Colorado State University is a community dedicated to higher learning in which all members share in pursuit of knowledge, development of students, and protection of essential conditions conducive for the learning environment. These protections are presented in the form of university policies, applicable federal and state laws, and statements of fundamental rights and responsibilities which govern both the academic setting and the university community as a whole. Some of the policies and expectations in this chapter are relevant to students, faculty and staff; others are focused specifically on the student population.
Colorado State University expects students to maintain standards of personal integrity that are in harmony with the educational goals of the institution; to observe national, state, and local laws, and University regulations; and to respect the rights, privileges, and property of other people. Principles of academic honesty, respect for diversity, and pursuit of lifestyles free of alcohol and drug abuse are examples of these standards. Students are not only members of the academic community; they are, additionally, members of the larger society and thus retain the rights, protection guarantees, and responsibilities which are held by all citizens.
GUIDING PRINCIPLES
Commitment to Diversity
As a comprehensive research land grant university, Colorado State University has a fundamental responsibility to offer equal educational opportunities to all individuals with the courage, desire, and dedication to pursue an education and fulfill their aspirations and dreams in a democratic and pluralistic society. The University strives to educate Colorado’s and the nation’s future leaders who represent a diversity of perspectives and ethnic and cultural experiences.
Freedom of Expression and Inquiry
The faculty of Colorado State University considers freedom of discussion, inquiry, and expression to be in keeping with the history and traditions of our country and to be a cornerstone of education in a democracy. Colorado State University is committed to valuing and respecting diversity, including respect for diverse viewpoints. If any members of our campus community (students, faculty, or staff) feel that they have been treated unfairly because of their views, they should contact the Office of Conflict Resolution and Student Conduct Services in Lory Student Center, Room 200. The policy of Colorado State University is to encourage members of the University community to engage in discussion, to exchange ideas and opinions, and to speak, write, and publish freely in accordance with the guarantees and limitations of our state and national constitutions.
Faculty and students have not only a right, but also a responsibility, to examine critically the insights, understandings, values, issues, and concerns which have evolved in the various areas of human activity. Consequently, it is the policy that University-registered student organizations may extend invitations for guest lecturers, exhibitors, performers, and exhibitions of works of art with no restrictions of form or content other than those imposed by law. It is understood that inviting a speaker, performer, or exhibit does not imply concurrence of the University or of the sponsoring organization with the opinions, beliefs, or values expressed.
In exercising their rights, members of the University community should understand that the public may judge the institution by their actions. Hence, they should at all times strive to be honest and accurate, exercise appropriate restraint, and show appropriate respect for the opinions of others.
Freedom from Personal Abuse
The University acknowledges the right of all people to freedom from personal abuse. Abusive treatment of individuals on a personal or stereotyped basis prevents the attainment of the University objective to create and maintain an environment which supports, nurtures, and encourages people to excel in teaching, learning, and creativity. Therefore, the University deplores, condemns, and will act energetically to prevent all forms of personal abuse, including sexual harassment. For statements of University policy concerning personal abuse, see the University Guiding Policies section and Student Rights and Responsibilities section within this chapter.
GUIDING POLICIES
Nondiscrimination Policy
Office of Equal Opportunity and Diversity
of Colorado State University
Office in 101 Student Services Building
Dana Hiatt, Director
(970) 491-5836
Colorado State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, age, color, religion, national origin, gender, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status or disability. The University complies with the Civil Rights Act of 1964, related Executive Orders 11246 and 11375, Title IX of the Education Amendments Act of 1972, Sections 503 and 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Section 402 of the Vietnam Era Veteran’s Readjustment Act of 1974, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967, as amended, Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, the Civil Rights Act of 1991, and all civil rights laws of the state of Colorado. Accordingly, equal opportunity for employment and admission shall be extended to all persons and the University shall promote equal opportunity and treatment through a positive and continuing affirmative action program. In order to assist Colorado State University in meeting its affirmative action responsibilities, ethnic minorities, women, and other protected class members are encouraged to apply and to so identify themselves.
