STUDENT
HANDBOOK
2023–2024
Southern New Hampshire University Student Handbook
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INTRODUCTION
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Terms and Definitions ....................................................................................................................................... 3
Non-Discrimination, Equal Access & Equal Opportunity ................................................................................. 4
Student Rights and Responsibilities ................................................................................................................ 5
Conditions of Enrollment................................................................................................................................... 7
Rights and Responsibilities of Student Clubs and Organizations .................................................................. 9
STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT
Terms and Definitions ..................................................................................................................................... 10
Authority of the University ............................................................................................................................... 11
University Rights .............................................................................................................................................. 11
Conduct Standing and Sanctions ................................................................................................................... 14
Accommodations for the Student Conduct Process ..................................................................................... 16
Student Conduct Process ............................................................................................................................... 17
Conduct Standards for Student Clubs and Organizations ............................................................................ 22
BEHAVIOR POLICIES
General Behavior Policies ............................................................................................................................... 27
Residence Life Policies ................................................................................................................................... 33
Social Media Guidelines.................................................................................................................................. 37
Alcohol and Other Drug Policies ..................................................................................................................... 38
Title IX Sexual Harassment/University Sexual Misconduct Policies ............................................................ 43
Mandated Leave Policy ................................................................................................................................................ 45
ACADEMIC INTEGRITY
Academic Integrity Process for Online Courses ............................................................................................. 47
Academic Integrity Process for In-Person Courses ........................................................................................ 48
STUDENT SUPPORT RESOURCES
Accessibility Services ...................................................................................................................................... 53
CARE Team ...................................................................................................................................................... 53
HelpU................................................................................................................................................................ 53
Risk Assessment Team ................................................................................................................................... 53
Campus Wellness Center ................................................................................................................................ 54
HONOR SOCIETIES
Honor Societies for Online Students .............................................................................................................. 55
Honor Societies for Campus Students ........................................................................................................... 56
APPENDICIES
Appendix A: FERPA .......................................................................................................................................... 61
Appendix B: Sexual Misconduct Policy........................................................................................................... 64
Appendix C: Student Domestic Travel Policy .............................................................................................. 106
Appendix D: Copyright Policy .................................................................................................................................. 112
Appendix E: Grade Appeals and Other Academic Disputes ................................................................................. 116
Southern New Hampshire University Student Handbook
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INTRODUCTION
The Student Handbook applies to all registered domestic and international undergraduate, graduate,
full- and part-time students, as well as students enrolled in online, remote, direct assessment
competency-based education programs, or continuing education at Southern New Hampshire
University (SNHU).
Every effort is made to ensure that the information in the Student Handbook is accurate and up to
date, but it may not reflect most recent policy updates. The University reviews and updates the Student
Handbook on an annual basis, publishing a new edition prior to the start of the academic year. The
University reserves the right to make necessary changes prior to the yearly revision and will notify the
University community when revisions are made.
The University expects students to be familiar and comply with all policies and procedures contained
within the Student Handbook. Failure to read and understand this document does not excuse students
from the rules, policies, and procedures contained within it.
The Student Handbook pertains to all students for the 2023-2024 academic year.
There are five central places for students to locate information regarding the policies and processes
that will apply to them throughout their education, whether they are taking courses online, on campus,
or the University’s instructional centers. These resources are:
• Academic Catalog: Policies and information regarding Admissions, Academics, Financial Aid, etc.
• my.SNHU.edu: The University’s student portal provides access to student-specific information,
and links to various policies and processes.
• Consumer Information Page: Disclosures of information required by the Higher Education
Opportunity Act regarding accreditation, privacy, cost of attendance, and other important
policies.
• Student Handbook: Provides general policy and process information including the student code
of conduct, academic integrity, honor societies, and behavioral expectations.
• Program-Specific Handbooks: Source of expectations unique to certain programs (e.g., MFA,
Nursing, etc.)
Students and recognized clubs and organizations are responsible for obtaining, learning, and
observing the established University policies as listed in all official publications. In addition, students
must comply with the legal and ethical standards of the institution, as well as those of the state of New
Hampshire and any other laws, rules, and/or regulations of other relevant jurisdictions. All members of
the community must inform the appropriate official of any violation of conduct regulations.
Terms and Definitions
Throughout the Student Handbook, the following terms are used. Students should familiarize
themselves with their meanings.
• Club or Organization
Any group of students who have formed a recognized club or organization that has been
authorized by the University.
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• Course Types
• In-person: Courses that are offered at the Manchester campus or off-campus
instructional centers are considered in-person courses.
• Online: Courses taken through an online program or as part of a direct assessment
competency-based program are considered online courses.
• Staff: Any person who is employed by the University with the exception of student employees.
• Student: Any person who has established an academic relationship with SNHU including
professional development courses, continuing education, direct assessment competency-based
education programs, and workshops and residencies through the University at the Manchester
campus, off-campus instructional centers, or online.
For the purposes of this handbook, students are categorized as follows:
• Campus Student: Any domestic or international full- or part-time undergraduate student
or graduate day student taking courses primarily at the Manchester campus.
• Hybrid Student: Any full or part-time student taking courses at an off-campus
instructional center including field-based programs at the Vermont campus, professional
development or continuing education courses, or those completing in-person
residencies, courses, or workshops at the Manchester campus in order to fulfill
requirements of an online program.
• Online Student: Any full or part-time graduate or undergraduate student taking all
courses online.
• Competency-based Student: Any student enrolled in a direct assessment competency-
based education programs.
• University: Southern New Hampshire University and its affiliated sites and programs,
which include the Manchester Campus, online programs, and off-campus instructional
centers.
Non-Discrimination, Equal Access & Equal Opportunity Statement
Consistent with all applicable federal and state laws, rules, regulations and ordinances (e.g. Title III,
Title VI, Title VII, Title IX, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, and the Americans with Disabilities Act
as amended), and in recognition of its responsibilities to its faculty, staff, and students as well as to
the communities in which it operates, Southern New Hampshire University reaffirms its continuing
commitment to afford qualified or qualifiable individuals equal access and equal opportunity within the
University. To ensure equal access and equal opportunity, Southern New Hampshire University shall
not discriminate against any individual or group because of race, color, creed, ethnicity, sex, religion,
national origin, citizenship, marital or parental status, disability (including intellectual disability), age,
gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, pregnancy, veteran/military status, genetic
information, or on any other legally prohibited basis.
Discrimination Complaint Process
The University will respond swiftly to concerns raised about behavior that is considered discriminatory,
harassing, or hateful. Complainants can expect a thorough investigative process which is outlined in
the Discrimination Complaint Protocol.
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ADA/504 Grievances
Southern New Hampshire University (the University) is dedicated to providing equal access to
individuals with disabilities in accordance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and Title
III of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990, as amended by the Americans with Disabilities
Act Amendments Act of 2008. The University prohibits unlawful discrimination on the basis of disability
and takes action to prevent such discrimination by providing reasonable accommodations to eligible
individuals with disabilities. The University has adopted the ADA/504 Grievances Policy (version 1.2
effective October 16, 2017) providing for prompt and equitable resolution of complaints regarding any
action prohibited by the ADA or Section 504.
For further information regarding accessibility support and services, please visit the Disability &
Accessibility Services webpage.
The following person has been designated to coordinate compliance with the disability regulations:
ADA/504 Compliance Coordinator Email: adacomp[email protected] Phone: 603.645.9664
Fax: 603.665.7151
Student Rights and Responsibilities
The University is committed to furthering scholarship, academic pursuits, and service to society. As an
institution, the University’s purpose is to ensure all students have an equal opportunity to fulfill their
intellectual potential through the pursuit of the highest standards of academic excellence. Certain
rights and obligations are inherent in membership in any academic community committed to such
goals:
• The rights of personal and intellectual freedom, which are fundamental to the idea of a
university
• Strict respect for the equal rights and dignity of others
• Dedication to the scholarly and educational purposes of the University and participation in
promoting and ensuring the academic quality of the institution
All students have the right to:
• Redress grievances
• Be treated with respect
• Have a fair and equitable hearing process pursuant to University policies and the provisions of
this handbook
• Ask for advice or assistance
• Challenge prejudicial treatment and comments
• Be themselves and to be proud of their backgrounds
Residential students have the right to:
• Read and to study free from undue interference in their room
• Sleep in their own room
• Live in a clean environment
• Have a secure place for their personal belongings
• Use all public hall spaces and lounges
• Be heard by the Residence Life staff when they voice concerns, needs, and programming ideas
• Have guests in their room and visit others in accordance with the University’s guest policy
• Have a safe living environment.
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Some residential provisions may not apply to students enrolled in low-residency programs.
• Right to Procedural Fairness
Pending action on any alleged violations, the status of students and recognized clubs and
organizations will not be altered, nor their rights to be present on campus and/or to attend
classes suspended, except to protect the health or safety of students or staff, or to safeguard
University property. Only senior leadership or their designee may make such a determination
and direct the provisional suspension.
• Right to Privacy
The policies and procedures concerning the privacy of the student records maintained by the
University are in large measure governed by the federal government’s Family Educational Rights
and Privacy Act (FERPA). The University’s policies and procedures are posted by the Office of the
University Registrar.
o See Addendum A or the Academic Catalog for the full FERPA policy.
Except when requested by a student or required by federal or state regulations, an educational
record will not include information concerning race, religion, nationality, political or social views,
or memberships in organizations. Directory information (name, address, telephone numbers,
major, etc.) may be released or published. State agencies and other educational agencies
conducting surveys and studies for the University will ordinarily have access to a student’s record
without the written consent of the student concerned.
Another exception provides that parents have the right to view and to request copies of their
child’s educational record without their child’s consent, providing that the child is dependent
upon the parents for federal income tax purposes. A student may waive the right of access to
recommendations for admission to the University, for employment on file with the University, and
for some honor societies.
o The University may not require a student to waive this right, nor may the student’s status
at the
University be dependent upon waiving this right.
• Responsibility for Course Etiquette and Communication
The University seeks to foster a supportive and positive learning environment for students and all
students are expected to practice proper etiquette in the classroom and online, engage in active
and respectful discourse and help encourage a non-threatening and welcoming learning
environment.
Online students enrolled in courses with discussion forums are expected to post professional,
relevant responses to their instructors and peers that are suitable to an academic environment.
Any comments deemed disruptive to the learning environment may be permanently deleted and
may result in disciplinary action.
• Responsibility for Civility
Each person in the University community has the right to free speech. This right, however, does
not override the responsibility of the individual to respect the personal rights of other students,
faculty, staff, administrators, and visitors. All members of the University community are expected
to demonstrate courtesy and politeness in their speech and behavior in public venues. Offensive
language, offensive conversations, inappropriate gestures, or offensive visual representations
are considered disrespectful of oneself and others and are not appropriate for public venues or
online forums. Public venues include administrative and academic buildings, dining facilities,
classrooms, auditoriums, walkways, hallways, athletic facilities, and online communities.
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• Responsibility for Good Citizenship
Students have certain rights to access facilities, resources, clubs, and organizations. With these
rights come the expectation that each student understands their role, rights, and responsibilities
as a member of the SNHU community. To that end, students are expected to:
• Familiarize themselves with the policies and regulations of the Student Handbook
• Keep up with their studies
• Make efforts to get to know peers
• Respect the rights and dignity of others
• Question or report those who disrespect their rights of the rights of others
• Treat University property with care, including apartments, entrance hallways, lounges,
other common areas, and office and programming spaces.
Conditions of Enrollment
Certain conditions must be met in order to be enrolled at the University and to function as a member of
the community. Failure to meet and maintain these conditions may result in a hold against future
registration and/or termination of a student’s current enrollment. If a student’s enrollment is
terminated for failure to fulfill conditions of enrollment, they may not be present in the educational
environment on campus, at instructional centers or online. They may also be prohibited from using
University resources without the expressed permission of the senior leadership or their designee. In
addition, the student will not be eligible for a refund of any portion of the University expenses listed by
Student Financial Services.
Accuracy of University Records
Students are expected to provide accurate and complete information on all University forms and
documents, including applications for admission and financial aid, references, health and
immunization reports, local and home addresses, and other types of records. Prospective and
current students are required to provide their physical location prior to and during enrollment.
Students are required to confirm or update their location information biannually through the
MySNHU student account portal (via an automated pop up) and may also provide their updated
physical address via email to SNHU’s Office of the University Registrar to meet this requirement.
Verification of Identity and Administrative Dismissal
Students are required to submit proof of their identity. If a student is found to have knowingly
submitted falsified or intentionally misleading information regarding their identity, SNHU reserves
the right to administratively dismiss the student from the University without opportunity for re-
admission.
Completion of Registration
Each term students must ensure their course registrations are complete in order to be
recognized as enrolled and active students with the University.
Financial Obligations
Students are held responsible for all obligations that they have incurred with the University.
Failure to comply with this policy may result in holds barring class registration and the release of
grades, transcripts, or diplomas. Privileges such as on-campus housing or on-campus parking
may be suspended until the financial obligations have been met.
Identification Expectations
Students are expected to carry identification when visiting campus or one of the off-campus
instructional centers and should be prepared to verify their identity when requested. All students
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are expected to represent themselves truthfully in all interactions with the University.
Meeting Conditions of Conduct Sanctions
Students must fulfill conditions established as part of conduct sanctions. Those who fail to fulfill
these conditions may be subjected to additional conduct action and/or termination of
enrollment. Residence contracts and parking privileges may also be terminated.
University Email
Students are expected to check their University-assigned email accounts and use that account
for all communication with the University and its faculty and staff. This is the primary
communication system used during the term when classes are in session.
Health Requirements for Campus-Based Students
The Wellness Center is licensed by the State of New Hampshire as an Educational Health Facility
and is here to provide medical and mental health care for campus students. As a way to provide
the best care possible and ensure the health and safety of the campus community, all residential
students, full-time undergraduate students, international students, and full-time graduate
students taking classes at the Manchester campus must provide the following medical record
requirements prior to the start of classes on campus:
• A health history form (including consent for treatment while on campus)
• Accurate immunization records
• Tuberculosis screen and any needed tuberculosis test results
• Physical exam report (required for all athletes within 6 months of term start; optional for
all other students)
Vaccination Requirements
All residential students, all domestic and international full-time undergraduate campus students
and all full-time graduate campus students taking classes on the Manchester campus must
provide complete and accurate immunization records. Online student programs may require
immunization records to be supplied if any components are held in-person.
Students are required to provide proof of immunization against measles, mumps, and rubella
(MMR), hepatitis b series, meningitis, tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis (TDaP, as well as the DTAP
series), and two doses of the varicella (chicken pox) vaccine or proof of having had the disease.
When appropriate, titers demonstrating immunity will be accepted. Appropriate medical or
religious exemptions will be considered.
Students are required to provide proof of immunization prior to the start of their first term if they
are taking courses or residing on campus. Failure to fulfill this requirement will result in the
student’s inability to participate in academic, residential, or co-curricular experiences. These
requirements may change per the Center for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines. For the
complete Vaccination Policy, please see the Academic Catalog.
Infectious Disease Policy
In instances of an actual or potential infectious disease in the SNHU community, SNHU
leadership will oversee and coordinate with Human Resources, Facilities, Communications and
other SNHU departments in determining and implementing appropriate protocols. Responses to
known instances of an infectious disease will be based on guidance from federal and state
agencies and public health authorities as well as business needs. Actions may include, among
other things:
• Instituting health screening and reporting measures as recommended or required by
government authorities.
• Coordinating events and communications around an infectious disease incident or
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pandemic.
• Implementing permanent or temporary work rules and/or facility management guidelines
to promote safety through infection control.
• Limiting travel or non-essential activities such as meetings, conferences, gatherings and
training sessions.
• Making available and/or requiring vaccinations.
• Staggering or altering work schedules to limit building capacity or accommodate cleaning
schedules.
• Closing or restricting access to on-site locations.
• Requiring remote work for some or all employees on a short-term or long-term basis.
• Liaising with government agencies, emergency response, healthcare facilities and
services, and facilities or equipment suppliers and service contractors who can or have
agreed to assist during and after an outbreak or pandemic.
• Implementing social distancing and masking guidelines to help minimize the spread of
disease.
• Taking other measures as deemed appropriate by SNHU leadership.
Insurance
The University requires that each full-time undergraduate campus-based student (enrolled in 12
credit hours per term) possess a minimum level of health insurance during their enrollment. The
University may terminate any student’s enrollment if that student fails to provide proof of proper
insurance coverage or does not possess an appropriate insurance policy. All campus-based
domestic students are charged for the University-offered insurance plan until they provide proof of
other medical insurance. The Wellness Center provides students with the information about this
program. Health insurance is also required for all international graduate students taking classes at
the Manchester campus. Information for international student health insurance is available at the
Wellness Center.
Rights and Responsibilities of Student Clubs and Organizations
The University recognizes the right of students to create and participate in clubs and organizations that
align with the missions, goals, and objectives of the University. To these various student groups, the
University lends its name, support, and resources and, exercising its rights and responsibilities, affirms
such groups as legitimate and productive members of the University community. Conversely, the
University reserves its rights to deny or withdraw recognition from any group deemed not to be in
concert with the missions, goals, and objectives of the University.
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STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT
The University is a community of scholars in which the ideals of freedom of inquiry, freedom of
thought, freedom of expression, and freedom of the individual are sustained. However, the exercise
and preservation of these freedoms and rights requires respect of the rights of all in the community to
enjoy them to the same extent. In a community of learning, willful disruption of the educational
process, destruction of property, and interference with the orderly process of the University as defined
by the University administration or with the rights of other members of the University cannot be
tolerated.
Students enrolling in the institution assume an obligation to conduct themselves in a manner
compatible with the University’s function as an educational institution. To fulfill its functions of
imparting and gaining knowledge, the University retains the power to maintain order within the
community and to remove those who are disruptive to the educational process. The policies listed
below describe and explain prohibited conduct as well as outline behavioral expectations.
Terms and Definitions
The following is a list of terms that apply to the Student Conduct Process. Students should familiarize
themselves with their meanings.
• Admission of Responsibility
A respondent’s willingness to admit to a violation of the Student Code of Conduct by holding
themselves accountable.
• Complainant
The individual who brings forward a complaint or files a report alleging a violation of the Student
Code of Conduct.
• Community Standards
The University’s community behavioral expectations for students.
• Hearing
The process through which an allegation of a policy violation is reviewed that then results in a
finding and/or sanction being communicated to the student. Hearing types include:
• Administrative Hearing or Review
The process through which a student connects with a staff member one-on-one, either
physically or electronically, to address an incident with the intention of determining
responsibility and, when applicable, an appropriate sanction. Depending on the nature or timing
of the alleged violation student participation in the administrative hearing process could occur
either before or during an investigation or at the point of appeal.
• Disciplinary Board Hearing
The process through which a student has the opportunity to share evidence with a disciplinary
board before a determination of responsibility is made. Hearings of this type are typically
reserved for complex cases or for cases that could result in a separation from the University.
• Hearing Officer
Any person or persons authorized by senior leadership or designee to determine whether a
student has violated the Student Code of Conduct and to impose sanctions where appropriate.
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• Office of Community Standards
Office responsible for investigating and adjudicating alleged violations of the Student Code of
Conduct and Academic Integrity policies.
• Respondent
The student alleged to have violated the Student Code of Conduct.
• Sanction or Conduct Standing
The University’s formal response to a student for a founded violation (e.g., warning, reprimand,
or suspension).
• Standard of Proof
The burden of proof is on the University to show that the student is responsible for the violation
or a pattern of misconduct. The rules of evidence applicable to civil and criminal cases do not
apply. The decision will be made based upon a preponderance of the information presented –
whether a violation of University policy more likely than not occurred.
Authority of the University
The Student Code of Conduct applies to all students and recognized clubs and organizations as they
are defined in this document. The University exercises jurisdiction over student behavior that occurs
on University premises, sponsored events, or off-campus locations or regions unaffiliated with the
University. Additionally, all violations of the Student Code of Conduct that occur within the SNHU email
system, the learning management system, SNHUconnect, direct assessment competency-based
education learning environment and community, or any other electronic means of communication
prescribed as it pertains to classwork, research, or communication fall under the jurisdiction of the
University. Behavior that conflicts with University expectations may subject students to a hearing
pursuant to the Student Code of Conduct. These behaviors are actions that violate the Student Code of
Conduct, local, state, or federal laws, or could adversely affect the educational mission of the
University or its relationship with the surrounding community. This applies to students acting on their
own volition, as well as recognized clubs/organizations.
University Rights
The University reserves certain rights to ensure compliance with both University policy and state and
federal laws.
Inspections
University staff members may conduct a residence inspection whenever reasonable cause exists to
believe that activity is taking place that is detrimental to the health, safety, or welfare of individuals, or
substances or items are contained in the room that would constitute a violation of the Student Code of
Conduct. Inspections will be confined to areas reasonably related to the alleged policy violation and
may include, but are not limited to, all University-owned property or furnishings, any refrigerator, bags,
or personally owned property including safes or other locked/secured items.
Examples of circumstances that may prompt an inspection of a room or property are when:
• The size, scent, or shape of the item might suggest alcohol, other drugs, alcohol or drug
paraphernalia, or weapons are present
• A staff member hears a noise that might suggest a violation of policy is occurring
• A staff member has confiscated substances that would suggest the presence of additional
substances in the area
• A staff member observes behavior such as an unsteady walk, slurred speech, or abusive or
violent actions
• A staff member receives a report of any of the preceding circumstances
• A search is the result of an ongoing investigation.
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The University reserves the right to confiscate any item when it is against policy or believed to pose a
health or safety risk. Items confiscated will be disposed of and not returned to the student. Failing to
comply with an inspection may be categorized as a violation of the Student Code of Conduct.
Searches, Arrests, and Related Processes
The University cooperates with civil law enforcement agencies performing their official duties within the
University community. The University is not a sanctuary for students who may violate the law.
• Whenever law enforcement agents, process servers, or other legally authorized individuals are
required to serve official papers or enforce arrest or search warrants, the University will
cooperate to minimize interference with activities and to protect all persons.
• As prescribed by law, the arresting officers may conduct limited searches of the area where an
arrest is made without a specific warrant and property may be seized.
Use of Video Surveillance Cameras on Campus
The Office of Public Safety is committed to enhancing the community’s quality of life by integrating the
best practices of public and private security. A critical component of this comprehensive security plan
is the use of video surveillance, the primary purpose of which is to deter crime and to assist Public
Safety officers in protecting the safety and property of the University community.
Video monitoring for public safety purposes is conducted in a professional, ethical, and legal
manner. On-campus video monitoring of areas is limited to locations that do not violate an individual’s
reasonable expectation of privacy as defined by state law. For example, camera locations are in public
places such as building entryways, parking lots, and along some roadways. Personnel involved in the
use of video surveillance cameras are properly trained and supervised.
Use of Summary Suspensions and Interim Measures
Students and recognized clubs and organizations who are alleged to have been involved in a
significant violation of University policy may be suspended in the interim from the University pending a
hearing if senior leadership or their designee deems it necessary. The University may also impose
other interim measures including but not limited to prohibiting the student, club, or organization from
being on University property, residential suspension or relocation, restricted contact orders, course
removal, or deletion of online content. Determinations will be based on the nature of the alleged
violation and/or any potential threat to any individual or community.
Adjudication Required for Re-enrollment
When a student withdraws from the University after engaging in conduct that may violate the Student
Code of Conduct, and the alleged violation has not been adjudicated through the hearing process, a
hold will be placed on the student’s record and the student will be banned from campus and all other
educational environments. The hold will prevent a student from re-enrolling at the University until the
alleged violations have been resolved.
Violations of Law
Violations of local, state, or federal law are subject to University action. A student who has pleaded
guilty to or otherwise accepted responsibility for a violation (e.g., probation before judgment, nolo
contendere, continuation without a finding, etc.) should be aware that the University may also sanction
the student. Withdrawal may be mandated when the conduct suggests that the student presents a
danger to the University community.
Notification of Criminal Arrest
Students are responsible for notifying the University of any off-campus arrest. When the University
learns of a student arrest, Community Standards staff notify the student that they must schedule an
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appointment for an interview with Public Safety. During this interview, the facts involved in the
student’s arrest, the student’s obligation to keep the University informed of the progress of the criminal
charge(s), and the student’s obligation to advise the University of the final disposition of the criminal
charge(s) are discussed with the student.
Withdrawal when Certain Criminal Charges are Pending
The University may withdraw any student when certain charges are pending against that student,
subject to the procedures set forth below. Specifically, withdrawal may be mandated where the crime
involves an act of violence; the sale, manufacture, or delivery of drugs; or any other conduct that is
egregiously offensive to the University’s mission or that prevents a danger to the campus community,
whether the behavior occurred on or off campus property. The University follows these procedures
when initiating an immediate withdrawal over pending criminal charges:
• The student may meet with senior leadership or their designee within three business days from
the imposition of the withdrawal. In this meeting, the student must demonstrate that the
withdrawal is inappropriate because:
o The student is not charged with a crime as listed above.
o The alleged crime, even if proven, has no bearing on any legitimate University interest; or
o The withdrawal is too severe a response from the University.
• Senior leadership or their designee decides whether to continue or rescind the withdrawal and
communicates this decision to the student within 24 hours of the conclusion of the
meeting. The decision is final and may not be appealed.
• The withdrawal may be noted on the student's transcript, however no conduct record or
sanction is created or imposed solely on the basis of the withdrawal.
• The withdrawal remains in effect until the latter of:
o The dismissal/acquittal of all pending charge(s) against the student
o A full hearing by the student conduct system, if appropriate, of all alleged violation(s) of
the Student Code of Conduct relating to the behavior from which the charge(s) derive. In
order to hold this hearing, the University must have access to independent information
about the case (i.e., police reports, court reports, etc.). In some cases, this may require
the student or their legal counsel releasing the necessary information to the University.
• The withdrawal requirement is a supplement to the interim suspension procedures provided
elsewhere in the Student Handbook and in no way limits any rights of the University to impose
any additional or different conduct sanction.
Parental Notification
The University may disclose aspects of a student’s education record to the student’s
parents/guardians in particular circumstances. This notification policy is enacted with the philosophy
that parents/guardians are partners in student development and can assist students in fulfilling their
educational goals through the use of open dialogue. In accordance with FERPA guidelines, the
University may issue notifications to parents/guardians of students in the following circumstances:
• If a dependent student is found responsible for violating a University policy that may place them
in jeopardy of losing their on-campus housing or status as a student,
• If a student under the age of 21 at the time of incident is found responsible for violating the
University’s alcohol or other drug policies or federal, state, or local alcohol and drug laws
and/or,
• If knowledge of the information is necessary to protect the health or safety of the student or
other individuals.
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• Students are encouraged to discuss incidents with their parents/guardians prior to University
notification. Campus-based students are responsible for notifying the Dean of Students Office if
they are not considered a dependent.
Conduct Records
Conduct files are maintained by the University. These files are private records open only to authorized
faculty or administrators. Students may review their own records under the supervision of an
appropriate staff member. Students may request copies of incident reports as needed for the
preparation of their case for a hearing. Notes from preliminary investigations will not be available for
distribution; however, the information could be presented at a hearing.
Conduct records and applicable information is available to anyone authorized by the student. The
University uses its discretion on which, if any, items to disclose to authorized persons after that time.
Reviews for outside agencies (e.g., branches of the federal government) doing background
investigations are done based upon written authorization of the student. Subpoenas requesting a
student’s record are honored. The student will be notified before the records are submitted unless the
subpoena specifically directs the University not to notify the student. Only notices of probation,
suspension, or dismissal will be included in the student’s record unless the outside agency specifically
requests all formal sanctions.
Conduct Standing and Sanctions
When a student is found to have violated a policy, the University’s first priority is to respond by
providing or mandating supportive and educational tasks, when appropriate, designed to help the
student make more informed choices. Second and equally important, the University makes a change
to the student’s conduct standing. This categorization represents the progressive conduct model,
which increases punitive measures as the severity or frequency of a behavior increases. However, the
University reserves the right to use its discretion in all aspects of a conduct case, including changes to
conduct standings and sanctions. A student’s conduct standing may range from warning to dismissal.
Students are no longer in good standing at the level of probation.
The following are examples of conduct standings and sanctions that may be imposed for violation of a
policy:
• Warning
A warning consists of formal notification that the student has violated the University’s
community standards and advises that repetition will result in a more severe sanction.
• Reprimand
At this increased sanction, students understand a formal reprimand is in place.
• Probation
This sanction is the most serious warning for violation of University regulations prior to
suspension, and it places limits on the student’s good standing with the University. Students
on probation may be limited in their ability to attend University programs, including applying
for and participating in study abroad. Some departments may not hire students on
probation. If the student is found responsible for violating any University policy during the
probation period, residence removal and/or suspension or dismissal may become effective,
and the student may be subject to additional sanctions. Students are no longer in good
standing at the level of probation.
• Suspension
Suspension means that the student is dismissed from the University for a period of time,
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with an opportunity for re-admission. When suspended from the University, the student will
be barred from all University facilities and online environments and from all University
functions for the period of their suspension. This sanction may only be imposed by a
disciplinary board, or in cases representing a potential on-going threat to an individual or the
community, as an interim measure by senior leadership or their designee. Pending action
on any disciplinary allegations, the status of students will not be altered, nor will their rights
to continue working toward a degree be suspended, except to protect the well-being of
students or staff. Only senior leadership or their designee may make such a determination
and direct provisional suspension.
• Dismissal
If a student is dismissed from the University, they are permanently dismissed from the
University without opportunity for re-admission. When dismissed from the University, the
student will be barred from all University facilities and online environments and from all
University functions. This sanction may only be imposed by a disciplinary board, or in
particularly egregious cases as an emergency measure by senior leadership.
As this sanctioning model is presented in increasing severity, it should be noted that violations may be
cumulative. A student’s prior conduct history and length of time between violations are factors
considered when selecting a conduct standing.
Additional Sanctions
The University reserves the right to create additional sanctions based on the nature of the misconduct.
Sanctions may include, but are not limited to:
• Access Restriction
Students may be denied access to any course, campus building or instructional center,
room, activity, program, computer and network resources, or denied other student
privileges.
• Alcohol Restriction
In cases where students are found responsible for major alcohol violations, the student’s
residential unit may be considered a prohibited area for alcoholic beverages. In addition,
students found responsible will be sanctioned individually based on their previous violations
of the University’s alcohol or other drug policies.
• Behavioral Agreement/Contract
In certain circumstances, a behavioral agreement may be developed by a member of the
University staff outlining specific behaviors acceptable among all parties involved.
• Educational Letter
This sanction is informal in nature. While the educational letter reads much like a warning in
that it identifies a particular violation of a policy, the intention is to use the violation as a
learning opportunity for the student. An educational letter is part of a student’s record in
case a similar violation occurs in the future, though it is not reported as a violation should an
outside agency inquire about a student’s conduct record.
• Educational Sanctioning
This sanction is meant to encourage learning or reflection and may include follow-up
discussions, research papers, essays, etc. The educational sanction must be completed
within the manner and time stated. Participation in certain programs may be withheld or
restricted until educational sanctions are completed.
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• Loss of Privileges
Students may not be allowed use of facilities, services, or activities for a designated period
of time. Examples include, but are not limited to, loss of guest privileges, loss of parking
privileges, prohibition from certain residence halls, prohibition from University-sponsored
activities, room change restrictions, etc.
• Removal from Class
Students may be removed from classes if their actions are deemed detrimental to the
educational environment.
• Removal from Housing
Students may be removed from campus housing if their actions are deemed detrimental to
the educational and/or community living environment.
• Residence Restriction
Students who violate policies regarding community living may be subject to residence
restrictions, including occupancy restrictions, 24-hour quiet hours, relocation to another
housing option, etc.
• Restitution
Students may be required to pay the full cost of damages. This could include the cost of
materials and labor for repairs. In addition, restitution could include the cost of replacing
damaged, destroyed, or stolen property, as well as compensating the University for any lost
or stolen time.
• Restorative Response
The University encourages students to take an active role in shaping a positive campus
environment. As such, a hearing officer may allow a restorative response if a student seeks
to repair the harm they caused and restore the well-being of the community they impacted.
It is important to note that the restorative response is at the hearing officer’s discretion,
should be tailored to each specific case, and should take into consideration the nature of
the incident and the needs and perspectives of the parties involved.
• Sanctions Held in Abeyance
In some cases, a sanction may be held in abeyance. This means that the suspension will
not be enforced immediately but will be “in place.” This conduct status requires that specific
conditions be fulfilled. Any violation of those abeyance conditions will result, at a minimum,
in immediate enforcement of the suspension without a hearing. It may also result in further
conduct action.
