Complainant FAQ

1. Who can file a complaint or report an incident?

A: Any member of the University community who believes that a violation of the Campus Student Code has occurred may file a complaint with the Office of Student Rights and Responsibilities.

2. When should I file a complaint or report an incident?

A: Complaints of student misconduct should be submitted to the Office of Student Rights and Responsibilities as soon as possible following the alleged misconduct or the date on which the individual knew or should have known of the misconduct.

3. What types of complaints or reports will be investigated?

A: Regardless of whether a formal complaint is ever filed, allegations of student misconduct, from any credible source, will be reviewed by the Student Code Administrator, or other appropriate personnel.

4. What information should I include in my complaint or report?

A: Try to be as clear as you can, and, if possible, include the following information: names of anyone involved and any witnesses; whether the incident was reported to any law enforcement official; a timeline of events and relevant background information; specific time, dates, and statements made; and, if any injuries were incurred, describe those injuries and whether any medical treatment was sought.

5. What happens after I submit a complaint or report?

A: The Student Code Administrator will investigate each formal complaint or allegation of student misconduct. The Student Code Administrator may summon by written or electronic request any member of the University community for a meeting for the purposes of investigating and/or discussing allegations of prohibited conduct. If the Student Code Administrator finds that there are reasonable grounds to conclude that the student violated the Campus Student Code, then charges will be brought against the student. If the Student Code Administrator does not find that there are reasonable grounds to conclude that the student violated the Campus Student Code, then the complaint or allegation will be dismissed, and will indicate the reason for the dismissal and notify the Respondent student in writing.

6. What is my role in the student conduct process as an accuser after the report or complaint is filed?

A: You may be asked to meet with the Student Code Administrator to provide additional information, answer any questions the Student Code Administrator may have about the incident, and/or testify in a hearing. If you choose not to be involved in the student conduct process after filing the complaint or report, the process will continue without your involvement if there is sufficient information.

7. Can I have an advisor or attorney provide support throughout the process?

A: In the case of student misconduct that may result in suspension or expulsion, you are entitled to have an attorney or advisor present.  Advisors may participate in the hearing at the discretion of the Hearing Adjudicator. In Title IX cases, Attorneys and Advisors may participate fully in all meetings or in the hearing and an Advisor will be provided for cross-examination during hearings, if needed.

8. Am I required to attend the hearing for the Respondent?

A: No. While we strongly encourage your presence, we also understand that you have the right to not attend. If contact with the Respondent is a concern, the Office of Student Rights and Responsibilities will make all diligent efforts to provide accommodations for participation that do not include face-to-face contact with the Respondent student.

9. Can I choose to stop the process from occurring?

A: You can discuss your concerns and preferences with the Student Conduct Administrator.