Admission of students, employment, and availability and access to Colorado State programs and activities are made in accordance with these policies of nondiscrimination. Off‑campus householders who desire to list student accommodations with the University must certify that they will comply with the University’s policy on nondiscrimination in student housing.
Any student or University employee who encounters acts of discrimination because of age, race, religion, color, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, veteran status, or disability either on or off campus is urged to report such incident to the Office of Equal Opportunity and Diversity of Colorado State University, located in 101 Student Services. Any person who wishes to discuss a possible discriminatory act without filling out a complaint form is welcome to do so.
Any of the above discriminatory acts can also be the subject of complaints to the Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights, as well as to the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs, Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, and the Colorado Civil Rights Division; information on filing complaints with any of these agencies is available in the Office of Equal Opportunity and Diversity.
Sexual Harassment Policy
Office of Equal Opportunity and Diversity
of Colorado State University
Office in 101 Student Services Building
Dana Hiatt, Director
(970) 491-5836
Colorado State University does not tolerate sexual harassment among students, employees, or other members of its community. Sexual harassment is prohibited in the employment context by Title VII of the 1964 Civil Rights Act and in the education context by Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972.
Sexual harassment occurs when unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature appear in any of the following contexts: (1) submission by an individual is made either an explicit or implicit term or condition of academic standing or of employment; (2) submission to or rejection of such conduct is used as the basis for academic or employment decisions affecting the individual; or (3) such conduct has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with a person’s academic performance or work, or creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive academic or work environment.
Generally, a single sexual joke, offensive epithet, or request for a date does not constitute sexual harassment; however, being subjected to such jokes, epithets, or requests repeatedly may constitute hostile environment sexual harassment. In determining whether the alleged sexual harassing conduct warrants corrective action, all relevant circumstances, including the context in which the conduct occurred, will be considered. Facts will be judged on the basis of what is reasonable to persons of ordinary sensitivity and not on the particular sensitivity or reaction of an individual.
In cases of alleged sexual harassment, the protections of the First Amendment must be considered if issues of speech or artistic expression are involved. Free speech rights apply in the classroom and in all other education programs and activities of public institutions, and First Amendment rights apply to the speech of students and teachers. Great care must be taken not to inhibit open discussion, academic debate, and expression of personal opinion, particularly in the classroom. Nonetheless, speech or conduct of a sexual or hostile nature that occurs in the context of educational instruction may exceed the protections of academic freedom and constitute prohibited sexual harassment if it meets the definition of sexual harassment and (1) is reasonably regarded as nonprofessional speech, or (2) lacks accepted pedagogical purpose or is not germane to the academic subject matter.
The University can respond to sexual harassment only if it is aware of its existence. Any member of the University community who believes that she or he has experienced sexual harassment or reprisal shall contact the Office of Equal Opportunity and Diversity to request advice and information about possible ways to proceed, including use of the University formal complaint procedures. Such discussion will be kept confidential to the full extent permitted by law. Similarly, any member of the University community who believes that she or he observed an incident of sexual harassment in the University learning and working environment or who receives report of alleged sexual harassment from an employee or student should seek assistance from the Office of Equal Opportunity and Diversity.
Full details of the Colorado State Sexual Harassment Policy, including what is involved in bringing a complaint and the procedures for informal and formal resolution are available from the Office of Equal Opportunity and Diversity or online at the Colorado State web site on the A-Z list under “Sexual Harassment Policy” or directly at http://diversity.colostate.edu.
STUDENTS’ RIGHTS
A summary of the University policies dealing with a wide range of student life and activity follows. For more information regarding additional student life policies at Colorado State University, please contact the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs, 201 Administration Building.
As members of the University community, students can reasonably expect the following:
1. Students have the right to freedom from discrimination or harassment on the basis of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, religion, creed, political beliefs, national origin, age, or handicap.
2. The University shall not interfere with the rights of students to join associations.
3. Students should have accurate information relating to maintenance of acceptable academic standing, graduation requirements, program student learning outcomes, and individual course objectives and requirements.
4. Student records will be maintained in keeping with the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 and subsequent amendments and the guidelines for implementation.