Accommodations for the Student Conduct Process
Students with disabilities who are involved in the student conduct process, including complainants,
respondents, advisors, and witnesses may seek accommodations for any stage of the student conduct
process. If a student requests reasonable accommodations to participate in the student conduct
process due to their disability, the student should:
1. Notify a Community Standards staff member or designee two business days before their
meeting or hearing
2. Contact the appropriate Accessibility Center:
• Campus-based students may contact the Campus Accessibility Center at cac@snhu.edu
or 603.644.3118
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• Online students may contact the Online Accessibility Center at [email protected] or
866.305.9430.
These notices allow the Community Standards staff member or designee to determine if a
postponement of the meeting or hearing is necessary while the accommodation is reviewed. It also
allows the respective Accessibility Center to request supporting documentation and student input in
order to determine what accommodation, if any, is appropriate under applicable standards. The
appropriate Accessibility Center will share the decision and any recommendation for implementation of
the accommodation(s) with the student and the Community Standards staff member, or designee.
The Student Conduct Process
1. Report is Filed
When the Student Code of Conduct may have been violated, an incident report is filed by a
student, faculty, staff, or community member who becomes aware of, observes, or is the
complainant of the incident. This report is reviewed, and, if necessary, a hearing is held to
determine what, if any, violation may have occurred.
Students have the right to obtain a copy of the incident report upon request. The hearing process
is intended to be educational in nature and is based on the concept of due process. The
procedures provide for a prompt, fair, and impartial investigation and resolution which includes
an opportunity for a student to be heard.
An incident can be pursued through the hearing process up to one year after the information
about the violation is discovered, though complaints against former students will not be
processed. Reports regarding graduating students should be filed prior to their graduation and,
when possible, with sufficient time before graduation so that an investigation and hearing can
occur.
2. Report is Reviewed by the Office of Community Standards
Review of all alleged violations is overseen by Community Standards staff or their designee. Their
role is to identify those acts that may be in conflict with the Student Code of Conduct or Academic
Integrity Policy. Alleged violations are assigned to an appropriate staff member for review.
3. Preliminary Meeting may be Held
In some cases, it may be appropriate for a Community Standards manager, Public Safety officer,
or other University staff member to meet or speak with students who may have relevant
knowledge about an incident. This investigative process allows the staff member to make
decisions about an informal or formal approach. These discussions also allow the University to
collect information in order to meet its burden of proof.
4. Formal or Informal Resolution Method is Determined
Depending on the nature of the report, concerning behavior may be resolved using either a
formal resolution method such as an administrative hearing or a disciplinary board hearing, or an
informal method of resolution. Informal resolutions may be considered in alleged minor violations
and are used at the discretion of the University staff member reviewing the report.
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Informal Resolutions
An informal resolution may transition into a formal hearing for any reason including new
information learned during an informal meeting or when an informal resolution cannot be
reached. Examples of informal resolution can include:
• Educational letter, conversation, or agreement.
• Mediation: If mediation is deemed appropriate, contact will be made to all parties involved
and an explanation of the process will be offered. If accepted by all parties, mediation will be
viewed as an alternative solution. Should an agreement not be possible, the incident may be
pursued through a hearing. All agreements reached through mediation are binding. If at any
point the agreement is not fulfilled, the negligent party may face further conduct action.
Formal Resolutions
Formal resolution methods, which are described in the sections below, will always result in an
Administrative Conduct Hearing or a Disciplinary Board Hearing. Formal resolutions become part
of the student’s conduct file.
Administrative Conduct Hearing
The Community Standards staff member, senior leadership, or their designee determines whether the
incident will be addressed through an administrative hearing or disciplinary board hearing.
An administrative hearing may be held for any violation but is primarily used to review allegations that
are unlikely to result in a student’s separation from the University. In an administrative hearing a staff
member connects with a student one-on-one, either physically or electronically, to address an incident
with the intention of determining responsibility and, when applicable, an appropriate sanction.
Depending on the nature or timing of the alleged violation, student participation in the administrative
hearing process could occur either before or during an investigation or at the point of appeal.
Some alleged violations, including violence, sexual misconduct, controlled substance use, and
patterns of misconduct could result in a sanction of suspension or dismissal. If the alleged violation
could result in separation from the University, the matter is reviewed by the disciplinary board, with
some exceptions. Cases may be referred to the board when the complexity of the case or the severity
of the allegation is significant. Please note the following:
• All hearings are closed to the public, with the exception of witnesses who are not University
community members but who have direct information regarding the incident or if there are
criminal or civil charges pending against the respondent regarding the incident. These
exceptions are made at the discretion of hearing officers.
• Officials who receive annual training on issues related to sexual assault, domestic violence,
dating violence, and stalking may conduct investigations into such incidents; hearing officers
are also trained regarding such issues.
• Hearings may be expedited to protect community members. Students or recognized clubs or
organizations who are alleged to have been involved in a significant violation may be
suspended in the interim from either residence or the University pending a hearing, should
the senior leadership or their designee deem it necessary. Residents may also be
temporarily relocated pending a hearing. Incidents reported during the summer and during
breaks when the disciplinary board is not available may be handled through the
administrative hearing process. In these circumstances, the University may assemble a special
panel of staff or faculty to assist with an administrative hearing or review.
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Disciplinary Board Hearing
When a case is referred to the disciplinary board, the Community Standards staff member, senior
leadership, or their designee may offer all involved students a preliminary meeting to prepare for the
process. The administrator is available to discuss the incident reports, student’s rights, and the
hearing process. A disciplinary board may comprise faculty, staff, and (in non-Title IX cases) students.
• In cases assigned to the disciplinary board, members will participate on a rotating basis.
Attendance at hearings ranges from three to six board members. The Community Standards
staff member, senior leadership, or their designee will determine the composition of the
board and serve as a non-voting advisor to the board. All board members commit to
upholding the Student Code of Conduct and respecting the process’ confidentiality.
• Students participating in a disciplinary board hearing will be given the names of the board
members in advance of the hearing. Should a student believe that any board member is
biased or cannot render an impartial judgment, the student may challenge the individual’s
participation in the hearing. The Community Standards staff member, senior leadership, or
their designee will rule on such challenges, and the decision will be final.
Hearing Procedure
The steps below specify the Disciplinary Board Hearing procedures:
• Notice of Hearing
Students will receive a letter electronically from the appropriate University staff member,
informing them of a disciplinary board hearing to review the incident. Students must be given
48 hours’ notice for board hearings. For online students, every reasonable effort is made to
contact involved parties via SNHU email and/or telephone. The student receives electronic
notification indicating the date, time, and location of the board hearing.
• Attendance
If the student fails to attend the hearing, the review will be made in their absence and the
student will also forfeit their right to appeal the findings.
• Presentation
A disciplinary board will review the incident report and evidence and the student will have an
opportunity to present their own case.
• Finding and Sanction
Based upon the information presented, the disciplinary board will determine if the student is
responsible for the alleged violation(s). Sanctioning is considered only after responsibility has
been determined and is based solely on the severity of the violation and a student's previous
conduct record. The decision of the board may be subject to final review by the senior
leadership.
• Notice of Outcome
An emailed letter notifying the student of the disciplinary board hearing outcome will be sent
electronically no later than five business days following the hearing. Additional time may be
needed if the case is complicated in nature. A copy of the notification may also be sent to the
student’s parents, in accordance with FERPA regulations. Decisions made by the board are final
pending the appeal process.
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Hearing Guidelines
The following guidelines generally apply to administrative and disciplinary board hearings, outlining a
common understanding of the rights and responsibilities generally afforded to students participating in
the hearing process. Since every case is unique, the guidelines may be changed or modified by a
hearing officer or board as needed.
• The University’s burden of proof is to show that it is more likely than not that the student is
responsible for the alleged violation or pattern of misconduct. The rules of evidence
applicable to civil and criminal court cases do not apply. Hearing decisions are made based
upon a preponderance of the information presented – whether a violation of University policy
more likely than not occurred.
• A student has the right to review the incident report of the alleged violation upon request.
• All written or physical evidence that a student seeks to provide for consideration must be
presented to the hearing officer or Community Standards staff member 24 hours before the
hearing begins. Evidence must be pertinent to the charges in question and will be admitted at
the discretion of the hearing officer, hearing moderator, or relevant Community Standards
staff member.
• Written witness statements must be presented to the hearing officer or Community Standards
staff member 24 hours before the hearing begins. A witness is defined as someone who
observed the actual incident and may be called in to discuss their statement prior to the
hearing. Character witnesses are not allowed. A pre-hearing meeting with a witness is at the
discretion of the hearing officer/moderator or Community Standards staff member. Witnesses
and witness statements will be admitted at the discretion of the hearing officer or Community
Standards staff member. It is the responsibility of the student to notify their witnesses of the
date, time, and place of the hearing. If witnesses fail to appear, the hearing may be held in
their absence.
• A student may have a faculty or staff advisor present at the hearing. Except in Title IX cases,
the student’s advisor may not participate directly in any aspect of the hearing and may only
confer with the student. An advisor will not be allowed to disrupt the hearing by recess or
conference outside the hearing. It is the student’s responsibility to present all aspects of their
own case. If a student seeks to use an advisor, they must notify the hearing officer or
Community Standards staff member of their advisor 24 hours before the hearing begins. The
hearing officer/moderator or Community Standards staff member exercises discretion over
admission of any other person into the hearing.
• The University works to accommodate the schedules of students, hearing officers, and
disciplinary board members. To resolve complaints in a timely way, neither advisors nor
witnesses are consulted when scheduling a hearing. If unavailable during the scheduled
hearing time, the student may choose another advisor and/or ask the witness to provide a
written statement.
• A student may refuse to answer a question, with the understanding that the hearing officer or
disciplinary board must decide the matter based upon the information available at the time of
the hearing.
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• In incidents involving more than one party, the hearing may be conducted as a joint hearing.
• The hearing is conducted formally, and summary notes may be kept. A hearing officer or
disciplinary board may audio or video record the hearing if it is deemed appropriate.
• During the hearing, the University may accommodate concerns for the personal well-being,
and/or fears of confrontation of the complainant, respondent, and/or other witnesses by
providing separate facilities, using a visual screen, and/or permitting participation by
telephone, video conferencing, video and/or audio recordings, written statement, or other
means. This determination is based on the judgment of senior leadership or designee.
• If any person exhibits behavior or language that is disruptive or threatening at any time during
the course of a hearing, they may be dismissed with the process continuing without their
presence or input.
Appeal Process
The appeal process ensures that a student has been treated fairly in the hearing process. A student
who has participated in the hearing process and been found in violation of the Student Code of
Conduct or Academic Integrity Policy may file a written appeal. In Title IX cases, both the complainant
and respondent may file an appeal.
Appeals may be heard by the Community Standards staff, senior leadership, their designee, or an
appeal board. Senior leadership may review the outcome of an appeal and modify the decision with
both the ability to increase or decrease the severity of a final outcome. An appeal must demonstrate
one or more of the following bases for appeal and explain in detail the support for each basis:
• New information is now available that was not known at the time of the hearing. This
information may have been sufficient to alter the original decision. This new evidence will be
considered only if it is clear that the evidence could not have been known by the student(s)
appealing at the time of the original hearing.
• A procedural error occurred, and the hearing was not conducted in accordance with
procedures prescribed by the hearing process. This procedural error impaired a student’s
right to a fair opportunity to be heard.
• The severity of the sanction is not appropriate for the violation(s) committed, and the past
conduct history of the student. This is not applicable for minimum standard sanctions of the
alcohol or other drug policy.
The appeal review is limited to an analysis of the written appeal document, the notes and documents
of the initial hearing, and an interview with the original hearing officer or Community Standards staff
member as needed. The appeal process is not a re-hearing of the case – it is an opportunity for an
impartial review of a case and examine potential errors in the process, unduly severe sanctions, or
new information.
If the appeal is based on the appropriateness of the sanction(s) issued, a complete review of the
student’s conduct history, including previous sanction(s), will take place. In cases where new evidence
has emerged, this information will be included as part of the review process. If new information or a
procedural error has been determined through the appeal process, the case may be referred to
another hearing officer or disciplinary board to allow for a reconsideration of the original finding. The
new hearing will be scheduled as soon as possible.
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If there is reason to believe that the sanctioned student or other members of the University community
are at risk, or a need exists to protect University property or prevent disruption of the University’s
educational process, senior leadership or their designee may immediately enforce any or all of the
original sanctions and those sanctions will remain in effect pending the final outcome of the appeal.
All decisions resulting from an appeal review are final. Although a verbal notification may be provided
to the student, an email notification of the decision will be sent within seven business days of the
review.
To submit a Petition for Appeal:
• For disciplinary board hearings, students will receive an individual appeal link included in the
outcome email they receive from the hearing officer, board hearing moderator, or Community
Standards staff member. For administrative hearings students should email the hearing
officer who addressed the case. Informal resolutions cannot be appealed as they are not a
part of a student’s conduct record.
• The Petition for Appeal must be submitted within five business days of the decision being
rendered.
• If the appeal is reviewed, a decision will be made within 10 business days of receiving the
petition. Outcomes could include Upholding the decision, changing the decision, dismissal of
the original decision/sanctions, or granting a new hearing. In cases of sexual assault, the
University must notify the complainant.
Online Conduct Suspension: Applying for Re-admission
Online students who have been suspended for conduct or academic integrity violations may request
an opportunity to apply for readmission after the period of suspension has passed. In order to be
considered for readmission, the student must complete the Request to Return from Disciplinary
Suspension form. https://cm.maxient.com/reportingform.php?SouthernNHUnivCOCE&layout_id=9
Within seven business days of the receipt of the completed form, the disciplinary board will be
reconvened including as many of the original board members as possible. The disciplinary board will
determine, by majority vote, whether to approve the student’s request to apply for re-admission.
If approval to apply is granted, the student must follow the standard readmission process and must
meet all admission requirements. If the student was enrolled in the previous 12 months, they may
request to be reinstated following that process.
Should the disciplinary board determine that the student cannot apply for readmission, the student will
not be allowed to return to the University. The board’s decision is final and there is no avenue for
appeal.
Conduct Standards for Clubs and Organizations
The University is committed to maintaining a safe and healthy living and learning environment for
students, faculty, and staff. Behavior that is inconsistent with the Student Code of Conduct – caused
by individual students or collectively by student organizations – is addressed through an educational
hearing process designed to promote safety and good citizenship, as well as impose appropriate
consequences when necessary.
The Student Code of Conduct applies to both individual students and student organizations; the
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Student Organization Conduct Standards serve as a subsection of the Student Code of Conduct,
ensuring that all student organizations’ officers and members know and accept responsibility for their
actions and the actions of their members and guests, and understand the responsibilities of holding
official University recognition.
Additionally, the Student Organization Conduct Standards:
• Protect the rights of recognized student organizations,
• Ensure accountability for violations of University policy, and
• Guarantee due process in the adjudication of complaints concerning student organizations.
Student organizations must also abide by all policies outlined by the Office of Student Involvement.
Student Organization Member Responsibilities
The University expects student organization members to be good citizens, engage in responsible
behaviors, positively represent their student organization and SNHU, treat others civilly, and
constructively contribute to student life. When acting as part of a student organization, a student is
responsible for their conduct both individually and collectively. Likewise, a student organization may
be held responsible for the group’s misconduct, as well as the misconduct of its leaders, members,
representatives, or guests.
An individual acting as part of a student organization may be referred to the Office of Community
Standards for adjudication of their behavior at the same time the student organization is held to the
Student Organization Conduct Standards. Any external proceedings have no impact on the University’s
internal hearing processes for students or student organizations.
After a student organization’s case has gone through the hearing process, governing councils, if
applicable, may review member organizations’ conduct and adjudicate accordingly.
Application of Standards
Student organizations may be held accountable for a violation of the Student Organization Conduct
Standards when a member or guest commit an alleged violation and any of the conditions below apply:
• The violation was sanctioned by an officer of that same organization, or officers had prior
knowledge that the incident would take place,
• Organization funds financed the venture,
• The violation was substantially supported, sponsored, or endorsed by the organization’s
membership,
• The violation grew out of, occurred during, or was related to any student organization-
sponsored,
-financed, -supported, or -endorsed activity, event, or environment created by the group,
• Members knew of the violation before or during the incident and did not attempt to prevent
the infraction,
• The organization failed to report the incident or chose to protect its members,
• A reasonable person would understand the behavior to fall within the scope of the
organization’s activity
• The violation demonstrated a pattern of misconduct by student organization members, or
• The behavior undermined the University’s reputation, the integrity of the educational
process, or the safety and welfare of the University community either in its public personality
or in respect to individuals within it.
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Process
The Office of Student Involvement exercises jurisdiction over all registered student organizations,
including fraternities and sororities and club sports. The Executive Director of Community Standards
and Student Support – in partnership with the Director of Student Involvement – coordinates the
adjudication of all recognized student organizations’ misconduct.
Determinations of responsibility are made on the basis of a preponderance of evidence (whether it is
more likely than not that the student organization violated University policy).
No student or advisor may record any proceeding but may request to listen to a copy of the recording, if
available. Records are maintained according to the University’s record retention schedule.
All University hearing officers, and disciplinary board hearing members are trained by Community
Standards staff.
Policies and Rules
All student organizations must be aware of possible infractions, including:
• University space or equipment violation
Utilizing University space or equipment for purposes other than it was originally intended or
specified, damage of University property, etc. In most cases, an agreement for space usage is
signed by a student organization representative.
• Office of Student Involvement Policy or Procedure Violation
Violation of a policy specified by the University, or the Office of Student Involvement specifically
intended to govern student organizations. Policies and rules governing student organizations
are published yearly and can be accessed online in the Office of Student Involvement
Handbook.
• University policy violation
The University identifies unacceptable student behavior in the Student Code of Conduct,
published within the Student Handbook. Individual students and student organizations’
behaviors are managed by the Executive Director of Community Standards and Student
Support.
• Federal, state, or local law violation
When a student organization violates federal, state, or local law, the student organization may
be charged with a disruption of community relations University policy violation, as well as in
criminal or civil court.
Procedures
The following procedures comprise the Student Organization Conduct Standards process:
Step 1: Incident Reported
Anyone may file a report alleging that a student organization violated a policy. Reports go to the
Executive Director of Community Standards and Student Support, who informs the Director of Student
Involvement about the alleged violation.
Step 2: Investigation
Community Standards staff work with University staff to review the alleged violation and the
associated information and evidence. The offices of Student Involvement or Public Safety will conduct
the investigation, which may include, but is not limited to: Interviews, review of incident reports
(including previously reported incidents), evaluation of police reports, and discussions with student
organization members, advisors, and other witnesses. The investigation is not intended to determine
responsibility, but to gather information and evidence to aid the Executive Director of Community
Standards and Student Support and Director of Student Involvement’s determination of whether the
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reported incident has merit and should move forward in the process.
Step 3: Student Organization Charged
If merit is lacking, no charges are filed against the student organization and the information collected
during the investigation is kept on file with the Office of Community Standards. If the case has merit,
the Executive Director of Community Standards and Student Support and/or the Director of Student
Involvement notify the student organization’s president or chief officer and advisor, scheduling an
initial conversation to discuss the alleged violation and the subsequent process.
Whether the case is decided through a meeting with Student Involvement staff, an administrative
hearing, disciplinary board hearing, or other option, the group may be represented by no more than the
president/chief officer and two active student members from the student organization. Other
members of the student organization may be called as witnesses.
The group may also choose to have a hearing advisor, who may be the student organization’s
faculty/staff advisor, another member of the University community, or (in Title IX cases)
lawyer. Except in Title IX cases, the hearing advisor may not participate directly in any aspect of the
hearing, though they may confer with the students. The hearing advisor may not question any
individual, raise objections, or otherwise participate in the hearing. It is the students’ responsibility to
present all aspects of their own defense. Students must notify Community Standards staff in writing at
least 24 hours prior to a hearing with the name of their hearing advisor.
If criminal charges are pending, a student may seek the advice of legal counsel in preparing for the
meeting or hearing. When criminal charges are pending, a lawyer may be allowed attendance at the
meeting or hearing, serving as either an observer or the student organization’s hearing advisor. In an
observation role, the attorney is limited to advising the student organization about answering
questions that may be self-incriminating.
Step 4: Meeting or Hearing
Based on the investigation’s outcome, the Executive Director of Community Standards and Student
Support and Director of Student Involvement determine the student organization’s adjudication type:
Meeting with an Office of Student Involvement staff member, administrative hearing, disciplinary
board hearing, or other option.
Step 5: Sanction Process
When a student organization is found responsible, the Student Involvement staff member, hearing
officer, or disciplinary board consider the case’s facts and circumstances to determine appropriate
sanctions. Only at this point in the process do board members receive the student organization’s prior
conduct record, which is considered when sanctioning. Also. with disciplinary boards, both Community
Standards and Student Involvement leadership (or designees) advise the board members, should they
have questions about sanctioning.
Recommended sanctions may include (but are not limited to):
• Reprimand
• Service hours
• Educational activities
• Restitution (e.g., monetary compensation, replacement for property)
• Student organization probation/loss of privileges (e.g., suspension of student activity budget,
suspension of access to student organization web space, inability to reserve on- campus
rooms, inability to apply for SGA funding, suspension of office space, etc.)
• Student organization suspension/loss of recognition
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Step 6: Decision Shared
The Executive Director of Community Standards and/or Director of Student Involvement (or designees)
provide the student organization’s president/chief officer with the meeting or hearing’s outcome,
outlining findings of responsibility, sanctions, and the appeal process, if applicable.
If no appeal is made within five business days, the case is considered closed upon the completion of
the recommended sanctions. If the student organization appeals, the process moves to Step 7.
Step 7: Appeal
The president/chief officer, acting on behalf of the student organization, may appeal the meeting or
hearing outcome. Appeals can be filed based only on:
• Availability of new information,
• Procedural error, and/or
• Severity of sanction.
If the president/chief officer appeals the meeting or hearing’s finding, a written statement must be
submitted within five business days of the decision notification. On appeal, the burden of error rests
with the student organization. The appeal must state the reason, supporting facts, and recommended
way to correct the error.
Appeal consideration involves a file review by the appeal board, which may affirm, modify, or reverse
the case decision. All decisions are communicated in writing within 10 business days of an appeal’s
submission. All appeal board decisions are final.
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GENERAL BEHAVIOR POLICIES
The University has established the following categories of prohibited conduct and standards. These
policies are in place to ensure the safety and well-being of our community. While the Student Code of
Conduct aims to sufficiently detail inappropriate behaviors, it is not possible to account for every
possible circumstance. If at any time a student has questions about past or anticipated conduct, they
must seek advice from a staff or faculty member. All students are expected to conduct themselves in
accordance with standards of good citizenship. Any student found to have committed or to have
attempted to commit the following misconduct is subject to the hearing process and sanctions outlined
elsewhere in the Student Handbook.
Acceptable Use, Copyright and File Sharing Policies
Failing to follow acceptable standards of ethics and conduct in the use of computing resources,
including University equipment, software, and computer accounts. These policies apply to all computer
and communication hardware, software, and accounts owned by the University.
The University requires all students to follow all applicable laws governing copyright, licensing, and
intellectual property. This applies to printed, physical, and digital property. Students are expressly
prohibited from using the University’s networks or computing resources to access peer-to-peer sites
that permit unauthorized copying of copyrighted music, photographs, video, or other legally protected
materials. Such activities will be treated as violations of the Acceptable Use Policy and the Student
Code of Conduct, and violations may also be subject to civil and criminal liabilities.
A complete description of these policies can be found on the Consumer Information page. The full
copyright policy can also be found in Appendix D.
Advertising Policy
Campus-based University departments and offices, as well as all clubs and organizations that have
attained University recognition, have the right to advertise programs, events, and fundraising programs
according to Student Involvement regulations, including the requirement that each poster be stamped
by Student Involvement staff. With the exception of tabling, solicitation is not allowed. For specific
guidelines, contact the Office of Student Involvement.
Assault
Any physical contact without consent, or intentionally inflicting bodily harm upon any person or animal,
or taking reckless action that results in harm to any person or animal
Bias Incident
Negative behavior committed, in whole or in part, against a person or group based upon a real or
perceived affiliation with a protected class. Protected class is defined as persons who are protected
under state or federal civil rights laws, including laws that prohibit discrimination on the basis of race,
color, creed, ethnicity, sex, religion, national origin, citizenship, marital or parental status, disability
(including intellectual disability), age, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation,
pregnancy, veteran/military status, genetic information, or on any other legally prohibited basis.
Petty slights, minor annoyances, and isolated incidents (unless severe) of rude, uncivil, or non-collegial
behavior generally do not rise to the level of a policy violation, though may still be addressed with a
University official. Academic freedom provides significant space for individuals to express controversial
views, teach controversial subjects, and engage in controversial research. The offensiveness of a
particular singular expression, course content, subject of academic inquiry, or research topic, as
perceived by some, may not constitute a violation of this policy.
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Bullying
Deliberately hurtful and unwelcomed behavior intended to humiliate, mentally or physically intimidate
or injure and/or isolate or control an individual or group of individuals. It can occur as a single severe
and/or pervasive incident or repeatedly over a period of time, intimidating, impeding, and/or
interfering with work performance, academic status, or college life.
Bullying may be in the form of:
• Verbal/written bullying: Sarcasm, teasing, name-calling, insults, taunting, or other abusive,
threatening, derogatory, or offensive remarks
• Social/relational bullying: Intentionally hurting someone’s reputation or relationships,
including:
o Excluding or isolating someone on purpose
o Promoting rejection by others
o Spreading rumors
o Embarrassing someone in public
• Cyberbullying: Misappropriate use of any information and communications technology such
as the Internet, interactive and digital technologies, cell phones, etc., including, but not
limited to:
o Texting, emailing, or phoning unpleasant, threatening, or rude messages or posting
similar communication in discussions boards or the learning management system
o ‘Sexting’ inappropriate pictures
o Posting abusive or demeaning comments on social networking sites, in chat rooms, or
SNHUconnect
• Physical bullying/abuse: Hurting a person’s body or possessions, including, but not limited to:
o Hitting/kicking/pinching
o Spitting
o Tripping/pushing
o Taking or damaging someone’s personal property
Damage to Property
Damage or destruction of property owned or operated by the University, other students, faculty,
administration, staff, or guests.
Disorderly Conduct
Violent, abusive, indecent, profane, or inappropriate conduct or language. These behaviors are
unreasonable at the time of their occurrence and interrupt teaching, research, administration,
community living, hearing proceedings, and/or other activities. This includes but is not limited to
disruptive behavior in all University physical and online spaces, including on and off campus.
Disrupting Community Relations
Failure to abide by both University regulations as well as local, state, and federal laws. It is expected
that individuals and groups take reasonable preventative measures to ensure that all University
policies are followed. Disrupting community relations applies to behavior that occurs anywhere off-
campus, not just places immediately adjacent to campus proper. This may be any place in the world
that a behavioral incident occurs, as well as online.
Disruptive Gatherings
Hosting a disruptive gathering, whether on or off campus. Examples include but are not limited to:
Gatherings that result in a noise complaint, those that are disruptive to neighbors in any way, and
excessive attendance beyond what is safe and/or reasonable. All individuals must take reasonable
preventative measures to ensure that all attendees behave appropriately.
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Driving Policy
Failing to abide by state driving laws and rules while driving on University properties or off campus.
Drones
Possessing and/or operating a drone, unmanned aircraft, or unmanned aircraft system upon or in the
airspace of the University without the express written permission of the Director of Public Safety.
Endangering Acts or Behavior
Engaging in conduct that creates or causes a situation that may result in threat or harm to a person,
including themselves.
Failure to Comply
Not abiding by the direction of University officials (resident assistants, residence directors, public
safety officers, or any staff or faculty member) in the exercise of their duties, including both written and
verbal instruction as well as producing University identification when asked.
Fire Safety
Breaching campus fire safety, including, but not limited to, any of the following fire safety policies:
• Setting a fire (including charring, burning, lighting of papers, or any other act that could
cause a fire), causing or creating a false alarm, or other such intentional or reckless conduct
that causes harm or reasonable apprehension of harm to a person or property. Damage to
property will be prosecuted as arson whenever appropriate.
• Misusing, tampering with, or damaging fire safety equipment is prohibited, including:
o Removing, discharging, or damaging fire safety equipment,
o Suspending items from a ceiling, overhead wires, pipes, and sprinkler heads, or
o Covering smoke detectors, sprinkler heads, electrical outlets, or lights.
• Students will pay restitution for the costs associated with activating false fire alarms. Costs
for false alarms that cannot be attributed to a specific individual(s) will be assessed to the
residents of the floor or area where the alarm was registered. Anyone found discharging a
fire extinguisher for reasons other than a fire will face conduct action and will be held
responsible for the costs related to damage of property, clean up, and recharging the
affected fire extinguisher(s).
• Failure to evacuate University buildings during a fire alarm.
• Camp stoves, candles, incense and incense burners, propane torches, and lanterns are not
permitted in any residence.
Possessing anything in the nature of fireworks or explosives on any property owned or operated by the
University. Students may not ignite or detonate anything that could cause damage by fire, explosion, or
similar means to persons or property.
Fraud, Lying, or Misleading
Lying or fraudulent misrepresentation regarding any transaction with the University or an outside
entity, whether oral or written. This includes filing a malicious or frivolous complaint or CARE
Team/Risk Assessment Team referral.
Gambling or Betting
Playing, or participating in, games of chance (i.e., online poker, blackjack, etc.) or participating in
betting, which includes, but is not limited to, wagering on University athletic teams.
Harassment or Discrimination
Discrimination is defined as actions that deny an individual the benefits of educational activities,
employment or any other benefits or entitlements which would otherwise be available to them as a
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member of the University community on the basis of a protected characteristic or the belief that they
are a member of a protected class and include unwelcomed verbal and/or physical conduct – on the
basis of race, gender identity or expression, religion, ethnic origin, age, veteran or marital status,
sexual orientation or disability – directed toward an individual with the purpose or effect of humiliating
and/or intimidating an individual or impeding and/or interfering with work performance, academic
status, or college life. The University considers acts of harassment or discrimination as very serious.
Any retaliation against an individual filing a complaint or for cooperating in an investigation of such a
complaint is similarly prohibited and will not be tolerated.
Hazing
Any action or activity that does not contribute to the positive development of a person; inflicting or
intending to cause mental stress, bodily harm, or anxieties that demean, degrade, or disgrace any
person. Hazing may be perceived by a reasonable person as likely to cause physical or psychological
injury to a person as a condition of initiation into, admission into, continued membership in, or
association with any organization or group. All forms of hazing on the part of any student/student
group or team are prohibited. The express or implied consent of the complainant is not a defense.
Students and student groups are also prohibited from knowingly participating in and/or failing to
report hazing to University authorities.
Implied Consent
Awareness of, or in the presence of a violation of University policy and remaining in the presence of
and/or failing to take reasonable actions to stop the violation, communicates consent to the violation
and makes the witness a party in the violation. Additionally, encouraging or assisting anyone in
violating any University policy (e.g., hosting someone who has been restricted from residence areas).
Improper Use of Bicycles, Skates, and Skateboards
Riding bicycles, skates, skateboards, and other recreational equipment in any University
building. Students must park all bicycles at the bicycle racks. Some small, non-motorized recreational
equipment may also be stored in out-of-the-way areas of residences.
Inappropriate Use of Technology
Using a device to make an audio or video recording of any person without their prior knowledge or
consent, when such a recording is likely to cause injury or distress. Students are also responsible for
any online communication or representation in social media, including engaging in phishing and
spamming schemes. Pictures tagged by others or messages posted on one’s social media account can
be used in investigations by the University, local, state, and federal authorities. The institution does
not actively search these online communities for information; however, any behavior that violates the
Student Code of Conduct that is brought to the attention of a University official will be investigated.
Indecent Exposure
Any inappropriate public exposure, including, but not limited to, inappropriate urination or defecation.
Misuse of Keys
Using or possessing a University key without proper authorization. A student may never, under any
circumstance, duplicate a University key. Residents are issued one room key and may not give that key
to another person. Failure to return a key when leaving an assigned space will result in a core change
and the corresponding charge will be applied to their account.
Misuse of University Documents
Forgery, alteration, or misuse of any University document. Unauthorized access to, disclosure of, or
use of any University document, record, or identification including, but not limited to, electronic
software, data and records is forbidden.
