Code of Student Conduct

Contents

Campus Safety Report

University Regulations

Code of Conduct (SUNY Oneonta)

Article I: Definitions

Article II: Prohibited Conduct

Article III: University Conduct System

Article IV: University Policies

Appendix A: Policy Statement on Academic Dishonesty

Appendix B: Sexual & Interpersonal Violence Student Bill of Rights

Appendix C: Bias Related Crimes & Acts Prevention

Appendix D: Policy Statement on Drugs and Alcohol

Appendix E: Involuntary Leave of Absence Policy

Appendix F: Board of Trustees SUNY Maintenance of Public Order:
Statutory Authority Education Law 6450

Campus Safety Report

In compliance with a federal law, the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act, SUNY Oneonta provides reports about campus safety and security programs, incidents of crime on campus, and information regarding registered sex offenders. Copies of the campus safety and crime reports are available in the following locations:

• Admissions Office, Welcome Center, SUNY Oneonta, Oneonta, NY, 13820;
• Student Affairs Office, 119 Netzer Administration Building; Oneonta, NY 13820
• University Police Department, Emergency Services Building, SUNY Oneonta, NY, 13820;
• At our University Police website: suny.oneonta.edu/university-police, at the tab labeled Annual Campus Safety & Security Reports.

Information concerning registered sex offenders is transmitted to the campus by the New York State Department of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS) and may be obtained from the Chief of Police, c/o University Police Department, and on the University Police website.

Portions of this code of conduct have been reviewed by Brett Sokolow from the National Center for Higher Education Risk Management www.ncherm.org. Some of the language may be proprietary and copyrighted. It is licensed to SUNY Oneonta for its use and publication. All other uses and copying are prohibited without express permission from NCHERM.

UNIVERSITY REGULATIONS

PURPOSE

Academic institutions exist for the pursuit and transmission of knowledge, the development of students, and to further our society, as a whole. SUNY Oneonta is a community of faculty, students, and staff whose mission states, “We nurture a community where students grow intellectually, thrive socially and live purposefully.” Free inquiry and expression are essential elements in achieving these goals. To maintain a responsible living and learning environment that is conducive to our educational and developmental endeavors the University has established, and enforces, the regulations and policies contained in our Code of Student Conduct. The University believes students should accept the consequences of their actions. To this end the University supports the concept of educational discipline and will make an effort to educate students through the imposition of sanctions that are applicable to each student’s situation and violation.

SUNY Oneonta students shall, always and in all places during their enrollment, conduct themselves in a manner which reflects positively on the University and complies with the Code of Student Conduct, whether on campus, off campus, involved in campus activities, or representing the University in any function.

REFERRALS

Any member of the university community may initiate a complaint against any student for alleged misconduct related to the Code of Student Conduct and/or the Residence Hall License. The complaint shall be submitted in writing to the Office of Community Standards using the online forms available on the office website.

PENDING CRIMINAL OR CIVIL ACTION

Campus conduct proceedings and actions are not subject to challenge or postponement on the grounds that criminal or civil charges involving the same incident have been dismissed, reduced, or may be pending in civil or criminal court.

Furthermore, it is the obligation of every student to notify the Office of Community Standards of any felony or misdemeanor arrests occurring at any time after the student pays an admissions deposit through graduation or separation from the institution, regardless of geographic location of the arrest or specific crime alleged. Failure to do so may result in conduct charges by the University. The University may review the facts underlying the arrest to determine if there is a concomitant policy violation.

STANDARD OF PROOF

All cases will be decided on the burden of proof standard of a preponderance of the evidence. In other words, the determination will be made on the basis of whether it is “more likely than not” that a referred student violated the Code of Student Conduct.

NOTIFICATION OF OUTCOMES

The outcome of a campus hearing is part of the education record of the accused student, and is protected from release under a federal law, the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). However, this University observes the legal exceptions and will release information as permissible by FERPA.

PARENTAL NOTIFICATION

The University may notify parents/guardians of students who are under the age of 21when the student has violated any law or policy concerning the use or possession of alcohol or a controlled substance. The University will contact parents/guardians to inform them when their student is involved in a situation in which there is a health and/or safety risk. The University also reserves the right to designate which university officials have a need to know about individual conduct complaints pursuant to the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).

CODE OF CONDUCT (SUNY Oneonta)

ARTICLE I: DEFINITIONS

1. The term “University” means The State University of New York at Oneonta (SUNY Oneonta).
2. The term “student” includes all persons taking courses at the University, both full time and part time, pursuing undergraduate, graduate, or professional studies, and those who attend post-secondary educational institutions other than SUNY Oneonta, and who reside in University residence halls. Persons who are not officially enrolled for a particular term but who have a continuing relationship with the University are considered “students.”
3. The term “faculty member” means any person hired by the University to conduct classroom activities.
4. The term “University official” includes any person employed by the University, performing assigned administrative or professional responsibilities.
5. The term “member of the University community” includes any person who is a student, faculty member, University official or any other person employed by the University. The Vice President for Student Affairs shall determine a person’s status in a particular situation.
6. The term “University premises” includes all land, buildings, facilities, and other property in the possession of or owned, used, or controlled by the University (including adjacent streets and sidewalks).
7. The term “organization” means any number of persons who have complied with the formal requirements for University recognition.
8. The term “conduct body” means any person or persons authorized by the Vice President for Student Affairs to determine whether a student has violated the Code of Student Conduct and to recommend imposition of sanctions.
9. The term “Conduct Officer” means a University official authorized on a case-by-case basis by the Vice President for Student Affairs to impose sanctions upon students found to have violated the Code of Student Conduct. The Vice President for Student Affairs may authorize a Conduct Officer to serve simultaneously as a Conduct Officer and the sole member or one of the members of a conduct body. Nothing shall prevent the Vice President for Student Affairs from authorizing the same Conduct Officer to impose sanctions in all cases.
10. The term “Appellate Officer” means any person or persons authorized by the Vice President for Student Affairs to consider an appeal from a conduct officer/body’s determination that a student has violated the Code of Student Conduct or from the sanctions imposed by the Conduct Officer.
11. The term “shall” is used in the imperative sense.
12. The term “may” is used in the permissive sense.
13. The Vice President for Student Affairs is that person designated by the University President to be responsible for the administration of the Code of Student Conduct.
14. The term “policy” is defined as the written regulations of the University as found in, but not limited to, the Code of Student Conduct, Residence Hall License, and Graduate/Undergraduate Catalogs.
15. The term “cheating” includes, but is not limited to:
    1. Use of any unauthorized assistance in taking quizzes, tests, or examinations.
    2. Dependence upon the aid of sources beyond those authorized by the instructor in writing papers, preparing reports, solving problems, or carrying out other assignments.
    3. The acquisition, without permission, of tests or other academic material belonging to a member of the University faculty or staff.
16. The term “plagiarism” includes, but is not limited to, the use, by paraphrase or direct quotation, of the published or unpublished work of another person without full and clear acknowledgment. It also includes the unacknowledged use of materials prepared by another person or agency engaged in the selling of term papers or other academic materials.

ARTICLE II: PROHIBITED CONDUCT

SUNY Oneonta community members are governed by federal, state, and local laws, rules, and regulations. In addition, students are bound by the Code of Student Conduct.

Students and student organizations who are found responsible for violating the policies listed in Article II, Prohibited Conduct, are subject to campus disciplinary sanctions. Charges may be assigned for violations of these policies against single students or groups of students and may apply to behavior on or off-campus. In addition, charges may be brought against students for violation of these charges whether the violation involved another student, faculty or staff member, or other member of the community.

Students who withdraw with disciplinary charges pending must have those charges adjudicated prior to any potential readmission. Students sanctioned to less than suspension will have their sanctions noted on their student conduct records. Students sanctioned to suspension or dismissal will have that outcome noted on student conduct records and on academic transcripts for seven years.

1. ACADEMIC DISHONESTY

Academic dishonesty is defined as any act by a student that misrepresents or attempts to misrepresent to an instructor or any University official, the proficiency or achievement of that student or another student in any academic exercise, or that is intended to alter any record of a student’s academic performance by unauthorized means.

Examples of Academic Dishonesty
The following examples, although not all-inclusive, are intended to help students understand what constitutes academic dishonesty. Other acts should not necessarily be considered as falling outside the scope of this policy because of their absence from this list

Cheating

• Unauthorized giving or receiving of information on an examination, laboratory procedure, or other exercise.
• Taking an examination for another student or allowing another student to take an examination for you.

Plagiarism

• Using materials (either specific words or unique ideas) from another person’s work without acknowledgment.
• Using quotations without identification as such or paraphrasing without specific identification of the source.
• Copying and/or modifying another person’s computer file, program, printout, or portion thereof for use in an assignment without permission of the instructor*
• Knowingly permitting one’s computer file, program, printout, or portion thereof to be copied or modified by another student for use in an assignment without permission of the instructor.

Re-use of Own Work

• Students who wish to submit the same paper or report for two different classes (in the same or different semesters) should consult with their instructors prior to submitting the paper or report as to whether this is acceptable.
• Students repeating a class who wish to submit their own previously written work should first consult with their instructor.

Other Infractions

• Altering or attempting to alter a grade on any piece of graded work, a grade written in an instructor’s personal records, or a grade written on any University form or transcribed in any official University record.
• Falsifying, or attempting to falsify, data pertinent to academic requirements.
• Contributing to another student’s work, or receiving contributions from another student, when the instructor has specified that collaboration is inappropriate.

Additional information about Academic Dishonesty including process/procedures, faculty/student responsibility and disputes can be found Appendix A: “Policy Statement on Academic Dishonesty.”

* Unauthorized use of another person’s computer user code may not necessarily be regarded as academic dishonesty. It is, nevertheless, a misuse of University property, perhaps theft, and will be dealt with under the provisions of the University Regulations as specified in this publication.

2. ALCOHOL

The possession, consumption and/or distribution of alcohol on campus grounds and in campus facilities is prohibited, except at events and under conditions authorized by the University and/or as expressly permitted by University policy. An individual’s use of alcohol on/off campus which results in a disruption to the campus community or a risk to personal safety will be considered a violation of this policy.

3. ASSAULT

No person shall intentionally or recklessly cause physical injury or impairment or bodily harm to any member of the University community, or any person who is on campus for a legitimate purpose.

4. INCIDENTS OF BIAS

No student shall engage in acts of bias that target an individual or group of individuals based on their actual or perceived protected characteristics, in a manner that is sufficiently serious to deny or limit a person’s ability to access, participate in, or benefit from any educational programs, activities, or employment within the scope of the university’s environment or purview (i.e., creates a hostile environment) as determined by the institution in accordance with state and federal law.

Note: A finding of responsibility for violating the “Incidents of Bias” charge carries sanctions. In addition, such a finding may add sanctions to a finding of responsibility for a violation of any other policy or charge.

Additional information about bias incidents and hate crimes may be found in Appendix C: “Bias Related Crimes & Acts Prevention.” The University’s Discrimination and Sexual Harassment Complaint Procedure may be found in Appendix B or in the University’s online policy library.

5.CANNABIS

Possession, use, sale, and/or distribution of cannabis on campus grounds and in campus facilities is prohibited. Cannabis paraphernalia (pipes, bongs, dab rigs, wax tools, etc.) and items associated with the use, sale, and/or distribution of cannabis are prohibited. Being in the presence of cannabis on campus is prohibited. This includes, but not limited to, attending gatherings where cannabis is present. An individual’s use of cannabis on or off campus which results in a disruption to the campus community or a risk to personal safety will be considered a violation of this policy.

6. COMPUTER MISUSE

1. No student shall use or allow any person to use an ID and/or password that does not belong to them, create access into the computing network in such a way that will bypass University security systems, attempt unauthorized access and use of other computing resources or data, violate software licenses or copyrights while using University equipment/network, or use computing services in any way which may violate federal, state, or local law.
2. No student shall send abusive, obscene, or threatening messages by use of computing facilities and services; attempt to read, delete, copy, or modify electronic mail or files of others without authorization; falsify the identity of the source of electronic mail messages; or send, without official University authorization, for-profit messages, chain letters, or other unsolicited material.
3. In accordance with the Digital Millennium Copyright Act, University policy also forbids the copying, distribution, downloading, and uploading of copyrighted materials on any personal or University computer system. These items include, but are not limited to, text (including e-mails and web information), graphics, art, photographs, music, film, and software. Participation in any of the above activities will result in disciplinary action.

Documents explaining the campus expectations regarding the use of campus information technology are available at the policy library website . Any alleged violations of these policies or agreements will be referred to the conduct process for appropriate action.

Students are cautioned that behavior conducted online can subject them to University conduct action, such as harassment delivered by email. Students must also be aware that social media postings are in the public sphere and are not private. These postings can subject a student to allegations of conduct violations, if evidence of a policy violation is posted online. The University does not monitor internet sites for this information, but will take action if and when such information is brought to the attention of University officials.

7. CRIME

Any student who has been charged, on or off campus, by a law enforcement agency with any crime other than a traffic infraction, will be referred to the Office of Community Standards.

8. DEMONSTRATIONS

Our constitution and our courts guarantee the right to dissent. The University is one institution within our society where this right is not only fundamental, but also essential. The right may be exercised by the use of written or spoken words, and by acts such as picketing and “peaceable” mass assembly and demonstrations, subject to reasonable University regulations on time, place and manner of such activity. The First Amendment protects the right to assemble and to petition, but it requires that the right be peaceably exercised. The University will not tolerate the deliberate disruption of the work or movement of others, nor will it condone violence or physical interference with the facilities or functions of the campus. If protestors (or anti-protestors) resort to the use of violence or physical interference, University officials may, without delay, invoke the use of legitimate authority to remove all violators.

The goal of the University is to provide the best possible educational environment. An essential part of this commitment is the necessity to maintain genuine academic freedom and to preserve the right of all members of this community to question, debate, criticize, and dissent peaceably. These cannot be preserved in the presence of force and violence or the threat of force and violence that interferes with or obstructs the work and activity of other members of the University community. [See the Trustees Rules for the Maintenance of Public Order in Appendix F.] Therefore, the University prohibits:

1. Unauthorized occupation of University facilities.
2. Violent conduct or the threat of violent conduct that obstructs or disrupts University activity. Such conduct will result in immediate steps to impose appropriate disciplinary action, including possible expulsion, under established procedures, on any student who engages in conduct that unreasonably interferes with the freedom of movement of persons on this campus or with the normal functions of the University.
3. The use of amplifying equipment in the academic quad when classes are in session, unless approved by the Vice President for Student Affairs or designee.

9. DISORDERLY CONDUCT/ABUSIVE BEHAVIOR

No person shall engage in any disorderly and/or disruptive conduct that interferes with the normal operations of the University, infringes upon the rights of others, and/or breaches the peace or safety of the University community. Prohibited behavior includes, but is not limited to: fighting, making unreasonable noise, disturbing a lawful meeting, obstructing pedestrian or vehicle traffic, or creating a hazardous situation by an act which serves no legitimate purpose.

10. DISRUPTIVE CLASSROOM BEHAVIOR

Instructors have a responsibility to maintain an effective learning situation in their classrooms and to deal promptly with any disruptions that interfere with the learning situation. Instructors are in charge of their classrooms. If an instructor feels that a student is interfering with the right of other students to profit from attendance in that classroom, or if an instructor feels that the presentation of the class subject matter is being unreasonably hindered, the instructor has every right to eject the offending student from the class and/or notify the Office of Community Standards of the student’s behavior. Either course of action should be taken with discretion and only for reasonable cause.

If a student is ejected from the class, it may be for that class period only and the instructor will immediately submit a written report of the incident to the Office of Community Standards, with a copy to the student and the appropriate academic dean. (If the incident involves physical violence, a report should also be made to the University Police.) Upon receipt of the report, the Office of Community Standards will immediately schedule an interview with the student to discuss the incident. Any subsequent incident reported to the Office of Community Standards involving the same student in any class will result in administrative action by the Office of Community Standards, and possible referral to the Standing Disciplinary Board of the University. The consequences of such action may include denying the student further access to the class or other disciplinary action, up to and including possible dismissal from the University.

11. DRUGS

Possession, use, and/or distribution of illegal drugs and/or prescription medication not prescribed for you is prohibited. An individual’s use of any drug, on/off campus, which results in a disruption to the campus community, will be considered a violation of this policy.

12. FAILURE TO COMPLY

Failure to comply with reasonable and lawful requests or directives of University officials or law enforcement officers acting in performance of their duties and/or interference with faculty, staff, or student staff acting in the performance of their official duties will result in disciplinary action.

13. FALSE ADMISSION APPLICATION

Applications for admission to any SUNY institution require disclosure of all previous college attendance. In cases where students are found not to have declared all such attendance, the Committee on Student Progress and Status will review the record. If the Committee decides that there is ground for disciplinary action, the complaint will be referred to Student Affairs for action by the Standing Disciplinary Board. If the student is found to have falsified the application after a hearing, the sanction may be immediate dismissal from the University.

14. FALSIFICATION OF INFORMATION

Furnishing false or misleading information to the University or other similar forms of dishonesty in University regulated affairs, including knowingly making false oral or written statements to any University official or hearing body, will result in disciplinary action. Forgery, alteration, or misuse of University or other official documents, records, or identification, such as possessing a forged instrument (ex: fake driver’s license), is prohibited.

