1 | P a g e www.kutztown.edu/thekey Table of Contents Welcome & General Information …………………………………………………………3 Student Consumer Information ..............................................................................................................................................4 Non-Discrimination Statement ..............................................................................................................................................4 Policy Register ..................................................................................................................................................... 4 Regulations Subject to Change ................................................................................................................................................5 Partisan Political Activity .....................................................................................................................................................5 Accreditation ..................................................................................................................................................... 5 Student Complaints, Grievances, and Concerns ..................................................................................................................5 Chapter One: Document on Student Rights & Welfare…………………………………7 Freedom of Association, Expression, and Inquiry...............................................................................................................8 Academic Rights & Responsibilities of Students..................................................................................................................9 Student Records ..................................................................................................................................................... 9 Due Process ..................................................................................................................................................... 10 Student Media ..................................................................................................................................................... 10 Chapter Two: Student Conduct & Regulations………………………………………....12 Student Code of Conduct .....................................................................................................................................................13 Student Organization Conduct Review Process ..................................................................................................................35 Sexual Misconduct Policy ....................................................................................................................................................40 Hazing Policy ..................................................................................................................................................... 70 Good Samaritan Policy ..................................................................................................................................................... 73 Academic Honesty Policy - Undergraduate...........................................................................................................................74 Academic Honesty Policy - Graduate.....................................................................................................................................81 Chapter Three: Policy Information ……………...……………………………………….82 Academic Policies ..................................................................................................................................................... 83 Extended Leave of Absences Guidelines .............................................................................................................................86 Policy for Student Sponsored High Profile & Late-Night Social Events ........................................................................87 Posting & Chalking Policy .....................................................................................................................................................90 Reservation & Use of University Facilities ...........................................................................................................................92 Residence Halls Policies .....................................................................................................................................................95 Sexual Misconduct Policy & Procedures ..............................................................................................................................102 Social Equity Policy & Procedures .........................................................................................................................................102 On-Campus Sales and Fundraising Policy .............................................................................................................................103 Non-Sponsored Demonstrations, Presentations, & Non-Commercial Literature Distribution Policy ...................106 Chapter Four: Support Services ......................………………………………………….108 Bear Bucks ..................................................................................................................................................... 109 Career Development Center ...................................................................................................................................................109 Center for Student Success & Academic Excellence ..........................................................................................................111
2 | P a g e www.kutztown.edu/thekey Community Outreach Center .................................................................................................................................................113 Commuter Services ..................................................................................................................................................... 113 Dining Services ..................................................................................................................................................... 114 Disability Services ..................................................................................................................................................... 117 Procedures and Information for Severe Weather.................................................................................................................118 Financial Aid ..................................................................................................................................................... 118 Health & Wellness Services .....................................................................................................................................................120 International Student Services & Study Abroad/Away.......................................................................................................123 KU Identification Cards .....................................................................................................................................................123 KUSSI ..................................................................................................................................................... 124 Learning with Technology .....................................................................................................................................................125 Off-Campus Housing ..................................................................................................................................................... 126 Parking Permits ....................................................................................................................................................126 Public Safety and Police Services ...........................................................................................................................................128 Residence Life and Housing & Dining Services...................................................................................................................129 Rohrbach Library ..................................................................................................................................................... 130 Student Accounts ..................................................................................................................................................... 