5. In all instances of general discipline, academic discipline, and academic evaluation, the student has the right to fair and impartial treatment.
6. Colorado State University considers freedom of inquiry and discussion essential to a student’s educational development. Thus, the University recognizes the right of all students to engage in discussion, to exchange thought and opinion, and to speak, write, or print freely on any subject in accordance with the guarantees of Federal or State constitutions. This broad principle is the cornerstone of education in a democracy.
7. Students have the right to be free from illegal searches and seizures.
8. Students have the right to freely exercise their full rights as citizens. In this light, the University affirms the right of students to exercise their freedoms without fear of University interference for such activity.
Student Bill of Rights –
Colorado Revised Statute 23-1-125
The Colorado Student Bill of Rights focuses on various aspects of student academic life including advising, transferability of credits, and degree completion.
One particular segment of the Student Bill of Rights notes that a student may formalize a plan to obtain a degree in four years. Colorado State University supports this timeline for graduation by publishing advising guidelines under which a student may expect to graduate in four years and also publishes curriculum check sheets defining a common four-year course progression for each major. These check sheets and advising guidelines are available in each department office and in the Center for Advising and Student Achievement (CASA), Aylesworth Hall. There are some majors which a student may not be able to complete in four years because of additional degree requirements recognized by the Colorado Department of Higher Education.
Students’ Rights Regarding Their
Educational Records
Students have certain rights concerning their “education records” under the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act, as amended, 20 U.S. 1232g et. seq.(FERPA). These include:
1. The right to inspect and review the student’s educational records within 45 days of the day the University receives request for access.
Students should submit to the Registrar’s Office, or in the case of graduate studies, to the Graduate School, written requests that identify the record(s) they wish to inspect. The University official will make arrangements for access and notify the student of the time and place where the records may be inspected. If the records are not maintained by the University official to whom the request was submitted, that official shall advise the student of the correct official to whom the request should be addressed.
All enrolled and former students may have access to their educational records maintained within the University. Those individuals and agencies having access to a student’s records include “school officials,” defined below, with legitimate educational interests; parents claiming a student as a dependent on their federal income tax; scholarship and other financial aid organizations supporting the student; organizations conducting studies for, or on behalf of, educational agencies or institutions for the purpose of developing, validating, or administering predictive tests, student aid programs, or to improve instruction; organizations carrying out accrediting functions of programs offered by the University; appropriate person(s) in an emergency; and any party designated by judicial order or subpoena, provided that, except for subpoenas and orders issued for law enforcement purposes, the University first notifies the student of the order or subpoena. Any other individual or organization must have a student’s written consent to view or have access to the educational record.
A student may receive one copy of each item of information contained in the educational record at a cost of $.25 (charge subject to change) per page.
2. The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the student believes are inaccurate or misleading.
Students may ask the University to amend a record that they believe is inaccurate or misleading. They should write the University official responsible for the record, clearly identify the part of the record they want changed, and specify why it is inaccurate or misleading.
If the University decides not to amend the record as requested by the student, the University will notify the student of the decision and advise the student of his or her right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the student when notified of the right to a hearing.
3. The right to consent to disclosure of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s educational records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent.
An exception exists for public release of “directory information” unless the student has placed a written request that such information be withheld in the Registrar’s Office by the end of the second week of classes. Colorado State defines “directory information” as a student’s name, current mailing and e-mail address, telephone listing, major field of study, class, dates of attendance, anticipated date/term of graduation and expected award(s), participation in officially recognized activities and sports, weight and height of members of athletic teams, photographic or video images, honors and degrees awarded, and CSUID number.
Another exception allows disclosure of information about the student to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official is a person employed by the University in an administrative, supervisory, academic or research, or support staff position (including law enforcement unit personnel in an educational role and health staff); a person or company with whom the University has contracted (such as an attorney, auditor, or collection agent); a person serving on the governing board of the University; or a student serving on an official committee, or in a volunteer capacity, such as a peer mentor or member of a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks. Such officials have legitimate educational interests when they need to review a student’s educational records to fulfill their responsibilities to the University. As an example of a company with whom Colorado State University has contracted, the University works with the National Student Clearinghouse which provides a Current Enrollment Verification Certificate and/or degree verification to students and vendors indicating whether the students are enrolled for part-time or full-time status at CSU.