15. HARASSMENT

Harassment, threats, verbal and/or physical abuse are prohibited. Behaviors that will constitute a violation of this policy include, but are not limited to:

• Attempting or threatening to subject another person to unwanted verbal or physical contact.
• Stalking any person by physical, electronic, written, or telephonic means.
• Persistent, pervasive, or severe bullying behaviors such as theft or destruction of personal property, public humiliation, intimidation, and/or threats of violence.

16. HAZING

No person, either singly or in concert with others, shall for the purpose of initiation into or affiliation with any organization or group, recklessly or intentionally take any action or create or participate in the creation of any situation that endangers the mental or physical health of another person. This includes, but is not limited to:

• Physical abuse (on or off campus), including but not limited to paddling, slapping, kicking, choking, scratching, exposure to extreme (i.e., cold or hot) temperatures, the consumption of disgusting and/or dangerous concoctions or the forced consumption of alcohol and/or drugs (legal or illegal), other liquids, food or condiments.
• Causing mental stress, including but not limited to placing prospective members of an organization or group in ambiguous situations which lead to confusion, emotional stress, embarrassment, humiliation, harassment, ridicule, and/or sleep deprivation.
• Verbal abuse, including but not limited to shouting, screaming or use of derogatory, profane, or obscene language.
• Subservience, including but not limited to any activity which promotes a class system within organizations or activities which facilitate inappropriate levels of authority over students. For example, forcing persons seeking membership or affiliation to serve meals to, clean for, or carry items for any veteran or full member of the group.

This list is not meant to be exhaustive. Any student or organization found to be involved in any type of hazing activity will face conduct action. The possible outcomes span the full range of sanctions, including dismissal from the University. Violation of this policy exists irrespective of the voluntary or consensual participation in the hazing activity by the person(s) being hazed.

17. HEALTH

Students may be required to take a leave of absence from the University when they have a health condition that may endanger the health of other students or themselves. See the policy on involuntary medical withdrawal within Article IV: “University Policies.”

18. IDENTIFICATION

Failure to show proper student identification or other identification to any faculty, staff, or student staff in the performance of their official duties will result in disciplinary action. All students are required to carry their identification with them at all times.

19. LIBRARY

The library is a place for study, research, and instruction. Reasonable standards of conduct are expected in order to reflect the educational purpose of the University, to protect the rights of library users, and to safeguard University property. The library staff is empowered to assure compliance with regulations supporting the appropriate use of the library. The following behaviors are prohibited: disruption or prevention of regular library activities; the unauthorized removal, defacing, mutilating, or theft of library materials; damaging the library building, its furnishings, or equipment; and smoking in any part of the library building. Students who violate these guidelines are subject to University disciplinary action and criminal prosecution where appropriate.

20. MISSION

As consistent with the aims of the Mission of the University and as citizens of the community of Oneonta, students are expected to improve the society in which they live and become productive members of that society. The standards set forth in the Code of Conduct are meant to embody the mission of the University. Therefore, any student whose behavior, on or off campus, seriously compromises our mission or endangers the lives, property, or physical welfare of members of the University community, will be referred to the conduct process for appropriate action.

21. MISUSE/DESTRUCTION OF PROPERTY

Misuse of any property belonging to the University or in the possession of the University may result in disciplinary action by the University and/or criminal prosecution. Such action by the University shall not preclude the necessity for repair or replacement of such property. Library materials, animal, plant materials, or other natural features etc. shall be considered University property. Furnishings, fixtures, equipment, and supplies of University buildings and buildings leased from the Dormitory Authority shall also be considered University property.

22. ORDINANCES

Any student charged, by a law enforcement agency, with more than one violation of any Ordinance(s) of the City or Town of Oneonta, excluding parking ordinances, will be referred to the Office of Community Standards. Immediate adjudication may occur in cases where the behavior described creates a risk of personal injury, safety, or well-being for any member of the community; even if the incident is the first violation.

23. RECKLESS ENDANGERMENT

No person shall recklessly engage in conduct which creates a substantial risk of serious injury to another person.

24. RESIDENCE HALL LICENSE

Students living on campus or visiting a residence hall are required to comply with all policies and procedures as outlined in the Residence Hall License. The Residence Hall License is online at https://suny.oneonta.edu/residential-community-life/housing-policies

25. RETALIATION

No person may harass or intimidate another person because of their participation in an investigation conducted by the University. Harassment or intimidation includes but is not limited to threats or actual violence against the person or their property, adverse educational or employment consequences, ridicule, taunting, bullying or ostracism.

26. THEFT/POSSESSION OF STOLEN PROPERTY/CRIMINAL MISCHIEF

No person shall take, knowingly possess, or intentionally or recklessly damage property other than one’s own without the consent of the owner, or intentionally impede recovery by the owner or University officials acting on behalf of the owner.

27. TRESPASSING

No person shall knowingly enter into and/or utilize any University facility or service without proper authorization. No person shall knowingly enter a facility that they have specifically been prohibited from entering as per a conduct sanction.

28. WEAPONS

Possession and or use of any Weapon or any device capable of use as a weapon by release of explosive material, noxious material, electric discharge, or projectile, is prohibited on Campus.

Exemptions to this Policy are as follows:

The President, as the chief administrative officer of the Campus, and consistent with 8NYCRR Part 590, grants the following exceptions to the prohibition of Weapons on Campus:

• Military or law enforcement of the United States or the State of New York in pursuit of their official duties, as provided for under 8 NYCRR 590.1, SUNY Policy 5403.
• Possession of a self-defense spray as allowed under New Your State Penal Law Section 265.20(a)(14) and must follow New York State Codes, Rules and Regulations Section 54.3 Requirements.

Compliance with Policy

• Failure to comply with the University’s prohibition of Weapons on Campus shall be considered an intentional violation of Campus policy.
• Violation of this policy may result in criminal prosecution, disciplinary action, including termination from employment or expulsion from the Campus, and/or other sanctions.

29. SEXUAL & INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE

The University believes in fostering a safe and caring environment, conducive to intellectual, personal, and civic development. All members of the community and visitors have the right to be free from any form of sexual and interpersonal violence and should conduct themselves in a manner that does not infringe upon the rights of others. SUNY Oneonta is committed to creating and maintaining an educational environment free from all forms of sex discrimination, including sexual violence, relationship violence and stalking. Any act of violence and/or stalking will not be tolerated.

Definitions

Dating Violence:

As defined in the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) Reauthorization of 2022 and the VAWA Amendments to the Clery Act, is any violence committed by a person: (A) who is or has been in a social relationship of a romantic or intimate nature with the victim; and (B) Where the existence of such a relationship shall be determined based on a consideration of the following factors: (i) The length of the relationship; (ii) the type of relationship; and (iii) The frequency of interaction between the persons involved in the relationship.

Domestic Violence:

Any felony or misdemeanor crimes committed by a person who: (A) is a current or former partner of the victim under the family or domestic violence laws of New York or a person similarly situated to a spouse of the victim; (B) is cohabitating, or has cohabitated, with the victim as a spouse or intimate partner; (C) shared a child in common with the victim; or (D) commits acts against a youth or adult victim who is protected from those acts under the family or domestic violence laws of New York.

Stalking:

Engaging in a course of conduct directed at a specific person that would cause a reasonable person to: (A) fear for the person’s safety or the safety of others; or (B) suffer substantial emotional distress.

Sexual Assault

As defined in the Clery Act, meaning any sexual act directed against another person, without the consent of the victim, including instances where the victim is incapable of giving consent.

Sexual Assault offenses will include, but are not limited to:

Non-Consensual Sexual Intercourse (or attempts to commit same)
Non-Consensual Sexual Contact (or attempts to commit same)
Sexual Exploitation
Sexual Harassment

Non-Consensual Sexual Intercourse

For the purposes of this policy Non-Consensual Sexual Intercourse is defined as any sexual intercourse, penetration, or oral copulation (anal, oral, or vaginal) however slight, with any object, without effective consent. This may include, but is not limited to, physical sexual violence such as sexual assault or sexual battery.

Non-Consensual Sexual Contact

For the purposes of this policy Non-Consensual Sexual Contact is defined as any intentional sexual touching, however slight, with any object, without effective consent. This may include, but is not limited to, sexual battery or sexual coercion.

Sexual Exploitation

Occurs when a student takes non-consensual or abusive sexual advantage of another for one’s own benefit, or to benefit anyone other than the person being exploited, and that behavior does not otherwise constitute one of other sexual misconduct offenses. Examples of sexual exploitation include, but are not limited to:

• prostituting another student;
• non-consensual video or audio taping of sexual activity;
• going beyond the boundaries of consent (examples include but are not limited to letting others hide in order to watch consensual sexual activity, nonconsensual condom removal, etc.)
• engaging in voyeurism;
• knowingly transmitting an STI or HIV to another student;
• invasion of sexual privacy;
• exposing one’s genitals or inducing another to expose their genitals in non-consensual circumstances.

Sex-Based Harassment:

Sexual harassment and other harassment on the basis of sex, including harassment because of gender identity, sexual orientation, sex characteristics, sex stereotypes, and/or pregnancy and other conditions, that is:

Two Types of Sexual Harassment

1. Quid pro quo harassment (this for that)

   An employee, agent or other person authorized by SUNY Oneonta’s Education Program or Activity explicitly or impliedly conditioning the provision of such an aid, benefit, or service on a person’s participation in unwelcome sexual conduct.

2. Hostile Environment
   Unwelcome sex-based conduct that, based on the totality of the circumstances, is subjectively and objectively offensive and is so severe or pervasive that it limits or denies a person’s ability to participate in or benefit from SUNY Oneonta’s Education Program or Activity (i.e., creates a hostile environment). Whether a hostile environment has been created is a fact-specific inquiry that includes consideration of the following:
   1. the degree to which the conduct affected the Complainant’s ability to access SUNY Oneonta’s educational Program or Activity.
   2. the type, frequency, and duration of the conduct.
   3. the Parties’ ages, roles within SUNY Oneonta’s Educational Program or Activity, previous interactions and other factors about each Party that may be relevant to evaluating the effects of the conduct.
   4. the location of the conduct and the context in which the conduct occurred and
   5. other Sex-Based Harassment in SUNY Oneonta’s Educational Program or Activity.

Persons accused of sexual misconduct, in any form will be subject to disciplinary action in accordance with University policies and procedures. At the discretion of the University, persons accused of sexual and/or interpersonal violence may be immediately removed from campus on an emergency basis or restricted from areas of the campus pending final disposition of any disciplinary proceedings if they pose a continuing threat to the health and safety of the community. Individuals found to be in violation of the Sexual & Interpersonal Violence policy in any way will be subject to sanctions, up to and including dismissal from the University.

Affirmative Consent: Affirmative consent is a knowing, voluntary, and mutual decision among all participants to engage in sexual activity. Consent can be given by words or actions, as long as those words or actions create clear permission regarding willingness to engage in the sexual activity. Silence or lack of resistance, in and of itself, does not demonstrate consent. The definition of consent does not vary based upon a participant's sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.

• Consent to any sexual act or prior consensual sexual activity between or with any party does not necessarily constitute consent to any other sexual act.
• Consent is required regardless of whether the person initiating the act is under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol.
• Consent may be initially given but withdrawn at any time.
• Consent cannot be given when a person is incapacitated, which occurs when an individual lacks the ability to knowingly choose to participate in sexual activity. Incapacitation may be caused by the lack of consciousness or being asleep, being involuntarily restrained, or if an individual otherwise cannot consent. Depending on the degree of intoxication, someone who is under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or other intoxicants may be incapacitated and therefore unable to consent.
• Consent cannot be given when it is the result of any coercion, intimidation, force, or threat of harm.
• When consent is withdrawn or can no longer be given, sexual activity must stop.

Possession, use and/or distribution of any so-called “date rape” drug including, but not limited to, Rohypnol, Ketamine, GHB, Burundanga, etc. is prohibited, and administering one of these drugs to another person for the purposes of inducing incapacity is a violation of this policy.

Policy for Alcohol and/or Drug Use Amnesty in Sexual & Interpersonal Violence

The health and safety of every student at the State University of New York and its State-operated and community colleges is of utmost importance. SUNY Oneonta recognizes that students who have been drinking and/or using drugs (whether such use is voluntary or involuntary) at the time that violence, including but not limited to domestic violence, dating violence, stalking, or sexual assault occurs may be hesitant to report such incidents due to fear of potential consequences for their own conduct. SUNY Oneonta strongly encourages students to report incidents of domestic violence, dating violence, stalking, or sexual assault to institution officials. A bystander acting in good faith or a reporting individual acting in good faith that discloses any incident of domestic violence, dating violence, stalking, or sexual assault to SUNY Oneonta officials or law enforcement will not be subject to SUNY Oneonta code of conduct action for violations of alcohol and/or drug use policies occurring at or near the time of the commission of the domestic violence, dating violence, stalking, or sexual assault.

Procedures for Addressing Sexual & Interpersonal Violence

When a complaint is pursued through the Office of Community Standards, the University will expedite strong judicial action through its own channels and will not defer to the criminal courts. An individual accused of sexual violence will be subject to University judicial procedures, whether or not prosecution under New York State Criminal Statutes is pending. During the judicial process, the rights of the respondent student are as described under Article III: University Conduct System, specifically the due process procedures outlined under the Standing Disciplinary Board section of this Code, as well as federal and New York State law, including the due process provisions of the United States and New York State Constitutions. These rights will be reviewed with the accused student prior to the hearing by the Office of Community Standards.

When the respondent student presents a continuing threat to the health and safety of the community, the University will subject the accused to interim suspension pending the outcome of the conduct process.

The University will make every effort to be responsive and sensitive to the reporting individuals of these serious crimes. A student who has reported an act of sexual violence, relationship violence, or stalking may request an academic accommodation or change in residence after a report has been made. Any individual who makes a request will receive an appropriate and reasonable accommodation. Possible requests include the ability to change academic schedules or work schedules, withdraw from or retake a class without penalty, access academic support such as tutoring services, and change residence hall assignments. In addition to these accommodations the University can issue a No Contact Order, prohibiting the respondent (and any third party acting on their behalf) from contacting the reporting individual. This means that continuing to contact the protected individual is a violation of University policy subject to additional conduct charges; if the respondent and a protected person observe each other in a public place; it is the responsibility of the respondent to leave the area immediately and without directly contacting the protected person.

Throughout conduct proceedings, the respondent and the reporting individual will have:

• The same opportunity to be accompanied by an advisor of their choice who may assist and advise the parties throughout the conduct process and any related hearings or meetings. Participation of the advisor in any proceeding is governed by federal law and the Code of Student Conduct.
• The right to a prompt response to any complaint and to have their complaint investigated and adjudicated in an impartial, timely, and thorough manner by individuals who receive annual training in conducting investigations of sexual violence, the effects of trauma, impartiality, the rights of the respondent, including the right to a presumption that the respondent is “not responsible” until a finding of responsibility is made, and other issues related to sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking.
• The right to an investigation and process conducted in a manner that recognizes the legal and policy requirements of due process (including fairness, impartiality, and a meaningful opportunity to be heard) and is not conducted by individuals with a conflict of interest.
• The right to receive advance written or electronic notice of the date, time, and location of any meeting or hearing they are required to or are eligible to attend. Accused individuals will also be told the factual allegations concerning the violation, a reference to the specific code of conduct provisions alleged to have been violated, and possible sanctions.
• The right to have a conduct process run concurrently with a criminal justice investigation and proceeding, except for temporary delays as requested by external municipal entities while law enforcement gathers evidence. Temporary delays should not last more than 10 days except when law enforcement specifically requests and justifies a longer delay.
• The right to offer evidence during an investigation and to review available relevant evidence in the case file (or otherwise held by SUNY Oneonta).
• The right to present evidence and testimony at a hearing, where appropriate.
• The right to a range of options for providing testimony via alternative arrangements, including telephone/video conferencing or testifying with a room partition.
• The right to exclude prior sexual history with persons other than the other party in the conduct process or their own mental health diagnosis or treatment from admittance in University disciplinary stage that determines responsibility. Past findings of domestic violence, dating violence, stalking, or sexual assault may be admissible in the disciplinary stage that determines sanction.
• The right to ask questions of the decision maker and via the decision maker indirectly request responses from other parties and any other witnesses present.
• The right to make an impact statement during the point of the proceeding where the decision maker is deliberating on appropriate sanctions.
• The right to simultaneous (among the parties) written or electronic notification of the outcome of a conduct proceeding, including the decision, any sanctions, and the rationale for the decision and any sanctions.
• The right to written or electronic notice about the sanction(s) that may be imposed on the accused based upon the outcome of the conduct proceeding. For students found responsible for sexual assault, the available sanctions are suspension with additional requirements and expulsion/dismissal.
• Access to at least one level of appeal of a determination before a panel, which may include one or more students, that is fair and impartial and does not include individuals with a conflict of interest.
• The right to have access to a full and fair record of a hearing, which shall be preserved and maintained for at least five years.
• The right to choose whether to disclose or discuss the outcome of a conduct hearing.
• The right to have all information obtained during the judicial process be protected from public release until the appeals panel makes a final determination unless otherwise required by law.

Privacy

The University will protect the privacy of all parties to a complaint or other report of sexual and/or interpersonal violence to the extent possible. When the University receives complaints of violence an obligation exists to respond in a way that limits the effects of the violence and prevents its recurrence. Information will be shared as necessary in the course of an investigation with people who need to know, such as investigators, witnesses, the reporting individual, and the respondent. If you are the reporting individual and are unsure of someone’s duties and ability to maintain your privacy, ask them before you talk to them. Certain staff members are obligated by law to maintain confidentiality, including the on-campus Counseling Center staff and the local, off-campus rape crisis center. Contact information for both of those facilities is in the “Information, Resources and Support” section of this policy. (For further information on options for confidentiality and privacy, please visit: https://suny.oneonta.edu/know-violence/reporting).