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Misuse of University ID Cards
Lending a University ID card to anyone or not carrying/possessing a University ID card whenever on
campus. Students are expected to carry SNHU identification and be prepared to verify their identity
when requested. All students are expected to represent themselves truthfully in all interactions with
the University and must never possess another community member’s SNHU identification.
Mutual Combat
Fighting in which both parties have contributed to the situation by verbal and/or physical action. It
differs from assault as there is no clear aggressor.
Pattern of Misconduct
Involvement in multiple violations of community standards indicates an inability or unwillingness to
adapt to the University’s expectations.
Possession of Weapons and Explosives
Possessing, displaying, using or distributing a firearm or any other weapon or explosive on property
owned by or under control of the University. A weapon is defined as an instrument of offensive or
defensive combat or something to fight with and is generally any device capable or thought to be
capable of projecting a ball, pellet, arrow, bullet, missile, shell, or other material. This includes but
is not limited to, firearms, bb guns, ammunition, bows, arrows, swords, rockets, sling shots, air guns,
paintball guns, personal knives (two-inch blade or greater), electroshock weapons (i.e., Tasers), guns
that shoot foam arrows/pellets (i.e., Nerf guns), and martial arts devices. When found, these items are
confiscated and not returned. Other items may also be considered a weapon, based on the intent of
use.
Retaliation
Retaliation, including intimidation, threats, coercion, or discrimination against any individual who has
made a good faith complaint, or who has participated in the hearing process is a violation of University
policy. Any community member engaging in retaliation is subject to conduct action, up to and including
dismissal from the University.
Smoking
Smoking is prohibited in classrooms, residence halls, work areas, and public areas as defined below.
Smoking includes all nicotine- and/or tobacco-derived or containing products, or non-tobacco or non-
nicotine-derived or -containing products, including, but not limited to, cigarettes (clove, bidis, kreteks),
electronic cigarettes, vaporizers, cigars, cigarillos, and hookah-smoked products.
In addition, smoking is prohibited within 25 feet from any University building entrance and on all
athletic-related venues. Work areas are defined as any enclosed location, permanent or temporary,
where faculty, staff, and students perform work-related duties in the course of their employment.
Public areas are defined as conference rooms, dining hall, hallways, administrative and academic
buildings, and bathrooms.
Theft or Misappropriation
Attempted or actual theft, possession, seizing, or concealing of unowned property. This includes
receiving property with knowledge that it has been stolen. Sale, possession, or misappropriation of any
property, including University property, without the owner’s permission is forbidden. This policy also
applies to stealing time in employment. Any objects that students find must be turned into the Office
of Public Safety.
Threat
Any intentional and unprivileged act that places a person in fear of harm that would be painful,
injurious, insulting, or offensive. Petty slights, minor annoyances, and isolated incidents (unless
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severe) of rude, uncivil, or non-collegial behavior will generally not rise to the level of a policy violation.
Unauthorized Access or Forced Entry
Unauthorized access or entry to, into, or onto any University premises, building, room, structure, or
facility, or property owned or operated by the University or of private individuals is prohibited. To enter
the residence room of another student, one must be granted access or invited by a resident of the
room.
Unauthorized Use of SNHU Name and Logo
Unauthorized use of the Southern New Hampshire University name, seal, mascot, or logo on any article
of clothing, poster, or book in any manner of imprint. The University’s name, seal, and logo can imply
University approval of the sale, use, or message of the group or item on which its name or logo appear.
As the name, seal, and logo are exclusive property of the University, any organization or member of the
community that wishes to use them must seek prior written permission of the Vice President of
Marketing and Student Recruitment.
Unlawful Demonstrations
Participating in an on-campus or off-campus demonstration, riot, or activity that disrupts the normal
operations of the University and/or infringes on the rights of others. Leading or inciting others to
disrupt scheduled and/or normal activities is also forbidden. All community members must conduct
dialogues with dignity and courtesy. Specifically, demonstrations and expressions of dissent on
University property will not:
• Deny or infringe upon the rights of, or result in harassment of, other students, faculty, or guests
of the University community,
• Disrupt or interfere (by volume, number of participants, banners, or distributed information) with
educational or University mission and goals,
• Obstruct or restrict pedestrian movement, use of offices, any facilities, or vehicular traffic,
• Endanger the safety of any person,
• Result in the defacement or destruction of property owned or leased by the University.
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RESIDENCE LIFE POLICIES
Any student found to have committed or to have attempted to commit the following misconduct is
subject to the hearing process and sanctions outlined elsewhere in the Student Handbook.
Appliances
For safety reasons, University regulations prohibit the possession or use of some appliances even
though they are regularly found in private homes. Examples of items not allowed are space heaters,
power tools, hot pots, hot plates, toaster ovens, coffee makers, other small cooking appliances,
microwave ovens, air conditioners, immersion heaters, and halogen lamps. This list is a guide and is
not all-inclusive. The University reserves the final decision on any item determined to be inappropriate
for residence halls. Residents living in an apartment may have coffee makers with automatic shutoff
features, and microwaves. Whenever using any appliance, follow common sense and exercise
reasonable precautions.
The following rules apply to the use of electrical appliances:
• The appliance must be UL approved.
• Devices that overload or extend the normal capacity of outlets are prohibited. UL approved
power strips with separate circuit breakers are allowed.
• Extension cords must be grounded.
Open flames are not permitted in residence halls. Camp stoves, candles, incense and incense burners,
propane torches and lanterns are not permitted in any residence.
Personal refrigerators (maximum size of 3.5 cubic feet) must be located where they do not interfere
with doorways. Micro fridge units contracted through the University-approved vendor are the only
approved microwaves allowed in residence hall rooms. All other microwave units are not allowed and
will be removed if found in residence.
Bathrooms/Showers
Multi-occupancy bathrooms are designated as female, male, or gender inclusive. All personal items
(shampoo, blow dryers, curling irons, etc.) should be kept in a resident’s room when not in use; if items
are left in the bathroom SNHU is not responsible for them.
Courtesy Hours
Courtesy hours are maintained at all times, so as not to disturb neighboring residents, including those
living on other floors and in other buildings. Exceeding a reasonable level of quiet at any point in the
day is prohibited. Residents are expected to anticipate and respect the needs of other students,
specifically the need to live in an environment conducive to sleep, study, and individual wellness.
Grills
Personal cooking grills (charcoal, gas, or propane) are not permitted.
Guest Policy
Guests of resident students include non-students, commuter students, residents of other halls, and
non-occupants of the room who reside within the same building.
Behavior of guests is the responsibility of the host student. A host can be any student an unregistered
guest is accompanying or a student who formally registers a guest. Students may not create or allow a
situation where their guests violate University policy or guidelines. If a host is found responsible for
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failure to control their guests on campus, the level of sanctioning for the host may correspond to the
appropriate level of the violations the guest committed. Hosts are required to register and accompany
their guests around campus at all times and to monitor their behavior. Hosts are also responsible for
any fines or charges incurred by their guest. If a guest is registered to stay on campus during a time
when their host is in class, the guest must remain in the host’s residence during class times. Each
resident student has the right to their own room; however, the privilege of entertaining guests is a
negotiable agreement between roommates.
Resident students are permitted to register guests to stay with them on campus. Residents are limited
to registering guests for five nights within a 30-day period. However, guests may not stay longer than
three consecutive nights per stay. Students are limited to no more than two guests at a time. Alumni
and commuter students staying overnight must be registered as guests. Approval to stay longer than
the above times must be granted in advance by the area’s residence director. Students may not
register guests for other students.
Guests are subject to all rules and regulations that apply to students. Disorderly or intoxicated guests
will be ordered off campus and may be taken off campus by a cab (at the guest’s expense) or by a
sober friend. If an intoxicated guest has a vehicle on campus, they will be allowed 24 hours to return
for the vehicle. If a guest was mistakenly allowed on campus (either host lost privilege or the guest is
barred from University property), they can be ordered to leave upon discovery on campus. Students
found in violation of the guest policy will lose the privilege of hosting guests.
Hall Sports and Activities
Athletic activities are not permitted in residence, unless sanctioned by staff.
Health and Safety Regulations
Students are expected to abide by all Health and Safety regulations as noted in the Residence Life
Handbook.
Misuse of Residence
Residents are responsible for all violations that occur in their residence. The use of a residence by
people who are not assigned there is prohibited. This includes apartments, entrances, hallways,
lounges, and other common areas.
Motorized Vehicles
Motorized vehicles (including, but not limited to, motorcycles, mopeds, hover boards, self-balancing
scooter boards, two-wheeled scooters, Segway carts, etc.) may not be operated, charged, or stored
inside any residence hall.
Occupancy
Double-occupancy residence hall rooms are limited to six people, including residents. Non-traditional
housing rooms (quads) are limited to eight people including residents. Suites and apartments are
limited to 20 people including residents. Occupancy is limited for safety reasons.
Pets
Animals are prohibited in or around the residence areas, with the exception of fish, service animals,
and emotional support animals. Service animals and emotional support animals must be approved
and registered with the Campus Accessibility Center. A resident approved to keep an animal on
campus will be responsible for following emotional support animal guidelines and cleaning/repair
charges to their residence (e.g., furniture/carpet cleaning).
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Fish are permitted with the following specifications:
• One tank (not to exceed 20 gallons) per living unit
• Resident is responsible for care and maintenance over vacations and breaks
• If fish are left in a resident’s room unattended and are found deceased, the staff may dispose
of the fish
• Resident is responsible for any associated cleaning/repair charges to their residence.
Projectiles
Throwing or causing to be projected any object or substance that has potential for damaging or
defacing University or private property or causing personal injury or disruption is prohibited. Dropping
any item or causing any item to be dropped from a window, is a violation of this policy. The
owner/occupant of a residence is responsible for anything that leaves their window.
Quiet Hours / 24-Hour Quiet Hours
Speaking and/or playing radios, televisions, and stereos beyond a low-level and/or outside a closed
room is prohibited. Out of consideration for other students, residents must keep noise to a minimum
and not play speakers, stereos, musical instruments, or other devices out of windows or in common
areas. If residents gather in halls or common areas, they must observe quiet hours, as other students
may be studying or sleeping.
In addition to 24-hour courtesy hours, the University enforces the following quiet hours in its residence
areas:
• Sunday through Thursday: 10 pm to 10 am
• Friday and Saturday: 1 am to 10 am
Toward the end of term, 24-hour quiet hours are in effect. Residence Life staff will post the start date
of 24-hour quiet hours on a term basis. Special quiet hours may also be set during graduate programs’
final exams as the need warrants.
Residence Damage Responsibility
Damage to an assigned room, suite, apartment, entrance hallway, lounge, or other common areas, or
to the furniture, fixtures, equipment, and effects they contain is not permitted. Residents are liable for
the cost of any damage to their assigned residence, including University-owned contents.
When damage occurs in a common area, such as a hallway, bathroom, or stairwell, staff will try to
identify the responsible person(s). If that is not possible and the cost is deemed billable, the cost of
the damage will be divided among the residents of the area. To ensure proper materials, safety, and
quality of workmanship, the University’s maintenance staff will complete all repairs. Repairs that
students make will not reduce the charges.
Room Furnishings/Lounge
The University provides an adequate amount of furniture for each living area. Moving University
furniture from its assigned space, disassembling room furnishings, storing furniture elsewhere, or
taking common area furniture for a resident’s own use is not permitted. The cost of missing furniture is
assessed to the residents of the area. Waterbeds of any kind are not allowed in any University
residence.
Unsanitary Conditions
Hall staff conduct occasional health and safety inspections. If a room’s condition may be deemed
unhealthy or unsanitary, residents will be required to address this concern and hall staff will reassess
the situation at a later date. Abnormal and/or unreasonable use of the facilities and/or property will be
charged to the individual student or group of students residing in the area.
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Windows
Students are not to remove screens or safety mechanisms from windows. Throwing items out of
windows and climbing out of windows is prohibited. Additionally, students may not enter or exit any
building through windows, nor pass items through windows.
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SOCIAL MEDIA GUIDELINES
As stated in the student code of conduct, students enrolling in the institution assume an obligation to
conduct themselves in a manner compatible with the University’s function as an educational
institution, including on their own social media sites. This document is meant to guide students to
make smart decisions about what is and what is not appropriate to represent themselves as students
and future professionals on social media.
1) Use Social Media for Good
• When used properly, social media can be a powerful tool to communicate, collaborate,
network and share creative content.
• You have the freedom to express yourself how you choose. Such freedom comes with
potential consequences if that expression hurts others or is not aligned with the values of
the University or future employers.
2) Professionalism
• Do not post, including comments or ‘likes’, anything that you do not want a future employer
to read. Ask yourself – does this pass the ‘publicity test’: If the comment were published
how would that make you feel?
• Be aware that employers and universities may conduct internet searches for applicants. If
your social media presence does not reflect the values they are looking for, you could lose
valuable opportunities.
• All students, regardless of their chosen field, are held to a certain standard behavior
regarding their presentation of themselves within the community, including on social media
sites. However, those entering certain fields, such as healthcare, where ethical behavior is
considered an expectation, will have increased scrutiny on their behavior.
3) Safety/Privacy Tips
• Nothing on social media should be considered private. Likes, comments, posts, or instant
messages can be shared with others.
• Review your privacy settings and limit who can see what you post and your personal
information.
• Be aware that limiting your privacy settings has its limitations because you cannot control
the actions of others.
• Never post personal identifying information.
4) Be Aware of your Digital Footprint
• Make it a habit to know what the internet has to say about you. Use internet search engines
to see what other people see if they search for you.
• If in doubt about posting something, allow time to reflect before posting. The internet lives
forever, even if posts are deleted.
• The University is seeing an increase in 3
rd.
parties reporting social media posts that may
violate the University’s Code of Conduct.
The Student Code of Conduct may be applied to behavior conducted online via email, social media, or
any other electronic medium. The University will not regularly search for conduct violations that occur
online but may take action if such information is brought to the attention of University officials and the
behavior otherwise violates the student code of conduct.
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ALCOHOL AND OTHER DRUG POLICIES
The University does not condone illegal and/or irresponsible use of alcohol and other drugs. Students
violating University policy, including those listed below and elsewhere in the Student Handbook, may
be subject to a hearing. Any student found to have committed or to have attempted to commit the
following misconduct is subject to the hearing process and sanctions outlined elsewhere in the
Student Handbook.
Distribution of Tobacco Products
Per federal law, no one may distribute to and/or purchase tobacco products for those under 21.
Drinking Games or Acts
Participation in games or activities intended to increase the rate of consumption of alcoholic
beverages. Drinking games (including those played with non-alcoholic beverages) or other activities
involving rapid and/or excessive alcohol consumption are not allowed.
Excessive Amounts of Alcohol or Common Source
Excessive amounts of alcohol are defined as supplies of alcohol that are too much for the number of
students of legal drinking age present (not to exceed the occupancy allowed or amounts which are
distributed indiscriminately). People of legal drinking age transporting unopened alcohol between
residences cannot exceed 12 standard drinks. A standard drink is defined as a 12 oz. beer, a 4 oz.
glass of wine, 1½ oz. of 80-proof alcohol or 1 oz. of 100-proof alcohol. Students may not transport
alcohol in any type of cooler. The determination of what is excessive will be made during the hearing
process. Examples of typical common sources of alcohol are kegs, beer balls, and “punch.” Common
source containers, whether full or empty, are not permitted in University residence areas. For this
reason, beer and wine making or products for this purpose are also prohibited.
Hosting that Leads to an Alcohol or Other Drug Violation
Hosting that leads to an alcohol or other drug violation in any residential area includes hosting that
leads to minors possessing or consuming alcohol, excessive amounts of alcohol, drinking games,
students present who are intoxicated, occupancy violation, etc.
Intoxication/High Risk Consumption
Drinking alcohol in a high-risk manner or to the point of intoxication or knowingly serving another
person to the point of intoxication, regardless of age. Behavioral symptoms frequently associated with
excessive consumption or intoxication may include:
• Impaired motor skills,
• Difficulty communicating,
• Vomiting,
• Glazed/red eyes,
• Smell of alcohol on one’s breath,
• Verbal and/or physical aggressiveness,
• Destructive and/or disruptive behavior, and
• Engaging in any behavior that may endanger oneself or others.
The determination of high-risk drinking or an intoxicated state may be based upon physical observation
and need not rely on any mechanical, electrical, or chemical sobriety instrument.
Manufacture or Distribution of Controlled Substance
The manufacture or distribution of illegal drugs or controlled substances.
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Possession of Alcohol in a Prohibited Area
Alcohol and alcoholic beverage containers, whether full or empty, in:
• Residences where all of the assigned residents are under the legal drinking age,
• Residence hall common areas (including hallways, stairwells, lounges, bathrooms, building
entries, and lobbies) regardless of the person’s age.
Possession of a Controlled Substance
Possessing illegal drugs or controlled substances, including the possession of prescription drugs for
other than their intended medical purposes or their possession by a person to whom the medication
was not prescribed. As the University follows federal drug laws, New Hampshire or neighboring state’s
drug laws do not impact campus policy or enforcement.
Possession of Alcohol in an Open Container
Open containers of alcohol while in a public place or in the compartment of any motor vehicle. A public
place is an area to which the general public can gain access, including stairwells, hallways, lobbies,
patios, any public building, and anywhere outside. In addition, a beverage found out of the original
container (e.g., in a cup or water bottle) that looks and/or smells like alcohol is assumed to be an
alcoholic beverage. The determination that alcohol is present will be made by the individual reporting
the incident. The factory seal of the beverage’s original container must be intact to qualify as a closed
container.
Possession of Alcohol Paraphernalia
Possession of paraphernalia, including funnels and gaming tables, which supports drinking games or
activities intended to increase the rate of consumption of alcoholic beverages; such items will be
confiscated by University officials.
Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
The possession of drug paraphernalia, including bongs, hookah pipes, bowls, scales, grinders, pipes,
dugouts, roach clips, rigs, or any other items typically associated with the use of controlled substances.
Evidence of drug use involving the paraphernalia is not necessary to be charged with possession of the
item.
Serving Underage Person(s)
Students of legal drinking age who provide alcohol to minors are considered to be serving underage
person(s). Students of legal drinking age may possess or consume alcohol in their personal residence,
as may their legal drinking age guests. The legal drinking age host must be present when any legal
drinking age guest possesses or consumes alcohol. Each person of legal drinking age is limited to one
open standard drink (a 12 oz. beer, a 4 oz. glass of wine, 1½ oz. of 80-proof alcohol or 1 oz. of 100-
proof alcohol).
Underage Possession and/or Underage Consumption
The acquisition or attempted acquisition, possession (including internal possession), transportation, or
consumption of alcohol by anyone under 21 years of age.
Under the Influence of a Controlled Substance/Illegal Drug
Being under the influence of an illegal or controlled substance at any time. Indications that an
individual is under the influence of an illegal or controlled substance may include, but is not limited to:
• Bloodshot eyes,
• Strong odor on one’s clothing or breath,
• Excessive mood swings,
• Excited behavior,
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• Irrational or erratic behavior that lacks a logical explanation.
The determination that an individual is under the influence of a controlled substance or illegal drug
may be made based upon physical observation and evaluation of behavior by a University authority.
Use of Controlled Substance or Evidence Supporting Use
The use or evidence of the use of illegal drugs or controlled substances. The use of prescription drugs
for other than their intended medical purposes or their possession by a person to whom the
medication was not prescribed is not permitted. The University official reporting the incident may
determine the presence of evidence that would support conducting a search. Evidence of marijuana
use may include, but is not limited to, paraphernalia, smell, smoke, seeds, or residue.
Conduct Response to Alcohol and Other Drug Violations
For online students: The Office of Community Standards in conjunction with senior leadership,
determines the appropriate response for all alcohol- and drug-related violations.
For campus-based students: Due to the importance of addressing drug and alcohol use, the University
developed a specific set of responses for these types of violations. A student found responsible for
violating an alcohol or other drug policy will be held accountable for their own actions and for allowing
or encouraging violations by their guests. The University provides a two-part response for students in
violation of the alcohol or other drug policy: A change in conduct standing and an educational
response.
The alcohol or other drug policy chart outlines recommended sanctions, however specific
circumstances may require alternate or more severe responses. Both the hearing officer and the
Wellness Center reserve the right to create and/or tailor an appropriate response that accounts for
prior conduct history and evaluations completed by the Wellness Center.
Educational Responses
Once an alcohol or other drug violation has been adjudicated in the hearing process, portions of the
educational response encourage students to reflect and examine their decision-making in order to
make more informed future choices. Some of the education include:
• Alcohol Education
An alcohol abuse prevention program with information about alcohol and related risks,
embedded within a broader frame of lifestyle behaviors.
• Marijuana Education
A program that focuses on the effects that marijuana has on the brain and other organs and
focuses on the social effects marijuana has on a person.
• BASICS (Brief Alcohol Screening and Intervention for College Students)
A harm-reduction preventative intervention designed for college students who drink in high-risk
ways and have experienced negative consequences from their use of alcohol. The program
uses motivational interviewing and is conducted in two to three individual sessions. It is an
intervention strategy that helps a student look at their high-risk behaviors and work toward
lowering their risk level focuses on the social effects alcohol has on a person.
• CASICS (Cannabis Screening and Intervention for College Students)
A harm-reduction preventative intervention designed for college students, aimed to reduce risky
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behaviors and harmful consequences of marijuana abuse. The program uses motivational
interviewing and is conducted in two to three individual sessions. It is an intervention strategy
that helps a student look at their high-risk behaviors and work toward lowering their risk level.
• Alcohol or Other Drug Assessment (Internal or External to University) Recommended as needed.
Students are expected to pay any costs associated with an off-campus assessment. In some instances,
these fees may be discounted or covered by a student’s medical insurance.
Minimum Recommended Sanctions for Alcohol and Other Drug Violations
CONDUCT
STANDING
EDUCATIONAL
RESPONSE
EDUCATIONAL
REFLECTION
FIRST
VIOLATION
•
Warning
•
Reprimand
•
Parental Notification
•
Alcohol Education /
Marijuana
Education
•
Follow-up Meeting
with Hearing
Officer
SECOND
VIOLATION
•
Probation
•
Parental Notification
•
BASICS (alcohol) /
CASICS
(marijuana)
•
Follow-up Meeting
with Hearing
Officer
THIRD
VIOLATION
•
Extended Probation
•
Suspension
in Abeyance
•
Suspension Alternative
•
Suspension
•
Parental Notification
•
Alcohol or Other
Drug Assessment
(by Wellness Center or
external clinician)
•
Follow-up Meeting
with Hearing
Officer
FOURTH
VIOLATION
•
Suspension
•
Dismissal
•
Parental Notification
•
Alcohol or Other
Drug Assessment
(by external clinician)
• Sanctions may vary based on conduct history, severity of incident, and length of time between
violations.
• The following chart is provided as general guidance only. Each case will be evaluated on its
individualized facts and circumstances. The University reserves the right to depart from or decline
to follow this matrix at any time when determining conduct standing and educational responses.
Responsible Penmen Policy
Southern New Hampshire University's primary concern is the health and safety of its students.
The University is aware that students may not seek medical attention for themselves in alcohol- and
drug-related emergencies, fearing conduct standing changes (e.g., warning, probation, suspension,
dismissal). Likewise, students and student organizations may not seek medical attention for others in
such emergencies, worrying about disciplinary consequences for themselves, the person in need of
medical attention, or the organization hosting the event where the problem occurs.
By implementing the Responsible Penmen Policy, the University encourages students and student
organizations to seek medical attention for themselves or others who experience an alcohol- or drug-
related emergency. The Responsible Penmen Policy allows the University to waive a conduct standing
change when that student or student organization reports an alcohol- or drug-related emergency with
the intention of getting medical or safety assistance for anyone in need of care.
Students who find themselves in a situation where another person requires emergency care should
immediately seek assistance from a University staff member (reporting details needed by emergency
response personnel), contact the Department of Public Safety at 603-645-9700 when on-campus,
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and/or call 911 when off-campus.
Scope of Protection
While a student or student organization who acts as a Responsible Penmen will NOT see their conduct
standing changed, the student or student organization will still attend a hearing to discuss the
incident. The student or student organization may be mandated to participate in appropriate
educational programs, as well as be referred to a substance abuse specialist for assessment,
counseling, and/or possible referral for treatment.
The Responsible Penmen Policy applies only to those students and student organizations who
proactively seek medical assistance in connection with an alcohol- or drug-related emergency; this
policy does not apply to individuals experiencing an alcohol or drug-related medical emergency who are
found by University employees.
Because the University takes sexual misconduct very seriously, the Responsible Penmen Policy
especially applies to sexual misconduct complainants who have also engaged in alcohol or drug
use. The University encourages all people to report sexual misconduct without fear of punitive action
from the student conduct process.
The Responsible Penmen Policy does not shield a student's role as a respondent in alleged sexual
misconduct violations, verbal or physical abuse or harassment, hazing, distribution of controlled
substances, property damage, or actions that result in the student's arrest. Students who commit
other University or criminal violations (i.e., vandalism, disorderly conduct, possession of false
identification, sale to minors, etc.) associated with the incident may face a change to their conduct
standing for those violations.
If the student or student organization fails to attend the hearing or educational meetings, or does not
complete the required sanctions, the student or student organization will see their conduct standing
changed as a result of the alcohol- or drug-related violation; additionally, the student or student
organization may be charged with the Failure to Comply violation and face an additional conduct
hearing.
Other Requirements/Conditions
Abuse of the Responsible Penmen Policy (as defined by Community Standards staff) may force the
University to limit its repeated use and assign a change to a student or student organization’s conduct
standing as a result.
Students or student organizations hosting or sponsoring an event or students attending a University-
sponsored event have a duty to maintain a safe environment for their members and guests. Please
refer to the guidelines outlined in the Alcohol Use Policy in the Student Handbook.
Regardless of the applicability of the Responsible Penmen Policy, University staff will follow their
alcohol- or drug-related emergency response procedures, including notifying a student’s emergency
contact to protect the health and safety of the student.
Important Policy Limitations
Though the Responsible Penmen Policy may apply within the University, it does not prevent action by
local and state authorities when the situation warrants outside involvement. The University does not
have the authority to dispose of and/or grant legal immunity for controlled substances and will contact
local police whenever necessary.
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The University does not condone and will not tolerate sexual misconduct, sexual harassment, or sexual
violence of any kind. The University prohibits rape, domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault,
stalking, and cyber-stalking, as well as discrimination or harassment based on sex. For the full Sexual
Misconduct Policy, please see Appendix B.
Sexual Misconduct
To promote a safe and secure campus environment and prevent acts of sexual misconduct from
occurring, the University engages in ongoing prevention and awareness education programs. All
incoming students and employees are required to participate in these programs, and all members of
the University community are encouraged to participate throughout the year in ongoing campaigns and
trainings focused on the prevention of sexual misconduct on campus.
Sexual Harassment
The University has adopted the following definition of Sexual Harassment to address the unique
environment of an academic community, which consists not only of employer and employees, but of
students as well. Acts of Sexual Harassment can be committed by any person upon any other person,
regardless of the sex, sexual orientation, and/or gender identity of those involved.
• Sexual Harassment
As an umbrella category, includes the offenses of Sexual Harassment, sexual assault, domestic
violence, dating violence, and stalking, and is defined as conduct on the basis of sex that
satisfies one or more of the following:
o An employee of the University conditioning the provision of an aid, benefit, or service of
the University on an individual’s participation in unwelcome sexual conduct (often
referred to as “quid pro quo”).
o Unwelcome conduct determined by a reasonable person to be so severe, pervasive, and
objectively offensive that it effectively denies a person equal access to the University’s
education program or activity; or sexual assault as defined below.
• Sex Offenses, Forcible
Any sexual act directed against another person, without the Consent of the victim, including
instances in which the victim is incapable of giving Consent.
• Rape
Penetration, no matter how slight, of the vagina or anus with any body part or object, or oral
penetration by a sex organ of another person, without the Consent of the victim. Attempts or
assaults to commit rape are also included; however, statutory rape and incest are excluded
(each defined separately below).
• Forcible Sodomy
Oral or anal sexual intercourse with another person, forcibly, and/or against that person’s will
(non-consensually), or not forcibly or against the person’s will in instances in which the
Complainant is incapable of giving Consent because of age or because of temporary or
permanent mental or physical incapacity.
• Sexual Assault with an Object
To use an object or instrument to unlawfully penetrate, however slightly, the genital or anal
UNIVERSITY / TITLE IX SEXUAL MISCONDUCT
POLICIES
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opening of the body of another person, forcibly and/or against that person’s will or not forcibly
or against the person’s will in instances where the victim is incapable of giving Consent because
of his/her their youth or because of his/her their temporary or permanent mental or physical
incapacity.
• Forcible Fondling
The touching of the private body parts of another person for the purpose of sexual gratification,
forcibly and/or against that person’s will or not forcibly or against the person’s will in instances
where the victim is incapable of giving Consent because of their youth or because of his/her
their temporary or permanent mental or physical incapacity.
• Sex Offenses, Non-forcible
o Incest
Non-forcible sexual intercourse, between persons who are related to each other, within
the degrees wherein marriage is prohibited by law.
o Statutory Rape
Non-forcible sexual intercourse, with a person who is under the statutory age of Consent.
• Dating Violence
Defined as: violence committed by a person—
o who is or has been in a social relationship of a romantic or intimate nature with the
victim; and
o where the existence of such a relationship shall be determined based on a consideration
of the following factors:
▪ The length of the relationship;
▪ The type of relationship;
▪ The frequency of interaction between the persons involved in the relationship.
• Domestic Violence
Violence, on the basis of sex, committed by a current or former spouse or intimate partner of
the Complainant, by a person with whom the Complainant shares a child in common, or by a
person who is cohabitating with, or has cohabitated with, the Complainant as a spouse or
intimate partner, or by a person similarly situated to a spouse of the Complainant under the
domestic or family violence laws of New Hampshire, or by any other person against an adult or
youth Complainant who is protected from that person’s acts under the domestic or family
violence laws of New Hampshire.
• Stalking
Defined as: engaging in a course of conduct, on the basis of sex, directed at a specific person,
that
o would cause a reasonable person to fear for the person’s safety, or
o the safety of others; or
o suffer substantial emotional distress.
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Circumstances necessitating placement on mandatory leave
Southern New Hampshire University offers a range of resources, supports, and accommodations to
address the needs of our students. On occasion, when a student’s immediate needs demand
resources or knowledge beyond what can reasonably be accommodated within the University
community, a student may be placed on mandatory leave.
Such a scenario may present:
• where a student is unable or unwilling to carry out substantial self-care obligations,
• where current knowledge, including medical knowledge and/or the best available objective
evidence, indicates that a student’s presence or behavior poses a significant risk to the health or
safety of others,
• where, due to a known or apparent medical condition, a student’s behavior severely disrupts the
University environment or demonstrates (not based on mere speculation, stereotypes, or
generalizations) the inability to consistently meet the University’s Community Standards, or
• where a student poses an actual risk to their own safety not based on mere speculation,
stereotypes, or generalizations about individuals with disabilities, and the student does not want
to take a leave voluntarily.
The University will conduct an individualized assessment to determine the availability and
effectiveness of reasonable accommodations that would permit the student's continued presence in
the University environment prior to placing a student on leave.
The student will have an opportunity to provide information relevant to the determination, including
records and input from the student’s medical providers, for consideration. Where circumstances
necessitating placement on mandatory leave are medically related, the student may also be asked to
provide consent for the University to receive information from the student’s healthcare provider
regarding information relevant to the consideration of a leave. If the student refuses or fails to timely
provide consent, the University decision-maker may proceed with the assessment based on available
information.
A mandated leave will be effective immediately and demand a student's immediate removal from the
University environment for a period of time determined by the University. Student Affairs and/or
Student Experience leadership team member or a designee may need to inform appropriate parties of
the student’s placement on leave if necessary to protect the health or safety of the student or other
individuals. A mandatory leave is not a disciplinary measure and also does not preclude the possibility
of a student’s conduct being addressed under another applicable University policy.
Conditions requisite to placement on mandatory leave Mandated leaves are only considered after the
University has engaged in an individualized assessment and considered reasonable accommodations
as an alternative. Nothing in this Policy shall limit the ability of the University to take immediate
administrative action to protect personal safety or the essential operations of the University. An
individualized safety assessment may include the review any applicable medical records. However,
such measures will not be construed as in any way requisite to a student’s placement on leave. In
certain urgent or exceptional circumstances, the University may place a student on temporary
mandatory leave without meeting these conditions. In such instances, the student’s leave will be
reviewed by the Student Affairs and/or Student Experience leadership team member, or an identified
designee as soon as reasonably possible.
