Student Guide to Resources, Rights and Responsibilities

I. A. Welcome

Dear Student,

Welcome to La Salle! We are so glad to have you in our community. You’ll find that La Salle is much more than a learning institution—we’re a community that shares deep respect for each individual here. This core value is central to the educational tradition of La Salle, which carries on the legacy St. John Baptist de La Salle and the Christian Brothers teaching order he founded in 17th century France.

We’re committed to your development not just as a student, but as a whole person. La Salle is especially designed to help you actively engage with your education, in the classroom and beyond our campus. You’ll find enriching experiences through the University’s clubs, sports, organizations, internships, and community service, as well as the surrounding city of Philadelphia.

As you connect with life at La Salle, you’ll likely learn a lot about yourself, your talents, and your abilities. It is our hope that you’ll flourish in new ways as you stretch and challenge yourself in your studies.

If you want to develop the skills to make a lasting impact on contemporary social, political, professional, and moral challenges, you’ve come to the right place. Embracing La Salle’s community prepares you for a lifetime of world-changing opportunities.

Use the resources in this handbook to make the most of connecting and growing with our community.

 

I. B. Division of Student Development and Campus Life Leadership Team Welcome

Dear Lasallian,

No factor plays a stronger role in student learning than the active involvement of the learner in the educational enterprise. A student’s surest routes to achieving active involvement flow from the establishment and maintenance of strong, lasting, and positive associations with members of the faculty, staff, and administration and with fellow students.

This book is your guide to establishing those associations.

We believe you will find in our Lasallian community, as we have, individuals and groups from and with whom you will actively learn and whose learning you will enhance, as well. We welcome you, we look forward to many years of association, and we ask God and St. John Baptist de La Salle to bless and guide you and all in our learning community.

Best regards and have a wonderful year at La Salle!

Gabrielle St. Léger, Ed.D.
Vice President for Student Development & Campus Life

TiRease Holmes
Dean of Students and Assistant Vice President, Student Development & Campus Life

R. Scott Cook, D.O.
Assistant Vice President, Student Wellness Services & Team Physician

Jeff Chapman
Assistant Vice President, La Salle Public Safety

Br. Robert J. Kinzler, FSC
Assistant Vice President, University Ministry, Service and Support

Alan B. Wendell
Assistant to the Vice President for Student Development and Campus Life

For more information regarding the Division of Student Development and Campus Life and available resources and services, please visit the above links.

II. A. Academics

II. B. Directories

II. C. Have A Question?

II. D. Student Organizations

  • Student Organizations Information

    La Salle recognizes that student activities are an integral part of the educational program for students. Participating in one or more of the following student organizations will promote the development of social and leadership skills, provide the opportunity to meet many people from a wide variety of backgrounds, and overall, enhance your collegiate experience.

    The Community Development Office can provide information on joining organizations. Additionally, most student organizations do in-person recruiting of new members at the start of the academic year especially at the annual Activities Fair. The Collegian, WEXP, signs, and posters announce individual recruiting periods. Stop by La Salle Union 303 or call ext. 1916 for more information and consult the Student Organizations section of the Division of Student Development and Campus Life website or the links below.

  • Student Organizations Listings

    Student Organizations Listings web site

  • Information Manual for Student Organizations

    Information Manual for Student Organizations

II. E. Division of Student Development and Campus Life

II. F. Procedures for Dealing with Acts of Discrimination

  • Introduction

    Bigotry and intolerance have no place in the Lasallian tradition or the Lasallian community. As stated in the La Salle University Student Guide to Rights and Responsibilities, “physical or verbal abuse or harassment of any person on University premises, at University sponsored functions, or between any members of the University community off University premises” is subject to disciplinary action. This category of behavior includes, of course, harassment of individuals or groups based on race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, sexual orientation, marital status, or handicap or disability. Following are brief guidelines for dealing with incidents of this nature. For complete policies regarding discrimination and harassment, please see the Policy for Handling Title IX Complaints Against Students (III. D) and Sexual Misconduct and Interpersonal Violence Polucy (III. E).

    For further information or discussion, please contact the Division of Student Development and Campus Life, in care of the Chief Student Affairs Officer (CSAO), La Salle Union 123.

  • Graffiti or other forms of physical damage and/or desecration that violate the University’s anti-discrimination policy.

    • Contact the Supervisor on duty for the Security and Safety Office or the Resident Coordinator on duty.
    • A photo should be taken if possible and submitted to the Chief Student Affairs Officer (CSAO).
    • Remove the graffiti as soon as possible. (If supplies are available, Security and Safety or the Community Development staff should do so at that time. If supplies are not available, Physical Facilities should be notified to take care of the problem as soon as the next shift begins.)
    • A written report should be forwarded to the Chief Student Affairs Officer (CSAO) within 24 hours of the incident. Investigation and, if warranted and possible, disciplinary action will proceed in accordance with all relevant University procedures.

  • Discriminatory acts (including harassment) toward any member of the University community

    • Retain any physical evidence of the act(s), such as harassing notes or letters, tapes of harassing messages left on answering machines, and so forth.
    • Contact the Supervisor on duty for the Security and Safety Office or the Resident Coordinator on duty.
    • Notify the Chief Student Affairs Officer (CSAO) immediately.
    • The Chief Student Affairs Officer (CSAO) will contact the harassed individual directly to assess the situation and decide on a course of action and/or advise the individual of the right to file a complaint under the University’s grievance procedure.
    • Security and Safety staff or Community Development staff will respond administratively by tracing phone calls, confronting the harassers, etc.
    • The Chief Student Affairs Officer (CSAO) will consult appropriately with other members of the University community. Investigation and, if warranted and possible, disciplinary action will proceed in accordance with all relevant University procedures.

  • Community Responses in the Residence Halls

    When there is a need for a community response in a student residence, the Community Development Supervisory Staff should work with the Chief Student Affairs Officer (CSAO) to develop it, making use of the expertise of appropriate persons on campus.

III. A. The Affirmation

III. B. University Governance

  • Introduction

    With more than 5,400 students in day and evening classes, some 451 full and part-time faculty, 246 administrators, and alumni numbering over 38.000, a certain number of administrative arrangements and operational procedures are needed. Students should understand these processes to enhance their experiences and also to assume their significant role in the governance of the University.

  • Student participation in Governance

    An organizational structure has been developed which recognizes that the three primary constituencies of the University – students, faculty, and administration – all play major roles in governing the University, thus creating a formal communication system which is essential for effective operation.

    The University has established a system of decision making by which final decisions are made at the lowest level of administration consistent with the concept of interested representation and collegiality. It is through this system that students play a role in governing the University.

  • The President

    The Board of Trustees has final legal authority for all University business. However, it is the President who, as Executive Officer of the Board, carries final authority for day-to-day operational policies and decisions. The President is the chief officer of the entire institution, the official representative of the University to its various publics, and the administrator who has overall responsibility for planning, supervising, managing, and evaluating the work of the University.

  • University Council

    In formulating University policy and in making major operational decisions such as on budget matters, the President enjoys the collaborative assistance of University Council. The University Council is a body composed of three student representatives appointed by the Students’ Government Association; four faculty members appointed by the Faculty Senate; the Chief Student Affairs Officer (CSAO); the Academic Deans; the Executive Assistant to the President; the Vice President of the Corporation; the Provost; and the three Vice Presidents. The guiding concept behind this collaborative arrangement at La Salle is referred to as “President-in-Council.” The President has final authority for approving new policies and for changing old policies; however, such actions can be taken only after review with Council.

  • Provost and Vice Presidents

    The University is organized into four areas, headed by the Provost and three Vice Presidents. These officers report directly to the President. The responsibility of each area is reflective of its name: Academic and Student Affairs, Business Affairs, University Advancement, and Enrollment Services.

    The Provost is responsible for the University’s central mission of teaching and learning. he is assisted in these responsibilities by the Dean of the School of Arts and Sciences, the Chief Student Affairs Officer (CSAO), the Dean of the School of Business Administration, the Dean of the College of Continuing and Professional Studies, the Dean of the School of Nursing, and by the Directors of the various academic services such as the Registrar, the Library, and Information Technology. The Deans are in turn assisted by the Academic Department Chairs and Directors within their respective Schools or Divisions.

    The Vice President for Business Affairs is responsible for administering fiscal programs, security, food service, and the physical plant. The Vice President is assisted by a Comptroller and the Directors of the Campus Store, Food Services, Printing and Mail Services, Human Resources, Purchasing, Physical Facilities, and Security and Safety.

    The Vice President for University Advancement is charged with directing the University’s fund raising programs and for communicating its policies and goals to its many publics. This area includes the Assistant Vice Presidents for Alumni, Marketing and Communication, Government and Community Relations, and their staffs.

    The Vice President for Enrollment Services is directly responsible for developing and implementing enrollment management (student recruitment and retention) strategies and activities. The Vice President is assisted by the Dean of Admissions, the Director of Student Financial Services, the Registrar, and the Director of Institutional Research.

  • University Committees

    Committees have been established in each administrative area to assure the participation of all three constituencies; accordingly, provision is made on all standing committees of the University to reflect the views of students, faculty, and administration. Except for those committees whose chairs are designated ex-officio, committees select a chair from among faculty and administration members at the beginning of each academic year.

    The Students’ Government Association appoints the students who sit on all standing University committees (with the exception of the Community Development Advisory Board).

    The following is a partial list of the major standing committees of primary concern to students:

    • Academic Affairs Committee:

      In its monthly meeting, the Academic Affairs Committee deals with problems referred to it by any of its members or by members of the faculty which arise in carrying out existing academic policies. Thus, it considers, for example, revisions of the academic calendar, the rules of academic standing, the grading system, special programs, new programs and departments, and so forth. It also suggests actions to the University Council in matters of wider scope or of an essentially policy making nature.

      The Academic Affairs Committee is composed of the Provost as ex officio chairperson; the Academic Deans and the Chief Student Affairs Officer (CSAO) as ex officio members; five voting faculty members representing each of the Schools with two of the five from the school of Arts and Sciences and some of the five regularly teaching in graduate programs; a non-voting faculty member from the Faculty Senate; three student representatives; and the Assistant Provost for Administration as a non-voting member.

    • Academic Department Boards:

      Students are offered the opportunity to participate in decisions regarding academic life through membership in academic department boards. Although each academic department may organize its board accordingly, typically these boards items such as curriculum revision, teacher evaluation, tenure and advancement in rank, and general academic concerns.

    • Activities Funding Board:

      The Activities Funding Board has been established to assist the Division of Student Development and Campus Life in administering student organization accounts.

      The duties of the Board include reviewing budgets of all student organizations requesting or receiving institutional funding, hearing the funding requests of new student organizations, annually recommending and submitting budget appropriations for regularly funded organizations, hearing requests of student organizations desiring funds which exceed their annual budget allotment and providing financial assistance for new programs, arbitrating disputes related to student organization accounts, and recommending to appropriate University authorities modifications or additions to the way in which funds are secured for student organizations.

      The membership includes two faculty members appointed by the Faculty Senate, two student affairs administrators, eight students appointed by the Students’ Government Association, and a faculty or staff member (ex-officio and chair) appointed by the Chief Student Affairs Officer (CSAO).

    • Athletics Committee:

      The Athletics Committee (AC) advises the Director of Intercollegiate Athletics and Recreation (DIAR), and the President as the AC deems timely and proper on current and proposed policies and practices relating to the intercollegiate and recreational sports programs.

      The AC meets regularly with and informs the DIAR on all matters which deserve his/her attention, or to consider issues on which he/she seeks advice.

      The AC will also meet at the beginning of each academic year with the University President to discuss plans for the upcoming year.

      The AC may also meet periodically with coaches, athletics administrators, and student/athletes to review their experiences in an effort to promote the enhancement of the University’s intercollegiate and recreational sports programs.

      The AC will receive the Annual report from the DIAR and Faculty Athletics Representative (FAR).

      AC members are expected to communicate routinely with and serve as a liaison between their respective groups and the AC and the DIAR.