Timeline

Once a complaint is received by the Office of Community Standards, a full investigation of the complaint will ensue. The investigation will be completed within 10 business days of receipt of the complaint. The next step is to hold a hearing in order to adjudicate the complaint. If a hearing will not be held for any reason, all parties will be notified at this point. The hearing, if held, will occur within 10 business days after completing the investigation. Both the respondent student and the reporting individual will receive notice of the outcome of the hearing concurrently, within 5 business days after the hearing is completed.

If extraordinary circumstances prevent any step from occurring within the stated time frame or if there are unanticipated delays (school breaks, inclement weather, witness or hearing board members are unavailable) all parties will be notified and will be given an estimated time for the step to occur. Extensions requested by any party must be approved by the Office of Community Standards. Granted extensions will not be longer than 5 business days.

Proscribed Sanctions: If found responsible, available sanctions include,

• Sex Based Harassment (Quid pro quo or Hostile Environment) No contact order, probation, residence hall revocation, residence hall transfer, suspension for one, two, three, or four semesters, dismissal from the University, and educational sanctions.
• Sexual Assault (Non-Consensual Intercourse or Contact) No contact order, probation, residence hall revocation, suspension for one, two, three, or four semesters, and dismissal from the University. If a student is found responsible for non-consensual sexual intercourse, the University will impose a sanction or suspension or dismissal, with additional requirements as appropriate.
• Dating Violence: No contact order, probation, residence hall revocation, residence hall transfer, suspension for one, two, three, or four semesters, dismissal from the University, and educational sanctions.
• Domestic Violence: No contact order, probation, residence hall revocation, residence hall transfer, suspension for one, two, three, or four semesters, dismissal from the University, and educational sanctions.
• Stalking: No contact order, probation, residence hall revocation, residence hall transfer, suspension for one, two, three, or four semesters, dismissal from the University, and educational sanctions.
• Sexual Exploitation: No contact order, probation, residence hall revocation, suspension for one, two, three, or four semesters, dismissal from the University, and educational sanctions.

Sexual & Interpersonal Violence Appeal Process:

After receiving notice of the hearing outcome either party can request an appeal, via the online Appeal Request Form, within 5 business days based on the following grounds:

1. A procedural error so substantial that it affected the fundamental fairness of the hearing.
2. Significant information, unavailable during the original hearing that could be outcome determinative.
3. The sanction imposed was arbitrary or grossly disproportionate to the severity of the offense.
4. The decision does not accord with the information or evidence presented.

The appeal should be submitted using the Appeal Request form on the Community Standards website and will be reviewed by a panel. The non-requesting party will receive notice of the appeal and may submit a written statement to the appellate panel within 5 business days. The Appeal Panel’s decision will be communicated to both parties within 5 business days. The decision of the Appeal Panel is final.

Information, Resources and Support

After a report has been received, the University and community have a range of options, accommodations, and protective measures to offer the victim. Victims have these options available to them even if they choose not to proceed with discipline or criminal charges, and without a time limitation.

Resources for Immediate Assistance:

The resources listed below are either open/operational 24/7/365 or have on-call personnel available to assist you that may be reached by University Police.

(*) indicates resources that can provide a confidential response in a crisis. The other resources listed are not bound by confidentiality but will work to maintain your individual privacy.

If you are in continuing danger, contact University Police Department (UPD) immediately at 607-436-3550. You may choose to seek support from a resident assistant, a residence hall director, or a trained advocate from the Violence Intervention Program (VIP).

To request the services of an advocate, you may call the VIP 24-hour hotline at 607-432-4855 or you may call UPD at 607-436-3550. Calling UPD to request an advocate does not obligate you to file a police report.

If you want to file a report with UPD and/or with local police, the University Police Department officers will help you. Whether or not you want to file a report, officers can also give you information and assistance in seeking medical treatment, collecting evidence, contacting an advocate, and/or getting additional services on and off campus.

Individuals who have been victims of sexual violence frequently experience physical and/or psychological trauma. Even if you do not want to report the incident to any authorities, please consider getting assistance from medical or counseling professionals.

Resources for Ongoing Assistance:

The resources listed below are trained professionals who can provide on-going counseling, advocacy, support and/or accommodations after a report is made.

(*) indicates resources that can maintain confidentiality. The other resources listed are not bound by confidentiality, but will work to maintain your individual privacy.

ARTICLE III: UNIVERSITY CONDUCT SYSTEM

Students should be aware that the campus conduct process is quite different from criminal and civil court proceedings. Procedures and rights in campus conduct proceedings are conducted with fairness to all, but do not mimic the formality of criminal trials. Due process, within these procedures, assures some form of notice of charges and a hearing before an objective decision-maker. Students are permitted to have one advisor, of their choosing, at any hearing. Said advisor is not permitted to participate in any portion of the hearing process, other than to advise the student. The student must represent themselves. No student will be found in violation of University policy without information showing that it is more likely than not that a policy violation occurred. Nothing in these procedures implies that civil or criminal action cannot be taken independent of this process in appropriate cases.

The conduct process includes three levels of adjudication. At the lowest level, complaints are heard by Administrative Hearing Officers within the Office of Residential and Community Life. At the next level, complaints are heard by Administrative Hearing Officers within the Office of Community Standards. At the highest level, complaints are heard by the Standing Disciplinary Board (SDB).

There shall be a single verbatim record, such as a digital audio recording, of all conduct hearings. This recording will be made by and shall be the property of the University. Relevant parties of a case (i.e., accused student and complainant) may request permission, in writing, to listen to the official recording in an approved campus location. Also, an official transcript may be made at the requesting party’s expense by an approved transcriber. These requests should be made to the Office of Community Standards.

The Office of Community Standards determines the level at which complaints will be adjudicated. Alleged violations for which the accused student may be suspended will be heard by the Office of Community Standards or SDB; if dismissal is a possibility, the complaint will be heard by the SDB. There are the following exceptions:

1. If the complaint cannot be heard by the SDB in a timely manner, it may be adjudicated by the Office of Community Standards.
2. A student who is facing suspension and is informed that the complaint will be heard by the Office of Community Standards may request in writing that the complaint is heard instead by the SDB. The written request must be submitted to the Office of Community Standards within 24hrs of the student having been informed of the hearing.

ADMINISTRATIVE HEARINGS

Notice of a Hearing

The Office of Community Standards reviews incident reports submitted regarding any potential violations of University policy. Incident reports may come from residence life staff members, University Police, City of Oneonta Police, or anyone else who observes a potential violation of the Code of Student Conduct. Once a determination is made that a case will be adjudicated, the student is notified via their SUNY Oneonta email account about the pending charges and the date of the hearing.

If the student does not attend the scheduled meeting, a “missed meeting” notice will be sent via the student’s SUNY Oneonta email giving a deadline by which to contact the hearing officer to schedule the meeting. If the student fails to contact the hearing officer by the stated deadline, the hearing may take place in absentia, and a decision will be made based solely on the information provided in the incident report(s). Students found responsible in absentia are expected to complete any assigned sanctions by the stated deadlines.

Due Process Procedures for Administrative Hearings

1. The student who has been accused of a violation will be informed of the alleged violation(s) in writing or orally at the time of the administrative hearing.

2. The nature of the evidence against the student will be provided at the hearing.

3. The student has the right to make statements and present fact witnesses. Those witnesses can be limited by the hearing officer if unduly repetitious. Where a witness cannot be physically present, telephone interviews and/or signed written statements can be substituted at the discretion of the hearing officer.

4. The student may ask that the administrative hearing be postponed for 24 hours in order to have time to call witnesses or to gather witness statements.

5. While accused students have the right to remain silent and cannot be compelled to participate in hearings or may attend but choose not to respond to some or all questions, reasonable inferences can and will be drawn by hearing officer based upon the available evidence.

6. Decisions about violations of the Code of Conduct will be based on a preponderance of the evidence. This means that a student will only be found in violation of the Code of Student Conduct if information indicates it is more likely than not that the student engaged in behaviors constituting a violation.

Administrative Hearing Sanctions

Each case is heard individually to determine if the student is responsible for violating the policy for which they have been charged. If a student is found responsible for a Code of Conduct violation, an administrative hearing officer may impose any one or more of the sanctions below.

It is important to know there are many factors that are considered in determining the appropriate sanction(s), including whether the student has a history of previous violations. Code of Conduct violations that are motivated by bias may incur a more severe sanction. A Community Director or Residence Hall Director may impose any one or more of the sanctions below with the exception of Suspension, Restrictive Disciplinary probation, and Residence Hall License Revocation.

• Suspension: Separation from the University for a specified period, or the meeting of clearly established conditions or criteria for re-entry. If the suspension occurs during the semester in which the student is currently enrolled, no academic credit for any courses may be awarded or refund of tuition issued. Readmission would usually be automatic for the student at the end of the suspension period unless the hearing officer limits return to the satisfaction of specific conditions.
• Restrictive Disciplinary Probation: This status is given for a specific period. During that probationary period, the student may remain a member of any club or recognized student organization. However, the hearing officer may consult with faculty and/or staff on campus to restrict additional campus activities of the student. This may include all or some of the following: not being able to represent the University in any way (e.g. as a tour guide, ambassador, RA or OL); restrictions in the ability to hold elective or appointive office in any organization related to the University; not being allowed to participate in interscholastic or intramural sports, or in any theatrical performance that is not part of class assignments; or the inability to receive public recognition in any way through official University activities. In general, restrictive disciplinary probation is seen as allowing the student to pursue only those activities that enhance academic progress. Restrictive disciplinary probation carries with it the assumption that if the student should violate any other University regulations during the period of probation, suspension or dismissal are likely sanctions.
• Probation II: Indicates that, for the time specified by the hearing officer; the student may be referred to the Standing Disciplinary Board for any future violations of any other University policies and, therefore, may be suspended or dismissed if found responsible.
• Probation I: Means that the student should understand that any future policy violation will result in further judicial conduct review.
  • A note about Probation I and II: There are SUNY Oneonta leadership positions and academic experiences that require a review of student conduct records before acceptance into those opportunities. Being on Probation at any level may disqualify students from being eligible to participate. These include but are not limited to Resident Advisor and Night Host positions, as well as international study experiences.
• Warning: An official warning may be provided to the student, indicating violation of the Code of Student Conduct and/or the Residence Hall License. A copy of the letter is kept in the confidential records of the student maintained by the Office of Community Standards.
• Restitution: In kind restitution of property or monies may be required when appropriate.
• Community Service: Means that the student will be required to complete a set number of service hours at an assigned location to repay the community for rights violated or damages done.
• Residence Hall Ban: Means a student is no longer permitted to visit a specific hall.
• Residence Hall Transfer: Means a student may be relocated to another residence hall as appropriate. When transferred from a residence hall, the student is also banned from that hall.
• Residence Hall License Revocation: Means that the student may be immediately removed from campus housing and not permitted in any residence hall for any reason indefinitely.
• Educational Sanctions: Additional sanctions that may be assigned when appropriate, at the discretion of the hearing officer.

STANDING DISCIPLINARY BOARD

This board will hear all disciplinary complaints referred to it by the Office of Community Standards. The University reserves the right to impose a deadline for a student to decide whether to request a Board hearing or withdraw from the University with a transcript notation.

It is understood that until the Standing Disciplinary Board takes action, the Vice President for Student Affairs or designee may immediately suspend a student on an interim basis pending a full hearing when the student’s continued attendance constitutes a clear and present danger. In such cases, the student will be given the opportunity to meet with the Vice President for Student Affairs or designee within 24 hours after the interim suspension to discuss the propriety of the temporary suspension.

The Standing Disciplinary Board shall consist of:

1. Voting Members
   1. Six annually trained faculty/staff members. Three of the members are to be elected by the faculty at large from a slate of at least three nominees for each position. These faculty members will serve a three-year term. Additionally, three faculty or staff members will be selected by the Committee on Student Life. These members will serve a one-year term and may be reappointed for subsequent years.
   2. Six trained students to be appointed by the President of the University following consultation with the President of the Student Association. The students will serve a one-year term.
2. Non-voting Members
   1. The Vice President for Student Affairs or designee shall serve as a consultant to the Board.
   2. The President of the Student Association shall serve as liaison between the Student Association and the Standing Disciplinary Board and shall be present at hearings at which the Student Association may be affected.

Procedures

1. For the purposes of hearing a Standing Disciplinary Board case, there will be five board members chosen from the above-defined pool of trained faculty, staff, and students (A chairperson from the faculty/staff, two other faculty/staff members, and two students.)

2. The chairperson of the Disciplinary Board shall be one of the faculty/staff members, elected by a majority vote of the faculty/staff and student members of the Board at its first meeting of the academic year. During a hearing the chair shall have one vote, to be used only in the event of a tie vote among the other members of the Disciplinary Board.

3. Each of the two other faculty/staff members serving on the board and each of the two student members shall have one vote during a hearing.

4. The Standing Disciplinary Board shall consider complaints of student misconduct in accordance with the procedures outlined by the University’s Conduct System. Complaints shall be referred to the Standing Disciplinary Board under the following circumstances:

   1. Any student or student group, whose misconduct, in the estimation of the Student Affairs Office, might result in the student’s suspension or dismissal may be referred to the Standing Disciplinary Board.

   2. A student or student group has the right, by request to the Office of Community Standards, to have reviewed by the Standing Disciplinary Board and action taken against them by any other board, committee, or individual other than the President of the University.

   3. Any behavior on or off campus in which a student acts in such a way as to adversely affect the campus, members of the campus community, or its educational mission may be subject to referral to the Standing Disciplinary Board.

   4. Any member of the community may suggest to the Office of Community Standards that a complaint is so egregious it should be referred to the Standing Disciplinary Board. This applies to any individual.

5. Voting shall be by means of a secret ballot with a simple majority rule, with the vote of each member stated for the record determining the results. Abstentions are not permitted. Where a sanction is imposed, the student shall be informed explicitly of its nature and limits. The Office of Community Standards shall be notified of the action taken in each complaint and shall be responsible for ensuring that the sanction is imposed. That office will present to the student a written, detailed explanation of the reasons for the finding(s) and the sanction to be imposed.

6. An accurate record of all hearings, including the vote, shall be kept in a confidential file.

7. The student or student group may appeal the actions of the Standing Disciplinary Board by submitting an appeal to the Vice President for Student Affairs or designee. The appeal will be heard by a three (3) person panel as outlined in the appeal process found later in this document. The student or student organization shall be informed of the right to such appeal.

8. A written description of the University judicial procedure shall be made available to any student or group under disciplinary consideration.

9. There shall be a single verbatim record, such as a digital audio recording, of all hearings conducted by the Standing Disciplinary Board. The record shall be the property of the University.

10. The Standing Disciplinary Board may dismiss charges against a student where it feels the original charges were not warranted.

The following sanctions may be imposed by the Standing Disciplinary Board:

1. Dismissal: Permanent separation from the University with no opportunity for readmission. Dismissal also carries with it a permanent bar to being present on campus, on University-owned property, or at University-sponsored events.

2. Suspension: Means separation from the University for a specified period of time, or the meeting of clearly established conditions or criteria for re-entry. If suspension occurs during the semester in which the student is currently enrolled, no academic credit for any courses may be awarded or refund of tuition issued. Readmission would usually be automatic for the student at the end of the suspension period, unless the hearing officer limits return to the satisfaction of specific conditions.

3. Restrictive Disciplinary Probation: This status is given for a specific period of time. During that probationary period, the student may remain a member of any club or recognized student organization. However, the hearing officer may consult with faculty and/or staff on campus to restrict additional campus activities of the student. This may include all or some of the following: not being able to represent the University in any way (e.g. as a tour guide, ambassador, RA or OL); restrictions in the ability to hold elective or appointive office in any organization related to the University; not being allowed to participate in interscholastic or intramural sports, or in any theatrical performance that is not part of class assignments; or the inability to receive public recognition in any way through official University activities. In general, restrictive disciplinary probation is seen as allowing the student to pursue only those activities that enhance academic progress. Restrictive disciplinary probation carries with it the assumption that if the student should violate any other University regulations during the period of probation, suspension or dismissal are likely sanctions.

4. Probation II: Imposes no restriction on the activities of the individual involved, but indicates that for the time specified by the Disciplinary Board, the student may be suspended or expelled if found responsible for violating any other University regulation.

   1. A note about Probation: There are SUNY Oneonta leadership positions and academic experiences that require a review of student conduct records before acceptance into those opportunities. Being on Probation at any level may disqualify students from being eligible to participate. These include, but are not limited to: Resident Advisor and Night Host positions, as well as international study experiences.

5. Warning: An official warning may be provided to the student, indicating violation of the Code of Student Conduct and/or the Residence Hall License. A copy of the letter is kept in the confidential records of the student maintained by the Office of Community Standards.
6. Restitution: In kind restitution of property or monies may be required when appropriate.
7. Community Service: Means that the student will be required to complete a set number of service hours at an assigned location to repay the community for rights violated or damages done.
8. Residence Hall Ban: Means a student is no longer permitted to visit a specific hall.
9. Residence Hall Transfer: Means a student may be relocated to another residence hall as appropriate. When transferred from a residence hall, the student is also banned from that hall.
10. Residence Hall License Revocation: Means that the student may be immediately removed from campus housing and not permitted in any residence hall for any reason indefinitely.
11. Educational Sanctions: Additional sanctions that may be assigned when appropriate, at the discretion of the hearing officer.

