Basic Premise & Authority

Basic Premise

The University has the power and responsibility to take proper disciplinary action against students whose behavior threatens or disrupts the mission of the University. This is the general principle governing the jurisdiction of the disciplinary authorities of the University. It means that the disciplinary powers of the University extend to behavior that disrupts the educational process and other activities that are recognized as the lawful mission of the University. It also means that it extends to behavior that violates the peace and order of the University in such a manner that members of the University cannot go about their proper business secure in their persons and property. Behaviors that violate the Student Code of Conduct may also violate criminal or civil law, and as such may be additionally subject to proceedings under the external justice system. The Student Code of Conduct in no way precludes a person who incurs damage or injury from seeking redress in the civil or criminal courts. Students have responsibility for knowing and abiding by the policies of the University.

Authority and Responsibility

Daily responsibility for good conduct rests with the students as individuals. All members of the University community are expected to use reasonable judgment in their daily campus life and to show due concern for the welfare and rights of others. The ultimate responsibility and authority to enforce the Code resides with the President of Framingham State University. The President may, and has, delegated responsibility for the administration of the Student Code of Conduct to the Dean of Students. The Dean of Students, in turn, delegates the authority to authorized and responsible staff for the implementation and enforcement of the Student Code of Conduct. This responsibility includes formulating and implementing appropriate policies and procedures, in conjunction with other appropriate University bodies, for the consideration of conduct complaints, infractions, and the imposition of sanctions in an efficient, consistent, legal, and equitable manner which supports the University’s educational mission. All procedures followed, and decisions made, by authorized hearing officers and bodies are subject to the President’s review and final authority. The University reserves the right to take any necessary and appropriate action to protect the safety and well-being of the campus community.

The Student Code of Conduct was established in accordance with the concept of “due process.” Due process, as used herein, shall mean generally that the student will be notified of a complaint alleging any violation of the Code of Conduct; be provided the opportunity to review the complaint; and, be given an opportunity to respond to the complaint before a decision is rendered.

The University retains conduct jurisdiction over students who choose to take a leave of absence, withdraw, or have graduated, for any misconduct that occurred prior to the leave, withdrawal or graduation. If sanctioned, a hold may be placed on the student’s ability to re-enroll, conduct certain transactions and/or participate in University events. All sanctions must be satisfied prior to re-enrollment eligibility. In the event of serious misconduct committed while still enrolled but reported after the accused student has graduated, the University may invoke these procedures.