      • Committee Membership

        The membership shall consist of the following:

        • Director of Intercollegiate Athletics and Recreation (as an ex officio member)\
        • Faculty Athletics Representative (as a standing member)
        • Six (6) Faculty Members (as appointed by Faculty Senate)
        • Three (3) Alumni Representatives (as designated by Alumni Association) – 2 votes
        • One (1) Explorer Club Representative (as designated by Explorer Club Board of Directors)
        • Two (2) Student Athletes (as designated by Athletics Relations Council) – 1 vote
        • Two (2) Students (as designated by Students’ Government Association) – 1 vote
      • Term of Appointment
        • Five-year term for Faculty Athletics Representative
        • Three-year terms for Faculty Members, Alumni, Explorer Club, and Student Development and Campus Life Representatives
        • Student Members to be designated on an annual basis, with strong consideration of underclass appointments to gain experience and be in a position to serve and contribute over several years.
    • Curriculum Committee:

      The Curriculum Committee is charged with a continuing review of the general and specialized education provided by the University’s curriculum. The Committee is essentially concerned with the integrity of the curriculum in terms of the University’s philosophy and objectives. It is responsible for the curriculum as a whole and for individual departmental curriculum proposals. Part of the responsibility includes reviewing and making recommendations on new course proposals. The Committee is also concerned with any major rearrangements of the academic year which affect the basic pattern of the curriculum.

      The Curriculum Committee has the Provost as Chairperson as is composed of the Deans of the Schools of Arts and Sciences, Business Administration, and Nursing; the Chief Student Affairs Officer (CSAO); nine faculty members; and three students. The Director of the Connelly Library and the Registrar are non-voting members of the Committee. The Curriculum Committee is an advisory group responsible to the Provost.

    • Food Services Committee:

      The Food Services Committee is advisory to the Director of Food Services for the purpose of maintaining a formal communication link between the Food Services Administration and the various constituencies which it serves. It shall provide the Director of Food Services with a forum to receive advisory information to aid in formulating departmental policy and operating procedures.

      The committee shall be comprised of the Director of Food Services, who will serve as chair; the Assistant Director of Food Services or one of the Food Services managers, appointed by the Director of Food Services; a Community Development staff member, appointed by the Senior Associate Dean of Students; a University Life staff member, appointed by the Assistant Dean of Students; one faculty representative, appointed by the Faculty Senate; one Day Division student (preferably a commuter), appointed by the Students’ Government Association; one Continuing Studies student, appointed by the Continuing Studies Student Council; and two students appointed by the Resident Student Association. Should the Continuing Studies Student Council fail to appoint a representative, the position will revert to the Students’ Government Association for appointment.

    • Health Advisory Committee:

      The Health Advisory Committee is an advisory board to the Associate Dean of Students for Counseling and Health Services, the Chief Student Affairs Officer (CSAO) and the Provost. The Committee assists with the development and review of student health policies, services and education programs and advises the Alcohol and Other Drug Program Coordinator on issues and policies related to the use of alcohol and drugs at La Salle University. The committee also functions in an advisory capacity on health issues that effect the University as a whole such as a smoking policy, handicapped accessibility and possible disease outbreaks.

      The Health Advisory Committee has the following responsibilities regarding Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS): to develop and monitor educational programs in order to increase awareness of AIDS and HIV infection and to prevent the transmission of AIDS within the University community; to serve in a consultative capacity when requested regarding individual cases of HIV infection; serve in an advisory capacity to University administrators regarding the institutional response to AIDS; and, to review and update the University guidelines and protocols by considering changes in the available knowledge regarding AIDS and in national, state and University policies.

      The Committee is composed of three academic and student affairs administrators appointed by the Provost and Chief Student Development and Campus Life Officer (CSAO), three faculty members appointed by the Faculty Senate, three students appointed by the Student Government Association (one being a student athlete, if possible), and one staff member each from Intercollegiate Athletics and Recreation, Food Services and Human Resources. The Associate Dean of Students for Counseling and Health Services and the Director of the Student Health Center will serve as co-chairs of this committee.

    • Judicial Board:

      The purpose of the Judicial Board is to adjudicate cases involving violation of the University’s rules and regulations. Membership includes six faculty members and eighteen students. A panel of four students and one faculty member is drawn from the available board members to hear a case. The eighteen student members of the board are appointed by the Students’ Government Association after consultation with the current board members. The six faculty members of the board are appointed by the Faculty Senate.

    • The Community Development Advisory Board:

      The Community Development Advisory Board advises the Division of Student Development and Campus Life on matters related to residence hall living. It is the appropriate group for students, faculty, and staff interested in becoming involved in making decisions about the nature and quality of resident life. The Board meets regularly to discuss issues and topics of concern and interest.

      The Community Development Advisory Board is comprised of two Community Development student staff members; two students at large, appointed by the Resident Student Association; the President of the Resident Student Association; three Community Development staff members; two Student Affairs Administrators, including one from University Life; one Food Services staff member; one faculty member; and a faculty or staff member (ex-officio and chair) appointed by the Chief Student Affairs Officer (CSAO).

    • Security and Safety Advisory Committee:

      The Security and Safety Advisory Committee advises the Director of Security and Safety and the Vice President for Business Affairs on matters related to safety and security and provides an avenue of communication for concerns and suggestions from all areas of the University. In carrying out its charge the committee shall concern itself with matters relating to delivering appropriate security services to the University community. It shall also be concerned with recommending and coordinating matters relating to campus safety which shall include issues of job safety and compliance with all federal, state, and local rules and regulations effecting safety in the work place. The committee shall review accident/injury reports, monitor trends, and recommend corrective action plans. The Committee shall be comprised of the Director of Security and Safety and the Director of Human Resources, or his or her representative, who shall serve as co-chairpersons; one faculty representative appointed by the Faculty Senate; three students (one each appointed by the Resident Student Association, Students’ Government Association, and the Adult Student Council, respectively); a representative of the Athletic Department appointed by the Director of Athletics, the Associate Dean of Students for Counseling and Health Services, or his or her designate, a representative of the Food Services Department, appointed by the Director of Food Services; a representative of the Physical Facilities Department, appointed by the Director of Physical Facilities, and at the discretion of the Provost and each vice president a representative staff person from his or her area, if not otherwise represented, a representative of the Office of Continuing Studies faculty or staff as appointed by the Director of the Office of Continuing Studies.

    • Student Development and Campus Life Committee:

      The Student Development and Campus Life Committee is an advisory board to the Chief Student Affairs Officer (CSAO) and the Provost and is primarily concerned with the formulation and review of major policies governing student life outside the classroom. The committee meets regularly to acquaint the Chief Student Affairs Officer (CSAO) with its views on matters within the Student Affairs area which require attention and/or to consider questions on which the Dean seeks its advice or aid in the discharge of his or her decision-making responsibilities. In addition to policy review and formulation, the committee has authority to review and make recommendations concerning all student affairs services, activities, and regulations. Introduction of new policies and changes in old policies in the Student Handbook require prior consultation with the Student Development and Campus Life Committee. The Student Development and Campus Life Committee also may suggest actions to University Council on student life matters.

      The committee is comprised of three Student Development and Campus Life administrators, three faculty members, six students, and the Chief Student Affairs Officer (CSAO) (ex-officio and chair).

    • Student Press Committee:

      The Student Press Committee has been established to create and maintain an environment in which the high quality student newspapers, radio station, and other media forms, including electronic, most effectively benefit the entire University community. The committee formulates general policies as needed for the Collegian, WEXP, etc., and advises the Provost and the Chief Student Affairs Officer (CSAO) on related matters.

      The Student Press Committee will be composed of the following 13 voting members: Collegian Editor, WEXP station manager, two at-large student members, neither of whom should be a member of any publication/station whose editors/manager sit on this committee, two non-senior, non-voting student members, one from the Collegian staff and one from the WEXP staff, three faculty members to be appointed by the Faculty Senate, one administrator to be appointed by the Chief Student Affairs Officer (CSAO), the Collegian Advisor, the WEXP Advisor, and the Channel 56 Station Manager.

III. C. Student Conduct Process (For Non-Academic Conduct)

  • Purpose and Scope

    • Purpose

      An environment that encourages freedom of expression and inquiry is essential to achieving the educational mission of La Salle University. It is the responsibility of all students, faculty, staff and administrators to work towards the achievement of this educational mission through appropriate actions or behaviors. When these actions or behaviors are inappropriate, or when these actions or behaviors lead to conflicts, it is the responsibility of La Salle University to provide a process that informs and educates the community about appropriate behaviors and provides a fair and reasonable manner for the resolution of conflicts. It is in this spirit that La Salle has developed a set of regulations governing student conduct and has established a student conduct system through which violations are adjudicated by members of the campus community. This Student Code of Conduct provides that process for cases involving students.

    • Scope

      The standards set forth in this process apply to conduct by or against a La Salle University student or recognized student organization from the time of acceptance of admission. This includes conduct which occurs while students are on a leave of absence, studying abroad, or at an internship or co-op. It also includes conduct which occurs when students are not officially enrolled during a particular term as long as they have a continuing relationship with the university. This process will apply regardless of whether a student withdraws or graduates, or if the behavior occurred off the La Salle University campus. For purposes of this guideline, the location of the off-campus behavior will not affect its applicability.

  • Definitions

    Terms not defined elsewhere in this guideline are defined below.

    • Respondent

      A respondent is an individual whose alleged conduct is being investigated to determine if it is in violation of this process. For ease of reference, the term “respondent” is also used throughout this guideline to refer generally to an individual who allegedly engaged in prohibited conduct as defined by the La Salle University Code of Conduct.

    • Complainant

      A complainant is usually an individual filing a complaint of a violation of this Policy. For the purpose of this definition, the term “complainant” is also used throughout this process to refer generally to an individual who was allegedly subjected to prohibited conduct as defined in this Process.

    • Business Day

      means Monday through Friday and does not include official La Salle University holidays.

    • Code of Conduct

      means La Salle University’s Student Code of Conduct.

    • Complaint

      means the written charges filed against a student or student organization by a Student Conduct Officer for alleged violation(s) of the Student Code of Conduct.

    • La Salle University Community

      means La Salle administrators, faculty, staff, students and student organizations.

    • Responses for Code of Conduct Violations

      means all assigned sanctions and conditions to hold students accountable and to support student reflection and learning from their behaviors.

    • Student

      means undergraduate, graduate, non-degree seeking, students in not-for-credit programs, and all persons taking courses at La Salle University as well as students on internships or co-ops and students not officially enrolled during a particular term, but who have a continuing relationship with the university.

    • Student Organization

      means any La Salle University recognized student group including fraternities and sororities, athletic teams, clubs, or other student groups recognized on campus.

    • Student Conduct Officer or Conduct Officer

      means any trained administrator designated by the Director of Student Conduct who is authorized to conduct hearings and to impose the full range of university statuses and conditions. Residence Life professional staff members have the authority to conduct informal hearings and can impose the full range of university statuses and conditions, excluding removal from housing and separation from the university.

    • University Appeals Board Chair

      The Appeals Board Chair, who will be appointed by the Chief Student Affairs Officer (CSAO), coordinates all University Appeals Board Hearings.

    • Incident Report

      A complaint of an alleged violation of the La Salle University Student Code of Conduct. The report can be filed electronically and will be reviewed by the Director of Student Conduct or their designee. La Salle Public Safety can also file an Incident Report with the Office of Student Conduct after completion of an investigation for an alleged violation.

    • Disciplinary Hold

      A restriction placed upon a student’s academic record, usually applied for failure to complete a sanction imposed via the La Salle University Office of Student Conduct. A Disciplinary Hold will result in the student being unable to register for classes, receive grades, receive transcripts and/or receive other services normally provided through the Registrar’s Office.

    • Chief Student Affairs Officer (CSAO)

      The CSAO is the most senior employee on the organizational chart in the Student Affairs division. Typically this person has the title of Vice President (e.g., Vice President of Student Affairs, Vice President of Student Development and Campus Life).