When considering appropriate sanctions, the Standing Disciplinary Board will consider the following information.

• The nature and severity of the conduct;
• The Respondent’s prior conduct history;
• The impact of the conduct;
• How SUNY Oneonta has sanctioned similar incidents in the past; and
• Whether the Respondent has accepted responsibility.

Due Process Procedures for Complaints Adjudicated by the Standing Disciplinary Board:

No complaint will be forwarded for a hearing unless there is reasonable cause to believe a policy has been violated. Reasonable cause is defined as some information to support each element of the offense, even if that information is merely a credible witness or victim’s statement. A complaint wholly unsupported by any information will not be forwarded for a hearing.

The Office of Community Standards may make any necessary modification to procedures to ensure efficiency and fairness to the accused.

Notice and pre-hearing procedures

If the Office of Community Standards determines that there is reasonable cause to believe that a policy has been violated and that a complaint should be referred for a hearing, notice will be given to the accused student. Notice will be in writing and may be delivered via email to a student’s SUNY Oneonta email account, or in person during a meeting with the Office of Community Standards. Notice may also be mailed to the local or permanent address of the accused student. Once mailed, it is presumed that such notice will be delivered.

The letter of notice will briefly provide a description of the incident alleged, as well as stating all policies the accused student is alleged to have violated. Relevant procedures for resolution of the complaint will be included in the notice.

The letter of notice will direct the accused student to contact the Office of Community Standards to respond to the complaint, if they have not already done so. A meeting with the Office of Community Standards can be arranged to explain the nature of the complaint and the conduct process.

The Office of Community Standards will schedule a hearing. Written notice of the time, date and location of the hearing will be sent to the accused student, who may additionally be notified in person, by telephone, or by their SUNY Oneonta e-mail.

The Office of Community Standards presents all cases to the Standing Disciplinary Board (Board) and serves as complainant. If there is an alleged victim of the conduct in question, they may elect to provide a statement to the administration to be used at the hearing or testify as a witness.

If a student fails to respond to notice from the Office of Community Standards a complaint will be initiated against the student for failure to comply with the directives of a University official. The student will be given notice of this offense. Unless the student responds to this notice within two business days by answering the initial notice, the student may be interim suspended until such time as they respond to the initial complaint.

At least forty-eight hours before any scheduled hearing, the following will occur:

• The accused student will deliver to the Office of Community Standards a written list of all witnesses the accused student wants the University to call on their behalf at the hearing, giving the full contact information of any such witness, if known.
• The accused student will deliver to the Office of Community Standards a written list of all items of physical evidence the accused student intends to use or needs to have present at the hearing and will indicate who has possession or custody of such evidence, if known.
• If there is an alleged victim, that person may deliver to the Office of Community Standards a written list of any potential witnesses that may have information on the matter, as well as a written list of any physical evidence (including the location of such evidence, if known) that may assist in the presentation of the case.
• The accused student will notify the Office of Community Standards of a chosen advisor if the student elects to have one present at the hearing. The student may choose to have an attorney serve as the advisor. An advisor is permitted to attend hearings but is not permitted to participate other than to advise the student. Any advisor who fails to observe these rules may be dismissed from the hearing.
• The Office of Community Standards will ensure that all information to be presented at the hearing is shared with the accused student before any scheduled hearing. In addition, the accused student will be given the names of the Board Members who will participate in the hearing. Should the accused student object to any members of the board or panel, they must raise all objections in writing to the Office immediately. Board Members will be unseated only if the Office of Community Standards, in consultation with the Board Chair, concludes that their bias precludes an impartial hearing of the complaint. Additionally, any Board member or hearing officer who feels they cannot make an objective determination must recuse themself from the proceedings.

Hearing Procedures

During the hearing, the Office of Community Standards will present the case. The accused student and the Office will present opening statements and will be permitted to ask questions of each other via the Chair of the Board. Each party will also be questioned by the Board. Witnesses for the accused student and for the University will be presented and questioned by the parties and the Board. The Chair has discretion to make provision for any witness who cannot be present to give information via telephone or by signed written statement. The accused student may choose not to answer some or all questions at the hearing. In that event, the Board is permitted to draw reasonable inferences based upon the information available. Closing statements will then be made. In any joint hearing, separate determinations will be made as to the responsibility of each student accused.

The Board will deliberate in closed session and determine by majority vote whether it is more likely than not that the student has violated the Code of Student Conduct. The Office of Community Standards will be excused from the room but remain available as a resource during all deliberations. If the Board finds the student is responsible for a policy violation, they will also determine an appropriate sanction. In order to do this, they will review information regarding applicable precedent sanctions and any previous conduct violations by the accused student. The hearing results will be provided to the Office of Student Affairs by the Chair of the Board. A letter will be prepared and sent to all approved parties outlining the Board’s rationale for their findings and detailing any sanctions to be imposed.

Character Information and Previous Conduct Violations

Any questions of admissibility of information will be decided by the Chair. Unduly repetitive witnesses can be limited by the chair. Character witnesses are not permitted, only fact witnesses. The past sexual history or sexual character of a party will not be admissible by the other party in hearings unless such information is determined to be highly relevant by the Chair. All such information sought to be admitted will be presumed irrelevant, and any request to overcome this presumption by the parties must be included in the complaint/response or a subsequent written request and must be reviewed in advance of the hearing by the Office of Community Standards. While previous conduct violations by the accused student are not admissible as information about the present alleged violation, the Office of Community Standards will supply previous conduct violation information to the SDB to be reviewed after a determination has been made on the current complaint, to assign an appropriate sanction for the current complaint. This information will only be given to the SDB if the accused student was previously found responsible for any conduct violations.

Transcript Notation Policy

Due to the seriousness of Standing Disciplinary Board complaints, the University will record the outcome of certain disciplinary action on a student’s transcript, in the form of a transcript comment. For disciplinary complaints involving withdrawal prior to a disciplinary hearing, interim suspension, suspension, or expulsion, the student’s academic transcript shall be noted as follows:

Withdrawal: Student receives W or W ( ) grades according to established guidelines. Transcript comment reads: “Withdrew with conduct charges pending on (date).” Comment is removed if the student is readmitted.

Disciplinary Interim Suspension (pending a SDB hearing): Student receives W or W ( ) grades according to established guidelines. Transcript comment reads: “Disciplinarily suspended on (date).” Comment is removed at time of withdrawal or disposition of a conduct hearing.

Disciplinary Suspension: Student receives W or W ( ) grades according to established guidelines. Transcript comment reads: “Suspended after a finding of responsibility for a Code of Conduct violation from (date) to (date).” Comment is removed one year after the term of suspension expires.

Disciplinary Expulsion: Student receives W or W ( ) grades according to established guidelines. Transcript comment reads: “Expelled after a finding of responsibility for a Code of Conduct violation on (date).” Comment shall not be removed.

APPEAL PROCESS FOR ALL COMPLAINTS

*For Sexual & Interpersonal Violence complaints, please see that policy for specific appeal procedures.

1. A decision and/or a sanction may be appealed. Appeals should be submitted using the Appeal Request form on the Community Standards website within 5 business days of the notification of outcome. Failure to submit an appeal within the allotted time will render the original decision final and conclusive.

   1. For complaints originally heard by any administrative hearing officer the appeal will be heard by a designee within the Office of Communities Standards.

   2. For complaints originally heard within the Office of Community Standards, the appeal would be heard by the Vice President for Student Affairs or a designee.

   3. For complaints originally heard by the Standing Disciplinary Board, an Appeal Panel of two Faculty/Staff and one student will review the appeal.

2. An appeal will be limited to review of the incident documentation, decision letter, appeal letter, other supporting documents, and the recording of the initial hearing. The appeal process will not include a new hearing, except as required to explain the basis of new information as follows:

   1. If new information is brought forward that was not available at the time of the hearing, the student may be called to present and discuss this information.

   2. If it is found that the student’s due process rights were violated, a new case will be heard by the Vice President’s designee.

Grounds for Appeal

The written appeal must address at least one of the following to be considered:

1. A procedural error so substantial that it affected the fundamental fairness of the hearing.

2. Significant information, unavailable during the original hearing that could be outcome determinative.

3. The sanction imposed was arbitrary or grossly disproportionate to the severity of the offense.

4. The decision does not accord with the information or evidence presented.

The appeals officer/panel may support or change a decision, as well as decrease a sanction as appropriate. Sanctions may never be increased. The reviewing body will be deferential to the original decision maker, making changes to the finding only where there is clear error and to the sanction only if a compelling justification to do so exists. If the appeal body is compelled to change a decision from not responsible to responsible, they will then assign sanctions.

Students are limited to one appeal for each hearing.

Appeals Should be submitted using the Appeal Request form on the Community Standards website: https://suny.oneonta.edu/office-community-standards

INTERPRETATION AND REVISION

1. Any question of interpretation regarding the Code of Student Conduct shall be referred to the Vice President for Student Affairs or his/her designee for final determination.
2. The Code of Student Conduct shall be reviewed annually under the direction of the Office of Community Standards.

ARTICLE IV: UNIVERSITY POLICIES

Affirmative Action Policy

The State University of New York at Oneonta reaffirms its commitment to policies of affirmative action and equal opportunity. The University pursues rigorous programs of affirmative action in its educational and employment practices. The University is committed to recruiting, hiring, training and promoting persons at all employment levels without regard to race, color, gender, religion, age, pregnancy, national origin (including ancestry), disability, being a disabled veteran or veteran of the Vietnam era, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender expression and gender identity, age, status as a handicapped individual, or any other protected category.

The University administrative and supervisory personnel share responsibility to see that this policy will be administered equitably in employment decisions and for promotional opportunities as well as in personnel actions relating to compensation, benefits, transfers, layoffs, institutional sponsored training, education, tuition assistance, and social and recreational programs.

Our designated officer for Affirmative Action is the Office of Equity and Inclusion which is located in the Netzer Administration Building, Room 133. For further information about our Affirmative Action Program, please contact 607-436-2830.

Harassment and Sex Based Harassment Policy

It is the policy of SUNY Oneonta to provide an environment where employees and students are free from harassment, including sex-based harassment. No member or group of the SUNY Oneonta community shall harass another member or group. Additionally, sex based harassment is an unlawful offense as defined by Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972, and the New York State Executive Law.

Within our university, a state of civility, trust, respect, and openness among members of the campus community is indispensable to full pursuit of the mission of the institution. Harassment, including sex-based harassment, breaks the bonds of civility, trust, respect, and openness. Harassment creates a hostile environment. Harassment can be created by verbal, written, graphic or physical conduct that is severe, persistent and/or pervasive and interferes or limits the ability of a person to work or learn.

Harassment creates a hostile environment. Harassment can be created by verbal, written, graphic, or physical conduct that is severe, persistent and/or pervasive and interferes or limits the ability(ies) of a person or persons to work or learn.

Sexual based harassment includes repeated unwelcome and unwanted sexual advances, or sexual allusions, unwarranted references to sexuality or sexual activities, requests for sexual favors, and other speech or conduct of a sexual nature. Sexual harassment can occur among peers, supervisors and supervisees, faculty/staff and students.

Research Foundation, Sodexo, O.A.S. and employees of University contractors should follow the policies and procedures established by their respective employers in compliance with Federal and State Laws. Please contact your Human Resources Office for assistance.

Types of Sex Based Harassment

1. Quid pro quo – “this for that” – submission to sexual conduct is made a condition of employment or educational benefits. This applies when a person in a position of power, for example, a supervisor or faculty member, makes decisions that affect an employee’s work or student’s grades/performance based on whether the employee or student complies with their sexual demands.
2. Hostile Environment –unwelcome, pervasive, or continuous harassment, including sexual harassment, which creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive environment where one works or learns. This applies when harassing behavior by anyone causes the work or classroom environment to become hostile, intimidating, or offensive and unreasonably interferes with an employee’s work or student’s education.

Harassment, including sex-based harassment, is in the “eye of the beholder” – the person perceiving harassment – regardless of the intent of the harasser. When an individual is told that their behavior is unwelcomed or it is perceived as harassment, the behavior must stop.

The Sex Based Harassment Policy is not intended to inhibit or prohibit professional judgment on the content and presentation of academic material.

Harassment, including sex based harassment, can be experienced, or caused by anyone regardless of gender or sexual orientation.

HIV/AIDS

The State University of New York at Oneonta will respond to each HIV infection case as required by its particular facts. Persons with AIDS or HIV infection will be assured of classroom attendance, work areas, residential housing, access to public facilities and common areas. The University will not tolerate cases of harassment where students or employees who are either known to be or suspected of being HIV positive are subjected to emotional and/or physical abuse. Confidential information concerning HIV infection status will not be provided to any person, group, agency, insurer, employer, or institution without the prior written consent of the person. The University health service will observe public health requirements by reporting cases of AIDS to the local public health authorities.

Visitors to Campus

All visitors and guests on campus will be expected to conform to all University and living center regulations. Those who do not will be required to leave the campus. In the event of law violation or noncompliance with a request to leave, the individual shall be considered a trespasser, and the campus law enforcement authorities will be notified.

Smoking

Smoking is prohibited in all University buildings except in certain designated areas. Such areas are identified by “Smoking Permitted” signs. Areas without such signs should be understood to be no smoking areas. Smoking is defined as the carrying or use of a lighted cigarette, cigar, or other form of smoking device.

Public Display

• Nature of display shall be approved by the appropriate University officer or department.
• Each poster shall be identified as to its sponsor.
• Any member of the University community may display any notice, poster, or petition providing it complies with the above sections. (Commercial notices must be cleared through the office of the Director of the Hunt Union.)

Display of Flags or Banners

The University will display on its several campuses, no flag or banner other than the Flag of the United States, the Flag of the State of New York, the United Nations Flag, and the Red Cross Flag, and the University will not permit the display of any such other flag or banner requiring the use of public facilities or premises of the University.

Class Attendance

Students are expected to attend all classes for which they are registered. Attendance policies may be determined by the individual instructor. Hence, professors are directly responsible for notifying their students of attendance requirements. Beyond that point, the primary responsibility for attendance rests with the student.

It is also understood that students who miss work for whatever reason, however legitimate, are responsible for that work. In other words, although an absence may be excused in the sense of being officially explained, the student is not excused from knowing course material or satisfying course requirements. It is also apparent that at times an absence in itself may mean that students have missed a part of the course experience that cannot be duplicated. It is up to the instructor to determine the degree of make-up experience that is possible or necessary.

The main business of the University is instruction. Instruction takes precedence over vacations, bus schedules, or personal convenience. Classes before and after vacations are a significant part of instructional time. Instructors include significant materials in these classes, and at their discretion schedule examinations or other written assignments for those days.

Instructors are asked to give special consideration to students who wish to be absent for reasons of religious observance. Instructors are asked not to reschedule their classes to extend a vacation.

Attendance During the First Week of Classes

It is every student’s responsibility to indicate their intention to attend each course for which they are registered. Therefore, a student must attend the first class in each course, as well as the first laboratory (if applicable) or the instructor may declare the student’s place vacant, give it to another student and report having done so to the Registrar’s Office.

If an illness or unavoidable circumstance prevents the student from attending the first class or the first laboratory, the student must notify the instructor or the department office of an intention to attend the course. If neither can be reached, then the student may ask the Student Development Office to notify the instructor or the department office. Such notification must occur during the first three class days of the semester.

Athletic Absences

Students on SUNY Oneonta athletic teams should not be required to attend class at times that conflict with official intercollegiate athletic events or be denied the same opportunity to make up the work or demonstrate competence that would be given any other students with a legitimate reason for absence, such as illness or a co-curricular field trip. Athletic absences should be treated as legitimate absences.

Involuntary Leave of Absence

Requiring a student to take a leave of absence is rare and only happens when current medical knowledge and/or best available evidence indicates to the University that there is a significant risk to the student’s health or safety, or the health or safety of others in the community, or the student’s behavior severely disrupts the University environment, where no reasonable accommodations can adequately reduce that risk or disruption.

For more information regarding this policy please refer to Appendix E or visit https://suny.oneonta.edu/division-student-affairs/leaves-and-withdrawals.

Medical Amnesty Policy

Abuse of alcohol and other drugs can create life-threatening situations that require an immediate response from emergency services personnel and University staff. In all such instances the University expects students to report emergency need for medical attention when it may be required.

Any student who receives emergency medical assistance related to the consumption of alcohol or drugs, whether transported to the hospital or not, and any student who seeks emergency medical assistance on behalf of another student experiencing an alcohol or drug related medical emergency will be eligible for amnesty from Alcohol or Drug Use charges under the Code of Student Conduct. The report can be made through any University staff member (e.g., night host, RA) or directly to UPD. To receive amnesty, each student will be required to complete follow-up risk assessment and educational initiatives prescribed by the University and administered by the Counseling Center, and pay for appropriate services (i.e., assigned on-line education modules) consistent with state education law. Failure to complete these activities in a timely fashion will result in restoration of Alcohol or Drug Use charges, and adjudication by a hearing officer. Amnesty will only be extended to students once, regardless of whether a transport occurred. Medical Amnesty will not prevent conduct charges associated with violations of any other section of the Code of Student Conduct (e.g., assault/reckless endangerment, crime, falsification of information, causing or threatening harm, sexual misconduct, theft/possession of stolen property/criminal mischief, weapons, trespassing, misuse/destruction of property, unlawful provision of alcohol or drugs, harassment, and hazing).