Furthermore, the University discloses students’ educational records without consent, upon request, to officials of other schools in which a student seeks to or intends to enroll.
4. The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the University to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the office that administers FERPA is: Family Policy Compliance Office, U.S. Department of Education, 400 Maryland Ave. SW, Washington, DC 20202-4605.
Personally Identifiable (Private) Information
Personally identifiable, or private, information includes age, date and place and birth. It also includes grades, Social Security Number, class schedule, residency, and class rank. None of these items may be released without the student’s permission.
Directory (Public) Information
Current address and phone, major, class level, dates of attendance, anticipated graduation date and expected award, degrees awarded, and honors awarded are all considered directory (public) information. This information may be released on request unless the student has signed a FERPA Release Form restricting all or some of it.
A student is required to sign this form if they want public information withheld. It is available at the Registrar’s Office in 100 Administration Annex. If a student later wants this information released when requested, he/she will need to go to the Registrar’s Office in 100 Administration Annex to sign a release.
Deceased Student Information Disclosure
Due to the sensitivity and privacy issues involved in student deaths, a Confidential Information Hold will be placed on the deceased student’s accounts and records to block public access to all personal and academic information once verification of the death is confirmed.
Right to Discuss Concerns
with Department Heads/Chairs
Academic department heads are expected to incorporate student input into decisions affecting academic instruction, advising, and student learning assessment. This input usually takes form through departmental advisory committees and student evaluation of faculty members. Individual students, however, may make appointments with their department heads to discuss specific problems, plans, or suggestions.
Right to File a Grade Appeal
Instructors are responsible for stating clearly the instructional objectives of the course at the beginning of each term and for evaluating student achievement in a manner consistent with these objectives. Students are responsible for maintaining standards of academic performance established for each course in which they are enrolled. Instructors are responsible for determining and assigning final course grades. Graded examinations, papers, and other materials used as a basis for evaluating a student’s achievement will be available to the student for inspection and discussion.
Students may appeal instructors’ grading decisions. The burden of proof, however, rests with the student. See complete detail of the grade appeal process in the About Grades section of the Advising and Registration chapter.
Right to Peaceful Assembly
The University acknowledges the right of students and others to assemble in groups for peaceful purposes. At such gatherings, the University expects the rights and privileges of all persons to be respected and that there will be no endangerments to health or safety. Such gatherings must in no way disrupt the normal conduct of University affairs or endanger University property.
The University may, consistent with the Constitution, establish reasonable regulations regarding the time, place, and manner in which persons exercise their free speech rights to the extent necessary to prevent disruption of the normal conduct of University affairs or endangerment of health and safety of persons or damage to property. Accordingly, persons planning such assemblies on the University campus must coordinate their activities and plans in advance through the Lory Student Center Event Planning Office. This coordination is requested so as to prevent disruption of normal University educational activities and avoid endangering the health or safety of persons or damage to property. The sponsoring individual or group must assume responsibility for compliance with all state and municipal laws and University policies. Assistance from staff is available to help plan such events, and the assistance of University police may be requested to help with traffic or crowds.
Any act by demonstrators or groups which interferes with the rights of others, disrupts the normal functioning of the University, damages property, or endangers health or safety is grounds for suspension or dismissal from the University and/or removal from University property. In addition, such actions may also be the basis for criminal charges by law enforcement authorities. Demonstrations are prohibited in any special-use facility, classrooms, or in any instance which interferes with educational functions. Demonstrators refusing to vacate premises upon request are subject to immediate temporary suspension and arrest under applicable municipal and state laws.
Right to Seek Membership
in Student Organizations
Colorado State officially recognizes a great variety of student organizations. Policies established by the Board of Governors prohibit any recognized student organization from excluding students from membership on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, veteran status, or handicap.