MANDATORY LEAVE POLICY
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Conditions requisite to return from mandatory leave
Conditions requisite to return from mandatory leave will be based upon the individualized assessment
of a student’s circumstances. A Student Affairs and/or Student Experience leadership team member
will communicate the means by which the student may seek to return to the University and the
documentation, if any, that will be required to support the student's return. Students placed on a
mandatory leave are eligible to apply for reinstatement at any time. Where warranted, a student’s
return may be conditioned upon stipulations deemed necessary to protect the University community or
support the student's successful return to the University environment. Where leave was initiated as an
effect of a student’s medical condition, careful consideration will be given to the recommendation of
the student’s medical or behavioral healthcare provider. A student placed on mandatory leave is
required to initiate the return process at least thirty days prior to the start date of the term of a
planned return by initiating a written request to return from leave to the Dean of Students or an
identified designee.
Appeals
A student may appeal a placement on leave or the conditions requisite to return. A student's exclusive
means of appeal is by submitting a written request for reconsideration to the Vice President of Student
Affairs or Student Experience or an identified designee. A student may submit supporting
documentation with an appeal. All appeals must be submitted within ten business days unless
extended by the VPSA due to extenuating circumstances.
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ACADEMIC INTEGRITY PROCESS
The Academic Integrity Policy applies to all students enrolled in courses online, in person, in
competency-based programs, and professional development courses. As an academic community
committed to fostering an ethical and intellectual environment, Southern New Hampshire University
holds its students to these standards of academic integrity; the University expects that all aspects of a
student’s educational path are conducted with the highest degree of integrity, accountability for one’s
own work, and respect for the intellectual property of others. Violations of these academic standards,
such as cheating and plagiarism, will result in sanctions. This policy identifies the behaviors and sets
the guidelines that members of the SNHU academic community are expected to follow. The Academic
Integrity Policy follows the sanctioning protocol outlined in the Student Code of Conduct.
Standards of Academic Integrity
As an academic community committed to fostering an ethical and intellectual environment, Southern
New Hampshire University holds its students to these standards of academic integrity; the University
expects that all aspects of a student’s educational path are conducted with the highest degree of
integrity, accountability for one’s own work, and respect for the intellectual property of others.
Violations of these academic standards, such as cheating and plagiarism, will result in sanctions. This
policy identifies the behaviors and sets the guidelines that members of the SNHU academic community
are expected to follow.
Academic Integrity Expectations
All members of the University community have a responsibility to acquaint themselves with the
expectations for academic integrity noted within the policy. Faculty and staff are asked to join in
educating students about academic integrity, while students are expected to understand and follow
policy, engaging in ethical academic practices.
A student remains responsible for the academic integrity of work submitted in courses at Southern
New Hampshire University even if the student has received a final grade. Ignorance of these standards
will not be considered a valid excuse or defense.
Academic Integrity Process for Online Courses
The process for violations applies to students enrolled in online courses. The policy covers all academic
conduct, including submitted drafts; final coursework; research; comprehensive examinations; and the
preparation of theses or dissertations. Responses to violations of the academic integrity policy are
initiated by the course instructor or any individual or committee with responsibility for a class, project,
or activity. Other University employees, should they suspect a violation of the policy, are expected to
bring the suspected dishonesty to the attention of the responsible instructor, individual, or committee.
• Filing of Student Conduct & Academic Integrity Concern Form
When an instructor becomes aware of a possible academic integrity violation, they should
contact the student as soon as possible by email to make the student aware of the concern and
file a Student Conduct & Academic Integrity Concern Form with the Office of Community
Standards.
• Discretion of Instructor
If the instructor determines that the violation was an unintended mistake rather than a
purposeful act of dishonesty, the instructor may use the occasion to help educate the student
about standards of academic integrity. For example, the instructor might require the student to
correct the original assignment or submit a substitute assignment.
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• Form Submission Requirement
If the instructor decides to penalize the student by assigning a lower or failing grade, the
instructor must complete and submit the Student Conduct & Academic Integrity Concern Form.
Submitting this form serves to notify the Community Standards Manager of the charge of
violation of academic integrity and provides the University a means for checking for repeat
offenses.
• Community Standards Review
The Community Standards Manager assigned to the case will investigate the allegation. Based
on the evidence, the manager will determine whether the allegations were founded or
unfounded and, if necessary, will impose the appropriate sanctions. If sanctions are imposed,
the student and the instructor will be notified by email.
Academic Integrity Process for Campus Courses
The following applies to all campus-based students and students enrolled in in-person courses at
instructional centers.
Provisions
This policy applies to all academic conduct in the broadest sense, including submitted drafts, final
coursework, research, comprehensive examinations, and the preparation of theses or dissertations.
The faculty member is responsible for initiating the procedures in this policy. The term “faculty
member” includes any individual or board with responsibility for a class, project, or activity. Other
University employees, such as graduate or teaching assistants, are expected to bring any suspected
cases of academic dishonesty to the attention of the responsible faculty member, who will proceed
with this policy’s procedures.
Process for Violation of Policy
The process, including the resolution of any violation of academic integrity, initially rests within the
school in which the course in question resides. For first‐time, less egregious violations, the process
primarily involves a discussion between the faculty member and student.
• When a faculty member learns of a possible violation of academic integrity, the instructor
must file an incident report via the SNHU CARE homepage. Submitting this incident report
serves as a record in the student’s file and provides a means for tracking any repeat
violations.
• The faculty member must discuss the issue with the appropriate department chair or
equivalent and associate dean. The dean’s office may elevate the matter to the academic
conduct board based on the complexity or seriousness of the allegation.
• When the matter is understood to be a first‐time, less egregious violation, the associate
dean sends notification to the student (no later than five business days after the faculty
member became aware of the suspected occurrence), notifying the student of the academic
integrity violation and scheduling an appointment between the student and reporting faculty
member to discuss responsibility for the charges. The email provides the student with the
academic integrity policy and serves as a reminder of the student’s rights and
responsibilities.
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During the instructor’s discussion with the student:
• If the faculty member determines that the violation was an unintentional mistake rather
than a purposeful act of dishonesty, the instructor may use the occasion to educate the
student about standards of academic integrity. For example, the faculty member may
require the student to correct the original assignment or submit a substitute assignment.
• If the faculty member determines that the violation was an intentional act of dishonesty, the
instructor may decide to assign a lower or failing grade for the assignment, assign a failing
grade for the course, etc. (See sanctioning guide in this policy.)
• In both circumstances, the faculty member must inform the associate dean of the meeting’s
outcome. In a follow‐up email to the student, the associate dean shares the responsibility of
any assigned sanctions, and the student’s right to appeal. If the student does not appeal the
charge within five business days, the faculty member’s decision is deemed final.
Appeal
If the student initiates an appeal, the associate dean will review the appeal within 10 business days.
An appeal must demonstrate one or more of the following bases for appeal and explain in detail the
support for each basis:
• New Information is now available that was not available at the time of the violation. This
information may have been sufficient to alter the original decision. This new evidence will be
considered only if it is clear that the evidence could not have been known at the time of the
original violation.
• A procedural error occurred on the faculty member’s part and was not addressed in
accordance with procedures prescribed by the disciplinary process. This procedural error
impaired a student’s right to a fair opportunity to be heard.
• The severity of the sanction is not appropriate for the violation(s) committed, given the past
disciplinary history of the student.
The associate dean may uphold the original decision, modify the outcome, or overturn the decision
entirely. Once the associate dean has made a decision, the student will not be able to appeal again.
Academic Conduct Board Process
For first‐time, more egregious violations, or for repeated cases of academic dishonesty, the process
primarily involves the academic conduct board, which reviews the reports of academic dishonesty,
determines responsibility for any charges, and decides appropriate sanctions.
• When a faculty member learns of a possible violation of academic integrity, the instructor
must file an incident report via the SNHU CARE homepage. Submitting this incident report
serves as a record in the student’s file and provides a means for tracking any repeat
violations.
• The faculty member must discuss the issue with the appropriate department chair or
equivalent and associate dean. The dean’s office has the discretion to elevate the matter to
the academic conduct board based on the complexity or seriousness of the allegation.
• When the matter is understood to be a first‐time, more egregious violation or a repeated
case of academic dishonesty, the associate dean notifies the director of community
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standards, who convenes a hearing with the academic conduct board. The director of
community standards notifies the student of the alleged violations no later than five
business days after the faculty member becomes aware of the suspected occurrence. The
email also provides the student with the academic integrity policy and serves as a reminder
of the student’s rights and responsibilities.
• The academic conduct board may comprise three to six disinterested voting members,
representing the University community and always including faculty, staff, and students. The
director of community standards serves as a non‐voting facilitator of the hearing process,
recording the proceedings, and maintaining the case’s private records.
• The student is invited to attend the hearing to provide an explanation or response to the
charge of academic dishonesty. If the student does not attend, the board makes a decision
in the student’s absence.
• The board reviews the documentation of academic dishonesty supplied by the charging
faculty member, questions both the faculty member and student, and decides student
responsibility based upon a preponderance of evidence.
• If the board finds the student responsible for the violation, the board changes the student’s
disciplinary standing and imposes academic conduct sanctions where appropriate. While
the board may recommend academic sanctions to the faculty member, the board may not
assign the student’s academic sanction, as that is solely done by the charging faculty
member. In all cases, a student’s prior disciplinary history (both academic and behavioral)
and the length of time between violations are taken into consideration when selecting
appropriate sanctions. Students are no longer in good standing at the level of University
probation. All violations are cumulative, and a student’s disciplinary standing rarely goes
backwards in severity.
• After the hearing concludes, the faculty member may choose to assign an academic
sanction, either accepting the academic conduct board’s recommendation or deciding their
own. If the faculty member assigns an academic sanction, they request a meeting with the
student to discuss the rationale for the sanction. The faculty member may not change the
student’s already‐assigned conduct sanction and disciplinary standing.
• The director of community standards shares the hearing’s outcome with the student,
including any responsibility findings, assigned sanctions from the board and faculty member
(if applicable), and the student’s right to appeal. If the student does not appeal the outcome
within five business days, the board and/or faculty member’s decisions are deemed final.
Appeal
If the student initiates an appeal, the appeal board (for appeals relating to process, new information,
and/or severity of sanctions involving disciplinary standing and conduct sanctions) and/or associate
dean (for appeals relating to academic sanctions) review the appeal within 10 business days. An
appeal must demonstrate one or more of the following bases for appeal and explain in detail the
support for each basis:
• New information is now available that was not available at the time of the violation. This
information may have been sufficient to alter the original decision. This new evidence will be
considered only if it is clear that the evidence could not have been known at the time of the
original violation.
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• A procedural error occurred on the faculty member’s part and was not addressed in
accordance with procedures prescribed by the disciplinary process. This procedural error
impaired a student’s right to a fair opportunity to be heard.
• The severity of the sanction is not appropriate for the violation(s) committed, given the past
disciplinary history of the student.
The appeal board and/or associate dean may uphold the original decision, modify the outcome, or
overturn the decision entirely. Once a decision has been made, the student will not be able to appeal
again.
Sanctions for Academic Misconduct
The University response represents a progression in which punitive measures increase as the severity
or frequency of a behavior increases. A student’s disciplinary standing is active for a length of time (a
semester, year, or more) depending on the nature of the incident.
For violations that relate to academic courses or documentation related to academic work, the
following levels guide the conduct process. The faculty member, associate dean, and director of
community standards tentatively determine levels prior to the hearing and then affirm them prior to
sanctioning, if the student is found responsible. The tentatively determined level may change based on
the information presented.
• More than one of the sanctions listed may be imposed for any violation.
• When assigning probation or suspension, the summer semester does not count toward the
number of semesters assigned. Students remain on probation or suspension during any
University breaks (e.g., summer, winter, spring break) that fall during an assigned sanction.
Academic Hearing Levels and Sanctions
Level 1: Prohibited academic conduct that occurs because of a student’s inexperience or lack of
knowledge regarding the principles of academic integrity. These involve a small proportion (e.g., <
20%) of the total course work, are not extensive, and/or occur on a minor assignment.
Academic Sanction (academic conduct board will recommend faculty assign one of the following):
• “0” on the assignment
• Make‐up assignment (with student receiving only 50% of the earned credit)
Conduct Sanction (academic conduct board will assign one or more of the following):
• Community service
• Other sanctions to make amends for the academic misconduct (e.g., stress management
seminar, skills development seminar, alternative research paper)
Disciplinary Standing (academic conduct board will assign one of the following):
• One semester of University probation
Level 2: Prohibited academic conduct characterized by dishonesty of a more serious nature or that
affects a more significant proportion (e.g., 20<50%) of the course work.
Academic Sanction (academic conduct board will recommend faculty assign one of the following):
• “0” on the assignment or examination (grade must be used in calculation of final grade [i.e.,
this grade cannot be dropped, if applicable])
• One letter‐grade reduction in the final grade (e.g., B+ to C+, B to C, B‐ to C‐)
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Conduct Sanction (academic conduct board will assign one or more of the following):
• Community service
• Other sanctions to make amends for the academic misconduct (e.g., stress management
seminar, skills development seminar, alternative research paper)
Disciplinary Standing (academic conduct board will assign one of the following):
• One semester or more of University probation
Level 3: Prohibited academic conduct includes dishonesty that affects a major (e.g., > or = 50%) or
essential portion of work done to meet course or program requirements and/or involves
premeditation, OR those where the respondent has previously been found responsible for a Level 1 or
Level 2 violation (i.e., second offense). Such cases will automatically go to an academic conduct
hearing.
Academic Sanction (academic conduct board will recommend faculty assign one of the following):
• D in the course (this would be the highest grade that the student can achieve in the course);
or an F, if the course is a pass/fail course
• F in the course
• Failure of program requirement
Conduct Sanction (academic conduct board will assign one or more of the following):
• Community service
• Other sanctions to make amends for the misconduct (e.g., stress management seminar,
skills development seminar, alternative research paper)
Disciplinary Standing (academic conduct board will assign one of the following):
• One semester or more of University suspension
• University probation until 30 days prior to graduation from the University or until the student
separates from the University
Level 4: Prohibited academic conduct represents the most serious breaches of academic integrity and
will automatically go to an academic conduct hearing.
Academic Sanction (academic conduct board will recommend faculty assign one of the following):
• F in the course
• Failure of program requirement
Disciplinary Standing (academic conduct board will assign the following):
• Dismissal from the University
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STUDENT SUPPORT RESOURCES
Accessibility Services
Students experiencing long- and short-term physical, medical, mental health, and learning needs may
request academic accommodations by registering with the appropriate accessibility center.
• Campus-based students may contact the Campus Accessibility Center (CAC) at cac@snhu.edu,
603.644.3118
• Online and Competency-based students may contact the Online Accessibility Center (OAC) at
[email protected], 866.305.9430
For further information regarding accessibility support and services, please visit the Disability &
Accessibility Services webpage.
CARE Team
For campus-based students, the CARE Team provides a proactive and multidisciplinary approach to the
prevention, identification, assessment, and intervention of situations that threaten the safety of
individuals and/or the campus community. The CARE Team provides consultation to the University
about how to intervene regarding students who are at risk of harming themselves or others, or who are
at risk of not remaining at the University without support.
The CARE Team suggests referrals to appropriate offices and can arrange for psychological
assessments, if necessary. The CARE Team members consult with offices to:
• Coordinate a response to the situation, and
• Determine what to communicate to others affected by the situation.
Information sharing is determined on a need-to-know basis following an assessment of potential risk to
the health and safety of others, what information is pertinent to support the student, and is in
compliance with any privacy and confidentiality requirements. The CARE Team members review open
cases to determine if students may need follow-up contact.
In deciding whether and how to notify family, roommates, instructors, and others about a student’s
threatening behaviors, the team complies with all applicable confidentiality and privacy rules.
The CARE Team can be reached at CAREteam@snhu.edu, or by visiting the Student Affairs Office.
HelpU
The HelpU program provides online students with free 24/7 access to confidential counseling case
management, short term counseling and digital tools to help address life’s challenges, including
depression or anxiety, academic or career stress, substance abuse, relationships, and cultural identity
issues. To reach HelpU, call or text 800.327.2251, visit https://bhsonline.personaladvantage.com (
organization ID: SNHU) or download the app from Google Play or the App Store by searching for
BHSApp ( organization ID: SNHU).
Risk Assessment Team
The Risk Assessment Team is composed of a group of SNHU staff members who provide support and
assistance in the recognition, reporting, and response to situations where online students are
displaying seriously disruptive, concerning, or threatening behaviors that may indicate danger to self or
others.
Risk Assessment Team members document, review, and assess the level of risk associated with active
and non-active threats. When appropriate, members of the Risk Assessment Team will make decisions
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on actions to be taken and will foster connections across the University to identify any patterns or
escalating behaviors that can be a risk to the campus community.
Campus Wellness Center
For Campus-based students, the Wellness Center
provides integrated medical and mental health service. In-house services are provided at no additional
cost to students and any external referrals are managed on an individualized basis
As a college health and counseling center, all student information is maintained in accordance with all
pertinent confidentiality and privacy rules. As such, student health information cannot be shared
without their consent.
The Wellness Center can be reached at 603.645.9679 or [email protected]. For the After Hours On-
Call Counselor, students can call the Wellness Center main number and follow the prompts (option 3)
to be connected to our afterhours service.
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HONOR SOCIETIES
Honor Societies for Online Students
Alpha Sigma Lambda
In 1946 Dr. Rollin B. Posey, Dean of University College at Northwestern University, realized that
nontraditional students could benefit from the same recognition of their academic achievements as
traditional students, giving them motivation to reach their long-term educational or career goals.
Dr. Posey founded, Alpha Sigma Lambda to honor the dedicated undergraduate students who balance
life, school, work and families while maintaining high scholastic standards. Visit the online chapter
page in the SNHUconnect community.
Membership criteria
• Must be an online undergraduate student in a course-based program
• Must have earned a minimum of 24 credit hours at SNHU
• Must have a minimum 3.2 GPA on a 4.0 scale
• Top 20% of eligible students will receive an invitation on a predetermined date each year
Delta Mu Delta
The SNHU honor society for business students is the Gamma Nu Chapter of Delta Mu Delta, an
international honorary society in business administration. Its purpose is to promote and recognize
training for business and to reward scholastic achievement in business subjects. Members are
honored by a gold or gold/purple cord adorning their academic regalia. Visit the online chapter page in
the SNHUconnect community.
Membership criteria for undergraduate students
• Must be an online student in a course-based program
• Must be of good character, enrolled in a business program accredited through ACBSP
• Must have completed half of the required credits for your bachelor's degree
• Must have a minimum 3.25 GPA on a 4.0 scale
• Must have completed at least 24 credit hours at SNHU
• Top 20% of eligible students will receive an invitation on a predetermined date each year
Membership criteria for graduate students
• Must be an online student in a course-based program
• Must be of good character, enrolled in a business program accredited through ACBSP
• Must have a minimum 3.6 GPA on a 4.0 scale
• Must have completed at least 24 credit hours at SNHU
• Top 20% of eligible students will receive an invitation on a predetermined date each year
National Society of Leadership and Success
Sigma Alpha Pi is the online SNHU chapter of the National Society of Leadership and Success, the
nation’s largest leadership honor society. Students are selected by SNHU for membership based on
either academic standing or leadership potential. Students must complete the online induction steps in
order to receive this honorable distinction and their induction regalia. Visit the online chapter page in
the SNHUconnect Community.
Membership criteria for undergraduate students
• Must be an online student in a course-based program
• Must have completed at least 9 credit hours at SNHU
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• Must have a minimum 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale
Membership criteria for graduate students
• Must be an online student in a course-based program
• Must have completed at least nine 9 credit hours at SNHU
• Must have a minimum 3.5 GPA on a 4.0 scale Required steps to complete induction
To be recognized as a fully inducted member, students must complete the following induction steps. All
steps may be completed online:
• Complete the NSLS orientation
• Watch the leadership training video
• Complete speaker broadcasts
• Participate in Success Networking Teams (SNTs) meetings
Pi Lambda Theta
Founded in 1910, Pi Lambda Theta (PLT) is the most selective honor society for educators. Pi Lambda
Theta recognizes the academic achievement and outstanding disposition of graduating education
learners. The accomplishments of exemplary education learners are honored through this induction.
Candidates’ development of knowledge, skills, professionalism and leadership are promoted and
supported through their membership in Pi Lambda Theta, a member of Phi Delta Kappa International.
Membership criteria
• Must be an online graduate student in a course-based program
• Must be identified by School of Education faculty as satisfying the eligibility requirements
• Must have demonstrated exceptional disposition through the education program
• Must have a minimum 3.9 GPA on a 4.0 scale
Sigma Tau Delta, Alpha Phi Beta Chapter
Sigma Tau Delta is the international English honor society. SNHU established a chapter, Alpha Phi
Beta, in the spring of 2015 for online learners. The honor society provides eligible English Language
and Literature, and Creative Writing majors and minors with opportunities to attend and present at
conferences, publish undergraduate work and gain valuable networking opportunities. Visit the online
chapter page in the SNHUconnect Community.
Membership criteria for undergraduate students
• Must be an online student in a course-based program
• Must be enrolled in an English degree program
• Must have completed at least 45 credit hours at SNHU
• Must have a minimum 3.3 GPA on a 4.0 scale
Membership criteria for graduate students
• Must be an online student in a course-based program
• Must be enrolled in an English degree program
• Must have a minimum 3.3 GPA on a 4.0 scale
For questions about Online Honor Societies, please email aca[email protected] or call
603.931.3559.
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Honor Societies for Campus-Based Students
Alpha Chi
Alpha Chi, Epsilon Chapter, is the National Honor Society for liberal arts majors and education majors
at Southern New Hampshire University. Alpha Chi recognizes high scholastic achievement, service, and
character. It emphasizes the needs of students by providing opportunities for academic scholarships,
participation in national and regional conferences, and a higher initial grade in Civil Service jobs.
Membership in Alpha Chi is open to campus liberal arts majors who have completed at least one half of
the work required for a baccalaureate degree, who rank in the top 10 percent of their class, and who
have earned a cumulative grade point average of 3.85 or above.
Membership criteria
• Minimum 60 credits completed
• Minimum 30 institutional credits
• School of Arts, Science, and Education in Bachelor of Arts major
• Minimum cumulative GPA 3.85
Alpha Phi Sigma (Nu Iota Chapter)
In the spring of 2012, Southern New Hampshire University chartered a chapter of Alpha Phi Sigma, the
National Criminal Justice Honor Society. Alpha Phi Sigma was founded in 1942 and since then has
grown to more than 360 campuses across the nation. Alpha Phi Sigma is a certified member of the
Association of College Honor Societies and affiliated with The Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences.
Alpha Phi Sigma’s mission is to promote analytical thinking, rigorous scholarship, and lifelong learning;
to keep abreast of the advances in scientific research; to elevate the ethical standards of the criminal
justice professions; and to sustain in the public mind the benefit and necessity of education and
professional training.
Southern New Hampshire University’s Alpha Phi Sigma Nu Iota chapter grants membership to
undergraduate campus students and professionals of sound scholarship and character who support
this mission. SNHU students are required to have a cumulative and major GPA of 3.2 or higher in the
following degree areas: AS, JST, BS.JST, and the following concentrations: PLE, CCR, THS, LLP. Campus
students are required to participate in one or more face-to-face activities as part of their membership.
Membership is for life. Students honor and promote academic excellence, service, leadership, and
unity.
Membership criteria
• Minimum cumulative GPA 3.2
• AS.JST, BS.JST, or BS.JST with the following concentrations: PLE, CCR, THS, LLP
• Minimum 45 completed credits
Chi Alpha Sigma
The Chi Alpha Sigma National Honor Society was formed to provide outstanding student-athletes with
an opportunity to become connected within a fraternal association that aligns their educational and
athletic successes for a lifetime.
The induction into this honor society represents the dedication and commitment demonstrated both in
the classroom and on the court, field, track or arena. Inductees into Chi Alpha Sigma must be a
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student-athlete from an accredited four-year institution that has achieved a minimum cumulate grade-
point average of 3.4 or higher. This honor is a culmination of years of practice and sacrifice.
Membership criteria
• Campus undergraduate and graduate students
• Member of athletic team
• 60+ credits
• Minimum 3.4 cumulative GPA
Delta Mu Delta
The Southern New Hampshire University Honor Society for Business is the Gamma Nu Chapter of Delta
Mu Delta, a national honorary society in business administration. Its purpose is to promote and
recognize training for business and to reward scholastic achievement in business subjects.
Membership is extended to campus business students of good character who have completed more
than half of their program of study and reside in the top 20 percent of their respective class.
Membership criteria
• Minimum 60 total earned credits (minimum 24 institutional credits) undergraduate students
• Minimum 15 total earned credits graduate students
• Minimum 19 total earned credits doctoral
• Minimum 3.25 cumulative GPA for undergraduates
• Minimum 3.60 cumulative GPA for graduate and doctoral students
• School of Business students only
Pi Lambda Theta
Founded in 1910, Pi Lambda Theta (PLT) is the most selective honor society for educators. Pi Lambda
Theta recognizes the academic achievement and outstanding disposition of graduating education
students.
The accomplishments of exemplary education students are honored through this induction.
Candidates’ development of knowledge, skills, professionalism, and leadership are promoted and
supported through their membership in Pi Lambda Theta, a member of Phi Delta Kappa International.
At Southern New Hampshire University, there is a direct honors program through which Pi Lambda
Theta extends membership to graduating campus students who have been identified by School of Arts,
Science, and Education faculty as having satisfied the eligibility requirements. Graduate students in
master’s programs must have achieved a GPA of 3.9 or above. Undergraduate students must have
earned a 3.5 or above. All candidates must have demonstrated exceptional disposition through their
education program.
Membership criteria
• For Undergraduate:
o Minimum 3.5 cumulative GPA
o Program in Education
• For Graduate:
o Minimum 3.9 cumulative GPA
o Program in Education
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Psi Chi
Psi Chi is the national honor society in psychology, founded for the purpose of encouraging,
stimulating, and maintaining excellence in scholarship and advancing the science of psychology.
Psi Chi serves two major goals. The first goal is to provide academic recognition to its inductees for
excellence in their scholarship within the area of psychology. The second goal is to nurture the spark of
that accomplishment by offering a climate congenial to its creative development.
Membership in Psi Chi is open to psychology majors who have completed three semesters of University
coursework, who have completed nine semester hours of psychology, and who have earned a
psychology GPA within the top third of their class.
Membership criteria
• Campus student enrolled as a primary or secondary major in a psychology program or a program
psychological in nature
• Minimum of 45 earned credits (including institutional and transfer)
• Completed at least 9 credits in psychology courses (including institutional and transfer)
• Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.5
• Minimum 3.5GPA average for psychology courses
Pi Mu Epsilon
Pi Mu Epsilon, NH Beta Chapter, is the national mathematics honor society at Southern New
Hampshire University. The purpose of Pi Mu Epsilon is the promotion and recognition of mathematical
scholarship among students in postsecondary institutions. It aims to do this by electing members on
an honorary basis according to their proficiency in mathematics and by engaging in activities designed
to promote the mathematical and scholarly development of its members.
Candidates are selected based upon their outstanding scholastic records and their exceptional
performance in mathematics. Membership in Pi Mu Epsilon is open to undergraduate students who
have completed at least the equivalent of two semesters of calculus and two additional courses in
mathematics, at or above the calculus level, and who have maintained
a grade point average of at least 3.0, both for all courses that lead to fulfillment of requirements for a
major in the mathematical sciences, and also for all courses that lead to fulfillment of requirements for
an undergraduate degree. To be chosen a member of Pi Mu Epsilon is a very high honor.
Membership criteria
• Undergraduate campus students
• Minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA
• Successfully completed MAT 275 or MAT 275H
• Successfully completed 2 of the following MAT courses: 299, 300, 310, 325, 330, 350, 360,
360H, 361, 362, 362H, 370, 415, 431, 433, 434, 450, 450H, 470, 480, 480H, 490, 495
Sigma Gamma Tau
Sigma Gamma Tau is the honor society for aerospace engineering, it seeks to recognize and honor
those individuals in the field of aeronautics and astronautics who have, through scholarship, integrity,
and outstanding achievement, been a credit to their profession. The society seeks to foster a high
standard of ethics and professional practice and create a spirit of loyalty and fellowship, particularly
among students of aerospace engineering.
Membership in Sigma Gamma Tau is open to undergraduate students enrolled in an accredited
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aerospace curriculum who have completed at least three semesters of work toward the bachelor’s
degree and have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0.
Membership criteria
• Undergraduate campus students in accredited Aerospace/Aeronautical engineering program
• Minimum cumulative GPA 3.0
Sigma Tau Delta
Sigma Tau Delta is the International English Honors Society. SNHU established its own chapter, Alpha
Pi Psi, in the fall of 2008. The Honors Society provides eligible campus English Language and
Literature, Creative Writing, and English Education undergraduate majors, undergraduate minors, and
graduate students with critical academic and professional opportunities such as attending and
presenting at conferences, publishing research, taking field trips, and creating valuable networking
opportunities.
Sigma Tau Delta undergraduate inductees are majoring or minoring in English Language and
Literature, Creative Writing, or English Education; have completed at least three semesters at SNHU;
have completed more than two literature courses beyond the General Education requirements; and
have maintained a minimum 3.3 GPA. Graduate inductees are enrolled in a graduate program in
English at SNHU, have completed at least six semester graduate hours at SNHU, and have maintained
a minimum
3.3 GPA.
Membership criteria
• Undergraduate students with English major or minor
• Completed credits undergraduate - minimum 45 credits
• Literature courses:
o Undergraduate - minimum 6 credits in literature courses
o Graduate – minimum 18 credits in literature courses
• Minimum 3.3 cumulative GPA
Order of Omega
Order of Omega is a Greek Honor Society; members are selected from the highest achieving, upper-
class, campus fraternity or sorority members at Southern New Hampshire University. The Order of
Omega was founded in 1959 and has chapters throughout North America. The Phi Omega chapter was
chartered at Southern New Hampshire University in 2009 and has since inducted hundreds of
members.
Order of Omega is a Greek leadership honor society for members of Fraternity & Sorority organizations.
Order of Omega recognizes upperclassmen who have exemplified high standards in the areas of
scholarship, leadership, involvement within their respective organization, within the Inter-Greek
Council, and within the campus and local community.
Membership criteria
• Minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA undergraduate and graduate
• Minimum of 60 earned credits for undergraduate students
• Current membership in good standing with the Inter-Greek Council and their respective
fraternity or sorority
For questions about Campus Honor Societies, please email campusacadhonorsociety@snhu.edu
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APPENDIX A: FERPA
Student Rights Under FERPA
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords students certain rights with respect to
their education records. These rights include:
(1) The right to inspect and review the student’s education records within 45 days of the day the
University receives a request for access.
A student should submit to the University registrar, dean, head of the academic department, or other
appropriate official, a written request that identifies the record(s) the student wishes 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.
(2) The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the student believes
are inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy rights under FERPA.
A student who wishes to ask the University to amend a record should write the University official
responsible for the record, clearly identify the part of the record the student wants changed and specify
why it should be changed. If the University decides not to amend the record as requested, the
University will notify the student in writing of the decision and the student’s 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 provide written consent before the University discloses personally
identifiable information from the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA
authorizes disclosure without consent.
The University discloses education records without a student’s prior written consent under the FERPA
exception for disclosure 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 and health staff); a person or company with
whom the University has contracted as its agent to provide a service instead of using University
employees or officials (such as an attorney, auditor, or collection agent); a person serving on the Board
of Trustees; or a student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance
committee, or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks.
The University forwards education records to other agencies or institutions that have requested the
records and in which the student seeks or intends to enroll or is already enrolled as long as the
disclosure is for purposes related to the students’ enrollment or transfer.
A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record
in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibilities for the University.
(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.
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The name and address of the Office that administers FERPA is: Family Policy Compliance Office
U.S. Department of Education 400 Maryland Avenue, SW Washington, DC 20202-5901
SNHU Directory Information
In compliance with FERPA, Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) does not disclose personally
identifiable information contained in student education records, except as authorized by law. SNHU
may disclose appropriately designated Directory Information without a student’s consent, unless the
student has advised SNHU to the contrary in accordance with established procedures.