In cases where a student receives emergency medical assistance related to the consumption of alcohol or drugs two or more times, whether transported or not, the University will initiate risk assessment and conduct charges appropriate to the circumstances. The University reserves the right to exercise discretion in determining amnesty eligibility in extreme cases (e.g., combative behavior, compromising the safety of first responders).

SUNY Mandatory Child Sexual Abuse Reporting & Prevention Policy

SUNY Oneonta employees, students, and volunteers who witnesses or have reasonable cause to suspect any sexual abuse of a child occurring on University property or while off campus during University-sponsored events shall have an affirmative obligation to report such conduct to the University Police Department immediately.

Further, it is a violation of the policy for a member of the campus community to attempt to handle a case of sexual abuse “in house” such as within a department, residence hall, or athletic team. All reports must be brought to the attention of University Police for further investigation and handling as a criminal matter.

There will be no retaliation or retribution against anyone based on making a report under this policy.

Note: Disclosure provisions of the Clery Act or other NY State statutory privilege law are not changed by this policy.

APPENDIX A: POLICY STATEMENT ON ACADEMIC DISHONESTY

Importance of Academic Integrity

The academic activities of the University, which contribute to the fulfillment of the University mission, are dependent upon the honest and open communication of ideas among students and faculty. Fundamental to academic integrity is a genuine respect for knowledge and intellectual inquiry. The academic community cannot thrive when these principles have been compromised by any of its members; therefore, this policy specifies the procedures to be implemented in cases where violations are suspected.

A student deemed guilty of an act of academic dishonesty may, depending on the nature of the offense, be subject to one or more of the following measures: failure of the assignment or examination, failure of the course, or dismissal from the University. Depending upon the severity of the violation, as determined by the University’s Office of Community Standards, the student may be referred to the Standing Disciplinary Board. Second offenses will result in a mandatory referral of the case to the Standing Disciplinary Board, or, if the Board cannot be convened in a timely manner, the Office of Community Standards will hear the case. The penalties that may be assessed by the Board are listed under the Procedures of the Standing Disciplinary Board as published in this publication; however, the normal penalty is suspension or dismissal.

It is the student’s responsibility to read and understand the policy on all aspects of academic integrity as published in this publication and the Catalog. However, individual faculty members may wish to explain the policy as it relates to their courses. It is emphasized that students who have any questions about what constitutes a violation of academic integrity have the responsibility of clarifying them by conferring with their instructor(s).

Procedures to be Followed When Academic Dishonesty is Suspected

• When academic dishonesty is suspected, the faculty member should discuss the evidence with the student, explaining why such evidence brings the student into suspicion of violating this policy and advising the student of the actions to be carried out as outlined in this policy.
• The faculty member may assign a grade of “E” for an assignment, for an activity, or for the course if there is a preponderance of evidence that the student is guilty of academic dishonesty in connection with this work. These instances of academic dishonesty, and the action taken, should be reported to the Office of Community Standards, with a copy to the department chair. A form for reporting academic dishonesty is available on the Office of Community Standards website (look for Academic Integrity in the forms section).
• If, in the judgment of the Office of Community Standards, the nature of the case warrants it, or if it is a second offense, the case will be referred to the Standing Disciplinary Board of the University (see next section of this publication). The student may appeal any action taken by either the Office of Community Standards or the Standing Disciplinary Board to the Vice President for Student Development or designee.

Academic Flow Chart

Faculty Responsibilities

• Faculty members who encounter acts of academic dishonesty should report them in writing (preferably using the form) to the Office of Community Standards with a copy of the report to the department chair. Faculty may choose to consult with the Office of Community Standards at any point in the process to discuss the nature of the offense and its appropriate sanction. It is important to report cases of academic dishonesty to the Office of Community Standards because it is the clearinghouse for such records and therefore is the entity most likely to have broad knowledge regarding a student’s prior and concurrent offenses.
• Faculty should include a copy of the course syllabus with the report to the Office of Community Standards.
• Faculty are encouraged to use discretion in distinguishing between inadvertent violations and more egregious forms of academic dishonesty.
• Whenever possible, the faculty member should impound the evidence of suspected dishonesty. If necessary, photocopies can be made in the Registrar’s Office. Such evidence will not be returned to the student but will be kept in the confidential files in the Office of Community Standards.
• The faculty member should obtain such signed statements from students and other faculty as may be necessary to complete the documentation. The statements will be kept in the confidential files of the Office of Community Standards.
• If a student admits to an act of dishonesty, the faculty member should obtain a statement to that effect signed by the student. The statement will be kept in the confidential files in the Office of Community Standards.
• Failure by the faculty member to execute any of these responsibilities will not constitute grounds for dismissal of charges against a student.

Student Responsibilities

Students are expected to be familiar with this policy. Ignorance of this policy does not necessarily exempt a student from charges of, and penalties for, violations of this policy. For example, students who are not aware of the citation rules for their discipline may still be charged with plagiarism if those citation rules have been violated.

Students are expected to make every effort to attend meetings in which they have been implicated with a violation of academic integrity. If a second meeting must be scheduled due to a student’s absence at an earlier meeting, the student’s guilt or innocence in the case may be determined at the second meeting even though the student is not present.

Students are encouraged to notify the instructor if they observe an act of academic dishonesty. If a student reports such an incident, the instructor shall be obligated to pursue the matter as indicated above. If, in the opinion of the student who has reported the incident, the instructor has not fulfilled their responsibilities in this matter, that student may confer with one or more of the following:

• the department chairperson,
• the student grievance committee of that department,
• the appropriate academic dean,
• the Office of Community Standards staff.

Additionally, the student may request a review in writing to the Subcommittee on Student Academic Grievances.

Disputes

• A student who disputes a charge of academic dishonesty by a faculty member may request to have the case heard by the Standing Disciplinary Board. This request should be submitted in writing to the Office of Community Standards within five (5) business days of the date upon which the faculty member explained the evidence of the violation to the student.
• In cases where the student disputes a charge of academic dishonesty, the Office of Community Standards will be responsible for the investigation of the case.
• In cases of dispute, the appropriate academic dean should be consulted by the Office of Community Standards, or the case may be entered on the student’s own initiative.

APPENDIX B: SEXUAL & INTERPERSONAL VIOLENCE STUDENTS' BILL OF RIGHTS

The State University of New York and SUNY Oneonta are committed to providing options, support, and assistance to victims/survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, and/or stalking to ensure that they can continue to participate in University-wide programs, activities, and employment. All victims/survivors of these crimes and violations, regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, creed, age, disability, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, familial status, pregnancy, predisposing genetic characteristics, military status, domestic violence victim status, or criminal conviction, have the following rights, regardless of whether the crime or violation occurs on campus, off campus, or while studying abroad:

All students have the right to:

1. Make a report to local law enforcement and/or state police.

2. Have disclosures of domestic violence, dating violence, stalking, and sexual assault treated seriously.

3. Make a decision about whether or not to disclose a crime or violation and participate in the judicial or conduct process and/or criminal justice process free from pressure from the institution.

4. Participate in a process that is fair, impartial, and provides adequate notice and a meaningful opportunity to be heard.

5. Be treated with dignity and to receive from the institution courteous, fair, and respectful health care and counseling services, where available.

6. Be free from any suggestion that the reporting individual is at fault when these crimes and violations are committed, or should have acted in a different manner to avoid such crimes or violations.

7. Describe the incident to as few institutional representatives as practicable and not to be required to unnecessarily repeat a description of the incident.

8. Be free from retaliation by the institution, the accused and/or the respondent, and/or their friends, family, and acquaintances within the jurisdiction of the institution.

9. Access to at least one level of appeal of a determination.

10. Be accompanied by an advisor of choice who may assist and advise a reporting individual, accused, or respondent throughout the judicial or conduct process including during all meetings and hearings related to such process.

11. Exercise civil rights and practice of religion without interference by the investigative, criminal justice, or judicial or conduct process of the University.

Options in Brief:

Victims/survivors have many options that can be pursued simultaneously, including one or more of the following:

• Receive resources, such as counseling and medical attention;
• Confidentially or anonymously disclose a crime or violation (for detailed information on confidentiality and privacy, visit https://suny.oneonta.edu/know-violence/reporting).
• Make a report to one or more of the following:
  • An employee with the authority to address complaints, including the Title IX Coordinator, a Community Standards employee, or a Human Resources employee;
  • University Police;
  • Local law enforcement
  • Family Court or Civil Court.

APPENDIX C: RESPONSE TO BIAS ACTS AND HATE CRIMES

Policy Statement

SUNY Oneonta responds to bias acts, including hate crimes, according to procedures that have been ratified by President and are reviewed on a regular basis. The response includes investigation and adjudication, as appropriate, by the University Police Department and/or Office of Student Judicial Affairs. The Bias Acts Response Team oversees the response to individuals and/or communities who have been affected by bias acts.

Rationale

Bias acts encompass a broad range of negative behaviors that target individuals or groups because of actual or perceived characteristics and/or membership in groups. For the health and well-being of the campus community, it is critical that individuals or groups who feel targeted and/or affected by bias acts can easily report the incident and receive services, as needed.

Applicability of the Policy

The policy applies to students and employees at SUNY Oneonta and may be used to address conduct occurring on or off campus.

Policy Elaboration

The materials that accompany the policy (Procedures for Reporting Bias Acts, Procedures for the Bias Act Response Team) are critical for understanding the range of responses that can be made by the University. They can be found here.

The Purposes of the BART Team:

• Assist those who feel that they have been targeted in bias incidents to identify all of the remedies that are available to them.
• Provide educational (not disciplinary or judicial) remedies in response to complaints of bias incidents (e.g., facilitated conversations for those who were involved, passive or active educational programming for groups, etc.)
• Maintain a record of bias incidents and generate reports for use by the campus community.

Definitions

One of the documents that accompany the policy includes definitions of bias acts and hate crimes.

Procedures

The Procedures for Reporting a Bias Act or Hate Crime and the Procedures for the Bias Act Response Team accompany this policy.

Forms

Procedures for Reporting a Bias Act or Hate Crime, Procedures for the Bias Act Response Team, Definitions of Bias Acts and Hate Crimes, and Resources are the initial forms that are linked to this policy. It is anticipated that additional materials will be generated as part of the efforts to inform the campus community about the policy and procedures.

Additional Information

Silent Witness

Discrimination policy

https://suny.oneonta.edu/policy-library/policies-z/response-bias-acts-and-hate-crimes

APPENDIX D: POLICY STATEMENT ON DRUGS AND ALCOHOL

Compliance with the Drug Free Schools and Communities Act of 1989

The State University of New York at Oneonta hereby prohibits the unlawful possession, use, or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol by students and employees on our property or as any part of our institutional activities.

The University will impose sanctions on students and employees who violate this policy consistent with local, state, and federal law. Students will be subject to the judicial conduct procedures specified in this publication. Other corrective action may include the completion of an appropriate rehabilitation program.

The University will interpret local, state, and federal regulations in the strictest sense to assure a drug free workplace.

The University, on an annual basis, will provide to each student and employee information describing the health risks associated with the use of illicit drugs and the abuse of alcohol.

The University is committed to offering employees and students counseling and/or referral to the appropriate agencies for problems associated with drugs and alcohol. For students, the campus Counseling Center is available for confidential counseling and referrals.

Finally, SUNY Oneonta commits to biennial reviews of our programs associated with this statement to determine program effectiveness and implement necessary changes. It is also our intention to assure consistent applications of this policy to all students and employees alike.

University Regulations Regarding Alcoholic Beverages

The University has an obligation to develop policies and procedures that reflect our relationships to the larger Oneonta community and to New York State. The campus alcohol policy has been revised because of legislative amendments to the New York State Alcohol Beverage Control Law. The University will, however, continue to stress the importance of alcohol education within the campus community. As is true with any policy or regulation, voluntary compliance is essential for its successful implementation.

While procedures have been developed for addressing violations of the campus alcohol policy, respect for issues of student privacy and security from unreasonable intrusions will be consistent with policy and past practice.

The University will comply with the requirements of the New York State Alcohol Beverage Control Law. Amendments to the law provide that, “No person under the age of 21 shall possess any alcoholic beverage with the intent to consume such beverage.” University regulations pertaining to this law will be implemented in the following manner:

Residence Halls

Alcoholic beverages are not permitted in residence halls* and no events will be approved in which alcohol will be served or consumed. Residents are subject to all local and state laws concerning the use, possession, sale, and transportation of alcoholic beverages.

*Higgins Hall is an exception to this policy for students over the age of 21. A copy of the policy specific to this hall is provided to residents upon their check-in.

Other Areas

University policy prohibits open containers of alcoholic beverages in all outside areas on the campus. Bringing alcoholic beverages to any public or private event on campus is not permitted.

Occasional Service

Upon approval of the Hunt Union Director, alcohol may be served at specifically approved student functions under the application procedure described below. These functions must be serviced only by the Organization of Ancillary Services designated by the Hunt Union Director. Beverage service will be operated in accordance with federal, state, and local laws under the license obtained by the Organization of Ancillary Services of the State University of New York in Oneonta.

Application to Serve Alcohol

Individuals or organizations requesting alcohol service must do so by completing the appropriate University Activity Registration forms and submitting them to the Director or designee, no later than 30 days before the proposed event. The Director, in consultation with appropriate divisions of the University and OAS, will inform the applicant of the decision within 48 hours of the receipt of the application.

Violations (resulting from “occasional service” as outlined above)

Violation of this policy will result in appropriate disciplinary sanctions up to and including dismissal, as provided for under established University judicial conduct procedures. While students are subject to the provisions of campus alcohol policy, the following information is provided regarding provisions of the Alcohol Beverage Control Law:

• Violators are subject to a fine of up to $50 per offense but are not subject to arrest. Alcoholic beverages involved in alleged violations of this law may be seized by authorized law enforcement officials, including campus police officers. Disposal and destruction of seized alcoholic beverages are also authorized but cannot be carried out until three days after the initial appearance date, unless otherwise ordered by a court.
• Persons under the age of 21 who present falsified or fraudulently altered proofs of age for the purpose of purchasing or attempting to purchase alcoholic beverages are guilty of a violation, punishable by a fine up to $100 and a community service requirement of up to 30 hours. Previously, violations of this section were punishable only by the imposition of a one-year probationary period and a fine.
• A person under the age of 21who represents an altered New York State driver’s license for the purpose of illegally purchasing an alcoholic beverage may be subject to a suspension of that driver’s license for up to 90 days and may also be required to apply to the Department of Motor Vehicles for a restricted use driver’s license following the suspension.
• No person shall sell, deliver, give away, permit, procure to be sold, delivered, or given away, any alcoholic beverages to any intoxicated person or any person under the influence of alcohol.
• Any person who shall be injured in person, property, means of support or otherwise by an intoxicated person, or by reason of the intoxication of any person, whether resulting in one’s death or not, shall have a right of action against any person who shall, by unlawfully selling to or unlawfully assisting in procuring liquor for such intoxicated person, have caused or contributed to such intoxication; and in any such action, such person shall have a right to recover actual and exemplary damages.
• Social host liability creates civil liability for anyone who knowingly furnishes alcoholic beverages to any intoxicated person under the legal age of purchase if intoxication results in injury or damages to a third party.

New York State Education Law

New York State Education Law prohibits hazing that involves the forced consumption of alcohol.

Drugs

The drug problem on campus is complex and solutions to drug misuse are difficult. Nevertheless, the possession, sale, or use of any illegal drug on or off campus cannot be condoned.

In addition to taking appropriate action on its own part, the University will continue to cooperate with appropriate health and law enforcement agencies in enforcing this regulation. No sanctuary for those who violate state and federal narcotic laws will be provided by any agency or office of this University. The sanctions both on and off campus for the possession and/or sale of illegal drugs are very severe.

The University, through its Student Affairs Division, is committed to providing the campus with an ongoing program dealing with the problems related to drug abuse and aimed specifically at its prevention through education.

Alcohol and Other Drug (AOD) Committee

The AOD Committee is a joint collaboration of students, staff, and faculty to take on initiatives to decrease high-risk alcohol and other drug use by SUNY Oneonta students. The committee utilizes a combination of the social norms and environmental management approaches to prevention. The committee organizes and sponsors Alcohol Awareness Week in October and co-sponsors Safe Spring Break campaigns. Under the auspices of this committee, the student Dragon Design Team designs posters and other media activities to promote healthy student norms. The Committee also sponsors the student and faculty CORE survey to identify attitudes and patterns regarding AOD issues. Committee members are actively involved with the Campus-Community coalition to increase prevention efforts beyond just those on campus.

Alcohol

Alcohol consumption causes a number of marked changes in behavior. Even low doses significantly impair the judgment and coordination required to drive a car safely, increasing the likelihood of an accident. Low to moderate doses of alcohol also increase the incidence of a variety of aggressive acts, including spouse and child abuse. Moderate to high doses of alcohol cause marked impairments in higher mental functions, severely altering a person’s ability to learn and remember information. Very high doses cause respiratory depression and death. If combined with other depressants of the central nervous system, much lower doses of alcohol will produce the effects just described.

Repeated use of alcohol can lead to dependence. Sudden cessation of alcohol intake is likely to produce withdrawal symptoms, including severe anxiety, tremors, hallucinations, and convulsions. Alcohol withdrawal can be life threatening. Long term consumption of large quantities of alcohol, particularly when combined with poor nutrition, can also lead to permanent damage to vital organs, such as the brain and liver.

