, State, and Federal laws and regulations. For more information, review the Student Acceptable Use Policy.

Alcohol
Students are expected to abide by the College’s Alcohol Policy.

Persons under 21 years of age may not possess or consume alcohol.
Persons under 21 years of age may not host other persons in their room, over-or-under the age of 21, who are possessing or consuming alcohol.
No person over the age of 21 may possess or consume alcohol in any place other than their room, unless the event is registered for alcohol. However, at these events, persons 21 years of age or older may only possess or consume alcohol that was registered and provided by the event hosts.
Persons 21 years of age or older may not purchase or distribute alcoholic beverages to persons under 21 years of age.
No person may provide or distribute alcohol to persons who are intoxicated
No person may possess a common source* of alcohol unless it has been approved as part of a registered event in a designated space.
No person may use or possess funnels or other drinking game paraphernalia, with or without alcohol.
Public intoxication and any problematic behavior is not permitted.
Students may not keep “trophy” containers or empty alcohol containers as decoration in campus residences.

Animals
For the safety, health, and well-being of all residents, pets are prohibited in all College Residential Buildings and houses with the exception of small fish in no more than a 10-gallon tank. All approved Service or Support animals must be approved through Campus Accessibility Services and documented with Residential Life prior to their arrival on campus as outlined by the Service and Assistance Animals Policy.

College Policies
Any conduct that violates any published college policies or rules, whether or not specifically listed in the Community Standards.

Collusion
Any conduct, through actions or inactions, assisting, facilitating, or encouraging others to violate the Honor Code and/or Community Standards.

Damage and Destruction
Any conduct that facilitates or engages in damaging or misusing property, which includes, but not limited to, attempted or actual damage to or misuse of College property or other personal or public property.

Disruptive Behavior
Any conduct that unreasonably interferes with the activities of individuals or groups in the College community. This can include but is not limited to, classroom or community disruptions (e.g., classroom outbursts, unreasonable noise, large parties, rude and abusive language, or behavior).

Drugs
Students are expected to abide by the College’s Drug Policy.

The unlawful possession, use, or distribution of controlled substances is prohibited on college property and at college-sponsored events.
The use, possession, distribution, or cultivation of marijuana for medical or recreational purposes is strictly prohibited in any Wheaton College residence hall or on any other premises; nor is it allowed at any College-sponsored event or activity off campus or any Student Organization event or activity.
The misuse of medication or prescription drugs, including opiates/painkillers and other psychoactive drugs, is prohibited. This includes taking medication or prescription drugs that are not prescribed to you, taking more than the recommended dose, sharing prescriptions, or the use of prescriptions for a reason other than the intended use.
The use and possession of drug paraphernalia are strictly prohibited in any Wheaton College residence hall or on any other premises; nor is it allowed at any College-sponsored event or activity off campus or any student organization event or activity.

Failure to Comply
Any conduct that does not comply with the Community Standards as outlined in this document and/or the instructions from a College officials (e.g., Residential Life staff, Campus Safety, Faculty etc.) acting in their duties, including the parameters of any restrictions issued as interim measures or sanctions as communicated by a College official.

Falsification
Any conduct knowingly furnishing or possessing false information or forged materials, documents, records, instruments, or identification, or false reporting of emergency or threatening situations.

Fire Safety
Students are expected to abide by the Fire Safety Regulations and Prevention policy.

The burning of incense, candles, sterno, kerosene or oil lamps, and use of non-safety matches is prohibited, even during a loss of electrical power. Even if unlit, these items are prohibited in the residence halls and theme houses because they pose a potential serious fire hazard. Students are prohibited from creating or participating in a fire hazard or situation that endangers others, including but not limited to, arson and constructing an open fire without a permit. Fire pits are prohibited.
State regulations require any residence hall curtains or draperies to be of fiberglass or other non-combustible material and that upholstered furniture be flame-retardant. Mattress pads with exposed foam, commonly in an “egg shape” are prohibited. Light duty extension cords are prohibited (only UL approved heavy gauge extension cords with 3 prong connections are permitted).
Appliances, such as hot plates, immersion heaters, electric space heaters, or any appliances with open heating elements are not permitted. Irons may only be used in laundry rooms. Cooking in student rooms is prohibited.
Hoverboards are prohibited.
Hookahs, electronic cigarettes, and other smoking or vaping devices are prohibited.
The use of paper or other flammable items as decorations is forbidden around lighting fixtures, exit signs, on hall doors or ceilings of rooms. The use of live Christmas (holiday) trees is prohibited and caution should be used with any other holiday decorations. Halogen lamps are prohibited.
String lights of any kind (including LED strips) are prohibited.
Wall coverings cannot exceed 25% of total wall surface (per wall).
No items can be hung from ceilings, lights, exit signs, pipes, or sprinkler heads, anything attached to the wall must be adhered at four corners.
Smoke detectors, located in each room, should not be covered or otherwise obstructed with any type of cloth or other decorative material.
Furniture and personal belongings must be stored in areas clear from hallways and means of egress from an individual room, suite, or building. All doors must open more than 45 degrees to allow for appropriate entrance/exit from a room, suite, or building.
Tampering with fire detection and safety equipment, calling in false fire alarms, and possession of explosive or incendiary materials and devices are serious offenses subject to disciplinary action and/or criminal charges. The Norton Fire Department reserves the right to issue a $500 charge for responding to malicious false alarms. This charge will be assessed to the responsible parties or to the residents of the hall involved. Students found in possession of/or setting off fireworks or other incendiary devices are subject to a $100 fine and other possible disciplinary action by the college.
Any resident who fails to evacuate a residence hall immediately after a fire alarm or refuses to cooperate with hall staff members and/or Campus Safety/Fire personnel, is subject to disciplinary action and may be suspended or removed from the residence hall.
The storage of athletic equipment, bags, furniture, motor bikes, bicycles, automotive equipment, and other personal items in corridors and stairwells of College buildings and residence halls is prohibited.