SNHU has designated the following information as directory information:
• Student’s name
• Address(es)
• Telephone listing(s)
• Electronic mail address
• Photograph(s)
• Fields of study (major(s), minor(s), etc.)
• Dates of attendance/Enrollment status
• Anticipated program completion date
• Class level
• Degrees, honors, and awards received
• Weight and height of members of athletic teams
• Participation in officially recognized activities and sports
• The most recent educational agency or institution attended
If you do not want SNHU to disclose directory information from your education records without your
prior written consent, you must notify the University in writing. This may be done at any time by
submitting an Authorization to Prevent or Resume Disclosure of Directory Information to the Office of
the University Registrar by fax 603-629-4647 or by email to re[email protected]. The primary purpose
of Directory Information is to allow the University to confirm attendance to prospective employers and
other third parties, and to include this type of information from your education records in certain
University publications. Examples include: a playbill, showing your role in a drama production, the
annual yearbook, Dean’s List, President’s List, recognition lists, Commencement Ceremony Program,
and sports activity sheets/team rosters, showing weight and height of team members.
Directory information, which is information that is generally not considered harmful or an invasion of
privacy if released, can also be disclosed to outside organizations without prior written consent.
Outside organizations include, but are not limited to, companies that manufacture class rings or
publish yearbooks. Disclosures of directory information will be limited to specific parties for specific
purposes or both.
Solomon Amendment & FERPA
Solomon Amendment is a federal law that allows military recruiters to access the following “student
recruiting” information on students aged 17 and older at the time of the request:
• First Name
• Last Name
• Student Class Level (e.g., Freshman, Sophomore)
• Academic Program (e.g., BS in Accounting)
• Age
• Phone – Cell
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• Phone – Home
• SNHU Email Address
• Preferred Address
Under the Solomon Amendment, information will be released for military recruitment purposes only.
The military recruiters must be from one of the 12 eligible units within the five branches of the service:
• Army: Army, Army Reserve, Army National Guard
• Navy: Navy, Navy Reserve
• Marine Corps: Marine Corps, Marine Corps Reserve
• Air Force: Air Force, Air Force Reserve, Air Force National Guard
• Coast Guard: Coast Guard, Coast Guard Reserve
The Department of Education has determined that the Solomon Amendment supersedes most
elements of FERPA. An institution is therefore obligated to release data included in the list, which may
or may not match FERPA directory information list. However, if a student has submitted
an Authorization to Prevent Disclosure of Directory Information to the Office of the University of
Registrar to prevent the release of his/her directory information, then no information from the
student's education record will be released under the Solomon Amendment.
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APPENDIX B: SEXUAL MISCONDUCT POLICY
Introduction
Southern New Hampshire University (“the University”) is committed to providing a workplace and
educational environment that are free from Sexual Misconduct, including unlawful Sexual Harassment,
or associated Retaliation, on the basis of sex. Accordingly, the University adopts this policy and the
associated procedures for a prompt and equitable grievance process for claims of Sexual Misconduct
and Sexual Harassment, including sexual assault, stalking, Sexual Exploitation, dating violence, or
domestic violence, all as further defined in this Policy. The University encourages prompt reporting of
these matters to allow the University to quickly respond, address allegations, and offer immediate
support to the affected community members, as set forth in this Policy.
Reports of Sexual Harassment and any inquiries concerning this Policy should be directed to the
University’s Title IX Coordinator, whose contact information is as follows:
Kristin Scaduto
Title IX Coordinator/Equity Officer 105 Student Center
2500 North River Road Manchester, NH 03106
603.644.3188
k.scaduto@snhu.edu titleix@snhu.edu
Further information regarding reporting is found in Section 6 of this Policy.
Definitions
For purposes of this Policy, these words have the following definitions:
• Advisor
Advisor means a person chosen by a Party or appointed by the University to accompany the
Party to meetings related to the Resolution process, to advise the Party on that process, and to
conduct cross-examination for the Party at the hearing, if any.
• Complainant
Complainant means an individual who is alleged to be the victim of conduct that could
constitute Sexual Misconduct, Sexual Harassment, or Retaliation for engaging in a protected
activity.
• Confidential Professional
Confidential Professional means an employee who has a legally recognized professional duty of
confidentiality and is not a Required Reporter of Notice of Sexual Misconduct, Sexual
Harassment, or Retaliation on the basis of sex (irrespective of Clery Act Campus Security
Authority status).
• Consent:
See Section 3.5 of this Policy.
• Day
Day means a business Day when Southern New Hampshire University is in normal operation. It
does not include weekends or holidays.
• Education Program or Activity
Education Program or Activity means locations, events, or circumstances where the University
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exercises substantial control over both the Respondent and the context in which the Sexual
Harassment or discrimination occurs and also includes any building owned or controlled by a
student organization that is officially recognized by Southern New Hampshire University.
• Final Determination
Final Determination means a binding conclusion by a Decision-Maker by a preponderance of
the evidence whether the alleged conduct did or did not violate policy.
• Finding
Finding means a conclusion by a preponderance of the evidence that conduct alleged did or did
not occur.
• Formal Complaint
Formal Complaint means a document filed by a Complainant or signed by the Title IX
Coordinator alleging Sexual Harassment against a Respondent and requesting that the
University investigate the allegation.
• Formal Grievance Process
Formal Grievance Process means the method of formal resolution designated by this Policy by
which the University addresses conduct prohibited by this Policy in compliance with the legal
requirements of 34 CFR Part 106.45.
• Grievance Process Pool
Grievance Process Pool includes any Investigators, Decision-Makers, appeal officers, and
Advisors who may perform any or all of these roles (though not at the same time or with respect
to the same case). At the discretion of the Title IX Coordinator, certain members of the Pool may
be restricted to certain roles based on availability and individual training levels.
• Decision-Maker or Panel
Decision-Maker or Panel refers to those who have decision-making and Sanctioning authority
within the University’s Formal Grievance processes.
• Investigator
Investigator means the person or persons tasked by the University with gathering facts about an
alleged violation of this Policy, assessing relevance and credibility, synthesizing the evidence,
and compiling this information into an investigation report and file of directly related evidence.
• Notice
Notice means that an employee, student, or third-party informs the Title IX Coordinator or other
Official with Authority of the alleged occurrence of harassing, discriminatory, and/or retaliatory
conduct, or of violations of this Policy. When used in lower-case format in this Policy, notice has
its normal dictionary meaning.
• Official with Authority
Official with Authority means an employee of the University explicitly vested with the
responsibility to implement corrective measures for harassment or other conduct prohibited by
this Policy, on behalf of the University.
• Party/Parties
Party/ Parties include the Complainant(s) and Respondent(s), collectively. Neither the Title IX
Coordinator nor the University are Parties.
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• Required Reporter
Required Reporter means a University employee who is obligated by policy to share knowledge,
Notice, and/or reports of Sexual Harassment, Sexual Misconduct, or Retaliation with the Title IX
Coordinator. This reporting obligation is separate and independent from any reporting
obligation under other University policies or from applicable state law reporting obligations with
respect to child abuse, elder/incapacitated adult abuse, hazing/bullying, etc., though these
responsibilities may overlap with reporting obligations set forth in this Policy.
• Remedies
Remedies are actions taken by University after a Final Determination, which are directed to the
Complainant and/or the community as mechanisms to address safety, prevent recurrence, and
ensure equitable access to the University’s educational programs or activities.
• Respondent
Respondent means an individual who has been reported to be the perpetrator of conduct that
could constitute Sexual Misconduct, Sexual Harassment, Retaliation for engaging in a protected
activity, or otherwise violating this Policy.
• Resolution
Resolution means the result of an informal or Formal Grievance Process.
• Retaliation
Retaliation means words or actions that intimidate, threaten, coerce, or discriminate against
any individual for the purpose of interfering with any right or privilege secured by Title IX or this
Policy, or because the individual has made a report or complaint, testified, assisted, or
participated or refused to participate in any manner in an investigation, proceeding, or hearing
under this Policy or Title IX.
• Sanction
Sanction means a consequence imposed by the University on a Respondent who is found to
have violated this policy.
• Sexual Exploitation
Sexual Exploitation occurs when an individual takes sexual advantage of another person for the
benefit of anyone other than that person without that person’s Consent, or in a circumstance
where that person cannot legally Consent. Examples of behavior that could rise to the level of
Sexual Exploitation include:
o Prostituting another person;
o Recording images (e.g., video, photograph) or audio of another person’s sexual activity,
intimate body parts, or nakedness without that person’s Consent;
o Distributing, or threatening to distribute, images (e.g., video, photograph) or audio of
another person’s sexual activity, intimate body parts, or nakedness, if the individual
distributing the images or audio knows or should have known that the person depicted in
the images or audio did not Consent to such disclosure and/or objects to such
disclosure; and,
o Viewing another person’s sexual activity, intimate body parts, or nakedness in a place
where that person would have a reasonable expectation of privacy, without that person’s
Consent, and for the purpose of arousing or gratifying sexual desire.
o Coercing a person into engaging in unwanted sexual activity by exploiting that person’s
substance or drug dependence.
• Sexual Harassment
Sexual Harassment means harassment on the basis of sex, sexual assault, stalking, dating
violence, or domestic violence, each as further defined in Section 3.4 of this Policy.
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• Sexual Misconduct
Sexual Misconduct includes a range of unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature occurring without
Consent, including, Sexual Exploitation, Sexual Harassment, sexual assault, relationship
violence (including domestic violence and dating violence), or stalking.
• Student
Student means, for the purpose of this Policy, any individual who has accepted an offer of
admission, or who is registered or enrolled for coursework, and who maintains an ongoing
relationship with the University.
• Title IX Coordinator
Title IX Coordinator is the official (or officials) designated by the University to ensure compliance
with Title IX, this Policy, and the University’s Title IX program. References to the Title IX
Coordinator throughout this policy may also encompass a designee of the Title IX Coordinator
for specific tasks, where appropriate.
• Title IX Team
Title IX Team refers to the Title IX Coordinator, any Deputy Title IX Coordinators who may be
designated from time to time, and any member of the Grievance Process Pool.
Policy
Scope
The University strictly prohibits all forms of Sexual Misconduct by any member of its
community, whether occurring in University programming or off-campus but having an effect on the
University’s educational environment or a Complainant’s educational experience. This Policy applies to
Parties regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression.
The Sexual Harassment Grievance Procedure set forth in Section 9 of this Policy applies to Sexual
Harassment occurring in all Programs and Activities of Southern New Hampshire University
and is available to Complainants in the United States. All Sexual Misconduct which does not fall within
the jurisdiction of the Sexual Harassment Grievance Procedure, but which are otherwise actionable
under this Policy, may be addressed under the Institutional Sexual Misconduct Grievance Procedures
set forth in Section 10 of this Policy.
Conduct or grievances that fall outside the scope of this Policy may be addressed under other
Southern New Hampshire University policies and procedures, as applicable. Nothing in this Policy shall
be used to deny any individual’s rights under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, 42 U.S.C. 2000e
et seq. or any regulations promulgated thereunder.
Purpose
The purpose of this Policy is to define, prevent, and respond to Sexual
Misconduct, and Sexual Harassment as defined in 34 C.F.R. Part 106, and achieve compliance with
Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 (20 U.S.C. §§ 1681–1688) and associated regulations,
as well as applicable New Hampshire state law.
Policy Statement
It is the policy of Southern New Hampshire University to prohibit all forms of Sexual Misconduct and
Sexual Harassment or Retaliation within the Scope of this Policy. The University will respond
to Notice of allegations of Sexual Misconduct and Sexual Harassment or Retaliation in accordance with
the appropriate procedures set forth below.
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The University does not discriminate on the basis of sex in any education program or activity and is
prohibited from doing so by Title IX. This requirement not to discriminate extends to both admission
and employment at the University.
Prohibited Sexual Harassment
The Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights (OCR), the Equal Employment Opportunity
Commission (EEOC), and the State of New Hampshire regard Sexual Harassment, a specific form of
discriminatory harassment, as an unlawful discriminatory practice. As stated above, Sexual
Harassment is prohibited by this Policy.
The University has adopted the following definition of Sexual Harassment in order to address the
unique environment of an academic community, which consists not only of employer and employees,
but of students as well. Acts of Sexual Harassment can be committed by any person upon any other
person, regardless of the sex, sexual orientation, and/or gender identity of those involved.
Sexual Harassment, as an umbrella category, includes the offenses of Sexual Harassment, sexual
assault, domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking1, and is defined as conduct on the basis of
sex that satisfies one or more of the following:
• An employee of the University conditioning the provision of an aid, benefit, or service of
the University on an individual’s participation in unwelcome sexual conduct (often referred to as
“quid pro quo”);
• Unwelcome conduct determined by a reasonable person to be so severe, pervasive, and
objectively offensive that it effectively denies a person equal access to the University’s
education program or activity; or
• Sexual assault, defined as:
o Sex Offenses, Forcible
Any sexual act directed against another person, without the Consent of the victim,
including instances in which the victim is incapable of giving Consent.
o Rape
Penetration, no matter how slight, of the vagina or anus with any body part or object, or
oral penetration by a sex organ of another person, without the Consent of the victim.
Attempts or assaults to commit rape are also included; however, statutory rape and
incest are excluded (each defined separately below).
o Forcible Sodomy
Oral or anal sexual intercourse with another person, forcibly, and/or against that
person’s will (non-consensually), or not forcibly or against the person’s will in instances
in which the Complainant is incapable of giving Consent because of age or because of
temporary or permanent mental or physical incapacity.
o Sexual Assault with an Object
To use an object or instrument to unlawfully penetrate, however slightly, the genital or
anal opening of the body of another person, forcibly and/or against that person’s will or
not forcibly or against the person’s will in instances where the victim is incapable of
giving Consent because of his/her youth or because of his/her temporary or permanent
mental or physical incapacity.
o Forcible Fondling
The touching of the private body parts of another person for the purpose of sexual
gratification, forcibly and/or against that person’s will or not forcibly or against the
person’s will in instances where the victim is incapable of giving Consent because of
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his/her youth or because of his/her temporary or permanent mental or physical
incapacity.
o Sex Offenses, Non-forcible
▪ Incest
Non-forcible sexual intercourse, between persons who are related to each other,
within the degrees wherein marriage is prohibited by law.
▪ Statutory Rape
Non-forcible sexual intercourse, with a person who is under the statutory age of
Consent.
o Dating Violence, defined as: violence committed by a person—
▪ who is or has been in a social relationship of a romantic or intimate nature with
the victim; and
▪ where the existence of such a relationship shall be determined based on a
consideration of the following factors:
• The length of the relationship;
• The type of relationship;
• The frequency of interaction between the persons involved in the
relationship.
o Domestic Violence
Violence, on the basis of sex, committed by a current or former spouse or intimate
partner of the Complainant, by a person with whom the Complainant shares a child in
common, or by a person who is cohabitating with, or has cohabitated with, the
Complainant as a spouse or intimate partner, or by a person similarly situated to a
spouse of the Complainant under the domestic or family violence laws of New
Hampshire, or by any other person against an adult or youth Complainant who is
protected from that person’s acts under the domestic or family violence laws of New
Hampshire.
o Stalking
Defined as: engaging in a course of conduct, on the basis of sex, directed at a specific
person, that
▪ would cause a reasonable person to fear for the person’s safety, or
▪ the safety of others; or
▪ suffer substantial emotional distress.
The University reserves the right to impose any level of Sanction, ranging from a reprimand up to and
including suspension or expulsion/termination, for any offense under this Policy.
Force, Coercion, Consent, and Incapacitation
As used in this Policy and the offenses above, the following definitions apply:
• Force
Force is the use of physical violence and/or physical imposition to gain sexual access. Force
also includes threats, intimidation (implied threats), and coercion that is intended to overcome
resistance or produce Consent.
Sexual activity that is forced is, by definition, non-consensual, but non-consensual sexual
activity is not necessarily forced. Silence or the absence of resistance alone is not Consent.
Consent is not defined by the absence of resistance. While resistance is not required or
necessary, it is a clear demonstration of non-Consent.
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• Coercion
Coercion is unreasonable pressure for sexual activity. Coercive conduct differs from seductive
conduct based on factors such as the type and/or extent of the pressure used to
obtain Consent. Consent is the equal approval, given freely, willingly, and knowingly of each
participant to desired sexual involvement. Consent is an affirmative, conscious decision –
indicated clearly by words or actions-to engage in mutually accepted sexual contact. A person
forced to engage in sexual contact by force, threat of force, or coercion has not Consented to
contact. Coercion includes unreasonably pressuring another to engage in sexual activity. Lack of
mutual Consent is the crucial factor in any Sexual Misconduct. Consent to some form of sexual
activity does not necessarily constitute Consent to another form of sexual activity. Silence
without demonstrating permission does not constitute Consent.
Consent is not valid when a person is incapacitated, or when an intellectual or other disability
prevents a person from having the capacity to give Consent. A person is incapacitated if they
lack the capacity to Consent to sexual activity because the person is asleep, unconscious,
mentally and/or physically helpless, or otherwise unaware that sexual activity is occurring.
Incapacitation is not necessarily the same as legal intoxication. Where alcohol or other drugs
are involved, evaluating Incapacitation requires an assessment of how the consumption of
alcohol and/or drugs affects a person's: decision-making ability; awareness of consequences;
ability to make informed, rational judgments; capacity to appreciate the nature and quality of
the act; or level of consciousness. The assessment is based on objectively and reasonably
apparent indications of incapacitation when viewed from the perspective of a sober, reasonable
person.
Under New Hampshire state Law, a person under thirteen years of age cannot Consent to any
form of sexual contact. Individuals between the age of thirteen and sixteen cannot Consent to
penetrative sexual activity. Individuals between the age of thirteen and sixteen
cannot Consent to non-penetrative sexual activity with individuals who are more than five years
older than they are. Individuals older than sixteen years of age can legally Consent to sexual
activity.
• Retaliation Prohibited
Retaliation in response to a protected activity is strictly prohibited by this Policy. Protected
activity under this Policy includes reporting an incident that may implicate this Policy,
participating in the grievance process, supporting a Complainant or Respondent, assisting in
providing information relevant to an investigation, and/or acting in good faith to oppose
conduct that constitutes a violation of this Policy.
Acts of alleged Retaliation should be reported immediately to the Title IX Coordinator and will be
promptly investigated. The University is prepared to take appropriate steps to protect individuals
who fear that they may be subjected to Retaliation.
Charges against an individual for code of conduct violations that do not involve sex
discrimination or Sexual Harassment but arise out of the same facts or circumstances as a
report or complaint of sex discrimination, or a report or complaint of Sexual Harassment, for the
purpose of interfering with any right or privilege secured by Title IX, constitutes Retaliation.
Charging an individual with a code of conduct violation for making a materially false statement
in bad faith in the course of a grievance proceeding under this policy and procedure does not
constitute Retaliation, provided that a determination regarding responsibility, alone, is not
sufficient to conclude that any Party has made a materially false statement in bad faith.
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• Right to Report
Any person may report sex discrimination, Sexual Misconduct, including Sexual Harassment or
related Retaliation (whether or not the person reporting is the person alleged to be the victim of
conduct that could constitute Sexual Misconduct or Sexual Harassment), in person, by mail, by
telephone, or by electronic mail, using the contact information listed for the Title IX
Coordinator, or to an Official with Authority, or by any other means that results in the Title IX
Coordinator receiving the person’s verbal or written report. Such a report may be made at any
time (including during non-business hours) by using the telephone number or electronic mail
address, or by mail to the office address listed for the Title IX Coordinator herein.
• False Allegations and Evidence
Deliberately false and/or malicious accusations under this Policy, as opposed to allegations
which, even if erroneous, are made in good faith, are a violation of this Policy, and a serious
offense that will be subject to appropriate disciplinary action.
Additionally, witnesses and Parties knowingly providing false evidence, tampering with, or
destroying evidence after being directed to preserve such evidence, or deliberately misleading
an official conducting an investigation can be subject to discipline.
Role of the Title IX Coordinator
The University’s designated Title IX Coordinator has the primary responsibility for coordinating the
University’s efforts related to the intake, investigation, resolution, and implementation of measures to
stop, remediate, and prevent Sexual Misconduct, Sexual Harassment and Retaliation prohibited under
this Policy. The University’s Title IX Coordinator is also responsible to provide or facilitate ongoing
training, consultation, and technical assistance on Title IX for all students, faculty and staff, and other
community members including:
• regular training for faculty and staff outlining their rights and obligations under Title IX and this
Policy, including the appropriate response to reports of Sexual Misconduct, the obligation to
report Sexual Misconduct (as applicable), and the scope and availability of confidentiality;
• annual training for other Title IX staff, Investigators, Decision-Makers, and any person who
facilitates an Informal Resolution process, on the definition of Sexual Misconduct and Sexual
Harassment, the scope of the University’s education program or activities, how to conduct an
investigation and grievance process including hearings, appeals, and Informal
Resolution processes, as applicable, and how to serve impartially, including by avoiding
prejudgment of the facts at issue, conflicts of interest, and bias;
• annual training for Investigators on issues of relevance to create an investigative report that
fairly summarizes relevant evidence;
• regular training for Decision-Makers on any technology to be used at a live hearing and on
issues of relevance of questions and evidence, including when questions and evidence about
the Complainant’s sexual predisposition or prior sexual behavior are not relevant;
• regular training for students outlining their rights under Title IX; including with respect to Sexual
Harassment, the reporting process (including reports to local law enforcement and confidential
reporting to counselors or advocates), the procedures used to process complaints,
applicable student conduct code provisions relating to Sexual Misconduct and the
consequences of violating those provisions, the role of alcohol and drugs in Sexual Misconduct,
the effects of trauma, strategies and skills for bystander intervention, the offices or individuals
with whom students can speak confidentially, the offices or individuals who can provide support
services, the Required Reporter employees who must report incidents to the Title IX
Coordinator, and Title IX’s protections against Retaliation.
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Website and Training Materials
The Title IX Coordinator is responsible to ensure that all training materials used to train the Title IX
Team are made publicly available on the University’s designated Title IX webpage, for a period of seven
years from issuance.
Requests for Confidentiality
The Title IX Coordinator also evaluates requests for confidentiality, as outlined below, by those who
report or complain about Sexual Misconduct or Sexual Harassment in the context of the University’s
responsibility to provide a safe and non-discriminatory environment for all member of its community.
Bystander Policy
The University encourages all community members to take reasonable and prudent actions to prevent
or stop an act of Sexual Harassment. Taking action may include direct intervention where it is safe to
do so, creating a distraction, calling law enforcement, or seeking assistance from a person in authority.
Amnesty Policy Students
Student Complainants, bystanders, or witnesses may have concerns about reporting Sexual
Misconduct because of the University’s drug or alcohol policy, or other policy violations. The
University’s primary concern is community safety. A Complainant shall not be subject to a disciplinary
proceeding or Sanction for a violation of the University’s code of conduct related to the incident unless
a University official determines that the report was not made in good faith or that the violation was
egregious.
Employees
The University may, at its discretion, offer employee Parties and witnesses amnesty from policy
violations (typically more minor policy violations) related to the facts and circumstances surrounding
the incident.
Healthcare and Support Resources
Resources Available
Complainant has the option to seek treatment for injuries sustained during an incident of Sexual
Misconduct, preventative treatment for sexually transmitted diseases, and other health services. A
medical exam is also an important way for a health provider to properly collect and preserve evidence,
which could later be used in a civil or criminal case. In cases where necessary, rape kits are also
available at local emergency rooms.
Medical Treatment
Medical Treatment in the area of the Manchester/Hooksett campus include the following:
Elliot Hospital
4 Elliot Way, Manchester, NH 03013
(603) 669-5300
Catholic Medical Center (CMC)
100 McGregor St, Manchester, NH 03102
(603) 668-3545
Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence resources in New Hampshire and the Manchester area include:
New Hampshire Sexual Assault Hotline 1-800-277-5570
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New Hampshire Domestic Violence Hotline 1-866-644-3574
Community Services
Services for survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, stalking, and Sexual Harassment are
available through the NH Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence, which is comprised of
thirteen member programs throughout the state. A community member does not need to be in crisis to
call. According to the Coalition’s website, services are free, confidential, and available to everyone
regardless of gender, age, health status (including HIV-positive), physical, mental, or emotional ability,
sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, socio-economic status, race, national origin,
immigration status or religious or political affiliation.
Coalition member agencies serving the Manchester and Hooksett campus areas include:
Crisis Center of Central New Hampshire (CCCNH)
PO Box 1344, Concord, NH 03302-1344
Crisis Line: 1-866-841-6229
Office: 603-225-7376
YWCA Crisis Service
72 Concord Street, Manchester, NH 03101
Crisis Line: 603-668-2299
Manchester Office: 603-625-5785 www.ywcanh.org
Coalition agencies provide the following services:
• Support and information, available in person and through a 24-hour hotline
• Accompaniment, support, and advocacy at local hospitals, courts, and police departments
• Access to emergency shelter
• Peer Support Groups
• Assistance with protective/restraining orders and referrals to legal services
• Information and referrals to community programs
• Community and professional outreach and education
Financial Assistance Resources
Community members who require medical assistance but have financial hardship or limited financial
resources may qualify for financial assistance through the NH Health Access Network. The New
Hampshire Health Access Network helps low-income residents of New Hampshire who have health
insurance but need financial assistance to help cover out of pocket medical expenses such as
deductibles, co-pays, and co-insurance.
The NH Health Access Network
125 Airport Road, Concord, NH 03301
(603) 225-0900
www.healthynh.com
Resources
Basic non-emergency medical treatment, and counseling for face-to-face students, are also available
at the Wellness Center, located in the Robert A. Freese Student Center. Students can access health
services during normal business hours by walk-in and may reach the Wellness Center Counselors at
603-645-9679. Emergency counseling services are also available twenty-four hours a Day. During
regular business hours, a student can speak with a counselor by contacting the Wellness Center staff.
During nights, weekends and holidays, a student seeking emergency counseling can access services
by contacting Public Safety or Residence Life who will notify a counselor on call.
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Resources for Online Students and Remote Employees
In addition, a list of counseling, health, mental health, victim advocacy, legal assistance, and other
services available including crisis help lines can also be found on the Online Wellness webpage.
Students and remote employees located outside of New Hampshire can select the “Locate Resources
in Your Area” link to be directed to crisis resources based on their location.
Resources for Employees
Full and half-time University employees have access to the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) offered
through Anthem, which provides assessment and referral for a wide range of concerns facing
employees. To speak with a consultant please call 1-800-647-9151.
Reporting Sexual Misconduct, Sexual Harassment, and Retaliation
Reporting Policy
The University encourages community members to promptly report incidents of Sexual Harassment,
Sexual Misconduct, or Retaliation immediately to the University using the process described below.
Required Reporters must inform the Title IX Coordinator or any Official with Authority of incidents of
Sexual Misconduct of which they are aware, as further detailed below. Any
person may inform the Title IX Coordinator or other Official with Authority of an alleged violation of this
policy, however only a Complainant or the Title IX Coordinator can sign a Formal Complaint.
Reporting Process
Concerns of a violation of this Policy or seeking supportive measures may be made using the intake
forms designated here:
• Face-to-face students may file a report in one of two ways. First by filing a report in person at
the office of Public Safety or by filing an online Incident Form.
• Online Students may file an online Student Dispute Form through the Office of Dispute
Resolution and Student Conduct.
• University Employees may contact their Human Resources Business Partner or submit a
Complaint Notification Form.
Those wishing to engage the Formal Grievance Process for Sexual Harassment and/or Retaliation may
file a Formal Complaint with the Title IX Coordinator or any Official with Authority. Such a report may be
made at any time (including during non-business hours) by using the email or postal office
address(es) listed for the Title IX Coordinator and/or any other official listed/designated below.
A Formal Complaint means a document filed/signed by the Complainant or signed by the Title IX
Coordinator alleging a policy violation by a Respondent and requesting that the University investigate
the allegation(s). A complaint may be filed with the Title IX Coordinator in person, by mail, or by
electronic mail, by using the contact information set forth below, or as described in this section. As
used in this paragraph, the phrase “document filed by a Complainant” means a document or electronic
submission (such as by electronic mail or through an online portal provided for this purpose by
the University) that contains the Complainant’s physical or digital signature, or otherwise indicates that
the Complainant is the person filing the complaint.
If Notice is submitted in a form that does not meet this standard, the Title IX Coordinator will contact
the Complainant to ensure that it is filed correctly.
Anonymous Reports
Reports that are submitted anonymously limit the ability of the University to respond in a formal
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manner. The privacy of those submitting bias reports will be maintained to the extent
possible. Therefore, persons are strongly encouraged to identify themselves when submitting reports
and participate in the investigation and response process.
Contact Information for Reporting
Complaints or Notice of alleged Sexual Misconduct, including Sexual Harassment, Retaliation, other
policy violations, or inquiries about or concerns regarding this policy and procedures, may be made
internally to the University’s Title IX Coordinator:
Kristin Scaduto, Title IX Coordinator, can be reached on the University’s main campus at 2500 North
River Road, Manchester NH, by telephone at 603-644-3188, or by email at k.scaduto@snhu.edu.
The following Deputy Title IX Coordinator(s) have also been designated as Officials with Authority and
may also accept Notice or complaints on behalf of the University:
Kelly Lockwood is the online Deputy Title IX Coordinator. She can be reached at 603-314-1419, or at
The following additional personnel are also identified as Officials with Authority by the University:
• All athletics coaches and athletic directors, including assistant directors
• Residence life personnel (not including student employees)
• Dean of Students, Academic Deans & Office of Vice President of Academic Affairs
• President and CEO
• Chief Operating Officer
• Executive Vice President, Human Resources
Reporting to the Police
Complainants are also encouraged to consider reporting Sexual Misconduct that constitutes a crime,
or any other related crime, to law enforcement authorities. Complainants may also wish to pursue a
criminal or civil restraining order from a local court. However, Complainants have a right to choose not
to file a report with law enforcement or seek a restraining order. The decision to file a criminal
complaint or seek a court order is a deeply personal choice. Complainants often make this decision
based on the circumstances surrounding the incident and the circumstances in their life at the time of
the incident. Complainants must also understand that SNHU Public Safety is not a police force, and a
report to Public Safety is not equivalent to filing a police report.
Upon reporting an incident to the Title IX Coordinator (or other Official with Authority), Complainants will
have the opportunity, if they choose, to speak with appropriate local law enforcement personnel to
make the report. Confidential Resource Advisors can also assist with this process. Complainants do not
need to file a criminal complaint with law enforcement in order to initiate a grievance with the
University, and the University may find a Respondent responsible for violating this Policy regardless of
the status or outcome of any criminal proceedings. Absent extenuating circumstances, the University
will not unduly delay its grievance process to await the completion of any criminal proceeding or
investigation, unless required to do so by valid court order.
In the case of an ongoing emergency, dial 911. Non-emergency contact information for local police in
the Manchester area for non-emergency reporting is as follows:
Hooksett Police Department
15 Legends Dr.
Hooksett, NH 03106
(603) 624-1560
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Manchester Police Department
405 Valley Street
Manchester, NH 03106
(603) 668-8711
Employee Reporting Obligation
The University takes the position that all employees except those with a legal duty of confidentiality
(e.g., a licensed counsellor, doctor, or nurse) or Confidential Resource Advisors, are Required
Reporters. With respect to students who are also employed by the University, only those working in the
office of Residence Life (RDs, CAs, RAs), Graduate Teaching Assistants or Instructors, and those
student employees with similar significant responsibility for student welfare are Required Reporters
under this Policy.
A Required Reporter who witnesses or has Notice of Sexual Misconduct, Sexual Harassment, or
Retaliation against a student must immediately contact the Title IX Coordinator to make a report to
allow the University to respond appropriately. A failure by a Required Reporter to report a violation of
this Policy may warrant disciplinary action up to and including termination. This reporting obligation
does not apply for any employee who has themselves been an alleged victim of Sexual Misconduct,
Sexual Harassment, or Retaliation, with respect to the specific conduct or incident(s) affecting them.
Additional Reporting Resources
A student or applicant who believes that he or she has been discriminated against can also file a
Charge of Discrimination with the U.S. Department of Education Office for Civil Rights.
U.S. Department of Education
8
th
Floor
5 Post Office Square
Boston, MA 02109-3921
Telephone: (617) 289-0111
Facsimile: (617) 289-0150
Email: OCR.Boston@ed.gov
The Regional Office serving New Hampshire can be contacted at:
U.S. Department of Education
8
th
Floor
5 Post Office Square
Boston, MA 02109-3921
Telephone: (617) 289-0111
Facsimile: (617) 289-0150 Email: OCR.Boston@ed.gov
Timing of Complaints
There is no time limit for filing a complaint or providing Notice under this Policy. However, if the
Respondent is no longer subject to University’s jurisdiction and/or significant time has passed, the
University’s ability to investigate, respond, and provide Remedies may be limited or impossible.