130 Military & Veteran Affairs .....................................................................................................................................................131 Chapter Five: Involvement & Engagement ……….…………………………………….133 Dean of Students ..................................................................................................................................................... 134 Student Assistance ..................................................................................................................................................... 134 KUBIT ..................................................................................................................................................... 134 McFarland Student Union .....................................................................................................................................................135 Student Involvement ..................................................................................................................................................... 136 Student Government Association (SGA) .............................................................................................................................136 Student Organization Involvement.........................................................................................................................................137 Student Organizations ..................................................................................................................................................... 141 Greek Life ..................................................................................................................................................... 143 Multicultural Services ..................................................................................................................................................... 146 LGBTQ+ Resource Center .....................................................................................................................................................147 Women’s Center ..................................................................................................................................................... 147 Recreational Services ..................................................................................................................................................... 148 Intercollegiate Athletics .....................................................................................................................................................149 SGA Constitution ..................................................................................................................................................... 150
Welcome & General Information 3 | P a g e www.kutztown.edu/thekey Kenneth S. Hawkinson, Ph.D. University President Welcome to Kutztown University. You have just begun an experience that will change your life and that of those around you. By choosing to pursue a college education you have joined a community of scholars that offers many opportunities and responsibilities. Kutztown University offers strong academic programs supported by an excellent faculty, staff and administration. In addition, there are numerous activities and services designed to support and guide you along the way and to help you make responsible and productive decisions. Between the covers of this handbook, you will find the rules and regulations that govern university life. These are established as a clear road map of policies and procedures, which serve to maintain the integrity and quality of a Kutztown University education and campus life. My best wishes to you as you embark on this important and exciting journey. Stephen St. Onge, Ph. D. VP for Enrollment Management & Student Affairs Thank you for choosing to be part of the Kutztown University community! As a Golden Bear, your possibilities are endless, and success is within reach. The Division of Enrollment Management & Student Affairs desires to help every student on their educational journey reach their highest potential. We strive to provide intentional programs, activities, and experiences that are engaging, rewarding, and create lasting memories. Please take a moment to review this important document, The Key. In these pages are tons of helpful pieces of information about our offices, programs, services, and policies. If you should not find an answer to your question, contact my office, the Office of the Dean of Students, or one of the many offices across our campus. May you have a successful academic year and may nothing stop you from reaching your goals. Kyra Richards, Student Government Board Vice President & Acting President Welcome to the 2024-25 academic year and to the campus community. Kutztown has always been a diverse campus that fosters personal and professional growth. As you work towards your goals, we hope you take advantage of all the resources and opportunities KU has to offer. Getting involved with the University is a great way to meet new people, adapt to your new surroundings, and acquire and expand skills. With more than 180 student organizations, KU serves a wide range of student interests and offers many opportunities for involvement, learning skills and gaining experience that cannot be taught in the classroom. The Student Government Board (SGB) is here to represent you and we welcome your input and involvement. This year, we will continue our work on campus safety from last year with additional focus on campus accessibility and better campus communications. If you are interested in being involved in the SGB as an elected representative or on any of our committees, please contact us in the McFarland Student Union (MSU) room 196.
Welcome & General Information 4 | P a g e www.kutztown.edu/thekey Student Consumer Information Accessing important Kutztown University student consumer related information is provided through this web portal. This information is provided in accordance with the Higher Education Act of 1965 as amended by the Higher Education Opportunity Act of 2008. Students will find information on: 1. General University information related to matriculation, student records, facilities, services, and activities 2. Student Financial Assistance Health and Safety 3. Student Outcomes 4. Voter Registration Kutztown University will also disseminate information, as appropriate and in accordance with applicable federal and state statutes. The distribution methods will consist of direct mail, bulk mail, hand distribution, public posting, insertion into already existing materials, or electronically. https://www.kutztown.edu/student-consumerinformation.htm Non-Discrimination Statement Kutztown University does not discriminate in employment or educational opportunities on the basis of sex, race, ethnicity, national origin, age, disability, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, or veteran status. To discuss a complaint of discrimination, please contact the Office of Social Equity, Old Main A-Wing, Room 02, by phone at 610683-4700 or by e-mail at pena@kutztown.edu. Pursuant to Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Kutztown University does not discriminate on the basis of sex and prohibits sex discrimination in any education program or activity that it operates, including admissions and employment. Any inquiries regarding the application of Title IX at Kutztown University may be made to Bradley Davis, the University’s Title IX Coordinator, located in Old Main A-Wing, Room 02A, by phone at 610-683-4782 or by email at titleix@kutztown.edu, or the Office for Civil Rights located in the Lyndon Baines Johnson Department of Education Bldg., 400 Maryland Avenue, SW, Washington, DC 20202-1100, by phone at 800-421-3481 (TDD: 800-877-8339), by fax at 202-453-6012, or by e-mail at OCR@ed.gov. Kutztown University’s Sexual Misconduct, Anti-Discrimination, and Anti-Harassment policies can be found in The Key student handbook or online at https://www.kutztown.edu/about-ku/administrative-offices/social-equity.html. Policy Register The KU Policy Register is a compilation of the official University, administrative, and operational policies, and procedures of Kutztown University of Pennsylvania. The purpose of this on-line record is to serve the KU community as a source of reliable information and as a foundation on which decisions can be made. https://www.kutztown.edu/about-ku/administration/governance/policy-register.html.
