University of Central Oklahoma
Code of Student Conduct 2007-2008
The freedom of individuals to inquire, study, evaluate, increase understanding, and further their intercultural and interpersonal development is essential and must be protected against suppression. Reasonable dissent plays a vital role in university discourse. However, freedoms may not be reasonably protected or exercised in a university that lacks order and stability. Therefore, the Code of Student Conduct, and the incorporated Statements of Academic Dishonesty Policy and Students’ Obligations and Responsibilities is to inform the student body of the expected standards of behavior and policies that are fundamental to the normal activities of the University of Central Oklahoma. Furthermore, the purpose of the Code of Student Conduct is to develop and maintain guidelines for a reasonable and comfortable living and learning environment for all University of Central Oklahoma community members. The intent of the University is to ensure that students do not overlook their civic and social responsibilities nor lose their rights as citizens and members of this community. The Code of Student Conduct specifically clarifies the rights and responsibilities of students at the University of Central Oklahoma.
All full- and part-time University of Central Oklahoma students are expected to conduct themselves with the utmost integrity and civility. The University of Central Oklahoma does not tolerate dishonesty such as cheating, violating the integrity of examinations, plagiarism, or knowingly furnishing false information to University faculty or staff. In addition, harassment, forgery, alteration, damage or misuse of official University documents, records, or identification cards is strictly prohibited. NOTE: Violation of these expectations, as specified in sections III, IV, and V, may result in penalties up to and / or including expulsion from the University.
Public Directory Information and student access to official educational records at the University of Central Oklahoma (UCO) designates the following student information as public or directory information:
Category I
Student’s name, local and permanent address, e-mail address, telephone number(s), classification, dates of attendance at UCO, enrollment status (full-time, half-time, or less than half-time).
Category II
Major field of study / degree program, educational institutions previously attended, degrees and awards granted, educational background, degree(s) held, date(s) granted and, institutions granting such degree(s).
Category III
Date and place of birth, participation in officially recognized organizations, activities and sports, and weight and height of participants in officially recognized sports. This information may be disclosed by the institution for any purpose, at its discretion.
Students may withhold disclosure of all categories of directory information under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974. Forms requesting the withholding of "Directory Information" are available in Enrollment Management, Nigh University Center 124, (405) 974-2338.
The University of Central Oklahoma assumes approval for disclosure unless a student specifically requests the withholding of "Directory Information." In accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974, it is the policy of the University to release personally identifiable information from the educational records of a student, without written consent, to University officials (faculty, staff, and agents of the University having responsibility for working with that student in admissions, registration, advisement, housing, counseling, student discipline, teaching, financial aid, payment of fees, or any other activity directly related to the student’s academic program, or pursuant to law or governmental regulation) with a legitimate educational interest. A University official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review the contents of an educational record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibilities.
Attempts by other individuals or organizations to gain access to student records without the express written consent of the student are considered a violation of University policy and federal law. Examples of violations include, but are not limited to:
1) Illegally accessing information from student or faculty information terminals;
2) Misrepresentation to obtain another student’s transcript, semester grades, or class registration; and,
3) Using a student’s ID number without his / her permission to gain access to any University services.
In accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974, as amended, eligible students are entitled to access official educational records directly related to the student, including the right of inspection and review within forty-five (45) days of the day that the University receives a request for access from an eligible student. Requests for academic records are directed to the appropriate academic department or Enrollment Services, Nigh University Center 124, (405) 974-2338. Student Conduct records may be requested by contacting the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs, Lillard Administration Building 213, (405) 974-2361.
The right of access shall include:
1. The right to a list of the types of educational records maintained by the institution and directly related to students;
2. The right to inspect and review the content of those records;
3. The right to obtain copies of those records, which may be at the expense of the eligible student or parent. Parents of a dependent student as defined in Section 152 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1954 are entitled to access to official educational records of that student;
4. The right to a response from the institution to reasonable requests for explanations and interpretations of those records;
5. The right to inspect and review or to be informed of specific information about themselves which is contained in any material or document; and
6. The right to an opportunity for a hearing to challenge the content of those records under subsection I.G.
Prior to access, students must provide the department which maintains the desired educational record(s) with identification to verify the identity of the requesting and eligible student. In addition, the department may require that requesting and eligible students submit a signed and dated written request or a completed Personal Record Access Request Form prior to receiving access to the educational record. These aforementioned procedures shall serve as a safeguard to protect the privacy of student educational records.