Complainants are therefore strongly encouraged to file complaints in a timely manner to maximize the
University’s ability to promptly gather evidence, and conduct a thorough, impartial, and reliable
investigation. If the Respondent is expected to graduate or complete a program during the pendency
of the process, the University may temporarily withhold that student’s Southern New Hampshire
University degree, certificate, or other terminal credential, pending conclusion of the complaint
Resolution procedures.
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Independence and Conflict of Interest
The Title IX Coordinator is responsible for oversight of the Title IX Team, and acts with independence
and authority free from bias and conflicts of interest. The Title IX Coordinator ultimately oversees all
outcomes and Resolutions under this Policy and these procedures. The members of the Title IX Team
are vetted and trained to ensure they are not biased for or against any Party in a specific case, or for or
against Complainants and/or Respondents, generally. Reports of misconduct or discrimination
committed by any other Title IX Team member should be reported to the Title IX Coordinator.
To raise any concern involving bias or conflict of interest, or misconduct or discrimination committed by
the Title IX Coordinator, contact the University’s Chief of Staff, Beth Prieto, by phone at 603-314-7819,
or email at [email protected]. The Chief of Staff may also coordinate with the Human Resources
department regarding review and resolution of such concerns. Concerns of bias or a potential conflict
of interest by any other Title IX Team member should be raised with the Title IX Coordinator.
Privacy and Confidentiality
Disambiguation
Cases involving alleged Sexual Harassment demand special attention to issues of privacy
and confidentiality. For the purpose of this Policy, privacy and confidentiality have distinct meanings.
Privacy
Privacy means that information related to a Formal Complaint will be shared with a limited number of
University employees who “need to know” in order to assist in the assessment, investigation,
and Resolution of the report, as well as the Parties and their Advisors. All employees who are involved
in the University’s response to Notice under this policy receive specific training and guidance about
sharing and safeguarding private information in accordance with state and federal law. The privacy of
student education records will be protected in accordance with the Family Educational Rights and
Privacy Act (“FERPA”), as outlined in the University’s FERPA policy, except where limited or superseded
by the applicable Title IX regulations (found at 34 C.F.R. Part 106). The University reserves the right to
designate which University officials have a legitimate educational interest in being informed about
incidents that are subject to this Policy, consistent with FERPA. The privacy of employee records will be
protected in accordance with Human Resources policies, except where limited by applicable law.
However, privacy in this context has limits: all Complainants must understand that the following receipt
of a Formal Complaint of Sexual Harassment, the University is legally required to provide prompt
written notice to all known Parties to the complaint of the following information:
• identities of Parties involved, if known
• conduct alleged to constitute Sexual Harassment
• date and location of incident(s)
• Notice of any additional allegations added after the initial notice to the known Parties
As further detailed below, known Parties are also entitled to receive certain evidence gathered during
the investigation process that is directly related to the Formal Complaint.
The University will keep any supportive measures provided to any Complainant or Respondent private,
to the extent that maintaining such privacy would not impair the ability to provide such measures.
The University may also by necessity contact parents/guardians or third parties to inform them of
situations in which there is a significant and articulable health and/or safety risk but will usually
consult with the student first before doing so.
Confidentiality
For purposes of this Policy, Confidentiality should be understood in the context of laws that protect
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certain relationships, including those who provide services related to medical and clinical care, mental
health providers, counselors, ordained clergy, and some sexual assault or domestic violence
counselors. The law (which varies by state) creates a privilege between certain health care providers,
mental health care providers, attorneys, clergy, spouses, and others, with their patients, clients,
parishioners, and spouses. The University has designated individuals who are able to have legally
privileged communications as Confidential Professionals who are exempt from Required Reporter
responsibilities. All other employees of the University are Required Reporters who must inform the Title
IX Coordinator or other Official with Authority of any incidents subject to this policy.
When information is shared by a Complainant with a Confidential Professional, that person cannot
reveal the information to any third party except when an applicable law or a court order requires or
permits disclosure of such information.
All Confidential Professionals may be required or permitted to break confidentiality by law in certain
circumstances, as more fully described in “Exceptions to Confidentiality,” below.
Confidential Professionals will not inform the University’s Title IX Coordinator of an incident, unless a
Complainant directs them to do so, but can still assist the Complainant in receiving other necessary
protection and support, such as academic support or accommodations, disability, health, or mental
health services. As a practical matter, the full availability of some of these services may be limited in
certain circumstances by a victim’s desire for confidentiality and level of cooperation.
A Complainant who at first requests confidentiality from a Confidential Professional may later decide to
file a Formal Complaint with the University.
Confidential Professionals
• Professional and Pastoral Counselors
SNHU can provide campus-based students with professional, licensed counselors who provide
mental-health counseling to members of the school community (and including those who act in
that role under the supervision of a licensed counselor). SNHU Wellness counselors can be
reached at 603-645-9679. Pastoral counselors may also be available to speak to campus-
based students through Campus Ministry, which can be reached at 603-645-9608 or by referral
at the Wellness Center.
These counselors are not required to report any identifying information about an incident to the
Title IX Coordinator without a Complainant’s permission. A counselor may collect and eventually
report some general, non-identifying data that will not lead to an investigation, such as the date
of the report, date of the crime, and general location as part of the University’s crime data
reporting responsibility. A member of the community wishing to speak with a professional,
licensed counselor can request to do so through the on-campus Wellness Center.
Emergency services are available 24 hours a Day. Students can access services during normal
business hours by calling 603-645-9679. During nights, weekends and holidays, a student can
access services by contacting Public Safety at 603-645-9700 who will notify a counselor on
call.
Employees and online students , and other non-campus-based students can also log on
to the Online Wellness webpage and find a list of available professional counseling resources in
their state.
Employees also have access to the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) offered through
Anthem, which can be reached at 1-800-647-9151.
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• Registered Nurses
In addition to counseling services, the campus Wellness Center is staffed by Advanced Practice
Registered Nurse(s) (APRN) and licensed registered nurse(s). New Hampshire law (RSA 326-B)
provides that confidential communications made to a nurse by a patient are entitled to the
same privilege as those between a physician and a patient. As a result, a nurse in the Wellness
Center is not required to reveal any details of an incident to the Title IX Coordinator. As with a
professional counselor, a nurse may collect and eventually report some general, non-identifying
data that will not lead to an investigation, such as the date of the report, date of the crime, and
general location as part of the University’s crime data reporting responsibility.
• Confidential Resource Advisors
As required by New Hampshire state law, the University has also designated Confidential
Resource Advisors, who shall not be Required Reporters, and who shall be permitted to assist
students in a confidential manner and provide appropriate resources and information, and
assist any student with the reporting process, if desired.
For purposes of this Policy, all University-appointed and trained Advisors within the Grievance
Process Pool are designated as Confidential Resource Advisors. Advisors selected by parties
from outside the Grievance Process Pool may not be designated as Confidential Resource
Advisors as they may not have been trained or vetted by the University.
While communications between Advisors and their advisees are considered private as to the
University and its personnel, Parties should be aware that legal privilege for communications
made to Confidential Resource Advisors under New Hampshire law applies only
to communications between victims of alleged sexual assault, alleged domestic abuse, alleged
sexual harassment, or alleged stalking, and a Confidential Resource Advisor in the course of
that relationship and in confidence. Therefore, communications made between a Respondent
and their Advisor would typically be private as to the University but may not be legally privileged
communications under New Hampshire state law.
The University may from time to time designate other employees or categories of employees as
Confidential Resource Advisors and may also from time to time enter into Memoranda of
Understanding with outside local, state, or national agencies to provide third-party Confidential
Resource Advisors to Parties.
Exceptions to Confidentiality
While these professional counselors and nurses may maintain a victim’s confidentiality vis-à-vis the
University, they (and other University personnel) may have mandatory reporting or other obligations
under state or federal law. For example, New Hampshire has a mandated reporter law for when a
person “has reasons to suspect that a child has been abused or neglected” (R.S.A. §169-C:29), which
requires timely disclosure to the N.H. Department of Health and Human Services if the victim is under
eighteen years of age. A similar reporting law applies to incapacitated and elderly adults. (RSA 161-
F:46). New Hampshire also has an anti-hazing statute that requires that any person who is present or
otherwise has direct knowledge of any student hazing must report the hazing to law enforcement or
educational institution authorities. (RSA 631:7)
Likewise, behavior that poses a serious threat of harm to self or others, or receipt of a court order or a
subpoena under certain circumstances can trigger a duty to timely disclose confidential information,
irrespective of the categories above.
Also, if the University determines that the alleged perpetrator(s) poses a serious and immediate threat
to the University community, Campus Safety may be called upon to issue a timely warning to the
community as required by federal law. Any such warning should not include any information that
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identifies the Complainant.
Supportive Measures and Emergency Removal
Supportive Measures
The University will offer and implement appropriate and reasonable supportive measures to the Parties
upon Notice of alleged Sexual Misconduct, including Sexual Harassment, and/or Retaliation.
Supportive measures are non-disciplinary, non-punitive individualized services offered as appropriate,
as reasonably available, and without fee or charge to the Parties to restore or preserve access to the
University’s education program or activity, including measures designed to protect the safety of
all Parties or the University’s educational environment, and/or deter further harassment,
discrimination, and/or Retaliation.
The Title IX Coordinator promptly makes supportive measures available to the Parties upon receiving
Notice or a complaint. At the time that supportive measures are offered, the University will
inform the Complainant, in writing, that they may file a Formal Complaint with the University either at
that time or in the future, if they have not done so already. The Title IX Coordinator works with the
Complainant to ensure that their wishes are reasonably considered with respect to the supportive
measures that are planned and implemented, including with respect to privacy.
The University will maintain the privacy of the supportive measures, solely to the extent that privacy
does not impair the University’s ability to provide the supportive measures. The University will seek to
ensure as minimal an academic impact on the Parties as reasonably possible. The University will
implement measures in a way that does not unreasonably burden the other Party.
Supportive measures may include, but are not limited to:
• Referral to counseling, medical, and/or other healthcare services
• Referral to the Employee Assistance Program
• Referral to community-based service providers
• Student financial aid counseling
• Education to the community or community subgroup(s)
• Altering campus housing assignment(s)
• Altering work arrangements for employees or student-employees
• Safety planning
• Implementing contact limitations (restricted contact orders) between the Parties
• Academic support, extensions of deadlines, or other course/program-related adjustments
• Timely warnings
• Class schedule modifications, withdrawals
• Leaves of absence
• Increased security and monitoring of certain areas of the campus
• Any other actions deemed appropriate by the Title IX Coordinator
Violations of restricted contact orders will be referred to appropriate student or employee conduct
processes for enforcement.
Emergency Removals
The University can act to remove a Respondent entirely or partially from its education program or
activities on an emergency basis when an individualized safety and risk analysis has determined that
an immediate threat to the physical health or safety of any student or other individual justifies removal.
This risk analysis is performed by the Title IX Coordinator in conjunction with the Public Safety
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Team, using objective violence risk assessment procedures.
In all cases in which an emergency removal is imposed, the student, employee, or two (2)
representatives from a student organization will be given notice of the action and the option to request
to meet with the Title IX Coordinator prior to such action/removal being imposed, or as soon thereafter
as reasonably possible, to show cause why the action/removal should not be implemented or should
be modified. This meeting will be conducted remotely using electronic video conferencing technology
whenever possible.
This meeting is not a hearing on the merits of the allegation(s), but rather is an administrative process
intended to determine solely whether the emergency removal is appropriate. When this meeting is not
requested in a timely manner, objections to the emergency removal will be deemed waived. This
section also applies to any restrictions that a coach or athletic administrator may place on a student-
athlete arising from allegations related to Title IX. There is no appeal process for emergency removal
decisions.
A Respondent may be accompanied by an Advisor of their choice when meeting with the Title IX
Coordinator for the show cause meeting. The Respondent will be given access to a written summary of
the basis for the emergency removal prior to the meeting to allow for adequate preparation.
The Title IX Coordinator has sole discretion under this policy to implement or stay an emergency
removal and to determine the conditions and duration. Violation of an emergency removal under this
policy will be grounds for discipline, which may include expulsion or termination.
The University will implement the least restrictive emergency actions reasonably possible in light of the
circumstances and safety concerns. As determined by the Title IX Coordinator, these actions could
include, but are not limited to: removing a student from a residence hall, temporarily re-assigning an
employee (in consultation with Human Resources), restricting a student’s or employee’s access to or
use of facilities or equipment, allowing a student to withdraw or take grades of incomplete without
financial penalty, authorizing an administrative leave, and suspending a student’s participation in
extracurricular activities, student employment, student organizational leadership, or
intercollegiate/intramural athletics.
At the discretion of the Title IX Coordinator, alternative coursework options may be pursued to ensure
as minimal an academic impact as possible on the Parties.
Administrative Leaves
The University reserves its right to place an employee on administrative leave during the pendency of a
grievance related to alleged Sexual Misconduct, Sexual Harassment, or Retaliation, in accordance with
existing HR policy and procedures. No Appeal of an administrative leave is provided pursuant to this
Policy.
Grievance Procedures
The University will apply one of two grievance procedures based on the specific conduct alleged. As
further described in Sections 9 and 10 of this Policy, these procedures largely mirror one-another, with
important exceptions. For purposes of both Grievance Procedures, the Respondent is presumed not
responsible for the reported misconduct unless and until a Final Determination is made at the
conclusion of the applicable grievance process that the Respondent is responsible. The burden of
proof is on the University, and not on either Party.
• The Title IX Sexual Harassment Grievance Procedures set forth in Section 9 apply only to
qualifying allegations of Sexual Harassment (including sexual assault, dating violence, domestic
violence, and stalking, as defined above) as defined in this Policy. The Sexual Harassment
Grievance Procedures may be used to address collateral misconduct only if it is determined to
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be arising from the investigation of or occurring in conjunction with reported Sexual
Harassment (e.g., Retaliation, vandalism, physical abuse of another).
• The Institutional Sexual Misconduct Grievance Procedures set forth in Section 10 to apply to
Sexual Misconduct that does not constitute Sexual Harassment within the definitions and/or
jurisdiction of the Title IX regulations. Complaints that are dismissed from the Sexual
Harassment Grievance Procedures may (and often are) referred to be processed under the
Institutional Sexual Misconduct Grievance Procedures, including for Sexual Harassment that
does not meet the jurisdictional requirements of Title IX.
Other Policies and Procedures
All other allegations of discrimination on the basis of a protected class (excluding Sexual Misconduct)
will be referred to the University’s Discrimination Complaint Protocol, except that complaints of
disability discrimination will be addressed under the University’s ADA/504 Grievance Procedure. Other
incidents may be addressed through procedures elaborated in the student, faculty, and staff
handbooks, or other applicable policies or procedures.
Timeframe for Response & Grievance Process
The University will conduct a timely review of complaints processed under either grievance process.
Absent extenuating circumstances, review and Resolution is expected to take place within sixty (60) to
ninety (90) days from Notice or receipt of the Formal Complaint. Absent extenuating circumstances,
decisions on appeals are typically issued within thirty (30) days of the date of receipt of the appeal.
Extensions
For purposes of complaints processed under either grievance process, all deadlines and time
requirements in the grievance process may be extended for good cause as determined by the Title
IX Coordinator or their designee. Both the Respondent and the Complainant will be notified in writing of
the delay, the reason for delay, and provided the date of the new deadline or event. Extensions
requested by one Party will ordinarily not be longer than 5 business/school days.
Title IX Sexual Harassment Grievance Process
Initial Assessment
Following receipt of Notice or a complaint of an alleged violation of this Policy, the Title IX
Coordinator2 engages in an initial assessment, which is typically one to five days in duration. The steps
in an initial assessment can include:
• If Notice is given, the Title IX Coordinator seeks to determine if the Complainant wishes to make
a Formal Complaint, explains the process to do so, and provides assistance with filing, if
desired.
• If a Formal Complaint is received, the Title IX Coordinator assesses its sufficiency and works
with the Complainant to make sure it is correctly completed.
• At the time of filing a Formal Complaint, a Complainant must be participating in or attempting to
participate in3 the education program or activity of the University.
• The Title IX Coordinator reaches out to the Complainant to assess and offer supportive
measures, (which may also have already been offered or provided prior to the filing of a Formal
Complaint).
• The Title IX Coordinator works with the Complainant to ensure they are aware of the right to
have an Advisor.
• The Title IX Coordinator works with the Complainant to determine whether the
Complainant seeks supportive measures only, an Informal Resolution option (only after filing a
Formal Complaint), or a formal investigation and grievance process.
o If a Formal Complaint has not been filed, and the Complainant wishes only to pursue
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supportive measures, the Title IX Coordinator works with the Complainant to identify
their wishes and then seeks to facilitate implementation of appropriate supportive
measures.
o If the Complainant does not wish to file a Formal Complaint after the Title
IX Coordinator describes the process, discusses availability of supportive measures, and
considers the Complainant’s wishes, the Title IX Coordinator may in their discretion still
initiate a Formal Complaint by signing it in lieu of the Complainant. The Title IX
Coordinator may consider a variety of factors in making this assessment, including a
pattern of alleged misconduct by the Respondent.
o If the Title IX Coordinator does not sign a Formal Complaint, and an Informal
Resolution option is preferred by Complainant, the Title IX Coordinator assesses whether
the complaint is suitable for Informal Resolution, which informal mechanism may serve
the situation best or is available and seek to determine if the Respondent is also willing
to engage in Informal Resolution. If so, each Party’s voluntary written Consent is required
to proceed with Informal Resolution.
o If a Formal Grievance Process is preferred, the Title IX Coordinator determines if the
misconduct alleged falls within the scope of Title IX Sexual Harassment and this
procedure,
▪ If it does, the Title IX Coordinator will initiate the formal investigation and
grievance process.If it does not, the Title IX Coordinator issues a
determination that this procedure does not apply (and will “dismiss” that aspect
of the complaint, if any), assesses which other University policies may apply,
which resolution process is applicable, and will refer the matter
accordingly. Dismissing a complaint under these Sexual Harassment Grievance
Procedures is procedural and does not limit the University’s authority to address
a complaint with other appropriate processes and Remedies. Complaints
dismissed from the Sexual Harassment Grievance Procedures will often be
referred to the Institutional Sexual Misconduct Grievance Procedures (Section
10) or other applicable University process for Resolution.
Dismissal (Mandatory and Discretionary)
The University must dismiss a Formal Complaint or any allegations therein if, at any time during the
investigation or hearing, it is determined that:
• The conduct alleged in the Formal Complaint would not constitute Sexual Harassment as
defined in the Policy hereinabove, even if proved; and/or
• The conduct did not occur in an educational program or activity controlled by the University
(including buildings or property controlled by recognized student organizations), and/or the
University does not have control of the Respondent; and/or
• The conduct did not occur against a person in the United States.
The University may dismiss a Formal Complaint or any allegations therein if, at any time during the
investigation or hearing:
• A Complainant notifies the Title IX Coordinator in writing that the Complainant would like to
withdraw the Formal Complaint or any allegations therein; or
• The Respondent is no longer enrolled in or employed by the University; or
• Specific circumstances prevent the University from gathering evidence sufficient to reach a
determination as to the Formal Complaint or allegations therein.
Upon any dismissal, the University will promptly send written notice of the dismissal and the rationale
for doing so simultaneously to the Parties.
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This dismissal decision is appealable by any Party under the procedures for appeal below. A
Complainant who decides to withdraw a complaint may later request to reinstate it or refile it.
Counterclaims
The University is obligated to ensure that the grievance process is not abused for retaliatory purposes.
The University permits the filing of counterclaims but uses an initial assessment, described above, to
assess whether the allegations in the counterclaim are made in good faith. Counterclaims made with
retaliatory intent will not be permitted.
Counterclaims determined to have been reported in good faith will be processed using the grievance
procedures below. Investigation of such claims may take place after Resolution of the underlying initial
allegation, in which case a delay may occur.
Counterclaims may also be resolved through the same investigation as the underlying allegation, at the
discretion of the Title IX Coordinator. When counterclaims are not made in good faith, they will be
considered retaliatory and may constitute a violation of this policy.
Right to an Advisor
The Parties may each have one Advisor of their choice present with them for all meetings and
interviews within the Resolution process if they so choose. The Parties may select whomever they wish
to serve as their Advisor as long as the Advisor is eligible and available.
4
Choosing an Advisor who is also a witness in the process creates potential for bias and conflict-of-
interest. A Party who chooses an Advisor who is also a witness can anticipate that issues of potential
bias will be explored by the hearing Decision-maker(s).
• Who Can Serve as an Advisor
The Advisor may be a friend, mentor, family member, attorney, or any other individual a Party
chooses to advise, support, and/or consult with them throughout
the Resolution process. The Parties may choose Advisors from inside or outside of the
University community.
The Title IX Coordinator will also offer to assign a trained Advisor for any Party if the Party so
chooses. If the Parties choose an Advisor from the pool available from the University, the
Advisor will be trained by the University and be familiar with the University’s Resolution process
and will have been designated as a Confidential Resource Advisor under New Hampshire law.
If the Parties choose an Advisor from outside the pool of those identified by the University, the
Advisor may not have been trained by the University and may not be familiar with the University
policies and procedures.
Parties also have the right to choose not to have an Advisor in the initial stages of the
Resolution process, prior to a hearing.
• Advisors in Hearings/The University-Appointed Advisor
Under U.S. Department of Education regulations applicable to Title IX, cross-examination is
required during the hearing, but must be conducted by the Parties’ Advisors. The Parties are not
permitted to directly cross-examine each other or any witnesses. If a Party does not have an
Advisor for a hearing, the University will appoint a trained Advisor for the limited purpose of
conducting any cross-examination.
A Party may reject this appointment and choose their own Advisor, but they may not proceed
without an Advisor. If the Party’s Advisor will not conduct cross-examination, the University will
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appoint an Advisor who will do so thoroughly, regardless of the participation or non-participation
of the advised Party in the hearing itself. Questioning of the Parties and witnesses will also be
conducted by the Decision-maker(s) during the hearing.
• Advisor’s Role
The Parties may be accompanied by their Advisor in all meetings and interviews at which the
Party is entitled to be present, including intake and interviews. Advisors should help
the Parties prepare for each meeting and are expected to advise ethically, with integrity, and in
good faith.
The University cannot guarantee equal Advisory rights, meaning that if one Party selects an
Advisor who is an attorney, but the other Party does not or cannot afford an attorney, the
University is not obligated to provide an attorney.
• Advisor Violations of University Policy
All Advisors are subject to the same University policies and procedures, whether they are
attorneys or not. Advisors are expected to advise their advisees without disrupting proceedings.
Advisors should not address University officials in a meeting or interview unless invited to (e.g.,
asking procedural questions). The Advisor may not make a presentation or directly represent
their advisee during any meeting or proceeding and may not speak on behalf of the advisee
tothe Investigator(s) or other Decision-maker(s) except during a hearing proceeding, during
cross- examination, or as otherwise specifically permitted by this Policy.
The Parties are expected to ask and respond to questions on their own behalf throughout the
investigation phase of the Resolution process. Although the Advisor generally may not speak on
behalf of their advisee, the Advisor may consult with their advisee, either privately as needed, or
by conferring or passing notes during any Resolution process meeting or interview. For longer or
more involved discussions, the Parties and their Advisors should ask for breaks to allow for
private consultation.
Any Advisor who oversteps their role as defined by this policy will be warned only once. If the
Advisor continues to disrupt or otherwise fails to respect the limits of the Advisor role, the
meeting will be ended, or other appropriate measures implemented. Subsequently, the Title IX
Coordinator will determine how to address the Advisor’s non-compliance and future role.
• Sharing Information with the Advisor
The University expects that the Parties may wish to have the University share documentation
and evidence related to the allegations with their Advisors. Parties may share this information
directly with their Advisor if they wish. Doing so may help the Parties participate more
meaningfully in the Resolution process.
The University also provides a Consent form that authorizes the University to share such
information directly with their Advisor. The Parties must either complete and submit this form
to the Title IX Coordinator or provide similar documentation demonstrating Consent to a release
of information to the Advisor before the University is able to share records with an Advisor.
• Privacy of Records Shared with Advisor
Advisors are expected to maintain the privacy of the records shared with them, except where
their advisees provide express permission to share private information.
• Expectations of an Advisor
The University generally expects an Advisor to adjust their schedule to allow them to attend
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University meetings when planned but may change scheduled meetings to accommodate an
Advisor’s inability to attend, if doing so does not cause an unreasonable delay.
The University may also make reasonable provisions to allow an Advisor who cannot attend in
person to attend a meeting by telephone, video conferencing, or other similar technologies as
may be convenient and available.
• Expectations of the Parties with Respect to Advisors
A Party may elect to change Advisors during the process and is not obligated to use the same
Advisor throughout. The Parties are expected to inform the Investigator(s) of the identity of their
Advisor at least two (2) business days before the date of their first meeting with Investigators (or
as soon as possible if a more expeditious meeting is necessary or desired).
The Parties are expected to provide timely notice to the Title IX Coordinator if they change
Advisors at any time. It is assumed that if a Party changes Advisors, Consent to share
information with the previous Advisor is terminated, and a release for the new Advisor must be
secured. Parties are expected to inform the Title IX Coordinator of the identity of their hearing
Advisor at least two (2) business days before the hearing.
• Resolution Processes
Resolution proceedings are private. All persons present at any time during
the Resolution process are expected to maintain the privacy of the proceedings in accordance
with this Policy. While there is an expectation of privacy around what Investigators share
with Parties during interviews, the Parties have discretion to share their own knowledge and
evidence with others if they so choose. The University encourages Parties to discuss this with
their Advisors before doing so.
• Informal Resolution Options
Informal Resolution can include three different approaches:
o When the Parties agree to resolve the matter through an offered alternate resolution
mechanism including mediation, restorative practices, etc.;
o When the Respondent accepts responsibility for violating policy, and desires to accept a
Sanction and end the resolution process; or
o When the Title IX Coordinator can resolve the matter informally by providing supportive
measures to remedy the situation.
To initiate Informal Resolution, a Complainant needs to submit a Formal Complaint, as defined
above. If a Respondent wishes to initiate Informal Resolution, they should contact the Title IX
Coordinator to so indicate.
It is not necessary to pursue Informal Resolution first in order to pursue a Formal Grievance
Process, and any Party participating in Informal Resolution can stop the process at any time and
begin or resume the Formal Grievance Process.
Prior to implementing Informal Resolution, the University will provide the Parties with written
notice of the reported misconduct and any Sanctions or measures that may result from
participating in such a process, including information regarding any records that will be
maintained or shared by the University.
The University will obtain voluntary, written confirmation that all Parties wish to resolve the
matter through Informal Resolution before proceeding and will not pressure the Parties to
participate in Informal Resolution. Informal resolution is never appropriate or available for
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allegations that an employee sexually harassed a student.
• Alternate Resolution
Alternate Resolution is an informal process, including mediation or restorative practices, etc. by
which a mutually agreed upon Resolution of an allegation is reached. All Parties must Consent
in writing to the use of Alternate Resolution.
The Title IX Coordinator may look to the following factors to assess whether Alternate Resolution
is appropriate, or which form of Alternate Resolution may be most successful for the Parties:
o The Parties’ amenability to Alternate Resolution;
o Likelihood of potential Resolution, taking into account any power dynamics between the
Parties;
o The Parties’ motivation to participate;
o Civility of the Parties;
o Whether an emergency removal is needed;
o Skill of the Alternate Resolution facilitator with this type of complaint;
o Complaint complexity;
o Emotional investment of the Parties;
o Rationality of the Parties;
o Goals of the Parties;
o Adequate resources to invest in Alternate Resolution (time, staff, etc.)
The ultimate determination of whether Alternate Resolution is available (with Consent of the
parties) or successful is to be made by the Title IX Coordinator. The Title IX Coordinator
maintains records of any Resolution that is reached, and failure to abide by the Resolution
agreement may result in appropriate responsive/disciplinary actions. Results of complaints
resolved by Informal Resolution or Alternate Resolution are not appealable after
a Resolution agreement has been signed.
• Respondent Accepts Responsibility for Alleged Violations
The Respondent may accept responsibility for all or part of the alleged policy violations at any
point during the Resolution process. If the Respondent indicates an intent to accept
responsibility for all of the alleged misconduct, the formal process will be paused, and the Title
IX Coordinator will determine whether Informal Resolution can be used according to the criteria
in that section above.
If Informal Resolution is applicable, the Title IX Coordinator will determine whether
all Parties and the University are able to agree on responsibility, Sanctions, and/or Remedies. If
so, the Title IX Coordinator implements the accepted Finding that the Respondent is in violation
of The University policy and implements agreed-upon Sanctions and/or Remedies, in
coordination with other appropriate administrator(s), as necessary.
This result is not subject to appeal once all Parties indicate their written assent to all agreed
upon terms of Resolution. When the Parties cannot agree on all terms of Resolution, the Formal
Grievance Process will resume at the same point where it was paused.
When a Resolution is accomplished, the appropriate Sanction or responsive actions are
promptly implemented under the direction of the Title IX Coordinator.
• Negotiated Resolution
The Title IX Coordinator, with the written Consent of the Parties, may negotiate and implement
an agreement to resolve the allegations that satisfies all Parties and the University. Negotiated
Resolutions are not appealable after agreement is reached. Failure by a Party to honor and
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portion of an agreement may be punishable under the Student Code of Conduct, or Employee
Handbook, as applicable.
• Grievance Process Pool
The Formal Grievance Process relies on the Grievance Process Pool (“the Pool”) to carry out the
process.
o Pool Member Roles
Members of the Pool are trained, and can serve in in the following roles, at the direction
of the Title IX Coordinator:
▪ To act as an Advisor to the Parties (note that Party-selected Advisors from outside
the Pool are not considered part of the Pool and do not receive training from the
University)
▪ To serve in a facilitation role in Informal Resolution under the direction of the Title
IX Coordinator
▪ To investigate complaints
▪ To serve as a hearing facilitator (process administrator, no decision-making role)
▪ To serve as a Decision-Maker, either individually or as part of a panel, regarding
the complaint
▪ To serve as an Appeal Decision-maker
o Pool Member Appointment
The Title IX Coordinator appoints the Pool, which acts with independence and
impartiality. While members of the Pool are typically trained in a variety of skill sets and
can rotate amongst the different roles listed above in different cases, the University can
also designate permanent roles for individuals in the Pool, using others as substitutes or
to provide greater depth of experience when necessary. This process of role assignment
may be the result of particular skills, aptitudes, or talents identified in members of the
Pool that make them best suited to particular roles. The University reserves the right to
supplement the pool on an as-needed basis with individuals from external service
providers, consultants, or other firms.
o Pool Member Training
The Pool members who will serve in an Investigator, Decision-Maker role, or who
facilitate Informal Resolution processes, receive annual training related to their
respective roles. This training includes, but is not limited to:
▪ The scope of this Policy and associated procedures
▪ The scope of the University’s programs and activities
▪ The definition of Sexual Harassment
▪ How to conduct an investigation and grievance process including hearings,
appeals, and Informal Resolution processes, as applicable
▪ How to serve impartially by avoiding prejudgment of the facts at issue, conflicts of
interest, and bias, and how to avoid reliance on sex stereotypes
▪ Any technology to be used at a live hearing
▪ Issues of relevance of questions and evidence
▪ For those filling the Investigator role, Issues of relevance to create an
investigation report that fairly summarizes relevant evidence
▪ Reporting, confidentiality, and privacy requirements
▪ How to apply definitions used by the University with respect to Consent (or the
absence or negation of Consent) consistently, impartially, and in accordance with
policy
▪ For Decision-Makers, how to determine appropriate Sanctions in reference
Sexual Harassment findings.
All Pool members are required to attend these trainings. The training materials used to
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train all members of the Pool are publicly posted here.
• Formal Grievance Process: Notice of Investigation and Allegations
The Title IX Coordinator will provide written notice of the investigation and allegations (the
“NOIA”) to the Respondent upon commencement of the Formal Grievance Process. This
facilitates the Respondent’s ability to prepare for the interview and to identify and choose an
Advisor to accompany them. The NOIA is also copied to the Complainant, who is to be given
advance notice of when the NOIA will be delivered to the Respondent.