Mothers who drink alcohol during pregnancy may give birth to infants with fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) or fetal alcohol effect (FAE). Both FAS and FAE are the leading known cause of intellectual disability which is irreversible. To prevent this syndrome, total abstinence from alcohol during pregnancy is necessary. Alcohol should also be avoided if you are trying to become pregnant, as significant damage may occur before pregnancy is discovered.

Tobacco and the Body

Tobacco, commonly smoked through pipes, cigars, and cigarettes, can also be chewed, and inhaled in the form of snuff. Nicotine is the active ingredient in all forms of tobacco. Nicotine stimulates the heart and central nervous system and is a power constrictor of small arteries. Insufficient oxygen to the heart is the cause of heart attacks. Smoking causes the lungs and bronchioles to be inflamed and congested. Possible health risks of tobacco include arteriosclerosis, emphysema, chronic bronchitis, heart disease, and lung cancer.

Cannabis (Marijuana, pot, grass, reefer, joint, Acapulco Gold, sinsemilla, Thai sticks, weed, THC, Marinol, Hashish, Hashish Oil)

The psychoactive ingredient in marijuana is tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). The amount of THC in a joint is what affects the user. THC is used medically as an anti-nauseant for cancer patients receiving chemotherapy.

Possible signs of use or abuse of cannabis include increased heart and pulse rate, bloodshot eyes, increased appetite, dryness in mouth and throat, hallucinations, paranoia or panic, impaired memory, altered sense of time, and decreased concentration, reaction time, and coordination.

Health risks include damage to heart and lungs, damage to brain nerve cells, lung cancer, memory disorders, interference with psychological maturation, temporary loss of fertility in men and women, psychological dependence, and bronchitis. For pregnant women, health risks are premature births and low birth weights.

Designer Drugs

Designer Drugs are lab-made versions of drugs that are designated controlled substances under U.S. law. Under provisions of the Controlled Substance Analog Act, designer drugs are illegal.

Early designer drugs included substitutes for heroin, amphetamines, and hallucinogens, including MDMA (“E,” “X,” “XTC,” ecstasy).

Risks of designer drugs are often related to how the drugs are made as well as how they are used. Base chemical such as phenyl acetic acid, formaldehyde, carbamate, acetic anhydride, and others can build up to toxic levels in the labs. In the process of synthesizing some chemicals, some chemicals can poison the final product – creating seizure-inducing forms of PCP for instance. Many times, the chemist does not know exactly what drug was created until it has been “tested” on real people and confirmed by medical examiners.

MDMA, MDA, XTC, ADAM, Rhapsody, E, X, ecstasy.

Risks associated with MDMA include the possibility of overdose and related risk of hypothermia. Because MDA/MDMA is an amphetamine, tolerance develops quickly, and overdose is possible. Liver damage and exhaustion can also occur. The drugs are known to intensify heart problems. Research indicates there may be damage to brain cells that manufacture the neurotransmitter serotonin.

There are risks connected to all night dancing and MDMA-dehydration; heat exhaustion and dangerously high body temperature is the most common and serious risk. (Taking breaks to cool off and drinking plenty of water will help alleviate the risk).

Chart I: DRUG ACTIONS CLASSIFIED BY TYPE OF DRUG

CLASSIFIED	Type	Facts	Signs of Use/Abuse	Health Risks of Use/Abuse
DEPRESSANTS	Alcohol (Brew, Juice, Liquor) Barbituates (Downers, Barbs) Benzodiazepines (Valium, Librium, Tranquilizer) Chloral Hydrate ( Knock Out, Mickey Finn) Glutehimide (Doriden) Ludes) Methaqualone Quaalude Other Depressants: Equanil, Miltown, Noludar, Placidyl, Valmid	Depressants depress or slow down the central nervous system by relaxing muscles, calming nerves and producing sleep. Alcohol is a depressant. Depressants are composed of sedative-hypnotic and tranquilizer drugs. Depressants are addictive. Users of depressants develop a tolerance to the drugs, meaning larger doses must be taken each time to produce the same effect	Relaxation and drowsiness; lack of concentration; disorientation; loss of inhibitions; lack of coordination; dilated pupils; slurred speech; weak and rapid pulse; distorted vision; low blood pressure; shallow breathing; staggering; clammy skin; fever, sweating; stomach cramps; hallucinations; tremors; and delirium.	Liver damage; convulsions; addiction with severe withdrawal symptoms; coma, death due to overdose. For pregnant women, the newborn may be dependent and experience withdrawal or suffer from birth defects and/or intellectual disability.
HALLUCINOGENS	Lysergic Acid Diethylamide (LSD) Phencyclidine (PCP, Angel Dust) Mescaline and Peyote (Mexc, Buttons, Cactus) Psilocybin (Mushrooms) Amphetamine Variants (MDMA/Ecstasy, MDA/Love drug) TMA DOM, DOB, PMA, STP, 2.5‑DMA Phencyclidine Analogues (PCE, PCPy, TCP) Other Hallucinogens: Bufotenine, lbogaine, DMT, DET Psilocybin	Hallucinogens are psychedelic, mind altering, drugs that affect a person’s perception, feelings, thinking, self- awareness, and emotions. A “bad trip” may result in the user experiencing panic, confusion, paranoia, anxiety, unpleasant sensory images, feelings, of helplessness, and a loss of control. A “flashback’ is a reoccurrence of the original drug experience without taking the drug again.	Dilated pupils; increased body temperature, heart rate and blood pressure; sweating, loss of appetite, sleeplessness; dry mouth; tremors; hallucinations; disorientation; confusion, paranoia; violence; euphoria; anxiety; and panic.	Agitation; extreme hyperactivity; psychosis; convulsions; mental or emotional problems; death.
INHALANTS	Amyl Nitrite (Poppers, Snappers) Butyl Nitrite (Rush, Bolt Bullet) Chlorohydrocarbons (Aerosol Sprays, Cleaning Fluids) Hydrocarbons (Solvents, gasoline, Airplane Glue, Paint Thinner) Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas, Whippets)	Inhalants are substances that are breathed or inhaled through the nose. Inhalants are depressants and depress or slow down the body’s Functions. Inhalants are normally not thought of as drugs because they are often common household or industrial products. However, inhalants are often the most dangerous drugs per dose.	Euphoria and lightheadedness; excitability; loss of appetite; forgetfulness; weight loss; sneezing; coughing, nausea and vomiting; lack of coordination; bad breath; red eyes; sores on nose and mouth; delayed reflexes; decreased blood pressure; flushing (skin appears to be reddish); headache; dizziness; and violence.	Depression; damage to the nervous system and body tissues; damage to liver and brain; heart failure; respiratory arrest; suffocation; unconsciousness; seizures; heart failure; sudden sniffing death.
NARCOTICS	Codeine (School Boy) Heroin (H, Harry, Junk, Brown Sugar, Smack) Hydromorphine (Lords) Meperidine (Doctors) Morphine (Morpho, Miss Emma) Opium (Dovers Powder) Other Narcotics: Percodan, Talwin Lotomil, Carvon, Numporphan, Percocet, Tylox, Tussionex, Fentanyl	Narcotics are composed of opiates and synthetic drugs. Opiates are derived from the seed pod of the Asian poppy. Synthetic drugs called popiods are chemically developed to produce the effects of opiates. Initially, narcotics stimulate the higher centers of the brain, but then slow down the activity of the central nervous system. Narcotics relieve pain and induce sleep. Narcotics, such as Heroin, are often diluted with other substances (i.e. water, sugar) injected. Other Narcotics are extremely addictive. Users of narcotics develop a tolerance to the drugs, meaning larger doses must be taken each time to produce the same effect.	Euphoria; restlessness and lack of motivation; drowsiness; lethargy; decreased pulse rate; constricted pupils; flushing (skin appears reddish); constipation; nausea and vomiting; needle marks on extremities; skin abscesses at injection sites; shallow breathing; watery eyes; and itching	Pulmonary edema; respiratory arrest; convulsions; addiction; coma; death due to overdose. For users who share or use unsterile needles to inject narcotics: tetanus, hepatitis, AIDS. For pregnant women: premature births, stillbirth, and acute infections among newborns.
STEROIDS	Anabolic-Androgenic (Roids Juice, D-Ball)	Steroids may contribute to increases in body weight and muscular strength. Anabolic – Androgenic steroids are chemically related to the male sex hormone testosterone. Anabolic means to build up the muscles and other tissues of the body. Androgenic refers to the development of male sex characteristics. Steroids are injected directly into the muscle or taken orally.	Sudden increase in muscle and weight; increase in aggression and combativeness; violence (“roid rage”); hallucinations; jaundice; purple or red spots on body, inside mouth or nose; swelling of feet or lower legs (edema); tremors; and bad breath. For women, breast reduction, enlarged clitoris, facial hair and baldness, deepened voice. For men: enlarged nipples and breasts, testicle reduction, enlarged prostate, baldness.	Acne; high blood pressure; liver and kidney damage; heart disease; increased risk of injury to ligaments and tendons; bowel and urinary problems; gallstones and kidney stones; liver cancer. For women, menstrual problems. For men, impotence and sterility. For users who share or use unsterile needles to inject steroids: hepatitis, tetanus, AIDS.
STIMULANTS	Amphetamines (Uppers, Pep Pills) Cocaine (Coke, Flake, Snow) Crack (Rock) Methamphetamines (Ice, Crank, Crystal) Phenmetrazine ( Preludin, Preludes) Other Stimulants: Adpix, Cylert, Didres, Ionamin, Mefiat, Plegine, Sanorex, Tenuate, Tepanil, Prelu-2	Stimulants stimulate the central nervous system, increasing alertness and activity. Users of stimulants develop a tolerance, meaning larger doses must be taken to get the same effect. Stimulants are psychologically addictive.	Increased alertness; excessive activity; agitation; euphoria; excitability; increased pulse rate, blood pressure and body t Increased alertness; excessive activity; agitation; euphoria; excitability; increased pulse rate, blood pressure & body temperature; insomnia, loss of appetite; sweating dry mouth and lips; bad breath; disorientation; apathy; hallucinations; irritability; & nervousness.	Headaches; depression; malnutrition; hypertension; psychosis; cardiac arrest; damage to the brain and lungs; convulsions; coma; death.

Source: Charts I, II, and III, “A Matter of Facts,” prepared by the Minnesota Prevention Resource Center, Minnesota Institute of Public Health, for the Chemical Dependency Program Division, Minnesota Department of Human Services.

Chart II CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES CRIME AND PENALTIES IN NEW YORK STATE

Criminal Possession of Controlled Substance in the First Degree (Class A-1 Felony):

Fine up to $100,000, at least 15 (up to 25) years in prison, or both

Possession: 8 oz. or more in aggregate Narcotic Drugs (Opiates, Heroine, Morphine, Opium derivatives, codeine, coca leaves, cocaine, other drugs listed in Public Health Law 3306); 5760mg or more of Methadone.

Criminal Sale in the First Degree: 2oz or more in aggregate Narcotic drug preparations; 2880mg or more Methadone.

Criminal Possession of Controlled Substance in the Second Degree (Class A-II Felony):

Fine up to $50,000, at least 3 years (up to 8 years and 4 months) in prison, or both

Possession: 4oz or more in aggregate Narcotic Drug preparations; 2oz or more in aggregate Methamphetamine; 10gm or more Stimulants (Fenethylline, N-ethyl amphetamine, Amphetamine); 25mg or more LSD; 625mg or more Hallucinogens (DOM, STP, N- Methyl-3- Piperidyl Benzilate, Psilocybin, Psilocybin, Psilocyn, Tetrahydrocannabinols, Ethylamine analog of (PCP); 25gm or more of Hallucinogenic Substances (DMA, PMA, DET, DMT, LSD, Mescaline Peyote); 2880mg Methadone

Criminal Sale in the Second Degree: 1/2oz or more in aggregate Narcotic Drug preparations; 1/2oz or more in aggregate Methamphetamine; 5gm or more Stimulants; 5mg or more LSD; 125mg or more Hallucinogens; 5gm or more Hallucinogenic Substances; 360mg or more Methadone.

Criminal Possession of Controlled Substance in the Third Degree (Class B Felony):

Fine up to $30,000, up to 25 years in prison, or both

Possession: of narcotic drug with intent to sell it; 1gm or more of Stimulant with intent to sell it; 1mg or more of LSD with intent to sell it; 25mg or more of hallucinogenic substance with intent to sell it; 1/8oz or more in aggregate of methamphetamine preparations; 5gm or more Stimulants; 5mg or more LSD; 125mg or more Hallucinogen; 5mg or more Hallucinogenic Substances; 1/2oz of Narcotic Drugs preparations; 1250mg or more Phencyclidine (PCP).

Criminal Sale in the Third Degree: Any amount of Narcotic Drug; 1gm or more Stimulants; 1mg or more LSD; 25mg or more Hallucinogens; 1gm or more Hallucinogenic Substances; 1/8oz or more in aggregate Methamphetamine preparation; 250mg or more Phencyclidine (PCP); any amount Narcotic preparations to a person less than 21 years old.

Criminal Possession of Controlled Substance in the Fourth Degree (Class C Felony):

Fine up to $15,000, up to 15 years prison, or both

Possession: 1/8oz or more in aggregate Narcotic drugs; 1/2oz or more Methamphetamine preparations; 2oz or more Narcotic preparations; 1gm or more Stimulants; 1mg or more LSD; 25mg or more Hallucinogens; 1gm or more Hallucinogenic Substances; 10oz or more of Dangerous Depressants (Methaqualone; Phencyclidine; Amobarbital, Glutethimide, Pentobarbital, Secobarbital, Barbital, Methoexital, Mephobarbital, Phenobarbital); 2lb or more of Depressants (items in P.H.L. 3306*, Sch. IV [c] not listed above); 1oz or more in aggregate Concentrated Cannabis; 250mg or more PCP; 360mg or more Methadone; 4000gm or more ketamine; 200gm or more in aggregate Gamma Hydroxybutyric acid (GHB); 10lbs or more Cannabis

Criminal Sale in the Fourth Degree: Narcotic preparation; 10oz or more Dangerous Depressant; 2lbs or more Depressant; Concentrated Cannabis; 50mg or more PCP; Methadone; 4000mg or more of ketamine; when sale takes place upon school grounds or on a school bus; when sale takes place upon the grounds of a child day care or educational facility; 28gm or more in aggregate of GHB preparations; 1lb or more Cannabis

Criminal Possession of Controlled Substance in the Fifth Degree (Class D Felony):

Fine up to $5,000, up to 7 years prison, or both

Possession: with intent to sell it; 1/2 oz. or more in aggregate Narcotic Preparations; 50mg. or more phencyclidine (PCP); 1/4 oz. or more in aggregate Concentrated Cannabis; 500 mg. or more of Cocaine; 1000 mg or more ketamine; 28 gm. or more in aggregate of GHB; 1-10lbs Cannabis.

Criminal Sale in the Fifth Degree (Class D Felony): when knowingly and unlawfully sell a controlled substance; 4oz – 1lb Cannabis

Class E Felony: Fine up to $5,000, up to 4 years in prison.

Possession: 8oz – 1lb Cannabis; Sale: 25gm – 4oz Cannabis

Criminal Possession of Controlled Substance in the Seventh Degree (Misdemeanor):

Fine of $1,000, up to 1 year in jail, or both

Possession: Any amount of Narcotic Drugs; narcotic preparations; Methadone; Stimulants; Methamphetamines; LSD; PCP; Hallucination; Hallucinogenic Substances; Dangerous Depressants; Depressants; lower than the lowest amounts specified previously; 3 – 8oz Cannabis

Sale: 25gm or less Cannabis

Felony: Sale to Minor. Fine up to $5,000, up to 7 years in prison; Violation: Possession of Cannabis in public view. Maximum fine $200.

Chart III CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES CRIMES AND PENALTIES UNDER FEDERAL LAW

Possession: 100 grams or more methamphetamine or kilogram or more methamphetamine mixture, 1 kilogram or more heroin mixture, 5 kilograms or more cocaine mixture, 50 grams or more crack mixture, 100 grams or more PCP or 1 kilogram or more PCP mixture, 10 grams of more LSD mixture, 400 grams or more Fentanyl mixture, 100 grams or more Fentanyl analogue mixture, 1000 or more marijuana plants.

Penalty:

First Offense: 0 to life, 10 year mandatory minimum; if death or serious injury, 20 year minimum; up to $4 million fine individual, $10 million other than individual.

Second Offense: 0 to life, 20 year mandatory minimum; if death or serious injury, not less than life; up to $8 million fine individual, $20 million other than the individual.

Possession: 10-99 grams methamphetamine or 100-999 grams methamphetamine mixture, 100-999 grams heroine mixture, 500-4999 grams cocaine mixture, 5-49 grams crack mixture, 10-99 grams PCP or 100-999 grams PCP mixture, 1-10 grams LSD mixture, 4-399 grams Fetanyl, 10-99 grams Fetanyl analogue, 100-1000 kilograms marijuana, 100-1000 marijuana plants.

Penalty:

First Offense: 0 to 40 years, 5 year mandatory minimum; if death or serious injury, 20 year minimum; up to $ 2 million fine individual, $ 5 million other than individual.

Second Offense: 0 to life, 10 year mandatory minimum; if death or serious injury, not less than life; up to $ 4 million fine individual, $ 10 million other than individual.

Possession: Any amount of other Schedule I and Schedule II Controlled Substances, 50-100 kilograms marijuana, 50-99 marijuana plants, 10-100 kilograms hashish, 1-100 kilograms hashish oil.