All recognized student organizations must assure the University that their membership policies and procedures are in compliance with this University policy. Local chapters of regional, national, or international organizations must assure the University that membership policies of the parent organization do not require the local chapter to exclude any student from membership on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, veteran status, or handicap.
Victims’ Rights
The University is committed to providing appropriate support and referrals to persons who have been the victims of crimes or violations of University policy. Persons who have been victimized by a Colorado State University student may choose to report the incident to the Colorado State University Police or the Office of Conflict Resolution and Student Conflict Services to initiate criminal and/or disciplinary action. Victims also have the opportunity to receive personal support from appropriate University resources.
RESOURCES
Students who have questions, concerns or need assistance with application of rights listed above may contact the pertinent resource including: Office of Conflict Resolution and Student Conduct Services, Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs, Office of Equal Opportunity and Diversity, Provost/Senior Vice President’s Office, or academic department office. If you are unclear as to which office to approach, contact the Conflict Resolution and Student Conduct Services Office to begin with.
STUDENTS’ RESPONSIBILITIES
Colorado State University has twice been ranked among the nation's Top Character Building Institutions (http://www.colostate.edu/features/rankings.aspx) by the Templeton Foundation. Through curricular and co-curricular programs, students at Colorado State University develop knowledge and skills to engage as respectful citizens in a diverse society, recognize the implications of their many choices, and become ethically responsible individuals.
Academic Integrity
The foundation of a university is truth and knowledge, each of which relies in a fundamental manner upon academic integrity and is diminished significantly by academic dishonesty. Academic integrity is conceptualized as doing and taking credit for one’s own work. A pervasive attitude promoting academic integrity enhances the sense of community and adds value to the educational process. All within the University are responsible for and affected by the cooperative commitment to academic integrity.
Academic dishonesty (see examples below) undermines the educational experience at Colorado State University, lowers morale by engendering a skeptical attitude about the quality of education, and negatively affects the relationship between students and instructors.
Instructors are expected to use reasonably practical means of preventing and detecting academic dishonesty. Any student found responsible for having engaged in academic dishonesty will be subject to academic penalty and/or University disciplinary action.
Students are encouraged to share responsibility for the academic integrity of the University by reporting incidents of academic dishonesty.
Examples of academic dishonesty include (but are not limited to):
1. Cheating in the Classroom – Cheating includes using unauthorized sources of information and providing or receiving unauthorized assistance on any form of academic work. Examples include copying the work of another student on an exam, problem set, or quiz; taking an exam or completing homework for another student; possessing unauthorized notes, study sheets, answer codes, programmed calculators, or other materials during an exam; and falsifying exams or other graded paper results.
2. Plagiarism – Plagiarism includes the copying of language, structure, ideas, or thoughts of another, and representing them as one’s own without proper acknowledgment. Examples include a submission of purchased research papers as one’s own work; paraphrasing and/or quoting material without properly documenting the source.
3. Unauthorized Possession or Disposition of Academic Materials – Unauthorized possession or disposition of academic materials includes the unauthorized selling or purchasing of examinations or other academic work; stealing another student’s work; unauthorized entry to or use of material in a computer file; theft or mutilation of library materials; and using information from or possessing exams that an instructor did not authorize for release to students.
4. Falsification – Falsification encompasses any untruth, either verbal or written, in one’s academic work. Examples include receiving unauthorized assistance or working as a group on a take-home exam, independent exam, or other academic work without authorization, or lying to avoid taking an exam or turning in other academic work.
Furthermore, falsification of any University document is a violation of academic integrity. Examples include student identification numbers, transcripts, grade sheets, credentials, University status, or letters of recommendation. Forging a signature is another specific example of falsification.
5. Facilitation of Cases of Academic Dishonesty – Facilitation of any act of academic dishonesty including cheating, plagiarism, and/or falsification of documents also constitutions violation of Colorado State University’s academic integrity. Examples include knowingly discussing specifics of the content of a test or examination you have taken with another student who has not yet taken that test or examination or facilitating, by sharing one’s own work, a student’s efforts to cheat on an exam or other academic work.