  • Procedure

    • La Salle University Student Code of Conduct

      Students and student organizations are expected to conduct themselves in ways that support the university’s mission. The behaviors outlined in these standards are
      prohibited and do not support the university’s mission. They are listed below to provide students with information about the university’s expectations for community behavior.

      Students engaging in inappropriate behaviors, including but not limited to those behaviors listed below, will be afforded the opportunity to participate in the process outlined in the Student Code of Conduct.

      • Endangering Behavior. Behavior that threatens or endangers the health and/or safety of oneself or others. Endangering behavior may include physical, verbal, or electronic abuse, intimidation, harassment, coercion, property damage to life safety equipment, behavior that is contrary to the mission of the university and/or other conduct which threatens or endangers the health or safety of any person.
      • Alcohol and Other Drugs Expectations. Behavior that involves substances including alcohol and other drugs will be adjudicated under La Salle University’s Student Alcohol and Other Drugs Expectations.
      • Harassment. Abuse, threats, intimidation, assault, coercion and/or conduct, by physical, verbal, signed, written, photographic or digital means, including social media, which unreasonably interferes with, threatens or endangers any person on the La Salle University premises or at university sponsored or supervised functions. Any incident raising concerns of harassment and/or discrimination based on race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, creed, national or ethnic origin, citizenship status, age, disability, veteran status or any other legally protected class status and/or any violation of Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, including sexual misconduct of any nature, gender-based discrimination, retaliation, domestic violence, dating violence, stalking or sexual assault where a student (from the time of acceptance of admission) is identified as a potential respondent will be adjudicated under La Salle University’s Policy On Harassment, Sexual Misconduct, and Discrimination.
      • Discrimination. The treatment of an individual based on that individual’s group, class, or category. Group, class, or category includes, but is not limited to, race, religion, age, citizenship, color, faith, culture, actual or perceived disabilities, marital status, ethnic or national origin, political affiliation or preference, military or veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or genetic predisposition. Any incident raising concerns of harassment and/or discrimination based on race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, creed, national or ethnic origin, citizenship status, age, disability, veteran status or any other legally protected class status and/or any violation of Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, including sexual misconduct of any nature, gender-based discrimination, retaliation, domestic violence, dating violence, stalking or sexual assault where a student (from the time of acceptance of admission) is identified as a potential respondent will be adjudicated under La Salle University’s Policy On Harassment, Sexual Misconduct, and Discrimination.
      • Retaliation. Any adverse action, including but not limited to behavior that is in direct or indirect response to a previous student conduct incident, intended to intimidate or punish another individual from reporting misconduct or participating in any university process or activity.
      • Disruptive/Disorderly Behavior. Behaviors that are disruptive on or off campus or conduct that infringes upon the rights of others, including but not limited to excessive noise.
      • Theft. Attempted or actual theft of, or unauthorized possession of university, personal, or public property or services.
      • Property Damage. Attempted or actual damage, destruction, vandalism or alteration of university, personal, or public property.
      • Refusal to Comply. Refusal to comply with, defiance of or disrespectful behavior towards any university representative in the performance of their official duties, including but not limited to failing to complete student conduct sanctions by their assigned deadlines.
      • Hazing/Failure to Report Hazing. Behavior, regardless of intent, which endangers the emotional or physical health and safety of a student for the purpose of membership, affiliation with, or maintaining membership in, a group or student organization. Hazing includes any level of participation, such as being in the presence, having awareness of hazing, or failing to report hazing. Examples of hazing include, but are not limited to, beating or branding, sleep deprivation or causing excessive fatigue, threats of harm, forcing or coercing consumption of food, water, alcohol or other drugs or other substances, verbal abuse, embarrassing, humiliating, or degrading acts, or activities that induce, cause or require the Student to perform a duty or task which is not consistent with fraternal law, ritual or policy or involves a violation of local, state or federal laws, or the La Salle University Student Code of Conduct.
      • Fire/Fire Safety. Behavior that results in a fire, a false fire alarm, or a fire safety hazard.
      • Unauthorized Access. Proving or utilizing unauthorized entry to or presence in any university building or property. Unauthorized possession, duplication or use of a university key, ID, or access card.
      • Violation of Law. Violation of federal, state or local law on university premises or at university sponsored or supervised activities.
      • Weapon Possession. No student or visitor may keep, possess, display, transport, or use any offensive weapons; firearms; ammunition; gunpowder; gas or air powered rifles, guns, or pistols; fireworks; explosives; or other dangerous articles and substances in University buildings, on University property, or at University functions in off-campus settings. Realistic facsimiles of these items are also prohibited, with reasonable exceptions made, in consultation with the Vice President for Student Development and Campus Life, for theatrical productions and similar circumstances. “Offensive weapon” is defined as any bomb, grenade, machine gun, sawed-off shotgun with a barrel less than 18 inches, firearm specially made or specially adapted for concealment or silent discharge, any blackjack, sandbag, metal knuckles, dagger, knife, razor or cutting instrument, the blade of which is exposed in an automatic way by switch, push-button, spring mechanism or otherwise, or other implement for the infliction of serious bodily injury which serves no common lawful purpose. “Firearms” include any weapon which is designed to or may readily be converted to expel any projectile by the action of an explosive, or the frame or receiver of any such weapon. Normal laboratory materials are excluded from this policy when used in an academic laboratory setting to fulfill course requirements or conduct research authorized and supervised by faculty. Members of the Reserve Officers Training Corps (ROTC) are authorized to store, transport, and use firearms when performing functions associated with their official duties. Active public law enforcement officers are authorized to store, transport, and use firearms when performing functions associated with their official duties or when attending class.
      • Failure to be a Responsible Host. Failure to ensure that the behavior of any guest, which includes individuals not affiliated with the university, as well as any student (whether residential or not) visiting another student as a guest in the residence halls, complies with university policies.
      • Dishonest Behavior. Any act of dishonesty, including misrepresenting, omitting, altering, or falsifying information to university officials or on university documents, IDs, or records.
      • Abuse of the Student Conduct Process. Interfering with any part of the student conduct process (including but not limited to investigations and hearings) by falsifying or misrepresenting information, destroying or concealing evidence, or pressuring involved parties (including witnesses, complainants, and respondents) to withhold or falsify information.
      • Bystanding (Complicity). Having knowledge of a safety concern, policy violation, or violation of the law and failing to remove oneself from the situation and/or failing to appropriately report the violation to the university.
      • Conduct Unbecoming. Any behaviors that are in direct conflict with the university’s missions and values, specifically as it relates to behaviors towards other individuals or property within or outside of the campus community. These behaviors include, but are not limited to, acting in a disrespectful or obscene manner.
      • Ineligible for Membership Intake/Association. Applying for membership or associating with a student organization while knowingly not meeting the eligibility requirements of the University for membership, i.e. being enrolled in courses, being in good academic standing, being in good disciplinary standing.
      • Threatening Behaviors. Any written or verbal communication that serves as a threat or intimidation to the health, safety, and wellbeing of another individual.
      • Underground Membership. Participating in a student organization or group while having knowledge that the student organization or group is not approved and recognized by the university, including but not limited to instances where a student organization or group has lost the privilege of being registered with the university and/or instances where a student organization was denied recognition through the university. This includes student organizations or groups that are operating under a different name than previously on file with the university.
      • Violation of La Salle University Policies. Violation of published La Salle University policies, rules, and regulations including, but not limited to: Residential Community Standards, Off Campus Community Standards, Parking Policies, Library Policies, and Academic Integrity Policy, COVID-19 protocols and behaviors related to the misuse of La Salle University’s computing, network, and information resources, including copyright infringement.
    • General Provisions of the Student Conduct Process

      The university will take reasonable steps to prevent conduct prohibited by this policy. Any incident raising concerns of harassment and/or discrimination based on race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, creed, national or ethnic origin, citizenship status, age, disability, veteran status or any other legally protected class status and/or any violation of Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, including sexual misconduct of any nature, gender-based discrimination, retaliation, domestic violence, dating violence, stalking or sexual assault where a student (from the time of acceptance of admission) is identified as a potential respondent will be adjudicated La Salle University’s Policy On Harassment, Sexual Misconduct, and Discrimination. Any conduct hearings or appeals that may be commenced under this process will be conducted in an impartial manner by an impartial decision maker(s).

      The university has adopted the following principles to govern its internal Student Conduct Process for responding to student misconduct:

      • Students are adults who are responsible for the consequences of their actions. An academic institution can and should hold a student accountable for violating institutional policies and rules, particularly when the student’s conduct interferes with the safety or rights of other members of the institutional community (including fellow students, faculty, staff and visitors to the campus).
      • The university is not a microcosm of the general community; it is a special purpose community and only activities related to the achievement of its educational purposes are proper to the community.
      • Academic institutions are neither law-enforcement agencies nor sanctuaries from the law. Criminal and civil laws still apply within the academic community. In addition, the university has the authority to establish further policies to educate and hold students accountable for violating these policies. Where the interests of the academic institution and the members of the university community are involved, the special authority of the university will be asserted.
      • Except for violations of civil or criminal laws, the internal affairs of the university are best handled by the university itself without resort to outside intervention. There can be no guarantee that outside agencies will not choose to intervene on their own or that a victim of a crime will not request the involvement of outside law enforcement.
      • The University utilizes a “preponderance of evidence” standard of review for all student conduct cases. This standard means that, in light of all the evidence, it is “more likely than not” that the alleged misconduct occurred. University student conduct processes and procedures are not criminal proceedings, and the standard of evidence used in criminal proceedings (“beyond a reasonable doubt”) does not apply.
    • Violations of Criminal or Civil Laws
      • The Vice President for Student Development and Campus Life or designee will determine if the university will refer violations of criminal law to the appropriate law enforcement agencies.
      • A proceeding under the Student Conduct Process may be carried out prior to, simultaneously with, or following civil or criminal proceedings. Statuses and conditions may be imposed before the outcome of any civil or criminal proceeding.
      • The university will cooperate fully with law enforcement and other agencies in the enforcement of criminal law on campus and in the conditions imposed by criminal courts for accountability of student violators.
    • Filing an Incident Report

      Anyone may file an Incident Report against any student or student organization for violation of the Student Code of Conduct.

      • An Incident Report concerning academic conduct matters can be made to the dean of the school (or designee) responsible for the academic program in which the alleged misconduct occurred.
      • An Incident Report concerning non-academic conduct matters can be made to La Salle Public Safety, a Residence Life or Community Development staff member, the Director of Student Conduct or via the web.
    • Investigating an Incident Report

      Upon receipt of an Incident Report, regardless of type, the Director of Student Conduct or their designee will review the Incident Report and determine if a student conduct review is warranted. La Salle University Public Safety may conduct an investigation of a violation reported directly to them, or if a case is referred to them by the Director of Student Conduct or the Vice President for Student Development and Campus Life. Generally, the investigation will be concluded expediently and the investigative report transferred to the Office of Student Conduct. If warranted, the Director of Student Conduct will determine the appropriate action to be taken in accordance with the provisions of the Student Conduct Process, including but not limited to, whether the case will be heard informally by a Residence Life or Community Development administrator or be adjudicated in a formal student conduct hearing process with a Student Conduct Officer. Generally, the appropriate action will be determined within thirty (30) Business Days from the conclusion of the investigation. This time frame may be expanded based on the facts and circumstances of the specific allegation(s) and/or the availability of witnesses only with the approval of the Director of Student Conduct.

    • Retaliation

      La Salle University prohibits retaliation against anyone filing an Incident Report alleging a violation of the Student Code of Conduct, participating in the procedures described in the Student Conduct Process, or opposing any practice in violation of the Student Code of Conduct or applicable federal, state, or local laws.

    • Student Rights

      All students can expect the Student Conduct Process to be administered in a caring, sensitive and supportive manner, and to be treated with dignity and respect by all persons involved in the conduct process. The Student Conduct Process will allow those community members filing an Incident Report to utilize the Student Conduct Process unimpeded, free from intimidation and harassment, while maintaining the rights of all students involved.