The NOIA will include:
o A meaningful summary of all of allegations,
o The identity of the involved Parties (if known),
o The specific conduct alleged to constitute Sexual Harassment,
o The date and location of the alleged incident(s) (if known),
o A copy of the specific policies implicated (including this Policy),
o The URL of the University’s public webpage with Title IX materials
o A description of the applicable procedures,
o A statement of the potential Sanctions/responsive actions that could result,
o A statement that the University presumes the Respondent is not responsible for the
reported misconduct unless and until the evidence supports a different determination,
o A statement that Final Determinations of responsibility are made at the conclusion of the
process and that the Parties will be given an opportunity to inspect and review all directly
related and/or relevant evidence obtained during the review and comment period,
o A statement about the University’s policy on Retaliation,
o Information about the privacy of the process,
o Information on the right of Parties to have an Advisor of their choice, who may be, but is
not required to be, an attorney,
o A statement informing the Parties that the University’s Policy prohibits knowingly making
false statements, including knowingly submitting false information during the Resolution
process,
o Detail on how the Party may request disability accommodations during the interview
process,
o The name(s) of the Investigator(s), along with a process to identify, in advance of the
interview process, to the Title IX Coordinator any bias or conflict of interest that the
Investigator(s) may have, and
o An instruction to preserve any evidence that is directly related to the allegations.
o Amendments and updates to the NOIA may be made as the investigation progresses and
more information becomes available regarding the addition of various charges.
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o Notice will be made in writing and may be delivered by one or more of the following
methods: in person, mailed to the local or permanent address(es) of the Parties as
indicated in official University records, or emailed to the Parties’ University-issued email
or designated accounts. Once mailed, emailed, and/or received in-person, notice will be
presumptively delivered.
• Appointment of Investigators
Once the decision to commence a formal investigation is made, the Title IX Coordinator
appoints Pool members to conduct the investigation (typically using a team of two
Investigators), usually within two (2) business days of determining that an investigation should
proceed.
• Ensuring Impartiality
Any individual materially involved in the administration of the Resolution process may neither
have a conflict of interest or bias for a Party generally, or for a specific Complainant or
Respondent specifically.
The Title IX Coordinator will vet the assigned Investigator(s) to ensure impartiality by ensuring
there are no actual or apparent conflicts of interest or disqualifying biases. The Parties may, at
any time during the Resolution process, raise a concern regarding bias or conflict of interest,
and the Title IX Coordinator will determine whether the concern is reasonable and supportable.
If so, another Pool member will be assigned and the impact of the bias or conflict, if any, will be
remedied. If the source of the conflict of interest or bias is the Title IX Coordinator, concerns
should be raised with the University’s Chief of Staff.
The Formal Grievance Process involves an objective evaluation of all relevant evidence
obtained, including evidence which supports that the Respondent engaged in a policy violation
and evidence which supports that the Respondent did not engage in a policy violation.
Credibility determinations may not be based solely on an individual’s status or participation as
a Complainant, Respondent, or witness.
The University operates with the presumption that the Respondent is not responsible for the
reported misconduct unless and until the Respondent is determined to be responsible for a
policy violation by a preponderance of the evidence.
• Investigation Timeline
Investigations are completed expeditiously, normally within thirty (30) business days, though
some investigations may take weeks or even months, depending on the nature, extent, and
complexity of the allegations, availability of witnesses, police involvement, etc.
The University will make a good faith effort to complete investigations as promptly as
circumstances permit and will communicate regularly with the Parties to update them on the
progress and timing of the investigation.
• Delays in the Investigation Process and Interactions with Law Enforcement
The University may undertake a short delay in its investigation (several days to a few weeks) if
circumstances require. Such circumstances include, but are not limited to: a request from law
enforcement to temporarily delay the investigation, the need for language assistance, the
absence of Parties and/or witnesses, and/or accommodations for disabilities or health
conditions.
The University will communicate in writing the anticipated duration of the delay and reason to
the Parties and provide the Parties with status updates if necessary. The University will promptly
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resume its investigation and Resolution process as soon as feasible. During such a delay, The
University will implement supportive measures as deemed appropriate.
The University action(s) are not typically altered or precluded on the grounds that civil or
criminal charges involving the underlying incident(s) have been filed or that criminal charges
have been dismissed or reduced.
• Steps in the Investigation Process
All investigations are thorough, reliable, impartial, prompt, and fair. Investigations involve
interviews with all relevant Parties and witnesses; obtaining available, relevant evidence; and
identifying sources of expert information, as necessary.
All Parties have a full and fair opportunity, through the investigation process, to suggest
witnesses and questions, to provide evidence and expert witnesses, and to fully review and
respond to all evidence on the record.
The Title IX Coordinator or assigned deputy coordinator may be present to observe any of the
steps in the investigation process, including party or witness interviews, as part of their
oversight responsibilities.
The Investigator(s) typically take(s) the following steps, if not already completed (not necessarily
in this order):
o Determine the identity and contact information of the Complainant
o In coordination with campus partners (e.g., the Title IX Coordinator), initiate or assist with
any necessary supportive measures
o Identify all policies implicated by the alleged misconduct and notify the Complainant and
Respondent of all of the specific policies implicated
o Assist the Title IX Coordinator with conducting a prompt initial assessment to determine
if the allegations indicate a potential policy violation
o Commence a thorough, reliable, and impartial investigation by identifying issues and
developing a strategic investigation plan, including a witness list, evidence list, intended
investigation timeframe, and order of interviews for all witnesses and the Parties
o Meet with the Complainant to finalize their interview/statement, if necessary
o Prepare the initial Notice of Investigation and Allegation (NOIA). The NOIA may be
amended with any additional or dismissed allegations
o Notice should inform the Parties of their right to have the assistance of an Advisor, who
could be a member of the Pool or an Advisor of their choosing present for all meetings
attended by the Party
o Provide each interviewed Party and witness an opportunity to review and verify the
Investigator’s summary notes (or transcript) of the relevant evidence/testimony from
their respective interviews and meetings
o Make good faith efforts to notify the Parties of any meeting or interview involving the
other Party, in advance when possible
o When participation of a Party is expected, provide that Party with written notice of the
date, time, and location of the meeting, as well as the expected participants and
purpose
o Interview all available, relevant witnesses and conduct follow-up interviews as necessary
o Allow each Party the opportunity to suggest witnesses and questions they wish the
Investigator(s) to ask of the other Party and witnesses, and document in the report which
questions were asked, with a rationale for any changes or omissions.
o Complete the investigation promptly and without unreasonable deviation from the
intended timeline
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o Provide regular status updates to the Parties throughout the investigation.
o Prior to the conclusion of the investigation, provide the Parties and their respective
Advisors (if so desired by the Parties) with a list of witnesses whose information will be
used to render a Finding
o Write a comprehensive investigation report fully summarizing the investigation, all
witness interviews, and addressing all relevant evidence. Appendices including relevant
physical or documentary evidence will be included
o Prior to the conclusion of the investigation, provide the Parties and their respective
Advisors (if so desired by the Parties) a secured electronic or hard copy of the draft
investigation report as well as an opportunity to inspect and review all of the evidence
obtained as part of the investigation that is directly related to the reported misconduct,
including evidence upon which the University does not intend to rely in reaching a Final
Determination, for a ten (10) business Day review and comment period so that
each Party may meaningfully respond to the evidence. The Parties may elect to waive
the full ten days. Each copy of the materials shared will be watermarked on each page
with the role of the person receiving it (e.g., Complainant, Respondent, Complainant’s
Advisor, Respondent’s Advisor).
o The Investigator(s) may elect to respond in writing in the investigation report to
the Parties’ submitted responses and/or to share the responses between the Parties for
additional responses
o The Investigator(s) will incorporate relevant elements of the Parties’ written responses
into the final investigation report, include any additional relevant evidence, make any
necessary revisions, and finalize the report. The Investigator(s) should document all
rationales for any changes made after the review and comment period
o The Investigator shall have an opportunity to receive confidential legal advice regarding
any aspect of the investigation or the report from the University’s legal counsel
o The Investigator will incorporate any relevant feedback, and the final report is then
shared with all Parties and their Advisors through secure electronic transmission or hard
copy at least ten (10) business days prior to a hearing. The Parties are also provided with
a file of any directly related evidence that was not included in the report
• Role and Participation of Witnesses in the Investigation
Witnesses (as distinguished from the Parties) who are employees of the University are expected
to cooperate with and participate in the University’s investigation and Resolution process.
Failure of such witnesses to cooperate with and/or participate in the investigation or Resolution
process constitutes a violation of policy and may warrant discipline.
While in-person interviews for Parties and all potential witnesses are ideal, circumstances (e.g.,
study abroad, summer break) may require individuals to be interviewed remotely. Remote
conference technologies may be used for interviews in the Investigator’s discretion. The
University will take appropriate steps to reasonably ensure the security/privacy of remote
interviews.
• Recording of Interviews
No unauthorized audio or video recording of any kind is permitted during investigation
meetings. If Investigator(s) elect to audio and/or video record interviews, all involved Parties
must be made aware of audio and/or video recording.
• Evidentiary Considerations in the Investigation
The investigation does not consider: 1) incidents not directly related to the possible violation,
unless they evidence a pattern; 2) the character of the Parties; or 3) questions and evidence
about the Complainant’s sexual predisposition or prior sexual behavior, unless such questions
and evidence about the Complainant’s prior sexual behavior are offered to prove that someone
other than the Respondent committed the conduct alleged by the Complainant, or if the
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questions and evidence concern specific incidents of the Complainant’s prior sexual behavior
with respect to the Respondent and are offered to prove Consent.
• Referral for Hearing
Provided that the complaint is not resolved through Informal Resolution, once the final
investigation report is shared with the Parties, the Title IX Coordinator will refer the matter for a
hearing.
The hearing cannot be less than ten (10) business days from the conclusion of the investigation
–when the final investigation report is transmitted to the Parties and the Decision-maker–
unless all Parties and the Decision-maker agree to an expedited timeline.
The Title IX Coordinator will select an appropriate Decision-maker or panel of Decision- makers
from the Pool.
• Hearing Decision-maker Composition
The University will designate a single Decision-maker or a three-member panel from the Pool, at
the discretion of the Title IX Coordinator. The single Decision-maker will also Chair the hearing.
With a panel, one of the three members will be appointed as Chair by the Title IX Coordinator.
The Decision-maker(s) will not have had any previous involvement with the investigation. The
Title IX Coordinator may elect to have an alternate from the Pool sit in throughout
the Resolution process in the event that a substitute is needed for any reason.
Those who have served as Investigators will be witnesses in the hearing and therefore may not
serve as Decision-makers. Those who are serving as Advisors for any Party may not serve as
Decision-makers in that matter.
The Title IX Coordinator may not serve as a Decision-maker or Chair in the matter but may serve
as an administrative facilitator of the hearing if their previous role(s) in the matter do not create
a conflict of interest. Otherwise, a designee may fulfill this role. The hearing will convene at a
time determined by the Chair or designee.
Legal counsel for the University may be present in the hearing to observe and provide legal
counsel to the Chair or panel during recesses which may be called by the Chair as reasonably
necessary.
• Evidentiary Considerations in the Hearing
Any evidence that the Decision-maker(s) determine(s) is relevant and credible may be
considered. The hearing does not consider: 1) incidents not directly related to the possible
violation, unless they evidence a pattern; 2) the character of the Parties; or 3) questions and
evidence about the Complainant’s sexual predisposition or prior sexual behavior, unless such
questions and evidence about the Complainant’s prior sexual behavior are offered to prove that
someone other than the Respondent committed the conduct alleged by the Complainant, or if
the questions and evidence concern specific incidents of the Complainant’s prior sexual
behavior with respect to the Respondent and are offered to prove Consent.
Previous disciplinary action of any kind involving the Respondent may be considered in
determining an appropriate Sanction upon a determination of responsibility, in accordance with
the University’s progressive discipline system. This information is only considered at
the Sanction stage of the process.
University personnel may not access, consider, disclose, or otherwise use a Party’s records that
are made or maintained by a physician, psychiatrist, psychologist, or other recognized
professional or paraprofessional acting in the professional’s or paraprofessional’s capacity, or
assisting in that capacity, and which are made and maintained in connection with the provision
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of treatment to the Party, unless the University obtains that Party’s voluntary, written Consent to
do so for a grievance process under this section.
After post-hearing deliberation, the Decision-maker renders a determination based on the
preponderance of the evidence; whether it is more likely than not that the Respondent violated
the Policy as alleged.
• Notice of Hearing
No less than ten (10) business days prior to the hearing, the Title IX Coordinator or the Chair will
send notice of the hearing to the Parties. Once mailed, emailed, and/or received in-person,
notice will be presumptively delivered.
The notice will contain:
o A description of the alleged violation(s), a list of all policies allegedly violated, a
description of the applicable procedures, and a statement of the
potential Sanctions/responsive actions that could result.
o The time, date, and location of the hearing and a reminder that attendance is
mandatory, superseding all other campus activities.
o Any technology that will be used to facilitate the hearing.
o Information about the option for the live hearing to occur with the Parties located in
separate rooms using technology that enables the Decision-maker(s) and Parties to see
and hear a Party or witness answering questions. Such a request must be raised with
the Title IX Coordinator at least five (5) business days prior to the hearing.
o A list of all those who will attend the hearing, along with an invitation to object to any
Decision-maker on the basis of demonstrated bias. This must be raised with the Title IX
Coordinator at least two (2) business days prior to the hearing.
o Information on how the hearing will be recorded or transcribed and on access to the
recording for the Parties after the hearing.
o A statement that if any Party or witness does not appear at the scheduled hearing, the
hearing may be held in their absence, and the Party’s or witness’s testimony and any
statements given prior to the hearing will not be considered by the Decision-maker(s).
For compelling reasons, the Chair may reschedule the hearing.
o Notification that the Parties may have the assistance of an Advisor of their choosing at
the hearing and will be required to have one present for any questions they may desire
to ask. The Party must notify the Title IX Coordinator if they do not have an Advisor, and
the University will appoint one. Each Party must have an Advisor present. There are no
exceptions.
o A copy of all the materials provided to the Decision-maker(s) about the matter, unless
they have been provided already.
o An invitation to contact the Title IX Coordinator to arrange any disability
accommodations, language assistance, and/or interpretation services that may be
needed at the hearing, at least seven (7) business days prior to the hearing.
Hearings for possible violations that occur near or after the end of an academic term (assuming
the Respondent is still subject to this Policy) and are unable to be resolved prior to the end of
term will typically be held immediately after the end of the term or during the summer, as
needed, to meet the Resolution timeline followed by the University and remain within the 60-90
business Day goal for Resolution.
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In these cases, if the Respondent is a graduating student, a hold may be placed on graduation
and/or official transcripts until the matter is fully resolved (including any appeal). A student
facing charges under this Policy is not in good standing to graduate.
• Alternative Hearing Participation Options
The Title IX Coordinator or the Chair can arrange to use web or video conferencing technology to
allow remote testimony and otherwise conduct a live hearing by video conference without
compromising the fairness of the hearing. Remote options may also be needed during in-person
hearings for witnesses who cannot appear in person. Any witness who cannot attend in person
should let the Title IX Coordinator or the Chair know at least five (5) business days prior to the
hearing so that appropriate arrangements can be made.
• Pre-Hearing Preparation
The Chair, after any necessary consultation with the Parties, Investigator(s) and/or Title IX
Coordinator, will provide the names of persons who will be participating in the hearing, all
pertinent documentary evidence, and the final investigation report to the Parties at least ten
(10) business days prior to the hearing.
Any witness scheduled to participate in the hearing must have been first interviewed by the
Investigator(s) or have proffered a written statement or answered written questions, unless
all Parties and the Chair assent to the witness’s participation in the hearing. The same holds for
any evidence that is first offered at the hearing. If the Parties and Chair do not assent to the
admission of evidence newly offered at the hearing, the Chair will delay the hearing and instruct
that the investigation needs to be re-opened to consider that evidence.
The Parties will be given a list of the names of the Decision-maker(s) at least five (5) business
days in advance of the hearing. All objections to any Decision-maker must be raised in writing,
detailing the rationale for the objection, and must be submitted to the Title IX Coordinator as
soon as possible and no later than 48 hours prior to the hearing. Decision-makers will only
be substituted if the Title IX Coordinator concludes that their bias or conflict of interest
precludes an impartial hearing of the allegation(s).
The Title IX Coordinator will give the Decision-maker(s) a list of the names of all Parties,
witnesses, and Advisors at least five (5) business days in advance of the hearing. Any Decision-
maker who cannot make an objective determination must recuse themselves from the
proceedings when notified of the identity of the Parties, witnesses, and Advisors in advance of
the hearing. If a Decision-maker is unsure of whether a bias or conflict of interest exists, they
must raise the concern to the Title IX Coordinator as soon as possible.
During the ten (10) business Day period prior to the hearing, the Parties have the opportunity
for continued review and comment on the final investigation report and available evidence.
That review and comment can be shared with the Chair at the pre-hearing meeting or at the
hearing and will be exchanged between each Party by the Chair.
• Pre-Hearing Meetings
The Chair in their discretion may convene a pre-hearing meeting(s) with the Parties and their
Advisors to invite them to submit the questions or topics they (the Parties and their Advisors)
wish to ask or discuss at the hearing, so that the Chair can rule on their relevance ahead of time
to avoid any improper evidentiary introduction in the hearing or provide recommendations for
more appropriate phrasing. However, this advance review opportunity does not preclude the
Advisors from asking at the hearing for a reconsideration based on any new information or
testimony offered at the hearing. The Chair must document and share their rationale for any
exclusion or inclusion at this pre-hearing meeting.
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At each pre-hearing meeting with a Party and their Advisor, the Chair will consider arguments
that evidence identified in the final investigation report as relevant is, in fact, not relevant.
Similarly, evidence identified as directly related but not relevant by the Investigator(s) may be
argued to be relevant. The Chair may rule on these arguments pre-hearing and will exchange
those rulings between the Parties prior to the hearing to assist in preparation for the hearing.
The Chair may during a recess consult with legal counsel and/or the Title IX Coordinator, or ask
either or both to attend pre-hearing meetings.
• Hearing Procedures
At the hearing, the Decision-maker(s) has the authority to hear and make determinations on all
allegations of Sexual Harassment and may also hear and make determinations on any
additional alleged policy violations that have occurred in concert with the Sexual
Harassment, including related Retaliation.
Participants at the hearing may include the Chair, any additional panelists, a hearing facilitator
(if deemed necessary) the Investigator(s) who conducted the investigation, the Parties, Advisors
to the Parties, any called witnesses, the Title IX Coordinator, observing legal counsel for the
University, and anyone providing authorized accommodations or assistive services.
The Chair will answer all questions of procedure. Anyone appearing at the hearing to provide
information will respond to questions on their own behalf.
The Chair will allow witnesses who have relevant information to appear at a portion of the
hearing in order to respond to specific questions from the Decision-maker(s) and the Parties
and will then be excused.
• Joint Hearings
In hearings involving more than one Respondent or in which two (2) or more Complainants have
accused the same individual of substantially similar conduct, the default procedure will be to
hear the allegations jointly.
However, the Title IX Coordinator may permit the investigation and/or hearings pertinent to
each Respondent to be conducted separately if there is a compelling reason to do so. In joint
hearings, separate determinations of responsibility will be made for each Respondent with
respect to each alleged policy violation.
• The Order of the Hearing – Introductions and Explanation of Procedure
The Chair explains the procedures and introduces the participants. This may include a final
opportunity for challenge or recusal of the Decision-maker(s) on the basis of bias or conflict of
interest. The Chair will rule on any such challenge unless the Chair is the individual who is the
subject of the challenge, in which case the Title IX Coordinator will review and decide the
challenge.
At the hearing, recording, witness logistics, Party logistics, curation of documents, separation of
the Parties, and other administrative elements of the hearing process are managed by a non-
voting hearing facilitator appointed by the Title IX Coordinator. The hearing facilitator may
attend to: logistics of rooms for various Parties/witnesses as they wait; flow of
Parties/witnesses in and out of the hearing space; ensuring recording and/or virtual
conferencing technology is working as intended; copying and distributing materials to
participants, as appropriate, etc.
• Investigator Presents the Final Investigation Report
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The Investigator(s) will then present a summary of the final investigation report, including items
that are contested and those that are not, and will be subject to questioning by the Decision-
maker(s) and the Parties (through their Advisors). The Investigator(s) will be present during the
entire hearing process, but not during deliberations.
Neither the Parties nor the Decision-maker(s) should ask the Investigator(s) their opinions on
credibility, recommended findings, or determinations, and the Investigators, Advisors,
and Parties will refrain from discussion of or questions about these assessments. If such
information is introduced, the Chair will direct that it be disregarded.
• Testimony and Questioning
Once the Investigator(s) present their report and are questioned, the Parties and witnesses may
provide relevant information in turn, beginning with the Complainant, and then in the order
determined by the Chair. The Parties/witnesses will submit to questioning by the Decision-
maker(s) and then by the Parties through their Advisors (“cross-examination”).
All questions are subject to a relevance determination by the Chair. The Advisor, who will
remain seated during questioning, will pose the proposed question orally, electronically, or in
writing (orally is the default, but other means of submission may be permitted by the Chair upon
request or agreed to by the Parties and the Chair), the proceeding will pause to allow the Chair
to consider it, and the Chair will determine whether the question will be permitted, disallowed,
or rephrased.
The Chair may explore arguments regarding relevance with the Advisors, if the Chair so chooses.
The Chair will then state their decision on the question for the record and advise
the Party/witness to whom the question was directed, accordingly. The Chair will explain any
decision to exclude a question as not relevant, or to reframe it for relevance.
The Chair will limit or disallow questions on the basis that they are irrelevant, unduly repetitious
(and thus irrelevant), or abusive. The Chair has final say on all questions and determinations of
relevance, subject to any appeal. The Chair may consult with legal counsel on any questions of
admissibility. The Chair may ask Advisors to frame why a question is or is not relevant from their
perspective but will not entertain argument from the Advisors on relevance once the Chair has
ruled on a question.
If the Parties raise an issue of bias or conflict of interest of an Investigator or Decision-maker at
the hearing, the Chair may elect to address those issues, consult with legal counsel, and/or
refer them to the Title IX Coordinator, and/or preserve them for appeal. If bias is not in issue at
the hearing, the Chair should not permit irrelevant questions that probe for bias.
• Refusal to Submit to Cross-Examination and Inferences
If a Party or witness chooses not to submit to cross-examination at the hearing, either because
they do not attend the meeting, or they attend but refuse to participate in questioning, then the
Decision-maker(s) may not rely on any prior statement made by that Party or witness at the
hearing (including those contained in the investigation report) in the ultimate determination of
responsibility. The Decision-maker(s) must disregard that statement. Evidence provided that is
something other than a statement by the Party or witness may be considered.
If the Party or witness attends the hearing and answers some cross-examination questions, only
statements related to the cross-examination questions they refuse to answer cannot be relied
upon. However, if the statements of the Party who is refusing to submit to cross-examination or
refuses to attend the hearing are the subject of the allegation itself (e.g., the case is about
verbal harassment or a quid pro quo offer), then those statements are not precluded from
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admission. Similarly, statements can be relied upon when questions are posed by the Decision-
maker(s), as distinguished from questions posed by Advisors through cross-examination.
The Decision-maker(s) may not draw any inference solely from a Party’s or witness’s absence
from the hearing or refusal to answer cross-examination or other questions.
If charges of policy violations other than Sexual Harassment are considered at the same
hearing, the Decision-maker(s) may consider all evidence it deems relevant, may rely on any
relevant statement as long as the opportunity for cross-examination is afforded to
all Parties through their Advisors, and may draw reasonable inferences from any decision by
any Party or witness not to participate or respond to questions.
If a Party’s Advisor of choice refuses to comply with the University’s established rules of
decorum for the hearing, the University may require the Party to use a different Advisor. If the
University-provided Advisor refuses to comply with the rules of decorum, the University may
provide that Party with a different Advisor to conduct cross-examination on behalf of that Party.
• Recording Hearings
Hearings (but not deliberations) are recorded or transcribed by the University for purposes of
review in the event of an appeal. The Parties may not record the proceedings and no other
unauthorized recordings are permitted.
The Decision-maker(s), the Parties, their Advisors, and appropriate administrators of the
University will be permitted to listen to the recording in a controlled environment determined by
the Title IX Coordinator. No person will be given or be allowed to make a copy of the recording
without permission of the Title IX Coordinator.
• Deliberation, Decision-making, and Standard of Proof
The Decision-maker(s) will deliberate in closed session to determine whether the Respondent is
responsible or not responsible for the policy violation(s) in question. If a panel is used, a simple
majority vote is required to make a Finding or Final Determination. The preponderance of the
evidence standard of proof is used. The hearing facilitator may be invited to attend the
deliberation by the Chair, but is there only to facilitate procedurally, not to address the
substance of the allegations.
The Decision-maker(s) will review the statements from the hearing and any pertinent conduct
history and determine the appropriate Sanction(s).
The Chair will then prepare a written determination regarding responsibility and deliver it to the
Title IX Coordinator, detailing the elements listed below:
o Identification of the allegations potentially constituting Sexual Harassment as defined in
this Policy;
o A description of the procedural steps taken from the receipt of the Formal Complaint
through the determination, including any notifications to the Parties,
interviews with Parties and witnesses, site visits, methods used to gather other
evidence, and hearings held;
o Findings of fact supporting the Final Determination;
o Conclusions regarding the application of the University’s Policy to the facts;
o A statement of, and rationale for, the result as to each allegation, including a Final
Determination regarding responsibility, any disciplinary Sanctions the University
will impose on the Respondent, and whether Remedies designed to restore or preserve
equal access to the recipient’s education program or activity will be provided by
the University to the Complainant; and
o The University’s procedures and permissible bases for the Complainant and Respondent
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to appeal.
o This report typically should not exceed five (5) pages in length and must be submitted to
the Title IX Coordinator within two (2) business days of the end of deliberations, unless
the Title IX Coordinator grants an extension. If an extension is granted, the Title IX
Coordinator will notify the Parties.
• Resolution Letter
Within 7 days of receiving the deliberation statement, the Title IX Coordinator will assist the
Decision Maker to convey the deliberation statement to all Parties, including any Sanctions and
findings of fact, in the form of a Resolution Letter, signed by the Decision Maker.
The Resolution Letter will be shared with the Parties simultaneously. Notification will be made in
writing and may be delivered by one or more of the following methods: in person, mailed to the
local or permanent address of the Parties as indicated in official University records, or emailed
to the Parties’ University-issued email or otherwise approved account. Once mailed, emailed,
and/or received in-person, notice will be presumptively delivered.
Remedies (other than Sanctions) provided to the Complainant designed to ensure access to the
University’s educational or employment program or activity are not typically shared with the
Respondent unless the Remedy directly relates to the Respondent.
The Resolution Letter will also include information on when the results are considered by the
University to be final, any changes that occur prior to finalization, and the relevant procedures
and bases for any available appeal options.
• Sanctions
o Factors
Factors that may be considered when determining a Sanction/responsive action may
include, but are not limited to:
▪ The nature, severity of, and circumstances surrounding the violation(s)
▪ The Respondent’s disciplinary history
▪ Previous allegations or allegations involving similar conduct
▪ The need for Sanctions/responsive actions to bring an end to the Sexual
Misconduct, Sexual Harassment, and/or Retaliation
▪ The need for Sanctions/responsive actions to prevent the future recurrence of
discrimination, harassment, and/or Retaliation
▪ The need to remedy the effects of the discrimination, harassment, and/or
▪ Retaliation on the Complainant and the community
▪ The impact on the Parties
▪ Any other information deemed relevant by the Decision-maker(s)
The Sanctions will be implemented as soon as is feasible, either upon the outcome of
any appeal or the expiration of the window to appeal without an appeal being requested.
The Sanctions described in this policy are not exclusive of, and may be in addition to,
other actions taken or Sanctions imposed by external authorities.
• Student Sanctions
The following are the usual Sanctions that may be imposed upon students or organizations
singly or in combination:
o Warning A warning consists of formal notification that the student has violated the
University’s community standards and advises that repetition will result in a more severe
Sanction.
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o Reprimand At this increased standing, students understand a formal reprimand is in
place.
o Residence Removal means that the student is barred from the residence areas and will
only be allowed in non-residential spaces, administrative and academic buildings, and
the Dining Center between 7:30 am and 12:00 am. The student’s vehicle may only be on
campus during that time, and parking is restricted to Lots 1 or 12.
o Probation This Sanction is the most serious warning for violation of University regulations
prior to University suspension, and it places limits on the student’s good standing with
the University. Students on probation may be limited in their ability to attend University
programs and if a student is currently in residence, this status automatically carries
residence probation. If the student is found responsible for violating any University policy
during the period of probation, both residence suspension and/or University suspension
may become effective, and the student may be subject to additional Sanctions.
o University Suspension means that the student is dismissed from the University for a
given period of time, with an opportunity for re-admission. If suspended from the
University, the student will be barred from all University facilities and online
environments and from all University functions for the period of his/her/their
suspension.
o University Dismissal If a student is dismissed from the University, they are permanently
dismissed from the University without opportunity for readmission. If dismissed from the
University, the student will be barred from all University facilities and online
environments and from all University functions.
As this model is presented in increasing severity, it should be noted that violations may be
cumulative. A student’s prior conduct history and length of time between violations are factors
considered when selecting a conduct Sanction.
In some cases, a Sanction may be held in abeyance. This means that the suspension will not be
enforced immediately but is “in place”. This conduct status requires that specific conditions be
fulfilled. Any violation of those conditions will result, at a minimum, in immediate enforcement
of the suspension without a hearing. It may also result in further conduct action.
• Employee Sanctions
Responsive actions available for an employee who has engaged in Sexual Harassment, Sexual
Misconduct, and/or Retaliation include:
o Warning – Verbal or Written
o Performance Improvement/Management Process
o Required Training or Education
o Probation
o Loss of Annual Pay Increase
o Loss of Oversight or Supervisory Responsibility
o Demotion
o Suspension with pay
o Suspension without pay
o Termination
o Other Actions: In addition to or in place of the above Sanctions, the University may
assign any other Sanctions as deemed appropriate.
• Withdrawal or Resignation While Charges Pending
o Students
If a student has an allegation pending for violation of this Policy, the University may
place a hold on a student’s ability to graduate and/or to receive an official
transcript/diploma.
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Should a student decide to not participate in the Resolution process, the process
proceeds absent their participation to a reasonable Resolution. Should a student
Respondent permanently withdraw from the University, the Resolution process ends, as
the University no longer has disciplinary jurisdiction over the withdrawn student with
respect to Sexual Harassment.
However, the University will continue to address and remedy any systemic issues,
variables that may have contributed to the alleged violation(s), and any ongoing effects of
the alleged Sexual Harassment, and/or Retaliation. The student who withdraws or leaves
while the process is pending may not return to the University. Such exclusion applies to all
campuses and
modalities of the University. A hold will be placed on their ability to be readmitted. They
may also be barred from University property and/or events.If the student Respondent only
withdraws or takes a leave for a specified period of time (e.g., one term), the Resolution
process may continue remotely, and that student is not permitted to return to the
University unless and until all Sanctions have been satisfied.
o Employees
Should an employee Respondent resign with unresolved allegations pending,
the Resolution process ends, as the University no longer has disciplinary jurisdiction over
the resigned employee.
However, the University will continue to address and remedy any systemic issues,
variables that contributed to the alleged violation(s), and any ongoing effects of the
alleged Sexual Harassment.
The employee who resigns with unresolved allegations pending is not eligible for rehire
with the University or any campus of the University, and the records retained by the Title
IX Coordinator will reflect that status.
• Appeals
Any Party may file a request for appeal (“Request for Appeal”), but it must be submitted in
writing to the Title IX Coordinator within 7 days of the delivery of the Notice of Outcome.
A single Appeal Decision-maker will Chair the appeal. No Appeal Decision maker will have been
involved in the process previously, including any dismissal appeal that may have been heard
earlier in the process.
The Request for Appeal will be forwarded to the Appeal Chair for consideration to determine if
the request meets the grounds for appeal.
This review is not a review of the merits of the appeal, but solely a determination as to whether
the request meets the grounds and is timely filed.
• Grounds for Appeal
Appeals are limited to the following grounds:
o Procedural irregularity that affected the outcome of the matter;
o New evidence that was not reasonably available at the time the Final Determination
regarding responsibility or dismissal was made, that could affect the outcome of the
matter; and
o The Title IX Coordinator, Investigator(s), or Decision-maker(s) had a conflict of interest or
bias for or against Complainants or Respondents generally or the specific Complainant
or Respondent that affected the outcome of the matter.