Guest Policy
Students residing in Wheaton College residence halls are expected to follow all policies regarding guests as outlined in the Guest Policy. Any student that hosts a person on campus is responsible for their guest and ensuring that their guest knows and adheres to Wheaton College Honor Code and Community Standards.

Harming Behavior

Acts of Violence: Any physical conduct directed toward another that causes physical harm to the targeted individual or group.
Endangering the Well-Being of Another: Any conduct that jeopardizes the physical or emotional well-being of another person.
Threats of Violence: Any language or conduct that could be reasonably interpreted as an effort to intimidate or threaten another.
Harassment Based on a Protected Class: Unwelcome verbal, written, or physical conduct based on a protected classification (race, sex, color, national or ethnic origin, age, religion, marital status, handicap or disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, or any other legally protected classification) that has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with an individual’s work or education (including living conditions, extracurricular activities, and social life); creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive environment; or constituting a threat to an individual’s personal safety.
Harassment Other Than That of a Protected Class: Unwelcome behaviors that are persistent or repetitive and create an unreasonably uncomfortable educational, work, or living environment for an individual, or unreasonably interfere with an individual’s academic or job performance and opportunities.

Please note that not every act that might be offensive to an individual or a group necessarily will be considered a violation of Community Standards. Alleged acts of sexual or gender-based harassment will be addressed through the Sexual and Gender-based Misconduct Policy.

Hazing
All students are expected to abide by the College’s Hazing Policy.

Hygienic living and learning environment.
Any conduct that fails to maintain a hygienic living and learning environment

Invasion of Privacy
Any attempted use or actual use of electronic devices that invade a person’s privacy.

Lewd Conduct
Any conduct that is lewd, indecent, or disorderly such as public urination, public defecation, streaking, stripping, solicitation of a stripper, and/or participation in acts of a sexual nature publicly or in the presence of others that do not rise to the level of a violation of the Sexual and Gender-based Misconduct Policy.

Residential Life Policies
Any student residing in Wheaton College residence halls must follow all policies and procedures outlined in the Residential Living Handbook and Residential Life Policies webpage as well as in the Housing Contract.

Retaliation
Any acts or words that constitute intimidation, threats, or coercion because of that person’s: (1) report of misconduct; (2) assistance in reporting of misconduct; (3) participation in any proceeding under the Student Conduct Process; or (4) protest of misconduct, and that would also deter a reasonable person from reporting or assisting in reporting misconduct, participating in any proceeding under the Student Conduct Process, or protesting of misconduct. Retaliation does not include minor annoyances or another’s lack of good manners as those actions will not deter a reasonable person from engaging in the process.

Sexual and Gender-Based Misconduct
Students are expected to abide by the Sexual and Gender-Based Misconduct Policies.Alleged violations of either Sexual and Gender-Based Misconduct Policy – those that fall under Title IX jurisdiction as well as alleged misconduct that takes place outside of the College’s education program or activity – are addressed by a process separate from the Student Conduct Process and can be found in the Sexual and Gender-Based Misconduct Policies here.

Smoking and Vaping
Smoking or Vaping of any substance is prohibited in all College buildings and facilities, including all campus residence halls and houses. This includes, but is not limited to, the use of bongs, hookahs, pipes, electronic cigarettes, and vaporizers.

Theft
Theft, which includes but is not limited to, attempted or actual theft or unauthorized use or possession of property, resources, or services.

Trademark
Unauthorized use (including misuse) of College name and trademarks in association with any work, regardless of the ownership of the work.