1. The hearing shall be conducted and decided within a reasonable period of time following the request for the hearing;
2. The hearing shall be conducted, and the decision rendered by a University official or other party who does not have a direct interest in the outcome of the hearing;
3. The eligible student shall be afforded a full and fair opportunity to present information relevant to the issues raised under subpart C, section 99 of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974; and,
4. The decision shall be rendered in writing within a reasonable period of time after the conclusion of the hearing.
Eligible students and eligible parents of students have the right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the University of Central Oklahoma to comply with the requirements of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) of 1974. The name and address of the office that administers FERPA of 1974 is:
Family Policy Compliance Office
U.S. Department of Education
600 Independence Ave., SW
Washington, DC 20202-5901
1. The term “University” means the University of Central Oklahoma.
2. The term "student" includes all persons taking courses at the University of Central Oklahoma, both full-time and part-time, pursuing undergraduate, graduate, or professional studies and those who attend postsecondary educational institutions other than the University of Central Oklahoma but reside in the University residence system. Persons who are not officially enrolled for a particular term, but who have a continuing relationship with the University may be considered "students." This definition includes, but is not limited to, incoming freshmen, transfer students, persons concurrently enrolled at other educational institutions, persons enrolled at other educational institutions that offer classes on the University of Central Oklahoma campus property, and anyone participating in University sponsored programs and activities for students (i.e. study abroad programs).
3. The term "faculty member" means any person hired by the University to instruct or facilitate classroom activities.
4. The term "University official" includes any person employed by the University, performing assigned administrative or professional responsibilities.
5. The term "member of the University community" includes any person who is a student, faculty member, University official, persons employed by the University, or any nearby stakeholder of the University. The Director of Student Conduct shall determine a person's status as the situation warrants.
6. The term "University premises" includes all land, buildings, facilities, and / or areas controlled by the University including adjacent streets and sidewalks.
7. The term "organization" means any number of persons who have complied with the formal requirements for University recognition / registration.
8. The term "student conduct body" means any person or persons authorized by the Director of Student Conduct to hear misconduct cases and / or appeals, consider the provided information, and recommend an appropriate outcome, which may include recommending or imposing sanctions. A student conduct body may be referred to as a board or committee.
9. The "Director of Student Conduct" is the person designated by the University President to be responsible for the administration of the Code of Student Conduct.
10. The term "Acting Conduct Officer" means a University official authorized on a case-by-case basis by the University to impose sanctions upon students found to have violated the Code of Student Conduct. The Director of Student Conduct may authorize an Acting Conduct Officer to serve simultaneously as a student conduct official and the sole member or one (1) of the members of a student conduct body. Nothing shall prevent the Director of Student Conduct from authorizing the same Acting Conduct Officer to impose sanctions in all cases.
11. The term "shall" is used in the imperative sense.
12. The term "may" is used in the permissive sense.
13. The term "Policy" is defined as the written regulations of the University as found in, but not limited to, the Code of Student Conduct, Residence Life Handbook, Student-Athlete Code of Conduct, and the Graduate / Undergraduate Catalogs.
14. The term "cheating" includes, but is not limited to:
a) The use of any unauthorized assistance in taking quizzes, test, or examinations;
b) Dependence upon the aid of sources beyond those authorized by the instructor in writing papers, preparing reports, solving problems, or carrying out other assignments; or,
c) The acquisition, without permission, of tests or other academic material belonging to a member of the University faculty or staff.
15. The term "plagiarism" includes, but is not limited to, the use, by paraphrase or direct quotation, of the published or unpublished work of another person without full and clear acknowledgement. It also includes the unacknowledged use of materials prepared by another person or agency engaged in the selling of term papers or other academic materials. (Please refer to subsection III. C. 3. for more information on plagiarism and it’s relation to academic dishonesty.)