Welcome & General Information 5 | P a g e www.kutztown.edu/thekey Regulations Subject to Change The educational process necessitates change and, therefore, this document must be considered as information representing policy at the time of publication. Each step in the educational process, from admission through commencement, requires continuing review and appropriate approval by University officials. The University, therefore, reserves the right to change the policies and regulations contained in this document. Partisan Political Activity Consistent with PASSHE procedure/standard 2011-07, the use of public funds to pay for a political contribution or sponsorship of any kind is prohibited. Nothing in this document shall prohibit the payment of speakers’ fees to political figures. Accreditation Kutztown University has both institutional and specialized accreditation. Kutztown University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE). The University is also accredited by the: • American Chemical Society (ACS) (approval) • Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) • Commission on Sport Management Accreditation (COSMA) • Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET • Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) • Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) • Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) • National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD) • National Association of Schools of Music (NASM) • National Council for Accreditation of Coaching Education (NCACE) Student Complaints, Grievances, and Concerns Kutztown University of Pennsylvania is committed to providing an educational climate conducive to each student's personal and academic development. KU desires to resolve student grievances, complaints and concerns in an expeditious, fair, and amicable manner in accordance with university policies and as outlined in The Key, the Kutztown University Student Handbook. Kutztown University suggests that before a student files a formal complaint, the procedure described below be followed.
Welcome & General Information 6 | P a g e www.kutztown.edu/thekey Where do I begin to seek a solution to my problem? If an issue arises for you, the first step in the process is that the student should first contact the faculty, administrator, or staff to try and resolve the issue in an appropriate, equitable, and respectful manner. Based on the successful conclusion of the matter on the part of both parties, no further action is warranted, and the matter is considered closed by both the student and the unit, program, department, individual or office of the university involved. If the issue is not resolved satisfactorily, the meeting may be followed up with the faculty, administrator, or staff's direct supervisor. If the issue is still not resolved in a mutually agreeable manner, then the university offers a resolution process where the student should contact the appropriate director or dean, see (link) below. Important exceptions to this set of steps are in specific instances of discrimination or sexual assault/harassment. The prescribed solution as outlined in the sections on Discrimination or Sexual Assault/Harassment, (at the link) below, should be followed. To assist you in knowing what to do, the following information is provided for your use (please refer to): https://www.kutztown.edu/contact/student-complaint-procedures.html.
Document on Student Rights & Welfare 7 | P a g e www.kutztown.edu/thekey
Document on Student Rights & Welfare 8 | P a g e www.kutztown.edu/thekey Document on Student Rights & Welfare Introduction The academic community at Kutztown University of Pennsylvania, its faculty, students, and administration, must commonly work to secure that environment in which the acquisition of knowledge and wisdom is best fostered within the context of the University's unique objectives and programs. The University should attempt to provide each student with maximum freedom for self-development. Similarly, each student is obligated to conduct his/her affairs in a responsible manner without infringement upon the rights of other members of the University community. Channels for constructive recommendations by students regarding academic instruction, course offerings, studentadministration relations, co-curricular activities, and other matters will be established and maintained. The University as a community will strive to follow the spirit of statutory and judicial changes that affect student rights. It will also, through the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, provide for the student body those privileges, opportunities, and protections, which enhance learning processes. Students here, as elsewhere, have the right to learn and the responsibility to respect the rights of others. 1. Freedom of Association, Expression, and Inquiry A. Students should be free to organize and join associations to promote their common interest. Affiliation of a University group with an organization outside the campus does not of itself disqualify a student organization from institutional recognition. In order for a student organization to be recognized and approved it must meet criteria that are established by the Student Government Board and the University. Each approved student organization shall be free to choose its own faculty or staff advisor. Institutional recognition should not be withdrawn during the time the student organization is seeking an advisor. The time allotted for this should not exceed one academic semester. All student organizations should be open to all students. B. Students and student organizations should be free to examine and discuss all questions of interest to them and to express opinions publicly and privately. They should be free to support causes in an orderly manner that does not disrupt the operations of the University or violate the rights of others. An opinion of a student or student organization is not necessarily that of the University. The University encourages the airing of all facets of issues and topics. C. Student organizations should be allowed to invite and to hear any person of their choosing providing the program is in accordance with state and federal Law. The University shall not use its control over facilities as a device of censorship. D. Students shall have an opportunity to participate in the formulation and application of University policy through the Student Government Association. The authority for the establishing of University policy and for the governance of the University is the responsibility of the President and the Council of Trustees.