Unauthorized Use or Entry

The unauthorized use or access of any College property including but not limited to vehicles, office equipment, letterhead, college seal, and campus facilities without permission from a College official is prohibited.
The unauthorized entry, use or occupancy of College facilities is prohibited. The unauthorized use or misuse of furniture is prohibited.
Tampering with locks to College buildings, unauthorized possession or use of College keys or keycards, and alteration or duplication of College keys and/or keycards is prohibited.
Misuse of access privileges to College premises or unauthorized entry to or use of, not limited to roofs, fire escapes, balconies, or windows.

Violations of Law
Evidence of violation of local, state, or federal laws, when substantiated through the College’s Student Conduct Process.

Weapons
Possession or the use of weapons (i.e. firearms or non-cooking knives), pepper spray/mace, ninja stars, ammunition, explosives or incendiary devices. This includes replica weapons, air-soft toys, and any other object that could be used to intimidate or threaten.

VI. STUDENT CONDUCT PROCESS

This section outlines how the College will address reports of misconduct that could constitute a violation of the Honor Code or Community Standards and determine what, if any, interim measures are appropriate. Reports of sexual and gender-based misconduct are addressed through separate processes outlined in the Sexual and Gender-Based Misconduct Policies and do not apply to the conduct processes set forth in this section. Similarly, violations of the Honor Code involving academic integrity issues will be adjudicated via the process outlined in the Faculty Handbook.

1. Reporting an Incident

In an effort to promote a culture of reporting, the College encourages anyone to report potential violations of the Honor Code or Community Standards. Community Members can utilize a number of reporting options which include, but are not limited to:

Community Reporting Options. The Community Reporting Options are available on the InsideWheaton portal for faculty, staff, and students under the Campus Life tab, that allows all members of the community to submit a variety of reports based on different incidents and concerns.
LiveSafe App. The LiveSafe app is available to the Wheaton community and provides a direct reporting line to Campus Safety, allowing community members to anonymously report tips as well as seek help.
Campus Safety. Campus Safety is located at 30 Taunton Avenue and reachable via telephone at 508-286-8213 for non-emergencies or 508-286-3333 for an emergency.
Residential Life Staff. Residential Life is located in the Balfour-Hood Campus Center on the 3rd floor and is reachable via telephone at (508) 286-8214. Each residence hall/residential area is comprised of a staff of Resident Advisors and a Residential Life Coordinator who can help work through the issues associated with living in a community. All Residential Life Staff are responsible employees and must report concerns related to the College’s Sexual and Gender-Based Misconduct Policies.
Dean of Students Office. Dean of Students Office is located in Park Hall on the 1^stfloor and reachable via telephone at (508) 286-8218. The Dean of Students Office coordinates student support initiatives and the Student Conduct Process.

2. Rights and Responsibilities

All students at Wheaton College have certain rights afforded to them through the Student Conduct Process. These rights include:

To be informed of any charges of the Honor Code or Community Standards;
To inspect a copy of a redacted Campus Safety report or Student Affairs incident report;
To be given the opportunity to respond to the alleged charges within the parameters of this policy;
To request additional accommodations, including, but not limited to the use of technology, etc.;
To provide the names of witnesses with direct knowledge of the incident who may appear at a Conduct Review Meeting or College Hearing Board. Character witnesses are not permitted;
To be informed of the outcome of a student conduct proceeding, and request an appeal of the decision in accordance with the appeal process set forth below.

All students at Wheaton College have certain responsibilities that they are expected to fulfill through the Student Conduct Process. These responsibilities include:

Abide by the Honor Code, and more specifically: act honestly, responsibly, and above all, with honor and integrity.
Be accountable for all that is said or written.
Behave in a manner that demonstrates concern for the personal dignity, rights, and freedoms of all members of the community.
Engage in the Student Conduct Process by preparing for and attending meetings, and sharing as much information as possible to help maximize the educational value of the system for accountability.

3. Student Conduct Procedures

The following procedures are the procedures followed to adjudicate all violations of the Community Standards, except allegations of sexual and gender-based misconduct and academic dishonesty.

Conduct officers may involve or seek input from other College Officials in any or all parts of the Student Conduct Procedures as they deem appropriate.