      All students have the following rights as members of the La Salle University community:

      • Basic fair and consistent process in student conduct proceedings;
      • Privacy (in accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act) regarding access to and disclosure of student records; and
      • Freedom of association.
      • Freedom of inquiry and expression.
      • Access to and information pertaining to available student counseling assistance.
      • Access to assistance throughout the student conduct process, including the ability to utilize an advocate during the student conduct process.
      • Access to all information presented during any hearing held in accordance with the provisions of the Student Conduct Process, including information and statements from witnesses.
      • Informed, in writing, the results of any student conduct hearing held in accordance with the provisions of the student conduct process.
    • Procedures Requiring a Hearing for Resolving Violations of the Student Code of Conduct
      • Notification Process:The Respondent will be sent an electronic notice of the allegations brought forth in the Incident Report.  The notice will include:
        • A request for the Respondent to contact the Office of Student Conduct;
        • A description of the conduct in which the student was allegedly involved;
        • A list of possible university policies, rules or regulations allegedly violated;
        • The offices that will be represented at the hearing;
        • A link to the website explaining the La Salle University Student Conduct Process.
      • Student Conduct Process: The Director of Student Conduct, or designee, will determine which hearing type is most appropriate for the incident. There are three hearing types, including:
        • An informal hearing with a Residence Life or Community Development staff member.
          • These hearings are for cases involving incidents in or around La Salle University housing, and are not recorded. Residence Life or Community Development staff are authorized to issue the full range of sanctions and conditions up to, but not including, removal from campus and separation from the university.
        • A formal hearing with a Student Conduct Officer.
          • These hearings are for cases that are of a more serious nature or if the Respondent has been found responsible for previous violations of the Student Code of Conduct. Student Conduct Officers have the authority to impose a full range of statuses and conditions including removal from university housing, suspension and expulsion.
        • Referral to a University Navigator:
          • During the first 6 weeks of fall semester, new students may be referred to a trained University Navigator for a conference regarding their behavior if the alleged violation is minor in nature. The outcome of the Navigator conference will not be a documented conduct sanction, but instead an educational conversation regarding the expectations La Salle University has for their students. Students are only referred once to a University Navigator during their tenure at La Salle.
      • Hearing Participants:
        • Advocates. The Respondent will be informed that they have the right to bring a La Salle University Advocate or any La Salle University faculty or staff member to the hearing. A list of trained advocates will be provided by the Office of Student Conduct. Students should be aware that only designated trained advocates from the advocate list will be permitted to actively participate during the hearing. Anyone who is not a university designated advocate is considered to be an Advisor. Advisors can quietly and without disruption, advise a respondent, but cannot actively participate.
        • Advisors of Choice. In hearings where the Respondent is charged with a violation of a Policy On Harassment, Sexual Misconduct, and Discrimination, both the Respondent and the Complainant may also bring an advisor of choice.
        • Parents/Guardians. Parents/guardians are not permitted to participate in or be present during any La Salle University student conduct hearing or appeal, unless the Respondent is under the age of eighteen (18). In those instances, the parent/guardian can observe the student conduct hearing process or appeal presentation and give the student quiet counsel.
        • Witnesses. The Student Conduct Officer determines and permits witnesses for the Respondent. Witnesses must be members of the La Salle University community in order to be present for the hearing. Other witnesses can make statements through La Salle Public Safety, which statements will be read during the hearing at the discretion of the Student Conduct Officer. Witnesses must have direct information regarding the incident; character witnesses are not permitted.
        • University Representatives. Other persons who may be present at a formal student conduct hearing include:
          • La Salle Public Safety administrator or officer
          • Other appropriate university personnel (e.g. from Residence Life or Community Development)
      • Recording of Hearing:
        • All formal student conduct hearings with Student Conduct Officers are audio recorded. The participants in the formal student conduct hearing will be informed upon entry into the hearing location of the recording. The recording of the formal student conduct hearing is a university business record and the property of the university.
        • The Respondent (and the Complainant in cases involving Policy On Harassment, Sexual Misconduct, and Discrimination.) may request access to the recording by submitting an electronic request to the Director of Student Conduct after an appeal has been filed with the University Appeals Board Chair prior to the University Appeals Board Hearing.
      • Formal Student Conduct Hearing Procedures for Resolving Violations of the Student Code of Conduct
          • All formal student conduct hearings will be conducted in private.
          • The Student Conduct Officer will inform the Respondent that the formal student conduct hearing is being recorded.
          • The Student Conduct Officer will review all the materials or evidence that has been submitted. The materials may consist of, but are not limited to, a summary of the case as written by La Salle Public Safety, statements from witnesses, or statements from other persons involved in the situation.
          • After the submitted materials and evidence have been read, the Respondent will have an opportunity to refute or explain the materials or evidence and add information. The Student Conduct Officer and other university representatives present may ask the Respondent questions and discuss the case. The Respondent may choose to remain silent (not answer any questions or make statements), or the Respondent (and their University-designated advocate if applicable) may participate in the discussion.
          • The Respondent, and the Complainant in cases where there is a charge of a Policy On Harassment, Sexual Misconduct, and Discrimination violation, and the Student Conduct Officer are permitted to bring witnesses and question the witnesses of others.
          • The La Salle University Student Conduct Process is not a court of law and legal rules of evidence and procedure do not apply. The Student Conduct Officer will determine in the officer’s sole discretion the range of testimony permitted by witnesses and items of information which may be considered.
          • If the Student Conduct Officer determines that a witness may be emotionally harmed by giving evidence in the presence of the Respondent, the Student Conduct Officer may make other arrangements (such as use of a wall partition or video conferencing) to allow the testimony while not depriving the Respondent of access to the evidence.
          • All procedural questions will be decided solely by the Student Conduct Officer.
          • In cases where the Respondent fails to answer the charges or appear at the formal student conduct hearing, the proceeding may still take place. A determination will be made and an outcome decided on the evidence submitted at the formal student conduct hearing. The Respondent’s failure to answer charges or appear at the conduct hearing cannot be the sole basis for a responsible finding under this process. In addition, the Respondent may be put on a student conduct status for failure to attend a conduct hearing after receiving a written or electronic request to appear at the formal student conduct hearing.
          • Once all evidence has been submitted and discussed, and at the sole discretion of the Student Conduct Officer(S), the Respondent (and University-designated advocate, if applicable) will leave the hearing and wait for notification of the outcome of the hearing. The Student Conduct Officer will deliberate and determine the appropriate resolution of the case including appropriate statuses and conditions, which will be communicated in writing to the Respondent within the next five business days.

        • Upon conclusion of the formal student conduct hearing, the Respondent will be sent an electronic Notice of Outcome and any status imposed within three (3) Business Days. This electronic notice will include the process by which the Respondent can appeal.
        • The Respondent must file an appeal to the University Appeals Board Chair within three(3) Business Days from the date of the electronic mailing of the formal student conduct hearing outcome letter.
        • Once the outcome is final (i.e., after the decision of an appeal or after the three (3)-day time to appeal has passed), the Respondent is required to complete all the required conditions.
        • There will be a single record of the formal student conduct hearing and this record will be the property of the university. The record will be maintained in accordance with the university records management policy.
      • Responses to Violations of the Student Code of ConductAn important component of the student conduct process is education. Student Conduct Officers may assign or design responses to allow for education and reflection on a particular incident, while promoting a safe and respectful community. Responses, which include sanctions and conditions, emphasize accountability, emotional growth, conflict resolution, restorative values and community safety. A refusal to comply with an assigned condition will result in further action, including a hold on a Respondent’s student account, a new hearing, or suspension from the university.
        • Sanctions. A sanction is meant to allow respondents to reflect on their behavior and the decisions they made that led to the finding of responsibility. A sanction indicates the Respondent’s student conduct standing with the university. Some sanctions may exclude a Respondent from participating in various university activities.
          • Warning. A warning is a written notice to a respondent or a student organization that the exhibited behavior was a violation of official university policies and expectations. Further violations of university policy may result in additional disciplinary action. Written warnings may be accompanied by a condition. All assigned conditions are required to be completed before their deadlines or further disciplinary action may be taken.
          • Probation. Probationary periods indicate that a Respondent or student organization is no longer in good standing with the university and that further violations during the probation (not to exceed two calendar years) may result in extension of the probationary period, additional conditions, suspension or expulsion. During the period of probation, specific conditions may be assigned. All assigned conditions are required to be completed before their deadlines. If a student organization with a national affiliation (e.g., a Greek-letter organization) is found responsible for misconduct and is placed on a status of Probation, La Salle University will inform the national office of the decision.
          • Suspension. Suspension is the immediate removal of the Respondent’s affiliation with the university for a specific period of time, which includes exclusion from classes, university housing, and all other university activities. Suspended Students are not allowed to be on campus for any reason during the period of suspension and may be arrested for trespassing if found on university property. Suspension from the university will not exceed 2 academic years. Students returning from suspension have an initial restriction from living in campus housing and are placed in indefinite probation for the remainder of their time at La Salle University. Suspended student organizations may lose certain privileges, such as use of campus facilities, participation in university activities, use of allocated funds, recruitment, or new member education activities. If a student organization with a national affiliation (e.g., a Greek-letter organization) is found responsible for misconduct and is placed on a status of Suspension, La Salle University will inform the national office of the decision. Specific conditions will be required to be completed prior to the Respondent or student organization’s return. Once the terms and the conditions of a suspension are complete, it is the responsibility of the Respondent to contact their academic program regarding returning as a student.
          • Expulsion. Expulsion is a permanent involuntary separation of a Respondent from the university. Readmission is not possible.
          • Additional Statuses for Student Organizations. While student organizations may be placed on a status similar to individual Respondents, including Warning, Probation, and Suspension, several other statuses apply solely to student organizations:
            • Social Probation. A student organization on Social Probation is not permitted to hold any organized social functions (e.g., parties) for a specified period of time.
            • Disaffiliation. Disaffiliation is a permanent involuntary process to revoke recognition of a university organization that has a charter.
        • Conditions. A condition is a response to provide the Respondent or student organization with experiences from which to learn. Any condition may be required of a Respondent or student organization, and may include the following (but not limited to):
          • Deferred Loss of Guest and Hosting Privileges for Residents. Deferred Loss of Guest and Housing Privileges is a period of time in which students must demonstrate a commitment to upholding university expectations. During this period of time, students must follow all university policies and demonstrate integrity and respect for all who live and work within the residence halls. Students or their guests found responsible for violating any university policy while on the status of Deferred Loss of Guest Privileges will lose the opportunity to host or sign in guests or be a guest in another residential area for a designated period of time.
          • Loss of Guest Privileges for Residential Students. Loss of Guest Privileges is a period of time in which residential students must demonstrate a commitment to upholding university expectations in order to earn back their hosting and visitation privileges. During this period of time, students must follow all university policies and demonstrate integrity and respect for all who live and work within the residence halls. While on this status, students may not host or sign in guests within their residence halls and may not visit any residence hall other than one in which they are assigned.
          • Loss of Guest Privileges for Commuter Students Housing. Loss of Guest Privileges is a period of time in which students must demonstrate a commitment to upholding university expectations in order to earn back their visitation privileges. During this period of time, students must follow all university policies and demonstrate integrity and respect for all members of the campus community. While on this status, commuter students may not visit any university affiliated residence hall or apartment.
          • Deferred Suspension from University Housing. Deferred Suspension from University Housing is a period of time in which students must demonstrate a commitment to upholding university expectations. During this period of time, students must follow all university policies and demonstrate integrity and respect for all who live and work within the residence halls. Students found responsible for violating any university policy while on the status of Deferred Suspension from Housing will lose the privilege of living in or visiting any university housing until a designated date.
          • Deferred Suspension from the University.Deferred Suspension from the University is a period of time in which students must demonstrate a commitment to upholding university expectations. During this period of time, students must follow all university policies and demonstrate integrity and respect for all members of the university community. Students found responsible for violating any university policy while on the status of Deferred Suspension will be suspended immediately.
          • Suspension from University Housing Privileges. Suspension from Individual Housing Privileges is a period of time in which a student may no longer reside or be a guest in the La Salle Residence Halls. Failure to comply with this requirement may result in further conduct action. Entering the residence halls after being suspended from individual housing privileges is considered to be trespassing and will be referred to further disciplinary or criminal action.
          • Restitution
          • Substance abuse education and/or evaluation
          • Referral to the Student Counseling Center
          • Referral to an educational program sponsored by the University
          • Research or reflection paper
          • Required educational opportunities
          • Other educational sanctions deemed appropriate
        • Interim Suspension or Restrictions. This action assigned by the Director of Student Conduct, or designee, is a temporary suspension of certain rights or privileges during the conduct process. An interim suspension may be broad and all-inclusive or may be specific to a location and/or function to ensure the physical or emotional safety and well-being of members of the university community, the Respondent’s own physical or emotional safety and well-being, or the preservation of university property, or safety and order on university premises. An interim suspension, interim removal from university housing, or other interim restriction, may be imposed before, during, or after the commencement of a conduct hearing, or during the appeal process. A Respondent or student organization subject to interim suspension or other restrictions will receive written or electronic notice of the suspension or restrictions imposed, as well as the notice of the process for resolving the interim restrictions. The interim suspension or restrictions will remain in effect until the conduct process is resolved.
        • Hold on Student Account. A hold may be placed on a Respondent’s account as a response to a refusal to comply with the student conduct process, or in other appropriate circumstances. It may be applied in situations where there is a need to resolve a pending student conduct charge, even in the case of an Respondent who was, but is not now, currently a student.
      • University Appeals Process
        • Formal Student Conduct Hearings. Unless otherwise noted in this process, the University Appeals Boards (UAB) will hear appeals of determinations of responsibility made under the Student Code of Conduct.
          • Warnings. Warnings may not be appealed.
          • Probation, Suspension or Expulsion. Appeals of probation, suspension or expulsion from Student Conduct Officers may be appealed to the University Appeals Board.
          • Policy on Harassment, Sexual Misconduct, and Discrimination. Any outcome following a formal hearing involving violations of Policy On Harassment, Sexual Misconduct, and Discrimination be appealed by either Respondent or Complainant to the University Appeals Board.
        • Informal Student Conduct Hearings (originating from Residence Life or Community Development). For informal student conduct hearings, the follow is applicable:
          • Within three (3) business days, the Respondent intending to appeal must submit the basis of the appeal in writing to the Director of Student Conduct.
          • The appeal letter will be assigned to an Assistant Vice President for Student Development and Campus Life or designee.
          • All relevant information will be reviewed and a determination will be made by the Appeals Board Chair, who will be appointed by the Chief Student Affairs Officer (CSAO). This decision is final and cannot be appealed further.
        • Grounds for Appeals
          • All appeal submissions and appeals will be considered and heard by a three (3) member University Appeals Board (“UAB”). One member of the UAB shall be an Assistant Vice President for Student Development and Campus Life, who shall also chair the UAB and select the other two members from a pool of trained faculty and staff.
          • In order for an appeal to be heard, the Respondent must demonstrate to the University Appeals Board through the written appeal submission one or more of the following:
            • Information that was not available at the time of the investigation is now available, and could reasonably be expected to have altered the outcome of the case; or
            • The University student conduct procedures were violated in a way that is more likely than not to have adversely affected the outcome of the case.
          • The Respondent shall have three (3) business days from the date the Notice of Outcome is sent to submit, in writing, an appeal on one or more of the grounds listed above and include specific details as to why an appeal should be granted. This letter is to be submitted to the Chair of the UAB.
          • Once an appeal is filed, the Respondent involved will receive electronic notification of such filing. This notice will state that the case is under appeal consideration and if deemed by the UAB to meet the above standards, will be scheduled in most cases for an appeal hearing within five (5) business days. The Respondent must attend the scheduled hearing or forfeit the right to appeal.
          • Except as required to explain the basis of new evidence, the UAB will limit its review to the process and outcome of the initial hearing (if applicable), together with any supporting documents. Witnesses will not be permitted to appear on appeal except to the extent that witnesses may provide testimony related solely to new evidence or information that the Respondent demonstrates was not known or available for the original hearing.
          • The Respondent will appear for the scheduled hearing in front of the UAB and present the basis for the appeal. There will be a time limit of twenty (20) minutes for each and any student presentation at the scheduled hearing. The Respondent has the right to bring either a University-designated advocate, subject to the rules regarding advisors stated herein.
          • The Student Conduct Office will be available to respond to the appeal and give the rationale for the determination made at the original hearing.
          • After presentation of the appeal and before the Respondent (and University- designated advocate if applicable) are dismissed, the UAB may, at its discretion, ask questions of the parties present. A hearing is considered closed after all testimony and evidence has been submitted by the parties and the chair of the University Appeals Board has concluded the appeal.
          • Following the close of the hearing, the University Appeals Board may:
            • Reverse, reduce, dismiss, uphold, or otherwise modify the original determination and/or status and conditions imposed; or,
            • Remand the case for rehearing for resolving any procedural processes that the University Appeals Board determines was more likely than not to have impacted the outcome of the original hearing.
          • The decision of the UAB will be sent electronically to the parties within three (3) business days of the hearing in most cases. The determination rendered by the University Appeals Board is final and may not be appealed further in any forum, although the University reserves the right to modify an appeal or hearing decision as appropriate and at its discretion.
          • All written notices to the Respondent referred to herein may be delivered at the University’s discretion to any e-mail or mailing address on file with the University. All electronic notices will be deemed received when sent.