Procedures for Dealing with Academic Dishonesty
Faculty/instructors are expected to use reasonably practical means of preventing and detecting academic dishonesty. If a faculty member has evidence that a student has engaged in an act of academic dishonesty, the faculty member will notify the student of the concern and make an appointment to discuss the allegations with the student. The student will be given the opportunity to give his or her position on the matter. If the student admits to engaging in academic dishonesty or if the faculty member judges that the preponderance of evidence supports the allegation of academic dishonesty, the faculty member may then assign an academic penalty. Examples of academic penalties include assigning a reduced grade for the work, a failing grade in the course, or other lesser penalty as the faculty member deems appropriate.
Faculty/instructors have a responsibility to report to the Office of Conflict Resolution and Student Conduct Services all cases of academic dishonesty in which a penalty is imposed. Incidents which the faculty member considers major infractions (such as those resulting in the reduction of a course grade or failure of a course) should be accompanied by a recommendation that a hearing be conducted to determine whether additional university disciplinary action should be taken. If the student disputes the decision of the faculty member regarding alleged academic dishonesty, he or she may request a hearing with the Office of Conflict be Resolution and Student Conduct Services. The request must be submitted or postmarked, if mailed, no later than 30 calendar days after the first day of classes of the next regular semester following the date the grade for the course was recorded. If no appeal is filed within the time period, the decision of the faculty member will be final.
If, after making reasonable efforts, the faculty member is unable to contact the student, or collect all relevant evidence before final course grades are assigned, he or she shall either:
a. Assign an interim grade of incomplete and notify the student and the Office of Conflict Resolution and Student Conduct Services of the reason such grade was given; or
b. Refer the case to the Office of Conflict Resolution and Student Conduct Services for a hearing before deciding on a penalty.
A hearing will be conducted with the Office of Conflict Resolution and Student Conduct Services to determine whether a preponderance of evidence exists in support of the allegations of academic dishonesty. If the Hearing results in a finding of insufficient evidence to support the allegation or clears the student of the charges, the faculty member will determine a grade based on academic performance and without reflection of the academic dishonesty charge and change any previously assigned grade accordingly. If the Hearing results in finding of academic dishonesty, the Hearing Officer and faculty member will confer regarding appropriate sanctions. The faculty member will make the final determination regarding academic penalties, which may include, among other options, a reduced grade for the course. The Hearing Officer will make the final determination regarding University disciplinary sanctions. A sanction of ineligibility of the course for the Repeat/Delete Policy described in the Advising and Registration – About Grades section of the University catalog will be imposed by the Hearing Officer only if the faculty member concurs with the sanction.
In a case of a serious incident or repeat offense of academic dishonesty that is upheld through a hearing, the Hearing Officer and the faculty member shall decide whether the student’s transcript will be marked with a notation of “AD,” which will be explained on the student’s transcript as a “finding of Academic Dishonesty.” A notation of “AD” will be made on the student’s transcript only if the Hearing Officer and the faculty member agree that this penalty should be imposed.
Grades marked on the student’s transcript with the designation “AD” will not be eligible for the Repeat/Delete Policy described in the Advising and Registration – About Grades section of this catalog.
Information about incidents of academic dishonesty is kept on file in the Office of Conflict Resolution and Student Conduct Services. No further action is initiated unless the incident constitutes a major infraction, the student has a prior record of University infractions, or there are subsequent reports of misconduct.
Classroom Behavior
The classroom instructor is responsible for all classroom conduct, behavior, and discipline. University policy permits only enrolled students, persons authorized by the instructor, and administrative personnel to be admitted to instructional areas during scheduled periods. University policy and Colorado state law also prohibit all forms of disruptive or obstructive behavior in academic areas during periods of scheduled use or any actions which would disrupt scheduled academic activity. Use of classrooms and other areas of academic buildings during nonscheduled periods is permitted only in accordance with departmental, college, or University practices.