A. Allegations

Any person may file a report regarding any student or Student Organization alleging misconduct. To initiate the Community Standards process, reports shall be prepared in writing and directed to the Procedural Coordinator, or a designee. A report should be submitted as soon as possible after the alleged misconduct takes place
The Procedural Coordinator or designee shall determine if a complaint alleges or addresses a potential violation of the Community Standards and will notify the respondent of such allegations. The decision to continue a complaint through the Student Conduct process is the decision of the Procedural Coordinator or designee.
Generally, the Procedural Coordinator or designee will assign a conduct officer(s) to the case who will schedule a hearing with the respondent(s) and other individuals as deemed necessary and appropriate.
The Procedural Coordinator, or designee, will determine what testimony, witnesses, or other information is relevant and may exclude information or witnesses that are deemed immaterial and/or irrelevant.
If additional information or follow-up with the involved parties is required prior to notification of allegations to appropriate respondents, the Procedural Coordinator, or designee including but not limited to staff in the Dean of Students Office, Residential Life, and Campus Safety may conduct interviews and collect additional information to support or mitigate a report.

B. Options for Resolution

1) Educational Conference

The Procedural Coordinator, or designee, reserves the right to schedule an educational conference to discuss the behavior of students and its impact on the mission of the College. Conferences may result in an action plan agreed on by all parties to address the behavior. If the action plan is not honored, the College reserves the right to initiate a formal review under the Student Conduct Process.
Examples of incidents that may be adjudicated by an Educational Conference include, but are not limited to: minor disruptions and/or educational or behavioral concerns.
Educational conferences are typically scheduled within ten (10) business days upon receipt of a report of a potential violation of the Community Standards. Students who fail to respond to the request to meet, may be subject to a Conduct Review Meeting with proper notice, to review the allegations.
The student can provide the Conduct Officer with names of witnesses with relevant information, and/or documents or information to be reviewed that pertain to the alleged violation. Other students with whom the College wishes to speak are expected to be truthful and participate as requested. The conduct officer may impose limits upon the number of witnesses and the amount of information that may be introduced where the conduct officer determines that the proffered information is cumulative, redundant or immaterial.
Students are permitted to have an advisor accompany them during an Educational Conference. A student should select an advisor whose schedule allows attendance at the scheduled date and time for the meetings. Conferences will not be rescheduled due to schedule conflicts for the advisor. An advisor may not answer on behalf of the student, or otherwise actively participate in the student conduct process.

2) Adjudication by Letter

The Procedural Coordinator, or designee, shall determine the appropriateness of adjudicating an incident by letter. In such cases, a student shall typically receive an emailed letter from the Conduct Officer outlining the violations, findings of responsibility, and sanctions within five (5) business days from receipt of notification of alleged violation.
Students will have the opportunity to appeal said findings and sanctions within three (3) business days.
If students choose not to appeal the decision communicated by letter, the findings and sanctions will be considered final.
Examples of incidents that may be adjudicated by letter include, but are not limited to minor violations of the Room and Board Agreement and other Residential Life Policies, such as noise and prohibited items.

3) Conduct Review Meeting

Conduct Review Meetings are formal meetings between a respondent and a Conduct officer to determine if a violation has occurred based on the preponderance of the evidence, and issue the appropriate sanctions(s). Conduct Review Meetings typically following the following steps outlined below:
1. Notice to Respondent(s) of alleged charges along with date, time, and location of the Conduct Review Meeting.
2. The Conduct Review Meeting will be an individual meeting between the respondent(s) and a conduct officer to provide evidence, testimonies, and any relevant information that may be pertinent to the allegations and determine the facts of the incident reported. In certain situations, the Procedural Coordinator will allow for the Conduct Officer to meet with more than one respondent during the same Conduct Review Meeting.
3. The Conduct Officer is responsible for providing a summary of the Conduct Review Meeting including a brief statement of the facts, findings from the Conduct Review Meeting (responsible or not responsible) and any sanctions that have been issued.
  1. If a responsible finding is determined, past violations of the Community Standards and the Honor Code, and any sanctions, may be considered in determining current sanctions.
4. The outcome of the Conduct Review Meeting will be made part of the student’s student conduct record and maintained by the Procedural Coordinator.
The purpose of the Conduct Review Meeting is to offer the student an opportunity to inform the College, verbally or through a written statement, of any facts they believe should be considered in determining whether they are responsible for a reported violation and if they are, what sanctions may be appropriate.
If the College requests that the student attend a Conduct Review Meeting and the student does not do so for any reason whatsoever, the College will still proceed to address the situation, and determine if the student is responsible for the reported violation, or a related violation, and confirm the imposition of any appropriate student conduct action in the absence of the student. The student will be notified in writing of the outcome and any sanctions assigned.
Failure to cooperate with the College’s investigation of a reported violation may result in student conduct action, up to and including suspension and expulsion from the College.
The student can provide the Conduct Officer with names of witnesses with relevant information, and/or documents or information to be reviewed that pertain to the alleged violation. Other students with whom the College wishes to speak are expected to be truthful and participate as requested. The conduct officer may impose limits upon the number of witnesses and the amount of information that may be introduced where the conduct officer determines that the proffered information is cumulative, redundant or immaterial.
Students are permitted to have an advisor accompany them during a Student Conduct Meeting. A student should select an advisor whose schedule allows attendance at the scheduled date and time for the meetings. Student Conduct Meetings will not be rescheduled due to schedule conflicts for the advisor. An advisor may not answer on behalf of the student, or otherwise, actively participate in the student conduct process.
The person designated as the Conduct Officer may speak with other individuals or review written materials, oral materials or property, as the conduct officer deems appropriate, to review the situation and to make a determination of whether the student is responsible for the reported violation, or a related violation.
Information learned during a Conduct Review Meeting or in the course of an investigation may result in the College modifying the reported violation(s) originally presented to the student. In those situations, the College will determine if it is necessary to conduct an additional or follow-up Conduct Review Meeting in order to determine if the student is responsible for the violation(s) as reported originally and as subsequently modified.
For Conduct Review Meetings, involving Student Organizations:
1. Review of allegations of misconduct of individual student members will be determined under the Community Standards prior to the determination of Student Organization alleged violations.
2. The Student Organization must designate one representative for the Student Organization by written notice to the Procedural Coordinator or designee within 3 days of being sent notice of alleged violations of the Community Standards. The designated representative will represent the Student Organization during the student Conduct Process.
3. The designated representative for the Student Organization is required to notify the advisor of Student Organization of any alleged violations of the Community Standards and any sanctions imposed.