Document on Student Rights & Welfare 9 | P a g e www.kutztown.edu/thekey 2. The Academic Rights & Responsibilities of Students The relationship between Kutztown University students and their instructors should be established on mutual respect and understanding. Both the student and instructor should attempt to resolve differences in informal and direct discussion. A. The student shall have the right to orderly expression in the classroom without penalty. B. The student has a right to a course grade based on the instructor's judgment of demonstrated performance in the course. A student's appeal may be based on the belief that the grade was not fairly determined. C. Students have a right to protection against unprofessional disclosure by an instructor concerning their grades, beliefs, political association, health, or character. D. Course and program selection is the responsibility of the student. He or she has a right to accurate and clearly stated information: 1. on calendar dates for achieving specific academic standing; 2. on his/her own academic standing in the University; and 3. on graduation requirements for his/her particular curriculum and major. E. Any student who wishes to report a concern, grievance, or complaint regarding an academic or non-academic concern should consult the following website for guidance: https://www.kutztown.edu/contact/student-complaint-procedures.html F. The faculty shall have final authority and responsibility for course content, classroom procedure and grade determination. No power to change any grade given to a student is vested in any student conduct authority established under this document. 3. Student Records Kutztown University collects and retains information about students for designated periods of time in order to facilitate the students' educational development. The University, recognizing each student's interest in exercising control over disclosure of such information, must at the same time balance that interest against the institution's own need for information relevant to the fulfillment of its educational mission. Accordingly, the Kutztown University adheres to the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) regarding the collection, maintenance, and release of student records. Additional information about FERPA and the University’s procedures regarding educational records can be found through the Office of the Registrar at: https://www.kutztown.edu/about-ku/administrative-offices/registrar/ferpa.html.
Document on Student Rights & Welfare 10|Page www.kutztown.edu/thekey 4. Due Process A. Introduction Educational institutions through the regulation of the use of their facilities and the setting of standards of conduct and scholarship of students have an inherent responsibility in carrying out the educational purposes of their charter. The principles of civility, example, and due process will be followed. Proper safeguards will be provided to protect individual or group rights of students from the imposition of unjust penalties. Any student or student organization charged with violating a University regulation shall have the right to be heard by the appropriate hearing authority. All such bodies shall follow the basic procedures of due process defined and set forth in the Student Code of Conduct and related policies published in the student handbook, The Key at www.kutztown.edu/thekey. B. Rights 1. University students have the same constitutional freedom of speech, peaceful assembly, and right of petition as other citizens enjoy and are subject to the same civil laws and due process as other citizens. 2. Illegal activity by students, whether on or off-campus, subjects the individual to prosecution by civil authorities. The principle of Dual Jurisdiction may apply in some disciplinary matters where a student is charged (1) by law enforcement agencies of violating a civil or criminal law, and (2) by University officials for violation of a University regulation on-campus or off-campus when behavior represents a substantial university interest and/or poses a threat to the health, safety, or well-being of the university or its members. C. Ethical Standards of Hearing Authorities As a part of the larger community, Kutztown University acknowledges the laws of the land and expects its members to adhere to them. While affording aid to its members in difficulties with the law, the University provides no immunity from the consequences of illegal acts. As an academic community the University has a special interest in the prevention of certain conducts, which are detrimental to its efforts to facilitate responsible inquiry and educational growth. Conduct regulations are listed in the student handbook, The Key. Hearing authorities, conduct boards, appeal boards and their members exist to serve the university community. To function effectively they are responsible for adhering to standards detailed in the Student Code of Conduct. 5. Student Media A. Student Communication Media are a valuable aid in the dissemination of information as well as establishing and maintaining an atmosphere of free and responsible discussion and of intellectual exploration on the campus. They are a means of bringing student concerns to the attention of the faculty and the institutional authorities and of formulating student opinion on various issues on the campus and in the world-at-large. B. It shall be the responsibility of the Student Communication Media Advisory Board to provide assistance to all campus communication organizations and to encourage the freedom of expression, integrity and aesthetic values in campus communications.