  • Parent/Guardian Notification Policy

    Due to the fact that the vast majority of La Salle undergraduates are legal dependents of their parents or legal guardians, the University reserves the right, in accordance with applicable law, to contact parents or legal guardians when sanctions of suspension from the residence halls, suspension from the University or dismissal from the University are imminent and/or when the University has knowledge that a student has been arrested by Philadelphia Police or other law enforcement agencies. Independent students should contact the Assistant Vice President for Campus Life to notify the University of their Independent Status.

  • Sharing of Information About an Employee/Student

    The University desires to treat individuals who are both enrolled as a student of the University and employed in any capacity by the University (defined for the purposes of this policy only as an “employee/student”) in the same manner as other University employees with respect to whom it may not have access to information concerning employees’ activities and whereabouts outside of the workplace. As an employee/student has a presence on campus unrelated to their employment and are subject to student discipline, the University as a whole has access to information about an employee/student’s conduct that may not be relevant to the individual’s role as an employee of the University and vice versa.

    The University, however, has legal obligations under federal and state laws to take measures to promote the safety of its students, employees, and visitors on campus, including under Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 and the Jeanne Clery Act.

    In order to achieve a balance between the competing interests of employee/students and the University with respect to the dissemination of information regarding the conduct of employee/students, Student Development and Campus Life and Human Resources shall share information that may subject an employee/student to discipline both as an employee and a student only when the information relates to an act of physical violence against persons or property. These circumstances include, but are not limited to, forcible sex offenses, robbery, burglary, assault, battery, arson, and motor vehicle theft. Student Development and Campus Life and Human Resources also shall share the fact of an employee/student’s exclusion from campus as a result of any campus disciplinary process.

III. D. Policy For Handling Title IX Complaints Against Students

III. E. Sexual Misconduct and Interpersonal Violence Policy

III. F. Student Alcohol and Other Drug University Expectations

  • Purpose

    La Salle University is a community that believes the best environment for learning occurs when the community promotes and supports healthy and responsible behavior among its members. Students make their own choices and are ultimately responsible for their behavior. The purpose of the Student Alcohol and Other Drug University Expectations is to promote individual responsibility and advance the goals and expectations central to the university mission. The Student Alcohol and Other Drug University Expectations applies to all student members of the university community and their guests.

    La Salle University follows all local, state, and federal laws. Students and student organizations are subject to local, state and federal laws regarding alcohol and drug use, and the university will not protect individuals or groups from law enforcement with respect to drugs and alcohol use or abuse.

    In order to avoid the dangerous and possibly fatal effects of alcohol poisoning or overdosing from other drugs, an individual who has passed out or shows other signs of serious effects from alcohol or other drug consumption should immediately be brought to the attention of La Salle Public Safety, Residence Life, Community Development or some other person able to assist or to get assistance. Seeking such help is encouraged by La Salle and the Amnesty Process is included in the expectations listed below.

    Federal, State, and City Sanctions Related to the Use, Possession, and Distribution of Alcohol and Drugs

    • Alcohol
      • Under Pennsylvania law and the Pennsylvania Crimes and Liquor Codes, a person under 21 years of age commits a summary offense if they attempt to or in actuality (1) purchase, (2) consume, (3) possess, or (4) transport alcohol. Police must notify the parents of a minor charged with violating this law. If convicted, the minor’s driver’s license will be suspended. A second offense will yield a fine of up to $500.
      • In addition, any person who intentionally provides alcohol to a minor will be convicted of a misdemeanor in the third degree, for which the fine will be at least $1,000 for the first offense, and $2,500 for any subsequent violations.
      • The City of Philadelphia prohibits the consumption, carrying, or possession of an open container of alcoholic beverages in the public right-of-way or on private property without the expressed permission of the landowner or tenant. A person who commits a violation may be subject to a fine up to $300, as well as imprisonment for up to ten (10) days, if the fine together with costs, are not paid within ten (10) days.
    • Drugs
      • Federal and state laws prohibit the possession, use, and distribution of illegal drugs. Also, under federal law, anyone who is at least 18 years old and who distributes drugs to anyone under 21 will be imprisoned and/or fined up to twice what is otherwise provided by law, with a minimum prison sentence of one year.

    • Procedures

      La Salle University Expectations Regarding Student Alcohol and Other Drugs

      Students who are found to be in potential violation of the following university expectations will be referred to the University Student Conduct Process and subject to university disciplinary action.

      • Alcohol
        • No person less than twenty-one (21) years of age shall purchase, consume, possess, be in the presence of, transport or attempt to purchase, consume, possess, or transport any alcohol, liquor, or malt or brewed beverages on University property or at any University sponsored events.
        • No student shall transfer or possess a registration card or other form of identification for the purpose of falsifying age to secure any alcohol, liquor, or malt or brewed beverages.
        • No student shall sell, furnish, allow to possess, or give any alcohol, liquor, or malt or brewed beverages, or permit any alcohol, liquor, or malt or brewed beverage to be sold, furnished, allowed to be possessed, or given to any person under twenty-one (21) years of age.
        • Behavior that results in intoxication, disorderliness, or offensive behavior resulting from the use of alcohol is prohibited, regardless of the student’s age.
        • The use of alcohol is prohibited in the academic buildings, or in the public areas of residence halls or university-owned apartments, in the La Salle Union or other University facilities, or at University sponsored functions on or off campus unless it is authorized by the University.
        • Students who are twenty-one (21) years of age or older are permitted to consume alcohol on campus only when such consumption does not interfere with the rights and privileges of other community members.
        • Students who are twenty-one (21) years of age or older are permitted to drink alcohol only at registered events or in the privacy of residence hall rooms, apartments, or townhouses.
        • No bulk quantities of alcohol (i.e. kegs), grain alcohol or alcohol over 100 proof is permitted in residence hall rooms, apartments, or townhouses.
        • Students, regardless of age, may not brew or distill any alcoholic beverages in residence hall rooms, apartments or townhouses.
        • La Salle students will be responsible at all times for the behavior of their guests.
        • Students under twenty-one (21) years of age may not possess empty containers of alcohol in any university residence hall room, apartment or townhouse.
        • If alcohol is present for students who are twenty-one (21) years of age or older, the following occupancy numbers must be followed:
        • Residents and guests may not exceed a total of eight (8) in a residence hall room.
        • Residents and guests may not exceed a total of twelve (12) in an apartment/townhouse.
        • Off-campus incidents that involve alcohol consumption by students who are under twenty-one (21) years of age, result in behavior that includes intoxication, disorderliness, or offensive behavior resulting from the use of alcohol is prohibited, regardless of the student’s age and will be subject to the university’s student conduct process.
        • Students are prohibited from advertising parties where alcohol is to be served. Fliers, public social media posts or mass electronic invitations are not permitted.
        • Drinking games or contests are prohibited for students of any age. These games include, but are not limited to beer pong, flip cup and quarters. Simulated drinking games are prohibited, even if there is no alcohol present.
        • Drinking paraphernalia or other items that encourage excessive consumption of alcohol, including, but not limited to, beer funnels/bongs and beer pong tables are not permitted for students of any age.
      • Drugs
        • Students are prohibited from illegally using, possessing, manufacturing or distributing drugs. Distribution includes selling or providing drugs to persons of any age.
        • Sharing or distributing prescription medicine or other legal drugs, with or without the exchange of money, is prohibited.
        • Students are prohibited from possessing drug paraphernalia on university property.
        • Knowingly being in the presence of illegal drug abuse, drug manufacturing, or drug distribution.