Penalty:

First Offense: 0 to 20 years; if death or serious injury, 20 year minimum, not more than life; up to $1 million fine individual, $ 5 million other than individual.

Second Offense: 0 to 30 years; if death or serious injury, not less than life; up to $ 2 million fine individual, $ 10 million other than individual.

Possession: Any amount of Schedule IV Controlled Substances.

Penalty:

First Offense: 0 to 3 years; up to $ 250,000 fine individual, $ 1 million other than individual.

Second Offense: 0 to 6 years; up to $ 5000,000 fine individual, $ 2 million other than individual.

Possession: Any amount of Schedule V Controlled Substances.

Penalty:

First Offense: 0 to 1 year; up to $ 100,000 fine individual, $ 250, 000 other than individual.

Second Offense: 0 to 2 years; up to $ 200, 000 fine individual, $ 500, 000 other than individual.

In addition to the above penalties for controlled substances crimes, Federal law provides for: (1) forfeiture of personal and real property used to possess or to facilitate possession of a controlled substance if that offense is punishable b more than one year imprisonment; (2) forfeiture of vehicles, boats, aircraft or any other conveyance used to transport or conceal a controlled substance; (3) a civil fine of up to $10,000 (pending adoption of final regulations); (4) denial of Federal benefits, such as student loans, grants, contracts, and professional and commercial licenses, up to 1 year for first offense, up to 5 years for second and subsequent offenses; (5) ineligibility to receive or purchase a firearm; and (6) revocation of certain Federal benefits, e.g. pilot licenses, public housing tenancy, etc., as determined by individual Federal agencies.

APPENDIX E: INVOLUNTARY LEAVE OF ABSENCE POLICY

Policy Statement

Requiring a student to take a leave of absence is rare and only happens when current medical knowledge and/or best available evidence indicates to the University that there is a significant risk to the student’s health or safety, or the health or safety of others in the community, or the student’s behavior severely disrupts the University environment, where no reasonable accommodations can adequately reduce that risk or disruption.

Policy Elaboration

SUNY Oneonta offers a range of resources, support services, and accommodations to address the physical and mental health needs of students. However, on rare occasions, a student’s needs may require a level of care that exceeds the care that the institution can appropriately provide. Where current knowledge about the individual’s medical condition and/or the best available objective evidence indicates that a student poses a significant risk to their own safety not based on mere speculation, stereotypes, or generalizations, or the health and safety of others in the community, or where a student’s behavior severely disrupts the University environment and the student does not take a voluntary leave of absence, the Vice President for Student Affairs (VPSA) or designee(s) has the authority to place a student on an involuntary leave of absence, after appropriate procedural due process has occurred according to this policy.

Before placing any student on an involuntary leave of absence, the University will conduct an individualized assessment, consulting with the office of Accessibility Resources to determine if there are reasonable accommodations that would permit the student to continue to participate in the University environment without taking a leave of absence.

Consistent with SUNY’s Nondiscrimination Policy, SUNY prohibits unlawful discrimination on the basis of any type of disability or any other characteristic protected by applicable Federal and/or State law in the administration of SUNY’s programs and activities.

The VPSA or designee(s) may be notified about a student who may meet the criteria for an involuntary leave of absence from a variety of sources, including, but not limited to, the student, the student’s academic advisor, Residential Experience and Housing staff, an academic department, or a member of the University’s Behavioral Assessment/ Intervention Team (BAIT). If the VPSA or designee(s) deems it appropriate, the procedures under this policy can be initiated.

Procedures

Process for Placing a Student on an Involuntary Leave of Absence

1. The VPSA or designee(s) will consult with the office of Accessibility Resources prior to making a decision to impose an involuntary leave of absence.
2. The VPSA or designee(s) will issue a notice to the student in writing that an involuntary leave of absence is under consideration. The written notice will include the reason(s) why the student is being considered for an involuntary leave of absence, contact information for the office of Accessibility Resources, and a copy of this policy. The notice will also provide contact information for a neutral or impartial advisor outside of the decision-making process under this policy, with knowledge of the process who will serve as a resource to answer any student questions. The Advisor will work with the student throughout the involuntary leave of absence process and any appeals. If a student utilizes an Advisor as part of this process, the Advisor cannot speak for the student and all administrative procedural rules apply. The student is responsible for self-advocacy and consults with the Advisor.
3. To the extent required by applicable law, the VPSA or designee(s) must consider potential reasonable accommodations and/or modifications that could eliminate the necessity for an involuntary leave of absence. These may include, without limitation, a voluntary leave of absence and/or academic/ housing/ dining accommodation(s). The University must document all such considerations, accommodations, and related decisions.
4. The student may be asked to execute an Exchange of Confidential Information Consent Form providing certain University personnel with temporary authority to obtain information from the student’s health care provider(s) regarding issues relevant and appropriate to the consideration of an involuntary leave of absence when there is a need for the University to have access to that information as part of the interactive process and individualized assessment. Any direct communication with a student’s medical provider shall be done through the appropriate medical office on campus, which will relay that information to the designee(s) responsible for assessing all information regarding a potential involuntary leave of absence. Access to these records, if the University is given authority, shall be limited to personnel directly involved in the deliberation and decision-making process under this policy. If a student refuses to execute this document or to respond within the timeframe set by the VPSA or designee(s), the VPSA or designee(s) may proceed with assessment based on the information available at that time.
5. The VPSA or designee(s) may also confer, as feasible and when appropriate depending upon the matter, with individuals regarding the need for an involuntary leave of absence. Each case may vary, but conferring individuals can include:
   1. Representatives from the Behavioral Assessment/ Intervention Team (BAIT);
   2. Representatives from Residential Experience and Housing;
   3. Faculty members;
   4. Academic advisors;
   5. Representatives from the Health Center;
   6. Representatives from the Counseling Center;
   7. The student’s treatment provider(s) or other health care professionals; and/or
   8. Other individuals who may be appropriate in an individual matter.
6. When evaluating whether an involuntary leave of absence is appropriate, the University will consider specific criteria, such as:
   1. Whether current knowledge about the individual’s medical condition and/or the best available objective evidence indicates that a student poses a significant risk to the health or safety of a member of the Campus community;
   2. Whether a student is unable or unwilling to carry out substantial self-care obligations and poses a significant risk to their own safety, not based on mere speculation, stereotypes, or generalizations; and/or
   3. Whether a student’s behavior severely disrupts the Campus environment.
   4. The individualized assessment for each factor, based on reasonable judgment that relies on current medical knowledge to the extent that information is available, or the best available objective evidence, should capture:
   5. the nature, duration, and severity of the risk or disruption;
   6. the probability that the risk or disruption will actually occur; and
   7. whether reasonable modifications of policies, practices, or procedures will appropriately mitigate risk or disruption, thereby eliminating the need for an involuntary leave of absence.
7. The VPSA or designee(s) will give significant weight to the opinion of the student’s treatment provider(s) identified by the student (with appropriate authorization) regarding the student’s ability to function academically and safely at the campus with or without reasonable accommodations. If the VPSA or designee(s) determines that the information provided by the treatment provider(s) is incomplete, requires further explanation or clarification, or is inconsistent with the other information in the student’s record, the VPSA or designee(s) (with appropriate authorization) may contact the treatment provider(s) to obtain additional information. In certain circumstances, the University may request the student to undergo an additional evaluation by an independent and objective professional designated by the University, if the VPSA or designee(s) believes it will facilitate a more informed decision. The University should appropriately document the reasoning for such a decision, if warranted.
   
8. Following the VPSA or designee(s)’ consultations and review of the relevant documentation and information available, the VPSA or designee(s) shall make a decision regarding whether the student should be placed on an involuntary leave of absence, and shall provide written notice of the decision to the student. This written notice of decision shall include information about the student’s right to appeal the decision and information about reasonable accommodations available during the appeal process.
   
9. In emergency situations involving an imminent threat of harm to the student or any other member of the Campus community, the VPSA or designee(s), in the exercise of reasonable judgment, may require a student to be immediately prohibited from entering the campus or facilities utilized for University programs or activities while such individualized assessment and review under this policy is taking place. Such students shall receive written notice to this effect as quickly as possible and/or practicable. While this individualized assessment and review is being conducted, every effort shall be made by the VPSA or designee(s) to reach a decision within seven (7) calendar days, provided that the student responds in a timely manner to requests for information, and if appropriate, evaluation. If there are delays, the University shall document the reason for such delays in writing.

II. Decisions on Involuntary Leaves of Absence

If an Involuntary Leave of Absence is Imposed: The written notice of any decision concerning the student shall set forth the basis for the decision; a timeframe for when the student must leave the University; the student’s right to appeal the decision; and information about reasonable accommodations available during the appeal process. This notice shall also set forth when the student may be eligible to return to the University and the conditions and/or requirements the student will need to satisfy to be eligible for return. This written notice shall also inform the student of their right to reasonable accommodations in the return process and will provide contact information for the office of Accessibility Resources. The length of the student’s leave will be determined on an individualized basis. The student’s Advisor shall be copied on all notices concerning all decisions related to the student if the student so designates and consents.

If An Involuntary Leave of Absence is Not Imposed: The VPSA or designee(s) may impose conditions and/or requirements under which the student is allowed to remain at the University using the least restrictive appropriate means possible.

III. Appeals

1. Within seven (7) calendar days of receiving the written notice of a decision from the VPSA or designee(s), the student may submit an appeal of the decision in writing. The appeal shall be heard by a three (3) person Board of Appeals. The decisionmaker who imposes an involuntary leave of absence shall not hear appeals or render decisions on appeals. The individuals chosen to oversee appeals cannot have been involved in the original decision-making process. The written request for appeal must specify the particular substantive and/or procedural basis for the appeal, and must be made on grounds other than general dissatisfaction with the decision of the VPSA or designee(s). While the appeal is pending and being heard by the Board of Appeals, the original decision will remain in place. All appeals decisions will be issued within seven (7) calendar days of submission.
2. The criteria for appeal will be limited to the following:
   1. Disproportionate Findings or New Information: if there is any information not previously considered that would allow the student to remain with a reasonable accommodation or if there is any new information not previously available to the student that may change the outcome of the decision-making process;
   2. Procedural irregularities: if there were any procedural irregularities that materially affected the outcome of the matter to the detriment of the student who appealed the decision.
3. After reviewing the matter fully, the Board of Appeals will issue a written decision affirming, modifying, or reversing the decision to place the student on an involuntary leave of absence. The Board of Appeals’ decision shall be final, and no other appeals or grievance procedures are available at the University level.

IV. Implications of an Involuntary Leave of Absence

1. Student status: Students on a leave of absence generally retain their admitted student status during the period of the student’s leave based on the University’s enrollment policies; however, they are not registered and therefore, do not have the rights and privileges of registered students.
2. Housing: Consistent with University policies and procedures, students assigned to a campus residence are subject to the terms and conditions of the Residence Housing License. Students who leave the University before the end of a term may be eligible to receive refunds of portions of their housing charges, per SUNY Policy. Information regarding eligibility criteria are for housing refunds for students can be found within the refund guidelines.
   
3. Effective date(s) of leave: A student must leave the campus within the timeframe set forth by the VPSA or designee(s) or Board of Appeals, as applicable, in the decision to impose an involuntary leave of absence. The leave will remain in effect until:
   1. The VPSA or designee(s) has determined after an individualized assessment the parameters of which shall be set forth in the written decision of the VPSA or designee(s) or the Board of Appeals, as applicable, that the student is able to return to the University with or without reasonable accommodations, and
   2. The student has complied with any University requirements applicable to all students returning from a leave and all conditions mandated by the VPSA or designee(s) or Board of Appeals, as applicable.
   3. Students are not permitted to return mid-semester if placed on a leave of absence. During the last semester of a student leave of absence, and if the student has completed all necessary requirements, the student will have the opportunity to register for the following semester online. The student will be assigned a registration day/time and will receive an email informing them where they can log in to view the assigned day/time. The online Academic Calendar provides an outline of the current and upcoming semesters as well as links to key dates and deadlines. The Schedule of Classes is available online for all individuals. Students should contact the Registrar’s Office at (607) 436-2531 if they need to reset their PIN.
4. Notification: At any time while the student is on leave, the VPSA or designee(s) may notify a student’s parent, guardian, emergency contact, or other individual, consistent with the law, if notification is deemed appropriate under the circumstances.
   
5. Association with the Campus while on leave: Unless expressly permitted by the VPSA or designee(s) in writing, or Board of Appeals, as applicable, students on an involuntary leave of absence are not permitted to be present at the University and are not permitted to engage in any University-related activities, including on-campus and/or remote employment opportunities.
   
6. Coursework taken while on leave: Consistent with the University’s policies and procedures, academic credit for work done elsewhere may be allowed toward a University degree. However, students must consult with the Registrar’s Office and their academic department prior to taking any coursework while on an involuntary leave of absence.
   
7. Access to Student Accounts while on leave: Unless expressly prohibited in writing by the VPSA or designee(s), students on leave generally may retain their student ID number privileges including their Campus email account. Note: This is not to be confused with the physical ID card, which may be retained by the student but will be inactive during the period of absence.
   
8. Refund Information: Consistent with SUNY’s and the University’s policies and procedures, students who leave the University before the end of a term may be eligible to receive refunds of portions of their fees. See the refund guidelines for a schedule of refunds.
   
9. Financial Aid: An involuntary leave of absence decision may have an effect on a student's financial aid. If a student is placed on an involuntary leave of absence, the student may contact their financial aid advisor to discuss the impact of an involuntary leave of absence on their financial aid.
   
10. Visa Status: International students (F-1 and J-1 Visa holders) placed on an involuntary leave of absence must speak with the appropriate person at the office of Global Education regarding their Visa status and the effect an involuntary leave of absence may have on that status.

V. Request for Return

1. In addition to the general requirements all students must meet when returning to the University after a leave of absence, as well as any conditions imposed by the VPSA or designee(s) or Board of Appeals, as applicable, for return from an involuntary leave of absence as outlined in the decision, students seeking to return from an involuntary leave of absence imposed for reasons of personal or community health and safety may be required to submit additional documentation related to the factors set forth in Section I.6 as part of an individualized assessment. The office of Accessibility Resources will work with students to provide reasonable accommodations in the return process as appropriate.
   
2. A student must make a written request to the VPSA or designee(s) to return to the University. Generally, a student shall not be allowed to return until one full semester has elapsed or until the leave period in the involuntary leave of absence notification has elapsed, and all conditions and/or requirements have been met.
   
3. The VPSA or designee(s) may require the student to provide evidence that the student, with or without reasonable accommodations, has sufficiently addressed the issues that previously established the criteria for imposing an involuntary leave of absence as set forth in Section I.6, above. The VPSA or designee(s) may also ask, confer with, or seek information from others to assist in making this determination. The information sought may include:
   
   1. At the student’s discretion, documentation of efforts by the student to address the issues that led to the leave;
   2. Release of academic records to inform treating clinicians (with appropriate authorization);
   3. Release of treatment information to the extent necessary to determine if the student has sufficiently reduced the risk or disruption that led to the leave (with appropriate authorization);
   4. Consultation with the University’s Health Center and/or Counseling Center to the extent necessary to determine if the student has sufficiently reduced the risk or disruption that led to the leave (with appropriate authorization); and/or
   5. Consultation with the University’s office for Accessibility Resources.
4. All returning students must meet the essential eligibility requirements and any technical standards of the University and, if applicable, the relevant school or department, with or without reasonable accommodations. If the VPSA or designee(s) determines that the student is ready to return to the University, the student will be notified in writing of the decision, including the reason for the decision, within a reasonable time after the student has submitted a request for return and required documentation per this policy.
   
5. A student not permitted to return may appeal the decision to the Board of Appeals under this policy, following the procedures in Section III.
   
6. If the student does not intend to return following an involuntary leave of absence, the student must contact the Student Affairs Office in writing to withdraw from the university. Students who do not withdraw from the university will be administratively withdrawn. All students who have withdrawn or have been administratively withdrawn must apply for re-admission. Readmission cannot be guaranteed.

VI. Scope of the Policy and Relationship to Other University Policies

A leave of absence is an administrative process; it is not a disciplinary process.

This policy is not intended to be punitive and does not take the place of disciplinary actions that are in response to violations of the Student Code of Conduct, or other policies and directives, nor does it preclude the removal or dismissal of students from the University or University-related programs as a result of violations of other University policies or school or department protocols.

This policy does not limit the University’s ability to place enrollment holds on students for reasons beyond the scope of this policy.

This policy does not relieve a student of any financial obligations to the University that were incurred prior to the time the involuntary leave of absence was imposed. If a student is placed on an involuntary leave of absence, that student’s financial aid advisor will reach out to the student to discuss if there might be an effect on the student’s financial aid, including returning aid, outstanding balances, potential effects on future aid, and any effects on the New York State Tuition Assistance Program (TAP), the Excelsior Scholarship Program, and any other scholarship, if applicable.

Nothing in this policy limits the power of the University to take administrative action to ensure the safety of the University community in accordance with all appropriate laws and policies.

Nothing in this policy prevents the University from engaging in a temporary suspension under its policies if necessary under the circumstances. Any such cases shall be appropriately reviewed per University policy.

The University is required to abide by the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and comply with its requirements regarding student privacy.

Nothing in this policy prevents the University from following the Rules of Maintenance of Public Order, as necessary.

VII. Requests for Reasonable Accommodations

SUNY Oneonta is committed to providing equal access to all participants in University processes, including students with disabilities. Students with disabilities should contact the office of Accessibility Resources to request accommodations.