Document on Student Rights & Welfare 11|Page www.kutztown.edu/thekey C. As safeguards for the editorial freedom and responsibility of student communications the following provisions are necessary: 1. The student communication media shall be free of censorship and advance approval of copy, and its editors and managers shall be free to develop their own editorial policies and news coverage. The editorial freedom of student editors and managers entails corollary responsibilities to be governed by the canons of responsible journalism, such as the avoidance of libel, indecency, undocumented allegations, attacks on personal integrity, and the techniques of harassment and innuendo. In the delegation of editorial responsibility to students, the institution must provide sufficient editorial freedom and financial autonomy for the student communications media to maintain their integrity and free expression in the academic community. 2. Editors and managers of student communication media shall be protected from arbitrary suspension and removal because of student, faculty, administrative or public disapproval of editorial policy or content. Only for proper and stated causes, violations of the canons of responsible journalism as cited in 6.C., shall editors and managers be subject to removal, and then by orderly and prescribed procedures. 3. All student communication media shall explicitly state that opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the University or student body.
Student Conduct & Regulations 13|Page www.kutztown.edu/thekey Student Code of Conduct Preamble Kutztown University is centered upon a culture of learning, the pursuit of academic excellence and the holistic development of its students. As such, the Kutztown University Student Code of Conduct is established to uphold standards of the community in an effort to embrace and care for the living-learning environment of the university. In doing so, the Student Code of Conduct espouses the standards of the institution in an effort to cultivate an environment that maintains student accountability and supports an atmosphere conducive to learning. Article 1: Definitions 1. The term "university" means Kutztown University. 2. The term "student" includes the following: a. All persons enrolled in courses at Kutztown University either full-time or part-time, pursuing undergraduate, graduate, or professional studies; b. All persons who are not officially enrolled for a particular term but have not officially withdrawn from the university and maintain eligibility to enroll; and c. All persons defined under item 2a or 2b who withdraw after allegedly violating the Student Code of Conduct. 3. The term “complainant” refers to the person referring charges of a violation of a university regulation. 4. The term “respondent” refers to the student charged with violating a university regulation. 5. The term "university official" includes executives, representatives and employees of the University performing assigned administrative or professional duties on behalf of the University 6. The term "member of the university community" includes any person who is a student, employee, or University official of the University. If in question, a person's status in a particular situation shall be determined by the Dean of Students. 7. The term "university premises" includes all land, buildings, facilities, and other property in the possession of or owned, leased, used, or controlled by the University including adjacent streets and sidewalks. 8. The term “university housing” refers to any residential facility owned, leased, and/or operated by Kutztown University. 9. The term "student organization" means an entity that has complied with the formal requirements for university recognition as set forth by Office of Student Involvement.
Student Conduct & Regulations 14|Page www.kutztown.edu/thekey 10. The term "hearing authority" means any person or body selected to serve in accordance with University’s processes to determine whether a student has violated the Student Code of Conduct and/or issue sanctions for violations. These individuals include case officers, hearing officers, conduct boards, appeals officers, and appeals boards. 11. The term “good standing” refers to students enrolled at the University who are not currently under disciplinary probation, deferred suspension, suspension, or a dismissal, and who do not have any overdue or incomplete student conduct sanctions. 12. The term "quorum” is the established minimum number of represented members required to conduct business. 13. The term “simple majority” is the majority of those voting members present, provided there is a quorum. 14. The term "policy" means all of the written regulations of the university that are found in one or more of the following resources: Student Code of Conduct, The Key Student Handbook, Acceptable Use Policy, Sexual Misconduct Policy, Hazing Policy, Kutztown University Policy Register, and the Kutztown University web page: http://www.kutztown.edu. 15. The term “case officer” refers to the university official assigned to process a student conduct case including the facilitation of preliminary briefings. 16. The term “formal hearing” refers to the formal resolution method facilitated a University Conduct Board involving parties, witnesses, and evidence. 17. The term “administrative hearing” refers to the informal resolution method facilitated by a Hearing Officer involving parties, witnesses, and evidence for matters not involving possible sanctions of university suspension or dismissal. 18. The term “informal resolution” refers to an optional resolution method through a waiver of hearing and facilitated by an assigned case officer. Article 2: Student Code of Conduct Authority 1. Specific regulations concerning student conduct on campus and their administration shall be the responsibility of the University President through the Division of Enrollment Management and Student Affairs and such members of the administration, faculty, and student body as appropriate. 2. The Dean of Students or their designee shall develop policies for the administration of the Student Code of Conduct and procedural rules for the conduct of hearings that are consistent with the provisions of the Student Code of Conduct. 3. The Kutztown University email system is recognized as an official communication and is the primary medium for receiving correspondence relating to student conduct. Students are expected to actively monitor their email
