Mediation

(a) All matters processed through Student Conduct and Conflict Resolution are not required to go through formal or informal adjudication or hearings. An overall goal of the Office is to provide a learning process which entails understanding and respecting the rights of others. An avenue utilized by the office to foster mutual respect and understanding when differences arise is mediation. Mediation through Student Conduct and Conflict Resolution is an informal and confidential process.

(b) Mediation is utilized where the incident in question is minor in nature, and the parties involved chose not to proceed with formal charges through the University Student conduct System. The Office of Student Conduct and Conflict Resolution reserves the right to determine if formal charges will be filed or whether mediation is the appropriate venue in each matter.

(c) Mediation cases handled through Student Conduct and Conflict Resolution will not be identified or filed as a Student Conduct matter. Mediation records will be maintained in a file and database separate from Student Conduct files, and will not be recorded or reported as part of a student’s record. All mediation files are confidential, and will not be released without written consent, except in cases where the conduct or behavior is a repeat offense. In repeat cases, this information is only released to the hearing officer or committee conducting a formal hearing, and only used if found responsible for a violation of the Student Code.

(d) Mediation files are expunged after a student graduates or after four (4) years following the date of the incident, or which ever comes first. Requests to have a mediation file expunged prior to this time must be sent in writing. The other person(s) involved in the matter must agree, through signed consent, to the expungement of the file. Student Conduct and Conflict Resolution reserves the right to deny any request for the expungement of a file prior to graduation or the 4-year time frame.

(e) Incident considered serious in nature and consequently not suitable for mediation, include, but are not limited to: sexual assault or misconduct, stalking, endangerment, physical assault, hazing, harassment, illegal drugs, alcohol, weapons, or other violations of federal, state and local ordinances.

Interpretation and Revision

• Any question of interpretation or application of the Student Code shall be referred to the Vice President for Student Affairs or designee for final determination.
• The Student Code shall be reviewed annually under the direction of the Director.