4) College Hearing Board

The College Hearing Board is a hearing body, with positions elected by the student body, appointed by the Student Senate, and the faculty, charged with adjudicating alleged misconduct that violates the Community Standards.
1. More specifically, the College Hearing Board Chair or Vice Chair will lead a panel of two students, two faculty, and a Conduct Officer.
2. The College Hearing Board typically reviews allegations of academic dishonesty, other cases where the sanction may involve removal from housing, suspension or dismissal from the institution, or other cases at the discretion of the Procedural Coordinator.
3. The College Hearing Board does not hear any allegations of Sexual or Gender-based Misconduct.
College Hearing Board Review Meetings are a formal meeting between a respondent and the College Hearing Board to determine if a violation has occurred based on the preponderance of the evidence, and issue the appropriate sanctions(s). College Hearing Board Review Meetings typically following the following steps outlined below:
1. Notice to Respondent(s) of alleged charges along with and date, time, and location of the College Hearing Board Review Meeting.
2. The College Hearing Board Review Meeting will be a meeting between the respondent(s) and the College Hearing Board to provide evidence, testimonies, and any relevant information that may be pertinent to the allegations and determining facts of the incident reported. In certain situations, the complainant may also participate in the College Hearing Board Review Meeting.
3. The Chair of the College Hearing Board is responsible for providing a summary of the College Hearing Board Review Meeting to the Procedural Coordinator including a brief statement of the facts, findings from the College Hearing Board Review Meeting (responsible or not responsible) and any sanctions that have been issued.
  1. If a responsible finding is determined, past violations of the Community Standards and the Honor Code, and any sanctions, may be considered in determining current sanctions.
4. The outcome of the College Hearing Board Review Meeting will be communicated to the respondent by the Procedural Coordinator, or designee and made part of the student’s student conduct record.
The purpose of the College Hearing Board Review Meeting is to offer the student an opportunity to inform the College, verbally or through a written statement, of any facts they believe should be considered in determining whether they are responsible for a reported violation and if they are, what sanctions may be appropriate.
If the College requests that the student attend a College Hearing Board Review Meeting and the student does not do so for any reason whatsoever, the College will still proceed to address the situation, determine if the student is responsible for the reported violation, or a related violation, and confirm the imposition of any appropriate student conduct action in the absence of the student. The student will be notified in writing of the outcome and any sanctions assigned.
Failure to cooperate with the College’s investigation of a reported violation may result in student conduct action, up to and including suspension and expulsion from the College.
The student can provide the Procedural Coordinator, or designee with names of witnesses with relevant information, and/or documents or information to be reviewed that pertain to the alleged violation. Other students with whom the College wishes to speak are expected to be truthful and participate as requested. The Procedural Coordinator may impose limits upon the number of witnesses and the amount of information that may be introduced where the conduct officer determines that the proffered information is cumulative, redundant or immaterial.
Students are permitted to have an advisor accompany them during an College Hearing Board Review Meeting. The College Hearing Board has trained student members who will serve as a procedural advisor, but a student may select a different advisor of their choosing. If a student selects a different advisor, they should select a person whose schedule allows attendance at the scheduled date and time for the meetings. College Hearing Board Review Meetings will not be rescheduled due to schedule conflicts for the advisor. An advisor may not answer on behalf of the student, or otherwise actively participate in the student conduct process.
The College Hearing Board may speak with other individuals or review written materials, oral materials or property, as the Procedural Coordinator deems appropriate, to review the situation and to make a determination of whether the student is responsible for the reported violation, or a related violation.
Information learned during a College Hearing Board Review Meeting, or in the course of an investigation may result in the College modifying the reported violation(s) originally presented to the student. In those situations, the College will determine if it is necessary to conduct an additional or follow-up College Hearing Board Review Meeting in order to determine if the student is responsible for the violation(s) as reported originally and as subsequently modified.

