NOTE: For instructions on how to appeal an Academic Code of Conduct violation (different from Student Code of Conduct), read this article: How to Appeal an ACADEMIC Code of Conduct Violation
Students have the right to a conference and/or hearing, and the right to appeal a determination of an Student Code of Conduct violation as stated in the Student Code of Conduct.
Student Code of Conduct Violation Process
The Student Code of Conduct Violation Process is outlined in the Student Code of Conduct.
- Students who violate the the Student Code of Conduct will be notified in an email from Student Services.
- If the sanction is NOT suspension or expulsion, the student has a right to a conference. This will normally consist of an informal meeting between the student and a representative from Student Services.
- If the sanction IS suspension or expulsion, the student has a right to a hearing, which will normally consist of a formal meeting between them and the Associate Vice President of Student Services, or a designated representative (see next section below).
- Students may also accept responsibility for their actions, and waive the right to a conference or a hearing.
Student Code of Conduct Hearing Proceedings
NOTE: The information below is a brief overview of the Hearing process. For a more detailed explanation, please refer to the Student Code of Conduct. When information in this article conflicts with information in the Student Code of Conduct, the Student Code of Conduct is the point of truth.
- Students who are subject to a Student Code of Conduct Hearing will receive advanced notification of the specific charges, the date, time, and location of scheduled proceeding. This will be delivered to the students HU email address.
- Students will have the opportunity to review the case file and present evidence that bolsters their case such as additional and relevant information, witnesses, and relevant material pertaining to the incident.
- Students may be accompanied by one advisor.
- Proceeding outcomes must be supported by a preponderance of evidence. Preponderance of evidence means that a greater weight of evidence supports the conclusion that a fact is true, or to establish that an event occurred. A preponderance of the evidence does not necessarily mean the greater amount of evidence, but rather the greater quality of evidence, making it more likely than not the matter in question is true. This standard of evidence is often called “50 percent plus a feather.”
- The outcome of the hearing will be communicated to the student along with a notice of appeal (see next section below). This will be delivered to the student's HU email address.
Student Code of Conduct Hearing Appeals
NOTE: The information below is a brief overview of the appeals process. For a more detailed explanation, please refer to the Student Code of Conduct. When information in this article conflicts with information in the Student Code of Conduct, the Student Code of Conduct is the point of truth.
Students have the right to appeal the outcome of a Student Code of Conduct Hearing. In order to appeal the outcomes of a hearing, the student must:
1. Write a letter addressed to the "Conduct Appeals Committee" within three (3) days of the notification. Late appeals will not be considered. General dissatisfaction with the outcome of the student conduct proceeding or an appeal for mercy are not appropriate grounds for appeal. The letter must address and present evidence of at least one of the following criteria:
- Significant procedural error that changes the findings of fact of the student conduct proceeding.
- New evidence that significantly alters the findings of fact, that was previously unknown to the respondent, has been discovered, and is available during the appeal process.
- Respondent would be unable to access and complete education with the imposed sanction. These grounds will only be considered for sanctions that do not include expulsion, suspension, or deferred suspension
2. Combine your letter and evidence into one (1) PDF document and send to StudentSuccess@HarrisburgU.edu
3. The Associate Vice President of Student Services or the Provost will review the appeal and send a final determination in a timely manner. This determination will be sent to the student's HU email account