Student Conduct & Regulations 15|Page www.kutztown.edu/thekey accounts. Official student conduct notices, once emailed, mailed and/or received in-person, will be considered presumptively delivered. Article 3: Jurisdiction The Kutztown University Student Code of Conduct shall apply to conduct that occurs on University premises, at University related activities on or off-campus, to conduct occurring online (including online courses, social media and other forms of digital communication) if the conduct in question would be subject to discipline if committed offline, and to off-campus conduct that represents a substantial University interest which adversely affects the University community and/or the pursuit of its objectives. Students shall be responsible for their conduct from the time of confirmation of acceptance for admission through the actual awarding of degree, even though conduct may occur before classes begin or after classes end, as well as during the academic year and during periods between terms of actual enrollment (and even if their conduct is not discovered until after their degree is awarded). Off-Campus Rights & Responsibilities Reasonable guidelines are essential to facilitate the development of high standards of mutual respect and integrity within each and every student. Sensitivity to our environment as well as community involvement that extends beyond the physical campus boundaries are integral components to the appropriate development of responsible citizenship. Kutztown University is genuinely committed to the student developing civic skills and public service experiences for living in a public world. To that end, Kutztown University will encourage the personal and intellectual development of students as they exercise rights of citizenship both on and off-campus in the local community. Kutztown University will make every effort to foster positive relations among students and permanent residents as well as provide experiential learning opportunities for students to become actively involved in off-campus civic, community, social service organizations and causes. While the University has a primary duty to regulate behavior on its premises, there are circumstances when the offcampus behavior of students affects a substantial University interest and warrants disciplinary action. The University expects students to conduct themselves in accordance with the law. Student misconduct occurring off the premises of the campus that may have violated any local, state, or federal law is subject to review by the University and may result in student conduct charges being filed against a student by the Dean of Students Office. When students are found responsible for off-campus conduct that both meets the definition of affecting a substantial university interest, and violates the Student Code of Conduct, sanctions will be applied. When the University has been made aware of off-campus misconduct, the Student Code of Conduct may be applied by the University simultaneous to any criminal action taken by civil authorities. However, in some instances final action may be deferred at the discretion of the University until all external processes have been completed or until such time when the on-campus procedure may proceed without encumbrance. Student conduct committed off the campus which affects a substantial university interest is student conduct that includes one or more of the following: a. Constitutes a violation of local, state, or federal law. Included are (but not limited to) violations of any local, state, or federal law committed in the immediate or adjacent municipalities where the university is located. b. Indicates that the student may present a clear and present danger or threat to the health or safety of others.
Student Conduct & Regulations 16|Page www.kutztown.edu/thekey c. Significantly infringes upon the rights, property or achievements of self or others or significantly breaches the peace and/or causes social disorder. d. Is detrimental to the educational interests of the University. Off-campus student behavior that affects a substantial University interest, as previously defined, violates the Student Code of Conduct and is subject to disciplinary action following standard University procedures. The Dean of Students Office may also consider whether or not the referred off-campus misconduct affects a substantial university interest and whether the behavior should be subject to disciplinary action. Sanctions for Off-Campus Violations of Law As with on-campus infractions, the sanctions for off-campus misconduct range from disciplinary reprimand to dismissal as defined in Article 9 of this document. The following categorization is a guide to off-campus violations of law in the categories of minor, moderate and major. This listing does not take into consideration a student's prior student conduct record. Therefore, those students with a history of prior misconduct may receive more stringent sanctions than those listed below for any particular act of misconduct. a. Major: Student Code of Conduct violations committed off the campus that typically would fall into the major category and yield a sanction range of suspension, including interim suspension to dismissal are: felonies to misdemeanors. b. Moderate: Student Code of Conduct violations committed off the campus that typically would fall into the moderate category and yield a sanction range of disciplinary probation to dismissal are: misdemeanors to non-traffic violations of criminal statutes. c. Minor: Student Code of Conduct violations committed off the campus that typically would fall into the minor category and yield a sanction range of disciplinary reprimand to disciplinary probation are: non-traffic summary offense of criminal statues to violations of local code and ordinances. Article 4: Conduct Standards & Regulations: 1. Sexual Misconduct: Refer to the Sexual Misconduct Policy (DIV-007; The Key, Chapter 2). 2. Academic Dishonesty: Refer to the Academic Honesty Policy (ACA-027) and Academic Honesty Policy – Graduate Students (ACA-087). 3. Hazing: Refer to the Hazing Policy (The Key, Chapter 2). 4. Computer/Technology Misuse a. Violation of the Acceptable Use Policy (ACA-069). b. Violation of ResNet regulations and policies for responsible use. 5. Harm to Others a. Physical violence including but not limited to physical abuse, assault and/or battery; threats of violence; striking, shoving or subjecting another person to unwanted physical contact. b. Intentionally or recklessly endangering, threatening, or causing physical harm to any person and/or their property.