C. Determination of Facts Relative to an Alleged Violation

The standard used in determining whether or not the respondent violated the Community Standards is a preponderance of the evidence (whether it is more likely than not that a violation occurred).

D. Sanctions

If the respondent is found responsible for violating the Community Standards, appropriate sanctions will be imposed. Sanctions are determined by considering the nature of the misconduct, precedent regarding such misconduct, the respondent’s complete educational record (including but not limited to; student’s academic transcript, and community incident reports and associated information), respondent’s present demeanor, the community impact statements and/or mitigating or aggravating factors.

1. With respect to respondents that are Student Organizations, Conduct Officers will obtain recommendations from other applicable College departments and offices and may also include a review of the Student Conduct history of individual members of the Student Organization.
Sanctions for violations of the Sexual and Gender-Based Misconduct Policy, are described here. Similarly, violations involving academic integrity issues of the Honor Code are described here.
The College has a special concern for incidents in which persons are mistreated because of race, gender, disability, age, marital status, religion, color, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, veteran status, genetic information, or other personal characteristics. Such incidents damage not only individuals, but also the free and open academic environment of the College. More severe sanctions will likely be issued to respondent(s) who are found responsible for such misconduct.
A campus department, separate from the Dean of Students Office, may place a restriction on a student or Student Organization found responsible for violating the Community Standards. Examples include, but are not limited to: Athletics, Office of Student Activities, Involvement and Leadership, Residential Life, and Center for Global Education.
Sanctions such as Dismissal, Suspension, Permanent Residence Hall Suspension or Temporary Residence Hall Suspension may result in the forfeiture of certain monies.
In addition to other mitigating and aggravating factors considered in connection with imposing sanctions, additional factors may be considered with respect to Student Organizations including, but not limited to:
1. The role of leaders and the seniority of the members of the Student Organization involved in the behavior supporting the violation;
2. Whether leaders had knowledge of the misconduct before or while it occurred and failed to take corrective action;
3. The number of members of the Student Organization involved in the behavior supporting the violation and the extent to which members acted in concert in connection with such behavior;
4. Whether the leaders of the Student Organization self-reported the behavior underlying the violation;
5. The extent to which the Student Organization leaders and members cooperated, responded honestly to questions, and accepted responsibility for the behavior underlying the violation;
6. The misconduct involves a violation of the College’s Hazing Policy, Alcohol Policy, Drug Policy, the Sexual and Gender-based Misconduct Policy, the Harming Behavior Policy, or violation of law.
The following sanctions may be imposed, individually or in various combinations, on any student found to have violated the Community Standards. Please note that this is not an exhaustive list of sanctions:
1. College Dismissal: Permanent separation of the student from the College. A student who has been dismissed is prohibited from participating in any College activity or program. The individual may also not be in or on any College premises. Students found in violation of this restriction, including attempts to enter the lands or buildings of the College will be subject to immediate arrest for trespassing under M.G.L. c. 266, s. 120. Please be aware that the student’s academic record will be updated to reflect a dismissal, including any grade change which might be assigned.
2. College Suspension: College Suspension is a separation from the College for a designated period of time. Students who are suspended from the College are restricted from all College premises and activities, including but not limited to, course registration, class attendance, participation in co-curricular activities and College housing. Students found in violation of this restriction, including attempts to enter the lands or buildings of the College will be subject to immediate arrest for trespassing under M.G.L. c. 266, s. 120, as well as further sanctions from the College. Students who have been separated from the College for a period of time must meet with the Vice President of Student Affairs or designee two weeks prior to the next registration period for which the student is eligible to review any outstanding sanctions and the readmission process. Please be aware that the student’s academic record will be updated to reflect a suspension, including any grade change which may be assigned.