APPENDIX F: Board of Trustees SUNY Maintenance Of Public Order:
Statutory Authority Education Law 6450

Rules and Regulations for the Maintenance of Public order on Premises of State Operated Institutions of the State University of New York.

Education

1. Statement of purpose. The following rules are adopted in compliance with section 6450 of the Education Law and should be filed with the Commissioner of Education and the Board of Regents on or before July 20, 1969, as required by that section. Said rules shall be subject to amendment or revision and any amendments or revisions thereof shall be filed with the Commissioner of Education and Board of Regents within 10 days after adoption. Nothing herein is intended, nor shall it be construed, to limit or restrict the freedom of speech or peaceful assembly. Free inquiry and free expression are indispensable to the objectives of a higher educational institution. Similarly, experience has demonstrated that the traditional autonomy of the educational institution (and the accompanying institutional responsibility for the maintenance of order) is best suited to achieve these objectives. These rules shall not be construed to prevent or limit communication between and among faculty, students, and administration, or to relieve the institution of its special responsibility for self-regulation in the preservation of public order. Their purpose is not to prevent or restrain controversy and dissent, but to prevent abuse of the rights of others and to maintain that public order appropriate to a college or university campus without which there can be no intellectual freedom and they shall be interpreted and applied to that end.

2. Application of rules. These rules shall apply to all State operated institutions of the State University except as provided in Part 550 as applicable to the State University Maritime College. These rules may be supplemented by additional rules for the maintenance of public order heretofore or hereafter adopted for any individual institution, approved and adopted by the State University trustees and filed with the Commissioner of Education and Board of Regents, but only to the extent that such additional rules are not inconsistent herewith. The rules hereby adopted shall govern the conduct of student, faculty and other, licensees, invitees and all other persons, whether or not their presence is authorized, upon the campus of any institution to which such rules are applicable and also upon or with respect to any other premises or property, under the control of such institution, used in its teaching, research, administrative, service, cultural, recreational, athletic and other programs and activities; provided, however, that charges against any student for violation of these rules on the premises of any such institution other than the one at which the student is in attendance shall be heard and determined at the institution where the student is enrolled.

3. Prohibited Conduct. No person, either singly or in concert with others, shall:

• willfully cause physical injury to any other person, nor threaten to do so for the purpose of compelling or inducing such other person to refrain from any act that they have a lawful right to do or to do any act that they have a lawful right not to do;
• physically restrain or detain any person, not remove such person, from any place where they are authorized to remain.
• willfully damage or destroy property of the institution or under its jurisdiction, nor remove or use such property without authorization;
• without permission, expressed or implied, enter into any private office of an administrative officer, member of the faculty or staff member;
• enter upon and remain in any building or facility for any purpose other than its authorized uses or in such manner as to obstruct its authorized use by others;
• without authorization, remain in any building or facility after it is normally closed;
• refuse to leave any building or facility after being required to do so by an authorized administrative officer;
• obstruct the free movement of persons and vehicles in any place to which these rules apply;
• deliberately disrupt or prevent the peaceful and orderly conduct of classes, lectures and meetings or deliberately interfere with the freedom of any person to express his/her views, including invited speakers;
• knowingly have in his/her possession upon any premises to which these rules apply, any rifle, shotgun, pistol, revolver or other firearm or weapon without written authorization of the chief administrative officer, whether or not a license to possess the same has been issued to such person;
• willfully incite others to commit any of the acts herein prohibited with specific intent to procure them to do so.
• take any action, create or participate in the creation of, any situation that recklessly or intentionally endangers mental or physical health or that involves the forced consumption of liquor or drugs for the purpose of initiation into or affiliation with any organization.

4. Freedom of speech and assembly; picketing and demonstrations.

• No student, faculty or other staff member or authorized visitor shall be subject to any limitation or penalty solely for the expression of his/her views nor for having assembled with others for such purpose. Peaceful picketing and other orderly demonstrations in public areas of ground and building will not be interfered with. Those involved in picketing and demonstrations, may not however, engage in specific conduct in violation of the provisions of the preceding section.
• In order to afford maximum protection to the participants and to the institutional community, each state operated institution of the State University shall promptly adopt and promulgate, and thereafter continue in effect as revised from time to time, procedures appropriate to such institution for giving of reasonable advance notice to such institution of any planned assembly, picketing or demonstration upon the grounds of such institution, its proposed locate and intended purpose, provided, however, that the giving of such notice shall not be made a condition precedent to any such assembly, picketing or demonstration and provided, further, that this provision shall not supersede or preclude the procedures in effect at such institution for obtaining permission to use the facilities thereof

5. Penalties. A person who shall violate any of the provisions of these rules (or the rules of any individual institution supplementing or implementing these rules) shall:

• if the person is a licensee or invitee, have his/her authorization to remain upon the campus or other property withdrawn and shall be directed to leave the premises. In the event of his/her failure or refusal to do so, they shall be subject to ejection.
• if the person is a trespasser or visitor without specific license or invitation, be subject to ejection.
• if the person is a student, be subject to expulsion or such lesser disciplinary action as the facts of the case may warrant, including suspension, probation, loss of privileges, reprimand or warning.
• if the person is a faculty member having a term or continuing appointment, be guilty of misconduct and be subject to dismissal or termination of his/her employment or such lesser disciplinary action as the facts may warrant including suspension without pay or censure.
• if the person is a staff member in the classified service of the civil service, described in section 75 of the Civil Service Law, be guilty of misconduct, and be subject to the penalties prescribed in said section.
• if the person is a staff member other than one described in subdivisions (d) and (e), be subject to dismissal, suspension without pay or censure.

6. Procedure.

• The chief administrative officer or his/her designee shall inform any licensee or invitee who shall violate any provisions of these rules (or the rules of any individual institution supplementing or implementing these rules) that his/her license or invitation is withdrawn and shall direct their failure or refusal to do so, such officer shall cause his/her ejection from such campus or property.
• In the case of any other violator, who is neither a student nor faculty or other staff member, the chief administrative officer or his/her designee shall inform the person that they are not authorized to remain on the campus or other property of the institution and direct the individual to leave such premises. In the event of his/her failure or refusal to do so, such officer shall cause his/her ejection from such campus or property. Nothing in this subdivision shall be construed to authorize the presence of any such person at any time prior to such violation or to affect his /her liability to prosecution for trespass or loitering as prescribed in the Penal Law.
• In the case of a student, charges for violation of any of these rules (or of the rules of any individual institution supplementing or implementing these rules) shall be presented and shall be heard and determined in the manner hereinafter provided in section 535.9 of this Part.
• In the case of a faculty member having a continuing or term appointment, charges of misconduct in violation of these rules (or the rules of any individual institution supplementing or implementing these rules) shall be made, heard and determined in accordance with title D or Part 338 of the policies of the Board of Trustees.
• In the case of any staff member who holds a position in the classified civil service, described in section 75 of the Civil Service Law, charges of misconduct in violation of these rules (or of the rules of any individual institution supplementing or implementing these rules) shall be made, heard and determined as prescribed in that section.
• Any other faculty or staff member who shall violate any provision of these rules (or the rules of any individual institution supplementing or implementing these rules) shall be dismissed, suspended or censured by the appointing authority prescribed in the policies of the Board of Trustees.

7. Enforcement Program.

• The chief administrative officer shall be responsible for the enforcement of these rules (or the rules of any individual institution supplementing or implementing these rules) and shall designate the other administrative officers who are authorized to take action in accordance with such rules when required or appropriate to carry them into effect.
• It is not intended by any provision herein to curtail the right of students, faculty or staff to be heard on any matter affecting them in their relations with the institution. In the case of any apparent violation of these rules (or the rules of any individual institution supplementing or implementing these rules) by such persons, which, in the judgment of the chief administrative officer or his/her designee, does not pose any immediate threat of injury to person or property, such officer may make reasonable effort to learn the cause of the conduct in question and to persuade those engaged therein to desist and to resort to permissible methods for the resolution of any issue that may be presented. In doing so, such officer shall warn such persons of the consequences of persistence in the prohibited conduct, including their ejection from any premises of the institution where their continued presence and conduct is in violation of these rules (or the rules of any individual institution supplementing or implementing these rules).
• In any case where violation of these rules (or the rules of any individual institution supplementing or implementing these rules) does not cease after such warning and in other cases of willful violation of such rules, the chief administrative officer or his/her designee shall cause the ejection of the violator from any premises that the alleged person occupies in such violation and shall initiate disciplinary action as hereinbefore provided.
• The chief administrative officer or designee may apply to the public authorities for any aid that is deemed necessary in causing the ejection of any violator of these rules (or the rules of any individual institution supplementing or implementing these rules) and may request the State University counsel to apply to any court of appropriate jurisdiction for an injunction to restrain the violation or threatened violation of such rules.

8. Communication. In matters of the sort to which these rules are addressed, full and prompt communication among all components of the institutional community, faculty, students and administration, is highly desirable. To the extent that time and circumstances permit, such communication should precede the exercise of the authority, discretion and responsibilities granted and imposed in these rules. To these ends, each State operated institution of the State University shall employ such procedures and means, formal and informal, as will promote such communication.

9. Notice, hearing and determination of charges against students.*

• The term chief administrative officer, as used in these rules, shall be deemed to mean and include any person authorized to exercise the powers of the incumbent and for purposes of this section shall also include any designee appointed by said officer.
• Whenever a complaint is made to the chief administrative officer of any State operated institution of the University of a violation by a student or students of the rules prescribed in this Part (or any rules adopted by an individual institution supplementing or implementing such rules) or whenever they have knowledge that such a violation may have occurred, if any, and of other persons having knowledge of the facts reduced to writing. If the chief administrative officer is satisfied from such investigation and statements that there is reasonable ground to believe that there has been such a violation, they shall prepare or cause to be prepared charges against the student or students alleged to have committed such violation, which shall state the provision prescribing the offense and shall specify the ultimate facts alleged to constitute such offense.
• Such charges shall be in writing and shall be served on the student or students named therein by delivering the same personally, if possible, or, if not, by mailing a copy of such charges by registered mail to such student or students at his/her or their usual place or places of abode while attending college and also to his/her or their home address or addresses, if different.
• The notice of charges so serviced shall fix a date for hearing thereon not less than 10 or more than 15 days from the date of service, which shall be the date of mailing where necessary to effect service by mail. Failure to appear in response to the charges on the date fixed for hearing, unless there has been a continuance for good cause shown, shall be deemed to be an admission of the facts stated in such charges and shall warrant such action as may then be appropriate thereon. Before taking such action, the hearing committee, herein after referred to, shall give notice to any student who has failed to appear, in the manner prescribed in subdivision (c), of its proposed findings and recommendations to be submitted to the chief administrative officer and shall so submit such findings and recommendations 10 days thereafter unless the student has meanwhile shown good cause for his/her failure to appear, in which case a date for hearing shall be fixed.
• Upon demand at any time before or at the hearing, the student charged or his/her representative, duly designated, shall be furnished a copy of the statements taken by the chief administrative officer in relation to such charges and with the names of any other witnesses who will be produced at the hearing in support of the charges; provided, however, that this shall not preclude the testimony of witnesses who were unknown at the time of such demand.
• The chief administrative officer may, upon the services of charges, suspend the student named therein, pending the hearing and determination thereof whenever, in his/her judgment, the continued presence of such student would constitute a clear danger to said student or to the safety of persons or property on the premises of the institution or would pose an immediate threat of disruptive interference with the normal conduct of the institution's activities and functions; provided, however, that the chief administrative officer shall grant an immediate hearing on request of any student so suspended with respect to the basis for such suspension.
• There shall be constituted at each State operated institution, a hearing committee to hear charges against such students or violation of the rules for maintenance of public order prescribed by or referred to in this Part. Such committee shall consist of three members of the administrative staff and three members of the faculty, designated by the chief administrative officer, and three students who shall be designated by the members named by the chief administrative officer. Each such member shall serve until his/her successor or replacement has been designated. No member of the committee shall serve in any case in which the member is a witness or is or has been directly involved in the events upon which the charges are based. In order to provide for cases where there may be such a disqualification and for cases of absence or disability, the chief administrative officer shall designate an alternate member of the administrative staff and an alternate member of the faculty, and his/her principal designees shall designate an alternate student member, to serve in such cases. Any five members of the committee may conduct hearings and make findings and recommendations as hereinafter provided. At any institution where the chief administrative officer determines that the number of hearings that will be required to be held is, or may be, so great that they cannot otherwise be disposed of with reasonable speed, the officer may determine that the hearing committee shall consist of six members of the administrative staff and six members of the faculty to be designated by him/her and of six students who shall be designated by him/her. In such event, the chief administrative officer shall designate one of such members as chairperson who may divide the membership of the committee into three divisions, each to consist of two members of the administrative staff, two faculty members and two students and may assign charges among such divisions for hearing. Any four members of each such division may conduct hearings and make recommendations as hereinafter provided.
• The hearing committee shall not be bound by the technical rules of evidence, but may hear or receive any testimony or evidence that is relevant and material to the issues presented by the charges and that will contribute to a full and fair consideration thereof and determination thereon. A student against whom the charges are made may appear by and with representatives of his/her choice. The student may confront and examine witnesses against them and may produce witnesses and documentary evidence in his/her own behalf. There may be present at the hearing: the student charged and his/her representatives and witnesses; other witnesses; representatives of the institutional administration; and, unless the student shall request a closed hearing, such other members of the institutional community or other persons, or both, as may be admitted by the hearing committee. A transcript of the proceedings shall be made.
• Within 20 days after the close of a hearing, the hearing committee shall submit a report of its findings of fact and recommendations for disposition of the charges to the chief administrative officer, together with a transcript of the proceedings, and shall at the same time transmit a copy of its report to the student concerned or his/her representative. Within 10 days thereafter, the chief administrative officer shall make his/her determination thereon. Final authority to dismiss the charges or to determine the guilt of those against whom they are made and to expel, suspend or otherwise discipline them, shall be vested in the chief administrative officer. If the findings of the hearing committee are rejected in whole or in part, the chief administrative officer shall make new findings that must be based on substantial evidence in the record and shall include them in the notice of the final determination, which shall be served upon the student or students with respect to whom it is made.

* Applies to charges for violation of the rules prescribed by or referred to in this Part heretofore served that have not been finally determined within 60 days after the adoption hereof, which charges shall be referred to the committee constituted pursuant to said section 535.9 for determination in accordance therewith and said section shall apply to all charges for violation of such rules hereafter made, whether for violations heretofore or hereafter committed.

10. Rules for organizations.

Organizations

Organizations that operate on the campus of any State operated institution or on the property of any State operated institution used for educational purposes shall be prohibited from authorizing the conduct described in subdivision (1) of Section 535.3 of this Part.

Procedure

The chief administrative officer of each State operated institution shall be responsible for the enforcement of this section, and, as used herein, the term chief administrative officer shall include any designee appointed by said officer.

• Whenever the chief administrative officer has determined on the basis of a complaint or personal knowledge that there is reasonable ground to believe that there has been a violation of this section by any organization, the chief administrative officer shall prepare or cause to be prepared written charges against the organization, which shall state the provision prescribing the conduct and shall specify the ultimate facts alleged to constitute such violation.
• Such written charges shall be served upon the principal officer of the organization by registered or certified mail, return receipt requested, to the organization's current address and shall be accompanied by a notice that the organization may respond in writing to the charges within 10 days of receipt of said notice. The notice of charge so served shall include a statement that the failure to submit a response within 10 days shall be deemed to be an admission of the facts stated in such charges and shall warrant the imposition of the penalty described in subdivision (c) of this section. The response shall be submitted to the chief administrative office and shall constitute the formal denial or affirmation of the ultimate facts alleged in the charge. The chief administrative officer may allow an extension of the 1 0‑day response period.
• Upon written request by an authorized representative of the organization, the chief administrative officer shall provide the representative organization an opportunity for a hearing. A hearing panel designated by the chief administrative officer shall hear or receive any testimony or evidence that is relevant and material to the issues presented by the charge and that will contribute to a full and fair consideration thereof and determination thereon. The organization's representative may confront and examine witnesses against it and may produce witnesses and documentary evidence on its behalf. The hearing panel shall submit written findings of fact and recommendations for disposition of the charge to the chief administrative officer within 20 days after the close of the hearing.
• Final authority to dismiss the charges or to make a final determination shall be vested in the chief administrative officer. Notice of the decisions shall be in writing; shall include the reasons supporting such decision; and shall be served on the principal officer of the organization by mal manner described in paragraph (2) of this subdivision within a reasonable time after such decision is made.

Penalties

Any organization that authorized the prohibited conduct described in subdivision (1) of Section 535.3 of this Part shall be subject to the decision of permission to operate on the campus or on the property of the State operated institution used for educational purposes. The penalty provided in this subdivision shall be in addition to any penalty that may be imposed pursuant to the Penal Law and any other provision of law, or to any penalty to which an individual may be subject pursuant to this Part.

Bylaws

Section 64500) of the Education Law requires that the provisions of this Part that prohibit reckless or intentional endangerment to health or forced consumption of liquor or drugs for the purpose of initiation into or affiliation with any organization shall be deemed to be part of the bylaws of all organizations that operate on the campus of any State operated institution used for educational purposes. The statute further requires that each such organization shall review these bylaws annually with individuals affiliated with the organization.

Distribution

Copies of the provisions of this Part that prohibit reckless or intentional endangerment to health or forced consumption of liquor or drugs for the purpose of initiation into or affiliation with any organization shall be given to all students enrolled in each State operated institution.

Revised October 2024