Any person or persons in unauthorized attendance or causing a disturbance during scheduled academic activity shall be identified by the instructor and asked to leave. Persons refusing such a request may be removed by the University police and are liable to legal prosecution and/or disciplinary action.
Colorado State University
Student Conduct Code
The Student Conduct Code exists to notify students, faculty, and staff of the specific expectations Colorado State University holds related to student behavior and the rights and responsibilities that accompany being a student and participating in student clubs or organizations.
Colorado State University expects students to maintain standards of personal integrity that are in harmony with the educational goals of the institution and to assume responsibility of their actions; to observe national, state, and local laws, and University regulations; and to respect the rights, privileges, and property of other people.
Pursuit of a college education is a voluntary association with a community of scholars which provides an opportunity for exploration of new ideas, experimentation, self-examination, formation of new friendships, and development of ideals and direction. A university environment is a place where the free exchange of ideas and concepts can take place among faculty and students in an atmosphere which allows for civil debate and dialogue on contemporary issues.
In order to protect these privileges and opportunities, the student assumes the personal responsibility for upholding standards reasonably imposed by Colorado State University relevant to its mission, processes and functions. Foundational principles of academic honesty, personal integrity, respect for diversity, civility, freedom from violence, and pursuit of lifestyles free of alcohol and drug abuse are examples of these standards.
The new Student Conduct Code is available:
2. In hard copy at
· Office of Conflict Resolution and Student Conduct Services, 200 Lory Student Center
· Vice President for Student Affairs, 201 Administration Building
· Housing and Dining Services, Palmer Center
· Residence hall front desks
· Off-Campus Student Services, Lory Student Center Lower Level
· Student Organizations, Lory Student Center Lower Level
· Greek Life Office, Lory Student Center Main Level
· ASCSU Office, Lory Student Center Main Level
The Conduct Code contains:
Preamble – which describes the University foundational principles and the rights and responsibilities of students.
- Definitions – particularly related to student status, faculty status, university premises, academic dishonesty, students accused of policy violations, students submitting complaints and those related to Student Organizations.
- Student Conduct Code Authority – describes the roles of university staff and students in administering the Conduct Code.
- Proscribed Conduct – this section specifically outlines the rules and regulations which would subject a student or student organization to disciplinary action if committed. Additionally, jurisdiction related to academic units, violations of law, interim suspensions, student clubs and organizations, and fraternities and sororities is described.
- Procedures – specifically describes the procedures used in determining disciplinary charges, notification of charges and hearings, options for resolution of charges, the hearing procedure, decisions, sanctions, and appeals related to individual students.
- Procedures – describing those related to Student Clubs and Organizations
- Disciplinary Records – describes the keeping of internal disciplinary records and specific instances when disciplinary action becomes part of the student’s official transcript.
- Victims – description of support available for victims, processes related to information and records related to victims and reporting options available.
- Interpretation and Revision of the Code
Prohibited Conduct
The list below describes the prohibited actions published in the Student Conduct Code.
Students have an obligation to know and follow the regulations of the University. Violations will form the basis for University intervention or disciplinary action. The following actions are prohibited.
1. Academic dishonesty including but not limited to: cheating, plagiarism, unauthorized possession or disposition of academic materials, falsification, or facilitation of acts of dishonesty. Specific procedures for cases of academic dishonesty are also described in the Academic Integrity Policy in the General Catalog, the Graduate Student Bulletin, the Faculty Manual, or the Honor Code of the Professional Veterinary School as applicable.
2. Knowingly furnishing false information to any University official, faculty member, office, or organization or intentionally initiating or causing to be initiated any false report, warning or threat of fire, explosion, or other emergency.
3. Forgery, alteration, misuse, mutilation, or unauthorized removal of any University document, record, identification, educational material, or property.
4. Disruption or obstruction of teaching, classroom or other educational interactions, research, administration or disciplinary proceedings, or participation in an activity that disrupts normal University activities, and/or threatens property or bodily harm or intentionally interferes with the right of access to University facilities or freedom of movement of any person on campus.