3. Suspension from the College, held in Abeyance: Suspension from the College, held in Abeyance is a set period of time during which the respondent or student organization is given the opportunity to modify behavior, to complete specific assignments, meet with designated persons, and demonstrate a positive contribution to the College community in an effort to regain privileges within the College community. Please be aware that a responsible finding for any violation(s) of any College policy during the probationary period will be viewed as a violation of probation, and will result in further student conduct action being imposed, including, but not limited to, College Suspension or College Dismissal. Additionally, as students and organizations which are on Suspension in Abeyance are not considered to be in good disciplinary standing with the College, this may impact their ability to participate in intercollegiate athletics, represent the College, student leadership positions, study abroad opportunities, extracurricular and/or residential life activities.
4. Conduct Probation: Conduct Probation is a set period of time during which the respondent or student organization is given the opportunity to modify behavior, to complete specific assignments, meet with designated persons, and demonstrate a positive contribution to the College community in an effort to regain privileges within the College community. Please be aware that a responsible finding for any violation(s) of any College policy during the probationary period will be viewed as a violation of probation, and will result in further student conduct action being imposed, including, but not limited to, College Suspension or College Dismissal. Additionally, as students and organizations which are on Conduct Probation are not considered to be in good disciplinary standing with the College, this may impact their ability to participate in intercollegiate athletics, represent the College, student leadership positions, study abroad opportunities, extracurricular and/or residential life activities.
5. Formal (Written) Warning: A written notice that the respondent has violated College policy or the Community Standards and a warning that another violation will likely result in more severe sanctions which could include Conduct Probation, Temporary or Permanent Residence Hall Suspension, College Suspension, or College Dismissal or Loss of Recognition with respect to a Student Organization.
6. Residence Hall Suspension: This may be a permanent or temporary separation of the student from the residence halls. Temporary separation of the student from the residence halls for a specific period of time, after which the student may reapply for housing. Reapplication for housing does not guarantee immediate placement. Conditions for returning to the residence halls may be specified.
7. Housing Probation: Housing Probation is a set period of time during which the respondent is given the opportunity to modify behavior, to complete specific assignments, meet with designated persons, and demonstrate positive contributions to the Residence Hall community and greater College community in an effort to regain privileges within housing. Please be aware that a responsible finding of any violation will result in further student conduct action being imposed, including, but not limited to: Suspension from the Residence Halls.
8. Administrative Housing Relocation: As a result of the Student Conduct Process, the student I required to relocate their residence hall assignment to another residence area as determined by the Office of Residential Life, in consultation with the Dean of Students Office.
9. Removal from an Athletic Team, Campus Organization, or other campus or leadership position: Denial of specified privileges for a designated period of time.
10. Restriction: Denial of access to any campus facility, activity, class or program. This includes No Contact Orders.
11. Fines and restitution: A student will be required to pay a fee or compensation for loss, damage, or injury as a result of a violation of the Community Standards. Students not able to pay the fine may complete community service hours.
12. Assessment: A student may be referred to an appropriate office or local agency for consultation or assessment. These may include Alcohol and Other Drug (AOD) Assessments and Anger Assessments.
13. Revocation of Admission or Degree: Admission to the College or an awarded degree from the College may be revoked for fraud, misrepresentation, or another violation of the Community Standards committed during the course of obtaining the degree or for other serious violations committed by a student after admission or prior to graduation.
14. Withholding Degree: The College may withhold awarding a degree otherwise earned until the completion of the procedures set forth in the Student Conduct Process, including the completion of all sanctions imposed, if any.
15. Loss of Credit or Failure for the Piece of Work: Loss of Credit or Failure in the Course for the Semester in which the Offense Occurred:
16. Educational Sanction(s) may include educational assignments and projects that encourage further reflection or conversation about the incident and behavior with a focus on decision making and goal setting for the student. This may also include participation in programs or classes (any cost is to be assessed to the student), completion of an alcohol or other drug course such as Alcohol Edu, service to the College or to the larger community, and other assignments as warranted.
17. The following sanctions may be imposed upon any Student Organizations found to have violated the Community Standards. Please note that this is not an exhaustive list of sanctions:
  1. Those sanctions listed above.
  2. Loss of Recognition: Loss of all College privileges for a designated period of time.
  3. Loss of recognition for more than two consecutive semesters requires a Student Organization to reapply for College recognition. Conditions for future recognition may be specified. Students may not continue to participate or associate in a Student Organization or accept further members during any Loss of Recognition.