  • Additional Notes

    La Salle University Alcohol and Other Drug Amnesty Process

    Student health and safety is a primary concern for the La Salle University community. Students are expected to contact La Salle Public Safety, Residence Life or Community Development when it is believed an individual needs medical attention due to the abuse of alcohol or other drugs including illegal, prescription, over the counter substances. The Alcohol and Other Drug Amnesty Process is designed to provide education rather than discipline when a student voluntarily contacts university personnel (e.g., La Salle Public Safety, an RA/CC or professional staff member in Residence Life or Community Development) or outside emergency services for medical assistance related to alcohol or other drugs. Individuals covered by the Alcohol and Other Drug Amnesty Process are the caller, the person in need of assistance, the host student organization, and any witnesses named in the incident report.

    • The Director of Student Conduct or their designee will determine whether or not the Alcohol and Other Drug Amnesty Process is applicable for each incident.
    • Incidents involving sex discrimination, sexual harassment, sexual misconduct, sexual violence, dating violence, domestic violence, or stalking shall be covered by the Alcohol and Other Drug Amnesty Process for those students reporting or intervening to prevent harm to a particular student.
    • Incidents involving other violence or serious student conduct code violations will not apply.
    • A professional from the Division of Student Development and Campus Life will contact the student or the student organization involved in the incident to arrange for a meeting.
    • There will be no official student conduct process from the university through the Alcohol and Other Drug Amnesty Process.
    • The person who made the call to university personnel may also be asked to attend a meeting with a professional from the Division of Student Development and Campus Life.
    • At the meeting, the incident will be reviewed with the student or student organization to determine an appropriate educational response, which could include participation in an educational group or class, program presentations, counseling intake session, or substance abuse education and/or evaluation. A response may also include parental/ guardian notification of the incident.
    • If a student or student organization fails to attend the meeting with the professional from the Division of Student Development and Campus Life or complete the educational responses following the meeting, the incident will be referred to the Student Conduct Process.

    III. G. General Student Policies

    • Rights

      • Individual Rights, Disclosure of Information
        • Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).
          • Each and every registered student of the University (hereafter “a student”) has the right to review his or her own educational records in compliance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974. The following materials may not be reviewed: private notations in the sole possession of one person, parents’ confidential statements, and psychiatric and other medical records. However, psychiatric and other medical records may be reviewed by a physician or other appropriate professional of the student’s choice.
          • A student has the right to place in his or her own educational records materials of an explanatory nature concerning any item held therein. Any such material shall bear a notation that it was placed in the file at the student’s request.
          • A student has the right to waive his or her right of access to any materials in his or her own educational records. No such waiver shall be effective unless it is made in writing. All materials collected during the time that such a waiver was in effect shall be exempt from access by the student during any future examination.
          • A student has the right to refuse access to his or her own educational records, or to any item contained therein, to any person or agency not authorized under the Act. Those who are authorized under the Act include school officials and faculty who have a legitimate educational interest, officials of other schools in which a student seeks to enroll, and certain federal and state educational agencies.
          • A student has the right to request that his or her own educational records be amended if they are inaccurate, misleading, or violate his or her privacy or other rights. If the request is denied, the student is entitled to a hearing according to established University procedures.
          • A complete text of the Act, as well as those Federal Regulations issued under the Act, is available for inspection in the office of the Registrar.
        • Student Right-To-Know Act

          In compliance with Title I – Section 103 of the Student Right-To-Know and Campus Security Act, as amended by the Higher Education Technical Amendments of 1991, the one-year persistence rate for first-time degree seeking students who entered La Salle University in Fall 2001 on a full-time basis was 89 percent. Inquiries pertaining to this information should be directed to the Office of the Registrar.

      • Curricular Standards
        • A student shall have the right to pursue any course of study available within the University, providing he or she can be accommodated within the program, meet the requirements for entering, and continue to meet the requirements in the program.
        • A student shall have the right to know at the beginning of each semester, ordinarily during the first week of class, the criteria to be used by the instructor in determining grades in each course.
        • A student shall have the right to see his or her own tests and other written material after grading, and the instructor shall have the duty to make this material available within a reasonable time.
        • Upon request, a student shall have the right to have his or her grade on such written material explained by the instructor. A request for such explanation must be made within one week after the written material, as graded, is made available to the student.
        • Final Grades. If a student believes that his or her final grade was based on an arbitrary or capricious action or some other inappropriate criteria not linked to academic performance the student must follow the procedure described in this subsection.The purpose of this policy is to outline the mechanism by which students may appeal assigned grades. The procedure is initiated by the student utilizing the Grade Appeal Form found on the student portal. It applies only to assignment of consequential or summative grades. This procedure does not apply to smaller coursework assignments (e.g., quizzes, brief writing assignments). A grade can be overturned, changed or modified only if it is found arbitrary or capricious, or based on inappropriate criteria not linked to academic performance, demonstration of skills or professionalism (“inappropriate criteria”).If a student believes that his or her grade is arbitrary or capricious action or based on some other inappropriate criteria, the student must follow the procedure described in this policy to formally appeal the grade.There is a presumption that assigned grades are based on performance and authoritative. Thus, a student seeking a grade appeal bears the burden of proving during the appeals procedure that the grade is arbitrary or capricious, or based on inappropriate criteria. Overturning an assigned grade requires proof that the alleged grade was actually based on an arbitrary or capricious action or some other inappropriate criteria.Within the University, the structures of programs may vary, and the involved Faculty Member may be represented in multiple roles. The appeal process for each student will depend upon the structure of the program and the parties involved, but the order of appeal shall be directed through three stages, if needed, as described herein. The Stage 1 appeal are directed to the faculty member who issued the grade (“Faculty Member”). Stage 2 appeals must be directed to the Program Director and/or Department Chairperson. Stage 3 appeals must be directed to the appropriate Dean.The appeals process must be followed in the order explained below.The time limits provided must be followed. An involved party (student, faculty member, director, department chair, or dean) may request extensions of the deadlines if they contact the Provost in writing (See Stage 3/ No. 11), however, all parties are encouraged to be expeditious in moving through the appeal. Any day that the University is officially closed because of a Holiday in accordance with the University Holiday policy will not count towards the specified time requirements. Delivery of documents and forms may be completed in accordance with this Policy through the University e-mail system.Documents and/or forms are considered delivered when e-mailed.
          • Stage 1: Appealing to the Faculty Member Issuing the Grade
            • The student must initiate the grade appeal process by delivering a complete and factually detailed written explanation of their appeal to the Faculty Member using the Grade Appeal Form within 14 days of the grade in question being posted or otherwise made available. If the student fails to initiate the grade appeal in the prescribed manner and/or time period, there shall be no opportunity for an appeal of the grade.
            • The Faculty Member who issued the grade must respond to the student, in writing, within 7 days of the delivery of the appeal. The Faculty Member’s response must include a clear indication as to whether the grade should stand (as originally assigned) or an explanation of how the grade will be revised. If the Faculty Member cannot be reached or does not respond within the prescribed period, the student should forward the appeal to the Program Director or Department Chairperson.
            • After receiving the written response from the Faculty Member, the student may accept the decision and end the appeal or continue to Stage 2 of the appeal procedure.
          • Stage 2: Appealing to the Program Director or Department Chairperson
            • To initiate a Stage 2 appeal, the student must deliver the Grade Appeal Form, along with the Stage 1 appeal documents (Faculty Response), to the Program Director or Department Chairperson within 7 days of the Faculty Member’s response in Stage 1. If the disputed grade was issued by a Faculty Member who also serves as a Program Director or Department Chairperson, that Faculty Member must recuse themselves from Stage 2. If there is no Program Director and the grade was issued by the Department Chairperson, then the Stage 2 appeal will be skipped, and the appeal should move to Stage 3.
            • In the Stage 2 appeal, the Program Director (or Department Chairperson if there is no Program Director) will review and consider the written appeal documents and render an opinion as to whether the originally assigned grade is justifiable (not arbitrary or capricious or based on inappropriate criteria) or if it was unjustifiable (arbitrary or capricious or based on inappropriate criteria). If the Stage 2 appeal results in a finding that the assigned grade was arbitrary or capricious, or otherwise based on inappropriate criteria, the Program Director or Department Chairperson will endeavor to consult with the Faculty Member who issued the grade, and will direct an appropriate change, and ensure that the change is enacted. The Program Director or the Department Chairperson will notify the student in writing of the decisions and actions within 7 days of receiving the Stage 2 appeal.
            • After receiving a written decision finding that the assigned grade was not arbitrary or capricious, or based on inappropriate criteria from the Stage 2 appeal, the student may accept the decision and end the appeal or continue to the Stage 3 appeal to the Academic Dean of the relevant school (Arts and Sciences, Business, or Nursing and Health Sciences).
          • Stage 3: Appealing to the Academic Dean
            • To initiate a Stage 3 appeal, the student must deliver the Grade Appeal Form, along with the Stage 1 and Stage 2 appeal documents, to the Academic Dean within 7 days of the Program Director or Department Chairperson’s response in Stage 2. If the Dean was the Faculty Member who originally assigned the grade, the Provost/Vice President for Academic Affairs will assume the role and duties outlined for the Stage 3 appeal.
            • The Program Director or Department Chairperson must forward all relevant documents from the Stage 1 and Stage 2 appeals to the Dean within 7 days of request from the Dean.
            • The Dean will request an additional written response from the Faculty Member who issued the disputed grade within 7 days of having received the student’s Stage 3 appeal. If the Faculty Member cannot be reached or does not respond, the appeal shall move forward based on the reasoning provided by the Faculty Member in the Stage 1 response documents.
            • The Dean will submit the grade appeal documentation and any other relevant materials to a Grade Appeal Panel within 7 days. The Dean will assign two additional faculty members to the Grade Appeal Panel as per this Policy. For grade appeals presented by a graduate student, the Grade Appeal Panel will include at least one faculty representative from that graduate program. Members of the Academic and Faculty Affairs Committee of the Faculty Senate from the department/program where the appeal originates should recuse themselves from service on the Grade Appeal Panel.
            • The Grade Appeal Panel’s review and recommendation will be based exclusively on documentation furnished by the Dean or from other available resources as the Grade Appeal Panel deems necessary to complete a full and fair review. If the Panel feels it necessary to speak to members of the appropriate department as resources, it may do so. The Grade Appeal Panel may convene its members in person or over video conferencing software, or permit individual review of the record in making its recommendation. All Grade Appeal Panel members must review the same information and data.
            • Within 14 days of receiving the grade appeal documentation, the Grade Appeal Panel will issue a written recommendation to the Dean stating whether the challenged grade was justifiable or unjustifiable based on the criteria set forth above.
            • If the majority of the Grade Appeal Panel finds that the grade given was justifiable, the recommendation should be that the appeal shall be denied. If the majority of the Grade Appeal Panel finds that the grade given was unjustifiable, the recommendation shall be a referral to the Dean.
            • The Dean will review the record, the recommendation of the Panel, and then adopt the Panel’s recommendation unless there are compelling reasons not to do so. If the recommendation is adopted, the decision of the Dean is final. If the decision requires a grade change, the Dean will initiate the grade change with the Registrar within 7 days. The Dean will inform the Provost/Vice President for Academic Affairs of the final decision in writing. If the Dean declines to adopt the majority opinion and recommendations of the panel, the Dean will send the appeal file to the Provost/Vice President for Academic Affairs, who will then make the final grade determination based upon the entire appeals record, including any written comments from the Dean within 7 days. If the decision of the Provost/Vice President for Academic Affairs requires a grade change, the Provost/Vice President for Academic Affairs will initiate the grade change with the Registrar.
            • Prior to issuing the final decision, the Dean or Provost/Vice President for Academic Affairs will notify the Faculty Member of the proposed decision. If there is a recommendation to change the grade, the Faculty Member will have an opportunity to change the grade themselves. If the Faculty Member declines to change the grade, the Dean or Provost/Vice President for Academic Affairs will do so with the Registrar.
            • The Dean will notify the student and the Faculty Member in writing with a final grade determination.
            • The Provost/Vice President for Academic Affairs may extend any of the specified time requirements, due to extenuating circumstances upon written request. At the completion of Stage 3, there is no further appeal.