Student Conduct & Regulations 17|Page www.kutztown.edu/thekey c. Harassment, defined as a pattern of behavior that involves verbal abuse or harassment, threats, intimidation, bullying, coercion, stalking, and/or other conduct which threatens or endangers the health and safety of another person(s) or another person’s property. d. Stalking, defined as the repetitive and/or menacing pursuit, following, harassment and/or interference with the peace and safety of another person, resulting in the intimidation of that person. e. Bullying, defined as the repeated and intentional harassment resulting in the intimidation of another person. f. Retaliation, defined as any adverse action, threat of adverse action and/or the harassment of an individual who makes a good faith report of misconduct, is the subject of a report of misconduct, and/or who is reasonably participating in the student conduct process resulting in the intimidation of another person. g. Threat, defined as written or verbal conduct that causes a reasonable expectation of injury to the health or safety of any person or damage to any property. h. Intimidation, defined as implied threats or acts that cause a reasonable fear of harm in another. i. Use of the Internet (including social media, email, text messaging, etc.) interactive, and/or digital technologies to harass, bully, retaliate and/or stalk another person, resulting in the intimidation of that person. 6. Property a. Attempted or actual theft including the unauthorized removal of property without the express consent of the owner. b. Intentional, reckless and/or unauthorized damage, destruction, or defacement of property of the university or property of a member of the university community. c. Attempted or actual theft of university services. d. Attempted or actual possession and/or receipt of stolen property. e. Tampering, discharging, setting-off, or causing to be inoperable any firefighting/lifesaving apparatus, alarm devices, fire safety devices, and emergency equipment for no legitimate purpose. f. Initiating bomb threats or false alarms to any university official, facility, program, or event on university premises. g. Failure to evacuate a facility or designated area in a timely manner or to comply with the directions of a university official during a fire drill or other health and safety emergency. h. Setting or attempting to set a fire, creating/causing a fire on campus and/or participating in the unauthorized use of fireworks on campus. i. Trespassing in areas that are posted, off-limits and/or restricted including but not limited to water towers, the quarry area, electrical substations, areas under construction or repair, areas cordoned off by university officials, roof tops, and buildings that are closed. j. The willful obstruction of a passageway, entrance, exit, or any portion of a university building or premises which restricts the freedom to utilize the facility for its stated and intended purpose. k. Misappropriation of a university resource including the act or the attempt to remove a university resource designated for general student or university usage or consumption from a designated area. l. Actions that cause disruption to university networks and/or telecommunications systems, equipment and/or resources. m. Use of university resources, facilities or services to commit a violation of university policy or the law. n. Unauthorized use (including misuse) of University or organizational trademarks including names and images.
