St. Cloud State University

Initiation of Charges

1. Disciplinary charges may be initiated by any member of the university community by submitting a signed incident report or written statement to the Associate Vice President for Student Life and Development.
2. The referral must state facts, including the specific name(s), date, location, and description of the alleged act(s) of misconduct in sufficient detail to enable the Associate Vice President for Student Life and Development to make a determination as to whether further fact-finding is necessary and if sufficient evidence exists for a hearing on the charge(s).

Determination of Probable Cause

1. The university will make an initial determination as to whether there is a sufficient basis to believe that a violation of the Code of Conduct may have occurred. The Associate Vice President for Student Life and Development may interview the complainant and/or other witnesses or request additional information from the complainant.
2. If it is determined that there is sufficient basis to believe that a violation of the Code of Conduct may have occurred, the case may be heard by a Residence Hall Director, the Associate Vice President for Student Life and Development, or referred to the judicial panel. The appropriate hearing officer will promptly notify the accused student in writing of the alleged violation usually within seven business days.
3. Failure to respond to a written allegation of charges will result in a hold being placed on the student's registration for subsequent terms.
4. Accused students who fail to appear at the hearing will forfeit their right to present testimony. The case will be decided without the benefit of their presence.

Administrative Hearing

Residence Hall Directors, the Associate Vice President for Student Life and Development and/or the Director of Residential Life will serve as administrative hearing officers for cases involving allegations for which a finding of "responsible" would not normally result in suspension or expulsion from the university. Sanctions may include, but are not limited to; written reprimand, behavioral contract, administrative referrals, financial restitution, community service hours, Hall suspension or removal, required attendance at the drug, chemical assessments, and alcohol education class ($50.00 fee each), restriction of privileges and university probation. At the administrative hearing, the accused student will be provided with the following:

1. an explanation of the charges which have been made;
2. a summary of the fact-finding investigation which has taken place (if applicable);
3. a reasonable opportunity to reflect upon and respond to the charges; and
4. an explanation of the disciplinary sanction(s) imposed (if applicable).