          This process will be completed in strict confidence. All records related to the grade appeal process will be maintained in accordance with La Salle University record keeping policies.

        • A student shall be promptly informed if he or she is placed on any form of academic censure.
      • Speech and Expression of Opinion
        • No student shall be penalized for the reasonable expression of any view which is relevant to the classroom discussion or written material.
        • A student participates in student organizations and activities in his or her own time, and by his or her own decision. No student shall be penalized for any such participation, but neither shall any student claim indulgence from academic obligations by virtue of such participation
      • Collective Rights
        • Students shall have the right, through their representatives, to participate with full privileges, together with faculty and administration, in the development of both University and departmental curricula through University Council and Academic and Department Committees and Boards.
        • Students shall have the right to express an opinion in decisions regarding the evaluation, tenure, and promotion of faculty and department heads. The University promises to listen to such opinion, if rendered in good faith. However, the University will not be bound by student opinion in such decisions nor will failure to secure such opinion constitute a ground for complaint by a faculty member who has not been rehired, promoted, given tenure, or made department head.
        • The University shall establish and adhere to nondiscriminatory policies of equal opportunity to all academic facets of the University.

    • Academic Responsibilities of Registered Students

      • University Regulations

        Students are responsible for acquainting themselves with the academic regulations of the University as outlined in the Student Guide to Resources, Rights, and Responsibilities and the University Bulletins. Ignorance of the regulations does not excuse any student from their application.

      • Provision of Information

        Students are responsible for supplying standard information, when required by the University, on their own personal background and academic history, in a clear, complete, and accurate manner. Misrepresentation in this respect is a serious matter.

      • Curricular Standards
        • Students are responsible for meeting the requirements of class attendance, test dates, and assignment deadlines, and for proper behavior during classes.
        • Students are responsible for the integrity of their academic work. In this regard plagiarism is a serious violation. Plagiarism is defined as the presentation of the ideas of another as one’s own. Any use of another’s ideas without proper acknowledgment is plagiarism.
      • Speech and Expression

        In exercising the rights of freedom speech and expression, students should respect the sensitivities and the corresponding rights of others.

      • Collective Responsibilities

        Students are responsible for honoring the obligation they assume when accepting positions on collegiate committees and boards.

    • Academic Integrity Policy

      • Purpose and mission (abstracted from the La Salle University mission statement):

        The central academic mission of La Salle University’s undergraduate programs is to maintain, as a foundation of all learning, a common, comprehensive liberal arts core which will challenge all students with courses that address the analytic process (philosophical and/or scientific); the communication process (oral and written; emitted and received); and, the historical, intellectual and creative growth of humanity. The purpose of graduate study at La Salle University is to enhance both practical and theoretical knowledge in order to augment and enrich professional competencies. All programs are designed to prepare students for informed service and progressive leadership in their chosen fields.

        The mission of La Salle University underscores the importance of providing students with a values- based education that occurs in the context of an inter-faith educational community. As its basic purpose, the University promotes free search for truth by teaching students basic skills, knowledge and values that they will need to lead a life of dignity. Thus, it is through active engagement in learning that students’ personal, social, and religious values may take root and foster mature, value-driven attitudes and behavior. All students and faculty who choose to become part of the La Salle University community also have a moral or ethical obligation to pursue all forms of learning with integrity, dignity, and responsibility towards others.

      • What is academic integrity?

        Integrity is defined as “adherence to moral and ethical principles; uprightness, honesty, and sincerity.” The key to academic integrity is setting personal standards for oneself and living up to those standards each day. Routinely displaying honesty, responsibility, respect for others, and fairness will serve as a model of integrity to others, the campus community, region, state, and world. One who has integrity follows moral and ethical standards even when circumstances arise that challenge those standards.

        Trust is an essential trait of integrity. A lapse of trust negatively impacts our relationships with others. Who can trust someone who is dishonest or unfair? The act of learning is not a solitary venture and thus requires the scaffolding of a competent instructor or peer. Group work is rooted in trust. Team members must be able to trust that each person’s contributions will enhance the group effort and instructors must trust that each student is contributing his or her fair share.

        Thus, by becoming a member of La Salle University’s community the individual enters an academic world where distinguished faculty, dedicated staff, and students of great potential work collaboratively to achieve and learn from one another. It is only through a strong commitment to La Salle’s learning community that the student can live the moral and ethical principles that are supported and maintained by its mission. The faculty has a special responsibility to model appropriate academic integrity and to ensure that these policies are communicated, understood, and maintained at all times.

        Sources used
      • Why have an Academic Integrity Policy?

        All too frequently academic integrity and plagiarism policies are regarded as disciplinary tools employed to ferret out misconduct. It is important, then, to recognize the positive implications of such a policy for students, faculty, and the campus as a whole.

        • Fairness

          A policy that applies to all students and faculty can provide the reassurance that everyone on campus is held to the same ethical standards. Students can be confident that their attempts to present honest work are not undermined by the dishonest work of others. Faculty may find comfort in the knowledge that they are not alone in aggressively responding to instances of academic dishonesty. Rather, they are a part of a community endeavor to maintain high standards of integrity.

        • Benefits for students

          This policy provides a forum through which students can be educated about the nature of academic integrity. By discouraging “passive” methods of learning and research, the policy can create an atmosphere that promotes active understanding and engagement, thus encouraging students to develop intellectually.

        • Benefits for faculty

          The policy creates an optimal learning environment because it encourages mutual respect and high standards among all members of the classroom learning community. This enables faculty to fulfill course goals without the need for establishing individual academic integrity policies.

        • Benefits for the La Salle Community

          By promoting academic integrity and ethical behavior in the classroom, the policy helps to ensure an environment that fosters trust, mutual respect, and love of learning.

        • Sources used
          • La Salle University English Department Policy on Plagiarism and Academic Honesty.
          • La Salle University Graduate Psychology student handbook.

    • Academic Dishonesty

      • “If I have seen further, it is by standing on the shoulders of giants.” -Isaac NewtonOften, when we develop ideas, they are not free of the effects and influences of others’ previous findings, claims, and analyses. This suggests that much of the thinking that we do in a university setting is motivated, shaped, and focused in response to work that may have been published or stated by others. Usually, our ideas evolve in response to reading others’ writings. We base research on earlier scholarship and communication with others (Citing Sources and Avoiding Plagiarism – Duke University). We give credit where credit is due. Therefore, we cite the intellectual contributions of others.Academic Dishonesty includes, but is not limited to, the following:
        • Cheating

          Cheating is the act of wrongly using or attempting to use unauthorized materials, information, study aids, or the ideas or work of another. This includes giving or receiving unauthorized aid in the completion of such things as written assignments, quizzes, or tests. Submitting the same written work for two different courses qualifies as another form of cheating.

        • Plagiarism

          Plagiarism is the unacknowledged use of other people’s ideas, both written and unwritten (Avoiding Plagiarism – National Louis University). Scholarly authors generously acknowledge their debts to predecessors by carefully giving credit to each source. Whenever one draws on another’s work, one must specify what has been borrowed – whether facts, opinions, or quotations – and its source. Using another person’s ideas or expressions in writing without acknowledging the source constitutes plagiarism. Derived from the Latin plagiarius (“kidnapper”), plagiarism refers to a form of intellectual theft. In short, to plagiarize is to give the impression that the author wrote or thought something that in fact was borrowed from someone else, and to do so is a violation of professional ethics. (Joseph Gibaldi, MLA Style Manual and Guide to Scholarly Publishing. 2nd ed., New York: MLA, 1998: 151).

          • Avoiding PlagiarismSince plagiarism can be a temptation for those students who are facing an imminent deadline, students can use the following procedures that may help to ensure a project is properly documented.
            • Make sure you understand the material you are using before incorporating it into your work.
            • Avoid relying too heavily on the ideas of others.
            • Make sure you know how to cite correctly. This includes Internet-based sources as well as traditional
              scholarly works.
            • Talk to a librarian and attend library instruction workshops.
            • Do not use Internet “paper mills.”
          • This is what must be referenced:
            • Direct quotes.
            • Paraphrasing.
            • Ideas acquired via reading, conversation, or correspondence.
            • Statistics and data that are not yours.
        • Cooperative or Group Learning

          When group projects or cooperative learning activities require collaboration, students must understand clearly what is proper and improper cooperation and collaboration and how individuals are expected to contribute to the project (Strategies for Avoiding Plagiarism – Westmont College). If a group member plagiarizes, the entire group may be held accountable. Concern about copying must be dealt with as soon as plagiarism is suspected. Related to plagiarism is the fact that some students may over-rely on other group members to do the majority of the work while they all receive the same mark (Designing Assessment Tasks to Minimize Plagiarism – University of Wollongong, Australia). To ensure fairness, faculty should develop a system of communication whereby students have an opportunity to express their concerns.

    • Academic Integrity Violation Procedures

      • Step 1

        When a faculty member suspects an academic integrity violation, the faculty member must discuss the suspected violation with the student within one calendar week. This discussion must take place through face-to-face, telephone, or electronic (e.g., Skype) means. Email is not an appropriate medium through which to discuss an alleged academic integrity violation.

      • Step 2

        If, after the discussion with the student, the faculty member believes there to be an academic integrity violation, the faculty member will file a written Academic Dishonesty Report (ADR) within one calendar week of the discussion with the student. The ADR prepared by the faculty member must contain the following:

        • Date of the ADR, name of instructor, instructor’s department/school, name of student accused of committing the academic integrity violation, student’s major/school, date of the violation, and place of the violation.
        • A written summary of the incident, fully detailing the academic integrity violation.
        • Evidence of the academic integrity violation. In the case where other students have reported the academic violation to the instructor, the instructor will summarize these accusations and evidence gathered. In the case where the instructor has physical evidence of the violation, the evidence should be attached to the ADR.

        The ADR will be mailed to the student to his/her home address and campus address (if any). Email in this instance is not an appropriate form of transmittal. A copy of the ADR also must be sent by the faculty member to the Assistant Provost for Academic Affairs, to the faculty member’s Department Chair, and to the Director of the Program in which the violation occurred.

      • Step 3

        The student who has been accused of the academic integrity violation has one calendar week from the date that the faculty member’s ADR is received to send a rebuttal to the faculty member making the accusation.

      • Step 4

        After receipt of the student’s rebuttal, the faculty member has one calendar week to make a final judgment as to whether an academic integrity violation has occurred. In making a final judgment, the faculty should prepare a written response to the student’s rebuttal. If the faculty member continues to believe an academic integrity violation occurred, the faculty member may choose to impose one or more of the following sanctions on the student. The choice of sanction(s) will necessarily be matched to the number of previous violations and to the level of the infraction in the faculty member’s judgment.

          • A reduction in grade recorded for the assignment/test.
          • A zero recorded for the assignment/test.
          • An “F” grade assigned for the course.

        In some Programs, a sanction for an academic integrity violation might result in dismissal from the Program and from the University. The student should consult program information in the catalog, Program Handbook, and course syllabus for more details.

