Student Code of Conduct and Statement of Disciplinary Procedures

Preamble

Academic institutions exist for the transmission of knowledge, the pursuit of truth, the development of students and the general well being of society. In line with this purpose, the University has the duty to protect the freedoms of inquiry and expression and furthermore has the responsibility to encourage all of its members to develop the capacity for critical judgment in their sustained and independent search for truth.

The Connecticut State University System has certain self-defined institutional values. Principal among these values is respect for the dignity, rights, and individuality of each member of the University Community. The opportunity to live, study, and work in an institution which values diverse intellectual and cultural perspectives and encourages discussion and debate about competing ideas in an atmosphere of civility is a basic component of quality higher education.

All members of the University Community must at all times govern their social and academic interactions with tolerance and mutual respect so that the men and women who pass through the University's doors are enriched by these experiences and are prepared for full and enlightened participation in a multi-cultural society. Because of the University's commitment to principles of pluralism, mutual respect, and civility, certain activities are not acceptable on the University's campus. Acts of intolerance, of hatred or violence based on race, religion, sexual orientation, disability, gender, age, or ethnic background are antithetical to the University's fundamental principles and values. It is the University's responsibility to secure the students' right to learn by establishing an environment of civility.

The disciplinary process is intended to be part of the educational mission of the CSU System. Student disciplinary proceedings are not criminal proceedings and are not subject to court rules of procedure and evidence. 

Introduction

This Student Code of Conduct (hereinafter the "Student Code") is intended to present a clear statement of student rights and responsibilities established by the Connecticut State University System ("CSUS") Board of Trustees. The Board has charged the Chancellor with developing procedures to protect those rights and to address the abdication of those responsibilities in collaboration with the four Universities. The Student Code describes the types of acts that are not acceptable in an academic community.

Students must be aware that, as citizens, they are subject to all federal and state laws in addition to all University regulations governing student conduct and responsibilities. Students do not relinquish their rights nor do they shed their responsibilities as citizens by becoming members of the Connecticut State University Community.

Disclaimer: This Code is neither a contract nor an offer of a contract between the University and any student. The provisions of this Code are subject to revision at any time.