E. Appeals

1. A decision reached through a Conduct Review Meeting, where the student accepts responsibility and agrees to the sanctions, cannot be appealed by the respondent.
2. Filing an Appeal: Within five (5) business days of receiving written notice of the decision on responsibility or sanctions, the respondent(s) or complainant(s), may appeal the decision by submitting an appeal form.
3. Content for Appeal. A party may appeal on the following grounds:
  1. Newly discovered material information that was not known to the appellant party during the investigation and during the conduct review meeting and which likely would change the finding of responsibility or the sanction imposed had it been available; or
  2. Substantial procedural error that materially prejudiced the appellant party. The party submitting the appeal must set forth in detail the grounds for review and must attach all materials that the party wished to have considered in the appeal process.
4. Appellate Officer. The Appellate Officer will decide the merits of any appeal, and in doing so, may consult with the Conduct Officer, and any other individual that the appellate officer deems appropriate. The purpose of the appeal is not to re-hear the case; rather it is to determine if there is sufficient information presented that would require a reconsideration of the decision.
5. Enforcement of the initial outcome from the Conduct Review Meeting: Any action assessed or recommended at the Conduct Review Meeting may be enforced, in whole or in part, pending the outcome of the appeal at the sole discretion of the Procedural Coordinator, including removal or suspension.
6. Appeal Determinations. The Appellate Officer will review the appeal and render a decision within ten (10) business days. The Appellate Officer may:
  1. Affirm all or part of the decision (which includes the sanction, as well as the determination of responsibility) or,
  2. May refer the matter back to the Conduct Review Meeting for further consideration. If the matter is referred back, the Appellate Officer will provide specific instructions in the referral. In the event of a referral, the Appellate Officer may mandate such further proceedings as the Appellate Officer deems appropriate under the circumstances, consistent with the Community Standards.
7. The decision of the appellate officer will be provided in writing and is final. All parties to an appeal will receive simultaneous written notice of the outcome of the appeal.

F. Accommodations for Students with Disabilities
Wheaton College is committed to providing equal and integrated access for students with disabilities to participate in, and benefit from, all post-secondary education programs and activities, including educational, social, experiential, recreational, and residential. Accessibility Services ensures students with documented disabilities at Wheaton College, as required by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990 and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, receive appropriate accommodations and assistance in order to participate fully in College programs. Rules, policies, or physical space limitations which would inhibit students with disabilities from participating fully in a program or activity may not be imposed. Academic standards should not be compromised, but accommodations must be provided, on a case-by-case basis, to afford qualified students with disabilities an equal educational opportunity. For more information, please contact Accessibility Services (accessibility@wheatoncollege.edu).

A student with a documented disability who desires a reasonable accommodation regarding an Educational Conference, Conduct Review Meeting, College Hearing Board Review meeting, or Appeal Meeting must request an accommodation by following the procedure for requesting an accommodation through Accessibility Services. The staff in Accessibility Services will make a determination regarding the request and notify the appropriate parties. Please contact Accessibility Services to obtain further information regarding the registration process.

VII. INTERIM ADMINISTRATIVE ACTION

The Procedural Coordinator, or designee, may impose an interim administrative action on a Respondent during an investigation and prior to a resolution of the Respondent’s alleged violation. Such action may be taken when, based on the information provided and in the professional judgment of a College official, a threat of harm to persons or property exists, or to protect the safety of any person. Examples of interim administrative actions include, but are not limited to: interim suspension from the college, interim removal from housing, interim housing relocation, interim loss of recognition, and/or other necessary restrictions.

An interim administrative action is not a sanction. It is taken in an effort to protect the safety and well-being of the Complainant, Respondent, and other members of the College Community, the College, and/or property. Interim administrative actions are preliminary in nature and are only in effect until an outcome is communicated through the Student Conduct Process. Violations of interim administrative actions may result in additional student conduct action with outcomes up to and including suspension, dismissal, or loss of recognition.

VIII. MAINTENANCE AND REVIEW OF STUDENT CONDUCT FILES

Student conduct files are deemed educational records and are maintained separately from any other academic or official file at the College by the Dean of Students Office. Generally, information from the files is not released without the written consent of the student. However, certain information may be provided without a student’s prior consent to individuals within the College who have a legitimate legal or educational interest in obtaining it, and to individuals outside the College under certain circumstances.
A suspension may be noted until graduation or seven (7) years following the end of the period of suspension, whichever occurs first. A dismissal will be noted permanently.
A student conduct file is maintained digitally. A student may have more than one file. Generally, a Conduct File, including related documents, will be kept seven (7) years from the date of the incident. The student conduct file of an expelled student shall be retained indefinitely. Information contained in the incident database is maintained for seven (7) years from the date of the incident.
In situations involving both a respondent and student who believes they were a victim of a student’s misconduct, the records of the process, if any, will be considered to be the student conduct records of both the charged student and the student who believes himself/herself to be the victim because the educational career and chances of success in the academic community of each may be impacted.
Records of student conduct actions are maintained in the Dean of Students Office in compliance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (“FERPA”).

IX.INTERPRETATION AND REVISION

The Community Standards and Student Conduct Process were most recently approved by the Vice President for Student Affairs in August 2022.
Any questions or interpretation regarding the Community Standards and Student Conduct Process shall be referred to the Procedural Coordinator and the Dean of Students Office for determination. The determination is final.
The Community Standards and Student Conduct Process shall be reviewed annually by the Vice President for Student Affairs, or designee.

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