        If the faculty member recommends a sanction other than one of those specified in Step 4 (i-iii), each of the stages (i.e., 1 through 5) described below in Step 5 must be followed.

        In determining the sanction(s), the faculty member will contact the Assistant Provost to ascertain whether prior ADRs have been filed on this student.

        The faculty member’s final judgment and sanction(s) will be communicated to the student in writing within one calendar week of the final decision through a hard copy letter and via email with a delivered receipt and a read receipt. The faculty member’s ADR, the student’s rebuttal, and the faculty member’s response to the rebuttal will be sent by the faculty member within one calendar week to the office of the Dean of the School in which the academic integrity violation occurred, the office of the department Chair in which the academic integrity violation occurred, the student’s academic advisor, and the Assistant Provost.

      • Step 5

        Students accused of academic integrity violations are protected by certain rights and privileges described below.

        Individual Rights: Under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act, every registered student has the right to review his or her educational records, which in this case, include records pertaining to academic integrity violations. After reviewing his or her records, the student has a right to attach an explanatory note to academic integrity ADRs that are contained in that file. The student also has a right to request that his/her records be amended if they are inaccurate, misleading, or violate personal privacy or other rights. If the student’s request is denied, the student is entitled to a hearing according to established University procedures.

        If the student believes that the charge of academic dishonesty or the sanctions imposed as a result of an alleged academic integrity violation are unfounded, unfair, or based on instructor bias, whimsy, or caprice, the student may appeal the faculty member’s decision within two weeks of the date of the faculty member’s final judgment and sanction(s) following the steps outlined below.

          • If dissatisfied with the instructor’s decision, the student may appeal to the department Chair of the relevant department who has assigned the faculty member to the course in which the violation occurred. The Chair will consider the evidence presented in the ADR, the student’s written appeal, and the instructor’s written response to the appeal. The Chair may confer with the student accused of having committed an academic integrity violation and the member of the faculty who brought the charge. The department Chair will respond in writing to the student and instructor within two weeks of receiving all the evidence in the case and forward a copy of her/his response to the Dean’s office in which the violation occurred.
          • If dissatisfied with the department Chair’s decision, the student may appeal within two weeks of the Chair’s decision to the Dean of the School in which the academic integrity violation occurred. The Dean will consider the evidence presented in the ADR, the student’s written appeal, the instructor’s written response to the appeal, and the Chair’s response. The Dean may confer with the student accused of having committed an academic integrity violation, the faculty member who brought the charge, and/or the Chair. The Dean will respond in writing to the department Chair, student, and instructor within two weeks of receiving all the evidence in the case and forward a copy of that ADR, reports from the Instructor and Chair, and her/his response to the Assistant Provost.
          • If dissatisfied with the decision of the Dean, the student may appeal to the Provost within two weeks of the Dean’s decision. The Provost will consider the evidence presented in the ADR, the student’s written appeal, the instructor’s written response to the appeal, the Chair’s response, and the Dean’s response. The Provost may confer with the student accused of having committed an academic integrity violation, the faculty member who brought the charge, the Chair, and/or the Dean. Recommendations for further action will be made by the Provost. The Provost will respond in writing to the Dean, department Chair, faculty member, and student within two weeks of receiving all the evidence in the case. The Provost represents the final appeal in the process.

        The only exception to Steps i-iii immediately above is if the faculty member, Chair, or Dean recommends a sanction of suspension or dismissal. If suspension or dismissal is recommended, the violation will be appealed to the University Academic Integrity Violation Appeals Committee prior to consideration by the Provost.

        • The Appeals Committee is convened only for a recommendation other than that specified in Step 4 (i-iii). The Appeals Committee will be convened by the Provost. The Appeals Committee will be composed of six faculty members and/or academic administrators, all chosen by the Provost. Of the six members of the Appeals Committee, there will be at least one member from each of the three Schools. Additionally, of the six members, three will be members of the faculty. The following individuals will be excluded from membership on the Appeals Committee: the faculty member who made the accusation of the academic integrity violation, the Chair associated with the student’s program of study/major, the Chair in which the violation occurred, and the Dean of the School in which the violation occurred. Once convened, the members will choose a chair. The Chair of the Appeals Committee, typically a member of the faculty, will be charged with convening the group and presenting both sides of the case. The Chair of the Appeals Committee is to confer with the student accused of having committed an academic integrity violation and the member of the faculty who brought the charge and may confer with the relevant department Chair and/or Dean. The Chair of the Appeals Committee will gather information from the student, faculty member, and other relevant sources for the purpose of reporting this information to the Appeals Committee. The Chair of the Appeals Committee will also provide an overview of information gathered from meetings with the student charged with the academic integrity violation, the faculty member who made the charge, and other relevant sources. Copies of the original ADR prepared by the faculty member, the student’s response, and the subsequent responses from the faculty member, department Chair, and Dean will be reviewed by Appeals Committee members during this meeting. The Appeals Committee meeting will convene within a reasonable amount of time (depending on circumstances, three or four weeks) after receiving notice. If necessary, the chair of the Appeals Committee may request an extension from the Provost. Recommendations for further action will be made by the Appeals Committee by majority vote. The Chair of the Appeals Committee will respond in writing to the Dean, department Chair, faculty member, student, and Provost within two weeks of receiving all the evidence in the case.
        • Once the Provost receives the report from the Appeals Committee, s/he will confer with the student accused of having committed an academic integrity violation, the member of the faculty who brought the charge, the department Chair, and/or Dean. Following these discussions, the Provost will respond in writing to the Chair of the Appeals Committee, the Dean, department Chair, the Director of the student’s program, faculty member, and student within two weeks of receiving all the evidence in the case and forward a copy of her/his report to the Assistant Dean in the School where the violation occurred. If the student is dismissed from the University, the Provost will communicate that sanction in writing to the Registrar’s office. The Provost represents the final step in the process and determines the ultimate sanction.

    • Policy on Research Misconduct: Allegation, Investigation and Reporting

      Each member of the La Salle University community has a responsibility to foster an environment which promotes intellectual honesty and integrity, and which does not tolerate misconduct in any aspect of research or scholarly endeavor. A copy of the complete Policy on Research Misconduct can be obtained from the Office of the Provost on the third floor of the Administration Center.

    • Courses/Registration

      • Pre-Registration Procedure

        Pre-registration takes place during November and April each year. Complete information about the advisement process is mailed to each enrolled student prior to registration. Schedules of classes are available in the Registrar’s Office, as well as the office of the department chairs and on the Registrar’s web page (www.lasalle.edu/admin/registrar). All students are asked to speak with an academic advisor to receive the advisor approval code, which is necessary for pre-registration. In addition, any outstanding financial or disciplinary holds will prevent a student from rostering for classes for the next semester. Students are asked to see that these are cleared before pre-registration.

      • Change of Courses

        Until noon of the fifth day of each Fall and Spring semester, a student may make a change in his or her roster, provided that classes being added have not reached their capacity.

      • Repeated Courses

        Students are responsible for reporting to the Office of the Registrar any course in which the student is enrolled that is being repeated in any given semester. If a student repeats a course, only the higher grade is counted in the academic index. However, the previous grade(s) will remain on the academic record of the student. A student may not repeat a course more than once without permission from the dean.

      • Pass/Fail Option

        Students may take two free electives under a pass/fail option. If they indicate this option to the Registrar within three weeks after the course begins, the grade for the course will be recorded as S (Satisfactory) or U (Unsatisfactory). Such grades will not affect the cumulative index, but semester hours graded S will be counted toward the total required for graduation.

      • Course Withdrawal/Withdrawal from the University

        Under certain circumstances, the student who withdraws may receive a partial refund on his or her tuition. Information on terms and conditions is available in the catalog and on the student’s invoice. There are no exceptions to these terms and conditions. Additional inquiries on tuition refund may be directed to the Bursar’s Office. When withdrawing from the university, resident students must also complete an Application for Housing Contract Release and submit it to the Office of Community Development.

      • Graduation Application

        Students who will complete requirements for a degree in a given semester must make written application for graduation at the time specified by the Registrar.

    • Address Change

      When there is a change in a student’s permanent home address or temporary local address, the Registrar’s Office should be notified immediately. Students not living at home with their parents or legal guardians or in University residence facilities, who have not provided their current off-campus address to the Registrar’s Office, will not be allowed to pre-register for classes in subsequent semesters until the address change is filed.

    • Financial Delinquency

      A student who is financially delinquent forfeits the privilege of attending class and residing on campus. A student who is financially delinquent at the close of a term is not permitted to complete registration or housing renewal for a succeeding term unless his or her account is settled.

    • Student Records

      As custodian of student records, the University assumes an implicit and justifiable trust. This trust involves the recognition that student records, both academic and personal, are confidential to the student and the institution. Accordingly, the University accepts responsibility for exercising effective care and concern in recording and disseminating information about students. Student records are released only to appropriate authorities within the University, except when the student has given his or her formal consent, or when the safety of the student and others and/or property is endangered.

      • Disciplinary Records

        Disciplinary Records are for internal use only and are not made available to persons outside the University except on formal written request of the student involved. Disciplinary information is not included on University transcripts. Intra-University use is at the discretion of the Chief Student Affairs Officer (CSAO), who may inform other officials in the institution of the student’s disciplinary status when necessary to the discharge of their official duties. The Chief Student Affairs Officer (CSAO) assumes the responsibility of maintaining the confidentiality of disciplinary records and for destruction of such records. Disciplinary records are maintained for seven years after the student has graduated, withdrawn or from their date of last attendance at the University with the exception of cases in which a sanction of Suspension or Dismissal was imposed. The records of students Suspended from the University will be maintained for fourteen years after graduation, withdrawal or from their date of last attendance at the University. Records of students who have been dismissed are maintained permanently.

      • Access to Educational Records and Rights to Privacy

        Congress in 1974 enacted legislation – Public Law 93-380, commonly referred to as the Buckley Amendment – with the intention to protect students from having incorrect information contained in their school files, and also to limit those who may have access to their educational records. In compliance with the law, La Salle University is prepared to assist students who wish to review their records or who have questions about the law.

        Public Law 93-380 specifically requires that students and parents or guardians of dependent students be permitted to examine official University educational records which contain information used in making decisions or recommendations about students. These records include those normally maintained by the major department, academic dean, Chief Student Affairs Officer (CSAO), Registrar, and Business Offices. Each University office and department having such records has an established procedure for a student to review his or her official records and to challenge the accuracy of them. A STUDENT MUST MAKE A FORMAL REQUEST IN WRITING TO EXAMINE HIS OR HER RECORDS. Material may be permanently removed from a student’s file when the promulgator of the information and the student or when the results of a formal hearing called for this specific purpose direct this action, reaches a mutual agreement.

        Instructor’s notes, campus security records, psychiatric, psychological, and medical records, parents’ financial statements, and material to which the student has waived his or her right of access in writing are among the records exempted by the law from examination.

        Public law 93-380 also limits those who, outside the University, may have access to a student’s records. Except as provided by law, educational records may not be transmitted to individuals or agencies outside of the University without the student’s written consent. STUDENTS, THEREFORE, ARE EXPECTED TO GIVE WRITTEN PERMISSION WHEN REQUESTING THE UNIVERSITY TO FORWARD RECORDS TO OFF-CAMPUS PERSONS, AGENCIES, OR INSTITUTIONS. The law permits the University to release without permission such information as a student’s name, dates of attendance, major field, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, and degrees and awards received.

    • Identification Cards

      All students are photographed for an identification card when first entering the University. The ID is non-transferable (individuals who loan their ID to other students or to non-students are subject to disciplinary action) and is carried whenever on campus and presented upon request to University administrators, faculty, or campus security guards. The card verifies status as a student at La Salle and may therefore be required for admission to social or athletic events, for voting rights in student elections, and for other such events demanding evidence of student status. A valid ID is required to use the facilities of the Hayman Center. The ID is intended to last throughout the four years.

    • On Campus Required Residency Policy