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If any of the grounds in the Request for Appeal do not meet the grounds in this Policy, that
request will be denied by the Chair and the Parties, and their Advisors will be notified in writing
of the denial and the rationale.
If any of the grounds in the Request for Appeal meet the grounds in this Policy, then the Appeal
Chair will notify the other Party(ies) and their Advisors, the Title IX Coordinator, and, when
appropriate, the Investigators and/or the original Decision-maker(s).
The other Party(ies) and their Advisors, the Title IX Coordinator, and, when appropriate, the
Investigators and/or the original Decision-maker(s) will be mailed, emailed, and/or provided a
hard copy of the request with the approved grounds and then be given 7 days to submit a
response to the portion of the appeal that was approved and involves them. All responses will
be forwarded by the Chair to all Parties for review and comment.
The Appeal Chair will collect any additional information needed and all documentation regarding
the approved grounds and the subsequent responses and the Chair will render a decision in no
more than 7 business days, barring exigent circumstances.
A Notice of Appeal Outcome will be sent to all Parties simultaneously including the decision on
each approved ground and rationale for each decision. The Notice of Appeal Outcome will
specify the Finding on each ground for appeal, any specific instructions for remand or
reconsideration, any Sanctions that may result which the University is permitted to share
according to state or federal law, and the rationale supporting the essential findings to the
extent the University is permitted to share under state or federal law.
Notification will be made in writing and may be delivered by one or more of the following
methods: in person, mailed to the local or permanent address of the Parties as indicated in
official institutional records, or emailed to the Parties’ the University-issued email or otherwise
approved account. Once mailed, emailed and/or received in-person, notice will be
presumptively delivered.
• Sanctions Status During the Appeal
Any Sanctions imposed as a result of the hearing are stayed during the appeal process.
Supportive measures may be reinstated, subject to the same supportive measure procedures
above.
If any of the Sanctions are to be implemented immediately post-hearing, then emergency
removal procedures (detailed above) for a hearing on the justification for doing so must be
permitted within 48 hours of implementation. The University may still place holds on official
transcripts, diplomas, graduations, and course registration pending the outcome of an appeal
when the original Sanctions included separation.
• Appeal Considerations
o Decisions on appeal are to be deferential to the original decision, making changes to the
Finding only when there is clear error and to the Sanction(s)/responsive action(s) only if
there is a compelling justification to do so.
o Appeals are not intended to provide for a full re-hearing (de novo) of the allegation(s). In
most cases, appeals are confined to a review of the written documentation or record of
the original hearing and pertinent documentation regarding the specific grounds for
appeal.
o An appeal is not an opportunity for Appeal Decision-makers to substitute their judgment
for that of the original Decision-maker(s) merely because they disagree with
the Finding and/or Sanction(s).
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o The Appeal Chair/Panel may consult with the Title IX Coordinator on questions of
procedure or rationale, for clarification, if needed. Documentation of all such
consultation will be maintained.
o Appeals granted based on new evidence should normally be remanded to the original
Investigator(s) and/or Decision-maker(s) for reconsideration. Other appeals may be
remanded at the discretion of the Title IX Coordinator or, in limited circumstances,
decided on appeal.
o Once an appeal is decided, the outcome is final: further appeals are not permitted, even
if a decision or Sanction is changed on remand (except in the case of a new hearing).
o In rare cases where a procedural error cannot be cured by the original Decision-maker(s)
(as in cases of bias), the appeal may order a new hearing with a new Decision-maker(s).
o The results of a new hearing can be appealed, once, on any of the three available appeal
grounds.
o In cases in which the appeal results in reinstatement to the University or resumption of
privileges, all reasonable attempts will be made to restore the Respondent to their prior
status.
• Failure to Comply with Sanctions
All Respondents are expected to comply with the assigned Sanctions, responsive actions,
and/or corrective actions within the timeframe specified by the final Decision-maker(s)
(including the Appeal Chair/Panel).
Failure to abide by the Sanction(s)/action(s) imposed by the date specified, whether by refusal,
neglect, or any other reason, may result in additional Sanction(s)/action(s) pursuant to the
University’s standard conduct process, including suspension, expulsion, and/or termination
from the University.
A suspension will only be lifted when compliance is achieved to the satisfaction of the Title IX
Coordinator.
• Recordkeeping
The University will maintain for a period of at least seven years records of:
o Each Sexual Harassment investigation including any determination regarding
responsibility and any audio or audiovisual recording or transcript required under federal
regulation;
o Any disciplinary Sanctions imposed on the Respondent;
o Any Remedies provided to the Complainant designed to restore or preserve equal access
to the University’s education program or activity;
o Any appeal and the result therefrom;
o Any Informal Resolution and the result therefrom;
o All materials used to train Title IX Coordinators, Investigators, Decision-makers, and any
person who facilitates an Informal Resolution process. The University will make these
training materials publicly available on the University’s website; and
o Any actions, including any supportive measures, taken in response to a report or Formal
Complaint of Sexual Harassment, including:
▪ The basis for all conclusions that the response was not deliberately indifferent;
▪ Any measures designed to restore or preserve equal access to the University’s
education program or activity; and
▪ If no supportive measures were provided to the Complainant, document the
reasons why such a response was not clearly unreasonable in light of the known
circumstances.
The University will also maintain any and all records in accordance with state and federal laws.
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• Disabilities Accommodations in the Resolution Process
The University is committed to providing reasonable accommodations and support to qualified
students, employees, or others with disabilities to ensure equal access to the
University’s Resolution process.
Students needing such accommodations or support should contact the Campus or Online
Accessibility Centers. Employees should notify their HR business partner. The request will be
reviewed, and, in consultation with the person requesting the accommodation and the Title IX
Coordinator, determine which accommodations are appropriate and necessary for full
participation in the process.
Southern New Hampshire University Institutional Sexual Misconduct Grievance
Procedures
Scope
The University adopts these Institutional Sexual Misconduct Grievance Procedures for purposes of all
Sexual Misconduct this is not otherwise subject to the Sexual Harassment Grievance Procedures
(hereafter referred to as “other Sexual Misconduct”).
These procedures do not apply for cases where both the Complainant and Respondent are employees,
and not students. Instead, procedures and policies of the Employee Handbook and SNHUPEA Master
Agreement (as applicable) apply to such matters between employees falling outside the scope of
the definition/jurisdiction of Sexual Harassment under this Policy.
Procedure
The University adopts and will employ the same procedures as are set forth in Section 9, above,
including designated appeal procedures, for purposes of addressing all other Sexual Misconduct, with
the following important exceptions.
For purposes of these Institutional Sexual Misconduct Grievance Procedures:
• Advisors
Advisors may attend Investigatory meetings and hearings but may only provide input and advice
to the student for whom they are appointed directly. They may not advocate directly or
represent the student in any proceedings, nor question witnesses. Reasonable breaks or
recesses can be provided to permit private consultation with Advisors.
• Cross Examination
Neither a student nor his or her Advisor is permitted to directly cross examine another Party.
Questions for the witness may be submitted by the questioning student, and, after assessment
by the Chair, may be asked, or modified, to the witness by the Chair directly.
• Admissibility of Statements
Statements made but which are not the subject of cross-examination may still be considered
and weighed by the Decision-Maker(s). This may occur, for example, if
a Respondent or Complainant does not attend a hearing but made statements to the
Investigator in the course of an Investigation. Section 9.28, therefore, does not apply.
• Dismissal Requirements
The mandatory dismissal requirements set forth in Section 9.2, Subsection I. do not apply. The
discretionary dismissal standards articulated in Subsection II do apply. In addition, the Title IX
Coordinator may dismiss any complain that would not constitute Sexual Misconduct or a
violation of this Policy, even if proved, or if the Respondent is not subject to the University’s
jurisdiction or control.
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Revision of this Policy and Procedures
This Policy and procedures supersede any previous policy(ies) addressing Sexual Misconduct, including
Sexual Harassment, and related Retaliation and will be reviewed and updated by the Title IX
Coordinator. The University reserves the right to make changes to this document as necessary, and
once those changes are posted online, they are in effect.
During the Resolution process, the Title IX Coordinator may make minor modifications to procedures
that do not materially jeopardize the fairness owed to any Party, such as to accommodate summer
schedules. The Title IX Coordinator may also vary procedures materially with notice (on the institutional
website, with the appropriate effective date identified) upon determining that changes to law or
regulation require policy or procedural alterations not reflected in this Policy and procedures.
If government laws or regulations change – or court decisions alter – the requirements in a way that
impacts this document, this document will be construed to comply with the most recent government
regulations or holdings.
This document does not create legally enforceable protections beyond the protection of the
background state and federal laws which frame such policies and codes, generally.
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Southern New Hampshire University (the University) supports and promotes domestic sponsored travel
for academic purposes and enrichment while encouraging sound health, safety, and security measures
that minimize risks to travelers and to the University.
Examples of activities and events that fall under this policy include:
• Academic field trips and residencies
• Student Government Association (SGA) Sponsored Trips, and
• Trips involving Students or recognized Student organizations representing the University at
conferences, workshops, or other programs in an official capacity, including, but not limited to,
those that fall under:
o Athletics
o Chandler Center
o Office of Student Involvement
o Global Campus and SNHU Operation
Definitions
APPENDIX C: STUDENT DOMESTIC TRAVEL
POLICY
Associate/Trip
Leader(s)
Includes an employee, faculty member, staff member, or University
personnel who Chaperone or supervise Students participating in domestic
travel. Students working for the University are not considered Trip Leaders or
Associates.
Trip Administrator
Includes an employee, faculty member, staff member, or University
personnel who manage required travel forms, collection of participant
information, and compliance with travel policy and reporting.
Student(s)
Includes any individual who is enrolled in at least one class at the University
at the time of travel; or during the summer, is enrolled in at least one class
at the University, or was enrolled in at least one class at the University the
previous term, and is enrolled for at least one class at the University for the
following term.
Other Participant(s)
Includes parents of minor children (if required), Chaperones, and any other
person approved to participate in the trip.
Chaperone(s)
Includes an employee, faculty member, staff member, University personnel,
or outside adult over 18 who is assisting the Trip Administrator in supervising
Students on the Sponsored Trip
Travel Form Library
Includes travel forms, authorizations, and guidelines that support proper
documentation of all trips.
Sponsored Trip(s)
Is defined as one that is initiated, planned, and arranged by a Trip Leader(s)
or by members of a recognized Student organization that has been granted
sponsorship by the University, is approved by an appropriate Administrator,
with trip compliance managed by a Trip Administrator, and/or a trip that the
University is actively involved with, or provides assistance financially,
physically, or administratively. Sponsored Trip(s) includes:
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Sponsored Trip(s)
• Day and Overnight Trips organized by a Trip Leader(s) which
appropriately follow this policy
• Travel organized on behalf of the University recognized clubs or
organizations which appropriately follow this policy
• Day and Overnight Trips funded in whole or in part by the University
• Day and Overnight Trips administered by, or in conjunction with,
another institution or organization under an agreement with the
University
• Day and Overnight Trips organized and/or funded by University
departments
Day Trip(s)
Are defined as special activities within the scope of the instructional
program, which occur off campus, when accompanied by a Trip Leader(s)
that do not require overnight accommodation. The start and end of the trip
occur on the same day.
Overnight Trip(s)
Are defined as special activities within the scope of the instructional
program, which occur off campus, when accompanied by a Trip Leader(s)
that do require overnight accommodation.
Non-Sponsored Trip(s)
Include:
• Travel that has no connection to the University or its educational,
research, or service activities. Examples include personal travel,
mission/service trips that are unaffiliated with a University
organization, travel plan changes by Students or Other Participants
that are not part of the travel itinerary approved prior to departure,
and any other travel not described in the definition of “Sponsored
Trip”
• Travel that is organized by an entity other than the University, even
when participants are recruited through University organizations or
other on-campus marketing efforts, as long as the University has no
role in overseeing or funding the travel
Approved Driver
A member of the University Community (associate, faculty member, staff
member, or Student), 18 years of age of older, who has been authorized to
drive a University Fleet Vehicle for University business
University Fleet
Vehicle
All University-owned, leased, or rented vehicles driven while on official
University Business
Policy Scope
This policy applies to University Trip Leaders, Students, and Other Participants engaged in University
Sponsored Trips conducted domestically and off-campus. The Travel Authorization Form must be
approved prior to sponsored travel (see Travel Form Library). The University assumes no responsibility
or liability for Non-Sponsored Trips, including personal travel taken prior to, after, or during travel
covered by this policy. In addition, the University is not responsible for any actions taken in violation of
the Student Domestic Travel Policy. Participants are responsible for all costs and risks associated with
such travel, including for emergencies, evacuations, and missed program expenses.
This policy does not cover Students independently attending off campus athletic/recreational events
as non-participants, Student teaching, clinical, practicums, internships, field-based experiences, pre-
professional experiences, observations or research. Additionally, this policy does not cover
International trips.
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Purpose
To recognize the need for Student travel as an essential part of some programs, courses, or
extracurricular activities and to ensure that adequate preparation and protections are in place with
particular attention to the risks associated with domestic travel.
Roles and Responsibilities
All sponsored travel must be consistent with the mission of the University and/or sponsoring
organization, and travel must not result in an undue hardship on Students’ academic responsibilities.
All University Sponsored Trips must be chaperoned by a Trip Leader(s) who will be present for the
duration of the trip and will act as the organization representative for the trip. Any exceptions must be
approved by an appropriate Trip Administrator, Supervisor/Dean or designee.
The University Administrator reserves the right to restrict, deny, or postpone any University sponsored
or supported domestic trip.
Students and Other Participants are responsible for their own behavior and any resulting
consequences. The University will not be liable for any loss, damage, injury or other consequence
resulting from a participant’s failure to abide by the Student Handbook, Catalog, Student Code of
Conduct, Sexual Misconduct Policy, and other University policies, rules, or regulations, the direction of
the Trip Leader(s), or applicable law.
It is the responsibility of the Trip Leader(s) and Trip Administrators to ensure participant awareness
and compliance with all University policies, rules, or regulations that affect the trip, including but not
limited to, the current Alcohol and Other Drug Policy in the Student Handbook. All Trip Leaders,
Students, and Other Participants who do not follow all University Policies, rules and regulations will
bear full responsibility for any liability resulting from their travel.
The University will not be liable for the actions or inactions of others including but not limited to
participants, Trip Leaders acting outside the scope of their responsibilities, travel providers, carriers,
lodging providers, third parties and others whose actions are not the result of the negligent acts of the
University or its officials.
Required trips and trips with substantial purpose (e.g., required field trip for class credit, leadership
retreat for recognized Student club, etc.) should be held at locations that are accessible to persons
with disabilities. Voluntary, extracurricular trips should strive to be accessible, except when doing so
would fundamentally alter the nature of the trip (e.g., hiking trip with inaccessible trails, etc.).
Information about inaccessible trips should include language regarding the technical requirements
required to participate that may be inaccessible (e.g., must be able to independently walk uneven,
root-ridden trails; must be able to swim unassisted; must be able to independently climb stairs, etc.).
The Trip Leader(s) should discuss any concerns regarding accommodating Students with special
needs with the Campus Accessibility Center or Online Accessibility Center prior to trip departure. See
Trip Form Library for additional considerations regarding Student accommodations.
Any trip taken without prior approval, in accordance with this policy, may result in individual and/or
organizational discipline.
Procedure/Approval Process
All Sponsored Trips must be pre-approved by a Supervisor/Dean or Designee. A list of all participants
must be provided to the Supervisor/Dean or Designee, along with the Trip Administrator.
1. Evaluation of the risk of a trip by the Supervisor/Dean or Designee should include consideration
of:
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• Specific instructions as part of the trip prior to the trip such as special clothing
requirements, dietary needs, etc.
• Weather conditions – Trip Leader(s) should monitor weather forecasts, sign up for
University Alerts and should not drive if the University has closed due to weather
concerns. If third party transportation is being utilized, the University defers to their
policy.
• Means of transportation
• Physical accessibility of the trip location for Students with disabilities and appropriate
technical standards for inaccessible trips
• Adequate supervision
• Access to emergency personnel (public safety on call 24/7) and facilities
• Risk prevention/reduction
2. The Trip Leader(s) should fully advise participating Students of special requirements for the trip
(e.g., technical standards, tax implications, special equipment needed, attire, environmental
hazards, etc.)
• Trip participants should be aware that trip expenses funded by the University on behalf
of a trip participant may have tax implications. Total trip expenses in a calendar year,
funded by the University on behalf of a trip participant, which are valued at or exceed
the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) set rate (currently $600 per year), may be reported to
the IRS and may constitute taxable income to the trip participant. Trip expenses funded
by the trip participant are not considered taxable income under this rule. The University
cannot provide individual tax advice, so please consult a tax advisor for any questions.
• Trips using air travel, should comply with the Federal REAL ID and Passport regulations.
3. The Trip Leader(s) or Sponsoring Department will advise Students of potential risk, technical
standards (if any), and rules of conduct expected of each participant.
4. The Trip Leader(s) or Sponsoring Department will prepare a list of all participants, date, time,
itinerary and a contact number for each. The Trip Leader(s) will submit the list, along with all
signed waiver forms, to the Supervisor/Dean or Designee, Trip Administrator, as well as to the
Office of Public Safety.
5. If there is an indication of an injury, Student conduct violation, or crime involving any trip
participant on the trip, an Incident Report Form must be completed. To assist the University in
complying with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime
Statistics Act, during check-out from the lodging/venue, the Trip Leader(s) must ask if any
crimes occurred on property during the length of stay of trip participants. If any crimes occurred,
an Incident Report Form must be completed by the Trip Leader(s) with the basics of the crime
information, so that Public Safety may follow up with the hotel and local police for more
information. This information will also be collected on the Post-Trip Summary form sent by the
Trip Administrator.
Required Forms for Sponsored Trips
Required forms must be completed and submitted at the frequencies listed below. Exceptions to this
timeline must be reviewed and approved by the respective Vice President of Academic Affairs or
Designee. A link to the travel forms is located in Section 13.
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Department or
Organization
Form Name
Frequency Forms
are required to be
completed
Chandler Center
• Travel Authorization Form
• Student Traveler Contract
• Procedures for Student Functions Involving Alcohol
(when applicable)
• Student Traveler Statement of Responsibility and
Release from Liability
• Expectations for Trip Chaperones
• Leave Vehicle on Campus Form (when applicable via
Public Safety)
• Post-Trip Summary Report (upon trip completion)
Beginning of each
term
Athletics
(includes Club
Sports and eSports)
• Emergency Response Plan
• Procedures for Student Functions Involving Alcohol
(when applicable)
• Athletics Student Traveler Statement of
Responsibility and Release from Liability
• Expectations for Trip Chaperones
• Emergency Contact Form
• Leave Vehicle on Campus Form (when applicable via
Public Safety)
• Post-Trip Summary Report (upon trip completion)
Beginning of each
academic year OR
beginning of each
season
Faculty Lead
Programs/Trips
(FLP’s)
• Domestic Trip Form
• Travel Authorization Form
• Procedures for Student Functions Involving Alcohol
• Accessible Event Trip Guidelines (to be reviewed by
Trip Leader)
• Accessible Event Transportation Procedure (to be
reviewed by Trip Leader)
• Expectations for Trip Chaperones
• Student Traveler Statement of Responsibility and
Release from Liability
• Leave Vehicle on Campus Form (when applicable via
Public Safety)
• Post-Trip Summary Report (upon trip completion)
14 calendar days
before trip occurs
Global Campus and
Other Departments
• Domestic Trip Form
• Travel Authorization Form
• Procedures for Student Functions Involving Alcohol
• Accessible Event Trip Guidelines (to be reviewed by
Trip Leader)
• Accessible Event Transportation Procedure (to be
reviewed by Trip Leader)
• Expectations for Trip Chaperones
• Student Traveler Statement of Responsibility and
14 calendar days
before trip occurs
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Global Campus and
Other Departments
Release from Liability
• Leave Vehicle on Campus Form (when applicable via
Public Safety)
• Post-Trip Summary Report (upon trip completion)
Office of Student
Involvement
• Off Campus Trip Summary – Student Involvement
• Student Traveler Contract
• Student Traveler Statement of Responsibility and
Release from Liability
• Expectations for Trip Chaperones
• Emergency Response Plan
• Procedures for Student Functions Involving Alcohol
(when applicable)
• Leave Vehicle on Campus Form (when applicable via
Public Safety)
• Post-Trip Summary Report (upon trip completion)
48 hours prior to
trip
Student
Government
Association (SGA)
• Trip Submission Form (through Office of Student
Involvement)
• SGA Budget & Finance Request for Conferences
• Vehicle Request Form (through Office of Student
Involvement)
• Off-Campus Trip Contact Information (through Office
of Student Involvement)
• Off-Campus Trip Summary and Statement of
Responsibility and Release from Liability
• Emergency Response Plan
• Procedures for Student Functions Involving Alcohol
(when applicable)
• Expectations for Trip Chaperones
• Emergency Contact Form
• Leave Vehicle on Campus Form (when applicable via
Public Safety)
Process begins 8
weeks in advance
(Overnight Trips)
and 6 weeks in
advance (Day
Trips).
Waiver and
summary forms due
48 hours prior to
trip
All Sponsored Trips must be authorized in advance of travel. The Trip Leader(s) or Sponsoring
Department must complete all required forms (as outlined above) and return to the Trip Administrator
and Public Safety Office before the scheduled trip. A copy of all forms must also be maintained within
the appropriate office (e.g., Faculty-led trip to respective Dean’s Office, Staff-led trip to the respective
Student Affairs/Student Experience team, Student-led trips to Office of Student Involvement, etc.). If
alcohol will be available at the event, the Procedures for Student Functions Involving Alcohol must be
followed.
The Trip Leader(s) must check with the Trip Administrator in the appropriate office(s) (e.g., Faculty-led
trip to respective Dean’s Office, Staff-led trip to the respective Student Affairs/Student Experience
team, Student-led trips to Office of Student Involvement, etc.), prior to departure to verify all trip
participants have submitted the appropriate forms. Under no circumstances should any Student be
allowed to participate in the trip without the appropriate forms on file in the appropriate University
Office. Forms given to the Trip Leader(s) on the day of the trip is not acceptable.
Responsible University Chaperone
At least one Trip Leader(s) must accompany Students on any University sponsored off- campus activity.
As a general guideline, Day Trips should have 1 Trip Leader to 20 Students and Overnight Trips should
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have 1 Trip Leader to 12 Students. The designated Trip Leader is responsible for knowing and
enforcing the policies set forth in this document and the Student Handbook.
University Trip Leader(s) are held to a high standard of conduct – one that will maintain the
educational quality of the campus. It is required for all Trip Leaders to follow the University policies as
well as enforce them. It is also required for Trip Leaders to report any violation of University Student
conduct. If a violation does occur, it is the responsibility of the Trip Leader(s) to fill out an Incident
Report Form.
Orientation
All University Sponsored Trips involving Students must include a pre-departure orientation for all
participants, arranged and conducted by the department, faculty/staff sponsor, or organization
sponsoring the program or activity. Students who do not participate in the pre-departure orientation will
not be able to participate in the trip. The orientation should include the planned itinerary; behavior
expectations; transportation details; a reminder that Students must abide by all rules and regulations
of the University including the Student Code of Conduct, local, state, and federal laws; a reminder that
the Student Handbook will apply to participants in connection with the trip activities and all related
matters including travel and overnight stays, and that failure to adhere to such rules and policies may
lead to disciplinary action against said Student and sanctions may be applied to their team, club or
organization, or department; and a review of the technical standards (if any) and the Emergency
Response Plan.
Transportation
If a transportation company is not used (such as a chartered bus), the Trip Leader(s) must be an
Approved Driver and must comply with the Driver Safety, Vehicle Use and Fleet Management Policy.
When appropriate, travel with University provided transportation must begin and end on campus.
However, to the extent there are required variances from this stipulation, all alternate considerations
must be approved in advance of the departure for the trip by the Trip Leader(s). If the University does
not provide transportation, then participants must meet at the site off campus and the trip will begin
and end at the off-campus site. Individual participants are personally liable for transportation to and
from the site when the University does not provide transportation. The Trip Leader should not be
responsible for planning or supervising the travel arrangements of participants when the University
does not provide the transportation.
Accident and Medical Insurance
The University does not provide accident or medical insurance for Students participating in University-
Sponsored Trips. The Trip Leader(s) should make Students aware that they are responsible for any
accident or medical costs incurred as a result of their participation in the trip.
Student Athletes are covered for sport related injuries during off campus trips.
Emergencies
In the event of a minor accident or emergency while participating in a University Sponsored Trip, the
affected participant(s) should immediately contact the Trip Leader(s) who must notify Public Safety as
well as complete an Incident Report Form to be submitted to the appropriate office at the conclusion of
the Sponsored Trip.
In the event of a serious accident or emergency, participant or Trip Leader(s) should contact 911.
Subsequent to contacting 911, participant or Trip Leader(s) should contact Public Safety as soon as
possible by calling 603-645-9700 making sure to leave a telephone number where he/she can be
reached. Trip Leaders must also complete an Incident Report Form to be submitted to the appropriate
office at the conclusion of the Sponsored Trip.
Travel in Violation of this Policy
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Participants who choose to travel in violation of this policy, or outside the itinerary provided prior to
departure, are acting outside the control and responsibility of the University and assume all risks and
liability for their travel. The University assumes no responsibility or liability for Non-Sponsored Trips or
for non-sponsored activities or programs including personal travel, taken prior to, after, or during travel
covered by this policy.
Distribution and Change of Policy and Procedure
A copy of this policy should be made available to every person traveling for any University-sponsored
program or activity.
The University reserves the right to change this policy and procedures in light of changing
circumstances affecting travel, safety, health, or other matters related to the best interest of the
University and participants.
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APPENDIX D: COPYRIGHT POLICY
Appendix D: Copyright Policy
SNHU requires all members of the University community to comply with all state and federal laws
including copyright laws. The students, faculty and staff at SNHU have access to the fundamentals of
copyright law and SNHU’s guidelines for educational use of copyright materials at SNHU policies and
resources concerning U.S. Copyright Law and the U.S. Copyright Office’s Home Page. Unauthorized
distribution of copyrighted material, including unlawful peer-to-peer file sharing, is a violation of
University policy and may subject the infringing individual to disciplinary action, and also civil and/or
criminal penalties described below.
Allegations of copyright infringement by SNHU users that comply with the Digital Millennium Copyright
Act, Title II, Section 512 (c) (3) (“DCMA”) will be investigated. The University’s designated DCMA agent
will notify the Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs of all valid notification of claimed
copyright infringement received by SNHU for appropriate action. If SNHU determines that any users
have infringed copyrights of others on a repeat basis, the offending user's access to online services
may be terminated. SNHU reserves the right to choose how to address or respond to any allegation of
copyright infringement received including, without limitation, the choice of any defense under
applicable law.
Notification of Claimed Infringement under the Digital Millennium Copyright Act: If any owners of
copyrights believe SNHU's users are infringing copyright protected work, they may send a notice to
SNHU's designated agent at:
Evan Lowry, Staff Attorney General Counsel's Office
Southern New Hampshire University
2500 North River Road
Manchester, NH 03106
603.626.9100
e.lowry@snhu.edu
Notification of claimed infringement must contain the information required by and otherwise comply
with the Digital Millennium Copyright Act, Title II, Section 512(c).
SNHU DMCA Take-Down Procedure:
In compliance with the Digital Millennium Copyright Act, Southern New Hampshire University adopts
the following procedure for the removal of infringing materials. As stated above, the University reserves
the right to modify this response procedure on a case-by-case basis provided that the requirements of
the law are met.
1. All DMCA notices shall be sent to the University’s designated agent listed above. The agent will
review the notice to ensure that it contains all elements required by Section 512(c)(3)(A) of the
DMCA.
2. The designated agent shall acknowledge receipt of the claim to the complainant. If the notice
provided does not substantially comply with the requirements of the DMCA, the agent shall
attempt to contact the sender to notify of the non-compliant notice.
3. The designated agent shall coordinate the University’s response, maintain records of notices
and offenses, and assure all incidents are processed in accordance with the law. The actions of
the agent shall protect the rights of intellectual property owners, while also respecting the rights
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of those accused of infringement. The agent shall consult the University’s General Counsel
regarding any questions of applicable law.
4. Upon receipt of a complaint, the designated agent shall work with a representative of the
Information Security team to ensure the prompt removal of all infringing material. The agent will
take reasonable steps to ensure such action does not negatively impact activities essential to
the University’s mission.
5. When a compliant counter-notice is received, the designated agent will ensure that the material
is restored in accordance with the provisions of the DMCA.
6. Southern New Hampshire University may take steps to terminate access and exercise other
disciplinary action in response to valid copyright infringement claims, particularly with regard to
claims of repeat infringement.
7. Questions regarding this procedure should be directed to the University’s designated agent
listed above.
Using SNHU's Copyright Protected Materials
As a general rule, you may print, reproduce, and use the information in, and retrieve files containing
publications or images from, only those WWW documents to which SNHU expressly grants permission
or license, provided: (1) the use is for non-commercial, personal, or educational purposes only, (2) you
do not modify any information or image, and (3) you include any copyright notice originally provided in
the materials. If a particular author places further restrictions on the material, you must honor those
restrictions. In some instances, specific information contents may be copyrighted by others. By using
any of this material, you assume all risks of copyright infringement and related liability.
Using SNHU Logos, Trademarks and Licensed Graphics, and Web Templates
All standard graphics, photographs, and text of the SNHU Home Page and connected pages displaying
the SNHU logos and logotype are copyrighted and trademarked by SNHU. Redistribution or commercial
use are prohibited without express written permission.
Unlawful File-Sharing
Southern New Hampshire University strictly prohibits unlawful peer-to-peer file sharing, and has
instituted a File Sharing Policy and Network Acceptable Use Policy, which prohibit illegal sharing over
the University’s network. Students who engage in illegal downloading or unauthorized distribution of
copyrighted materials over the University’s networks will be subject to disciplinary action and may have
their network privileges suspended or terminated.
Summary of Civil and Criminal Penalties for Violation of Federal Copyright Laws
Copyright infringement is the act of exercising, without permission or legal authority, one or more of
the exclusive rights granted to the copyright owner under section 106 of the Copyright Act (Title 17 of
the United States Code). These rights include the right to reproduce or distribute a copyrighted work. In
the file-sharing context, downloading or uploading substantial parts of a copyrighted work without
authority constitutes an infringement. Penalties for copyright infringement include civil and criminal
penalties. In general, anyone found liable for civil copyright infringement may be ordered to pay either
actual damages or “statutory” damages affixed at not less than $750 and not more than $30,000 per
work infringed. For “willful” infringement, a court may award up to $150,000 per work infringed. A
court can, in its discretion, also assess costs and attorneys’ fees. For details, see Title 17, United
States Code, Sections 504, 505. Willful copyright infringement can also result in criminal penalties,
including imprisonment of up to five years and fines of up to $250,000 per offense. For more
information, please see the website of the U.S. Copyright Office at www.copyright.gov.
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APPENDIX E: GRADE APPEALS
Grade Appeals and Other Academic Disputes
The policy governing grade appeals and academic disputes can be found here in the Academic
Catalog. In addition to the provisions of that policy, the following appeals process is in place:
If a Grade Appeal is denied, and the student wishes to pursue the matter further, then the student
must:
a. Within fifteen (15) business days of the Appeal denial, submit a written final appeal
to the Committee for Appeal of a Grade (at coceapp[email protected]). Such final
appeal consists of a copy of the original Grade Appeal, and any additional
information or clarification that the student wishes to add to the original Appeal.
The Committee for Appeal of a Grade is composed of three assistant or associate
deans and associate vice presidents external to the program area. The Committee is
charged with determining whether the grade was assigned without error, prejudice or
arbitrariness.
If the Committee determines that the grade was awarded without error, prejudice, or
arbitrariness, then within fifteen (15) business days of receipt of the Appeal, the
Committee will report its conclusions to the student and the instructor, after which
the matter will be considered to be closed.
b. If the Committee determines that the grade assigned should be changed, the
Committee will take the appropriate action(s) to change the grade. Within fifteen (15)
business days of receipt of the Appeal, the Committee must report its conclusions to
the student and must inform the instructor of the reasons for its decision to change
the grade, after which the matter will be considered to be closed.