5. Engaging in behavior or activities that obstruct the right of free speech or expression of any person on campus. (For more information, refer to the CSU policy on Freedom of Expression and Inquiry, which addresses student rights and responsibilities related to political expression, and contact the Office of Conflict Resolution and Student Conduct Services if you believe you have treated differently because of your political, or other, perspectives.)
6. Abusive conduct, including physical abuse, verbal abuse, threats, intimidation, stalking, coercion, and/or other conduct which threatens or endangers the physical or psychological health, safety, or welfare of one’s self, another individual or a group of individuals.
7. Harassment of any member of the University community, meaning verbal or physical harassment on the basis of gender, race, sexual orientation, religion, or physical disability. (Refer to the CSU Sexual Harassment policy and contact the Office of Equal Opportunity and Diversity for more information on these issues.)
8. Sexual misconduct including but not limited to: obscene, lewd, or indecent behavior; deliberate observation of others for sexual purposes without their consent; taking or posting of photographs/images of a sexual nature without consent; possession or distribution of illegal pornography; viewing or posting pornography in public venues; non-consensual sexual contact or penetration; engaging in coercion or constraint; or engaging in sexual activity with a person who is incapacitated or otherwise unable to give consent.
9. Rioting, aiding, abetting, encouraging, participating in or inciting a riot. Failing to disperse at the direct request of police or University officials.
10. Failure to comply with the verbal or written directions of any University officials or law enforcement officers acting in the performance of their duties and in the scope of their employment, or resisting police officers while acting in the performance of their duties, including failure to identify oneself to those persons when requested to do so.
11. Attempted or actual theft of, damage to, use of, or possession of other persons’ or University property or identity or unauthorized use of such; unauthorized entry, use, or occupation of University facilities, property, or vehicles; or unauthorized possession, duplication, or use of University keys or access devices.
12. Use or possession on University property of firearms or simulated weapons; other weapons such as blades larger than pocket knives; ammunition or explosives; dangerous chemicals; substances, or materials; or bombs, or incendiary devices prohibited by law. Use of any such item, even if legally possessed, in a manner that harms, threatens, or causes fear to others. Weapons for sporting purposes shall be stored with the University Police.
13. Violations of any rules, contracts, or agreements governing residence in or use of University owned or controlled property, and athletic or other authorized special events. Violation of any University policy, rule, or regulation, which is published in hard copy or available electronically on the University web site.
14. Unauthorized soliciting or selling in violation of the University solicitation policy.
15. Violation or conviction of any federal or state law or local ordinance.
16. Use, possession, manufacturing, or distribution of alcoholic beverages except as expressly permitted by law or University policy. Alcoholic beverages may not be used by, possessed by, or distributed to any person under twenty one (21) years of age. Public intoxication is not permitted on University property.
17. Use, possession, manufacturing, or distribution of illegal drugs, including but not limited to marijuana, narcotics, methamphetamine, cocaine, opiates, LSD, mushrooms, heroin, designer drugs such as Ecstasy and GHB, or other controlled substances. Use or possession of prescription drugs other than for the person prescribed, or for use other than the prescribed purpose. Possession or use of drug paraphernalia including but not limited to equipment, products, and materials used to cultivate, manufacture, distribute, or use illegal drugs.
18. Abuse of computer facilities or technological resources including but not limited to: unauthorized entry to, or use of computers, access codes, telephones and identifications belong to the University or other members of the University community; unauthorized entry to a file to use, read, transfer, or change the contents, or for any other purpose; interfering or disrupting the work of any University member; sending abusive or obscene messages or images; disrupting the normal operation of the University computing systems; violating copyright laws; or any other violation of the University computer use policy.
19. Abuse of the Student Conduct System including failure to obey the notice to appear for a meeting or hearing; falsification, distortion, or misrepresentation of information; disruption or interference with the orderly conduct of a hearing; failure to comply with any requirements involving no contact with complainants or witnesses or limitations related to access to specific facilities; harassment or intimidation of any person involved in a conduct proceeding; failure to comply with disciplinary sanctions or requirements.
20. Assisting, conspiring, or inciting others to commit any act of misconduct set forth in 1 through 19 above.