Student Conduct & Regulations 18|Page www.kutztown.edu/thekey Students found responsible for violations of this conduct standard for health, fire/safety, theft and property damage provisions are subject to sanctions including, but not limited to, loss of university housing. 7. Expectations of Cooperation a. Failure to comply with directions of university officials or law enforcement officers acting in the reasonable performance of their duties. b. Failure to comply with the directions of civil authorities acting in the reasonable performance of their duties enforcing lawful regulations, orders, or statutes. c. Failure to adhere to official health and safety directives, policies or procedures issued by the university. d. Student organizations who fail to comply or adhere to official membership requirements; allowing a student to pledge or associate with a student organization without having met eligibility requirements established by the University. 8. Unauthorized Access a. Unauthorized possession, duplication or use of keys, key access cards, computer system or network passwords, access systems or codes to any premises or unauthorized entry to or use of university premises. 9. Alcohol a. Use, possession, manufacturing, or distribution of alcoholic beverages or alcoholic products on university premises except as expressly permitted by official university policy. b. Constructive possession of alcoholic beverages or products whereby possession is defined as the presence of alcoholic beverages or products in an area under one's control such as a residence hall room in which the student is assigned or a vehicle that is owned, operated or controlled by the student. c. Public intoxication. d. Underage use or possession of alcohol including the purchase or attempt to purchase alcohol by a minor. e. Excessive use of alcohol. Excessive use may include use resulting in a need for medical attention, inability to function without assistance, unconsciousness, incoherent or disoriented behavior, loss of control of bodily functions, and/or having a blood alcohol level of .16 or above. f. Distributing, selling or furnishing (including the attempt to distribute, sell or furnish) alcoholic beverages or products without a license or to underage individuals. g. Hosting or organizing a party where a party is defined as involving eight (8) or more people in residence halls; or twelve (12) or more in suite style residence halls; or twenty (20) or more in apartments or on nearby grounds at which alcoholic beverages or products and/or drugs are present. Students found responsible for violation of this specific provision are subject but not limited to loss of university housing. h. Driving under the influence of alcohol. This includes driving or operating a vehicle includes driving intoxicated and/or with blood alcohol content of .08 or greater for persons who are 21 years of age or older or .02 or greater for persons under the age of 21. 10. Drugs a. Use, possession, purchasing (including the attempt to purchase), manufacturing, or distribution of marijuana/cannabis, heroin, narcotics, or other controlled substances. b. Constructive possession of marijuana/cannabis, heroin, narcotics or other controlled substances whereby possession is defined as the presence of contraband in an area under one's control such as a residence hall room in which the student is assigned or a vehicle.
Student Conduct & Regulations 19|Page www.kutztown.edu/thekey c. Being under the influence of illegal drugs or other controlled substances on university premises or at official university student activities/functions on or off-campus. d. Selling (including the attempt to sell), delivering, transporting or furnishing any illegal drugs or controlled substances. e. Hosting or organizing a party (as defined in 4.9.g) where marijuana/cannabis, heroin, narcotics or other controlled substances are present. Students found responsible for violation of this specific provision are subject to loss of university housing. f. Possession of drug paraphernalia including but not limited to pipes, bongs, grinders and other devices. g. Use of legal substances or synthetic substances, legal or illegal, in a fashion designed to alter one's mental or physical state. h. Impaired driving as a result of the use of drugs or illegal substances. i. Drugging another person's food or drink, or by any other means, without their knowledge or consent. j. Abuse, misuse, sale, or distribution of prescription or over-the-counter medications NOTE: • Due to federal regulations, the definition of marijuana/cannabis in the above standard includes and prohibits medical marijuana in all forms at all university owned and operated locations. 11. Weapons a. Unauthorized possession, carrying or use of firearms, explosives, other weapons, or dangerous chemicals including propane, lighter fluid or other fuels, in university buildings, facilities and/or at university events is prohibited. Unauthorized items include but are not limited to: firearms of any kind including pellet, BB devices, Tasers, stun guns, ammunition, and/or air powered projectile devices; knives with blades longer than four (4) inches, switchblades and spring assisted knives of any kind, chemicals, fireworks, bow, nunchaku, brass knuckles, and/or any instrument or implement that can be used as a weapon and is capable of inflicting serious bodily injury. b. The illegal use and/or possession of a weapon. c. Violation of Kutztown University Policy A&F-030: Possession of Deadly or Offensive Weapons on Kutztown University Campus. 12. Disorderly Conduct a. Conduct that is disruptive and/or serves no legitimate purpose. b. Breach of peace and/or rioting or aiding, abetting, or procuring another person to breach the peace on university premises or at functions sponsored by, or participated in by, the university or members of the university community. c. Disruption or obstruction of teaching, research, administration, disciplinary proceedings, pedestrian or vehicular traffic, other university activities or of other authorized non-university activities when the conduct occurs on university premises. d. Unauthorized use of electronic or other devices including drones to make an audio, video or photographic record or image of any person without their expressed consent when such a recording is likely to cause injury, distress, or breach a reasonable expectation for privacy. This includes, but is not limited to, surreptitiously taking pictures or videos of another person in a gym, locker room or restroom. e. The misuse or illegal and/or unauthorized use of drones or unmanned aircraft systems on campus property or at university events and programs.
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