16. The terms “Complainant” or “Alleged Victim” mean any person who submits a charge alleging that a student violated this Code of Student Conduct. When a student believes that he or she has been a victim of another student’s misconduct, then the student who believes he or she has been a victim has the right to file a complaint with the Office of Student Conduct, the UCO Police Department, or the appropriate University official.
17. The term “Accused Student” means any student accused of violating this Code of Student Conduct or any other related published University policy, such as those mentioned in section II. 13. of this document.
The University of Central Oklahoma seeks to develop the whole individual and the skills needed for successful living. The educational experience is designed to enable students to practically apply the knowledge and skills gained to individual and social problems. The University promotes an international understanding as well as an appreciation for the democratic way of life.
Students are responsible for reviewing the information contained in the official University catalog. The catalog contains regulations governing academic programs, course requirements, campus life, and other important information. When a student requests his or her transcript be sent to another institution, the University shall have the right to supply other academic information as may be requested by that institution. No information concerning disciplinary action will be released unless such action is permissible under federal policies.
Certain colleges, departmental and administrative officers at the University have a legitimate interest and need for information contained in students’ records and are authorized access to this information as necessary. Information may be released from students’ records to appropriate persons in connection with an emergency if the knowledge of such information is necessary to protect the health or safety of a student or the University community.
The following factors should be taken into consideration in determining whether records may be released under this section: (a) the seriousness of the threat to the health or safety of a student or the University community; (b) the need for such records to meet the emergency; (c) whether the persons to whom such records are released are in a position to deal with the emergency; and, (d) the element of time being a crucial factor in dealing with the emergency.
Records maintained by a physician, psychologist, or other recognized professionals are not open for parents’ or students’ inspection. Inquiries regarding medical records should be directed to the office maintaining those records, i.e., Student Counseling Center or the Student Health Center.
There are various holds that may be placed on a student’s records that would prohibit him or her from being able to conduct business on the campus. The types of holds are: admissions, library, deans, financial, registrar, advisor, enrollment, housing delinquency, conduct, or loan delinquency. The various holds may be put in place until such a time that the student is in compliance with University policies. Should the student find he or she has one (1) or more of the above holds, he or she should contact the appropriate office to solve the problem that created the hold.
In order to provide a means for students to pursue a solution to grievances affecting themselves individually, two (2) appeals procedures exist. The first enables a student to seek redress when the student believes a faculty member has not met professional obligations to the student or has not behaved in an ethical manner in a professional relationship with the student. The second allows a student to appeal the assignment of a grade. If a student believes practices and procedures were not consistently and accurately followed, the student may have the right to appeal the final grade. Any faculty member approached by a student considering an appeal must inform the student of the availability of these procedures.
a) Direct discussion with the instructor (optional). The student should seriously consider conferring with the instructor in question in order to attempt to resolve the grievance without filing a written complaint. It is quite acceptable for the student and / or the instructor to be accompanied to this meeting. All parties are to treat these discussions as confidential.
b) Mediation by the department chair / school director and dean. The student desiring mediation must submit a formal signed statement of grievance(s) by the end of the fourth week of the next semester in which the student enrolls after that during which the alleged violation occurs, but in no case later than one (1) calendar year from the date of the incident. The statement must include a clear description of the event(s) leading to the filing of the grievance and the specific remedy sought. It shall be given to the dean of the college in which the instructor was teaching. Upon receipt, the dean and department chair / school director-or senior full-time member of the department / school if the department chair / school director is concerned in the grievance-shall meet to evaluate the merit of the grievance within seven (7) class days of its receipt and shall meet with the student and instructor concerned within fourteen (14) class days of its receipt. The purpose of the meeting shall be to attempt to reconcile differences through recommendations to the parties. The results of the meeting shall be reduced to writing, and signed copies shall be given to the student and the instructor.
c) Students dissatisfied with the results of the mediation process as outlined in paragraph two (2), above, may contact the Office of Legal Services, Lillard Administration Building, (405) 974-2573. The Office of Legal Services has the power to investigate the process and submit a report of the findings.
If a student believes the practices and procedures used to determine his / her final grade were not consistently and / or accurately followed, the student may have the ability to have his / her appeal considered by the Board of Academic Appeals. All appeals must be filed with the Office of Academic Affairs no later than the end of the fourth week of the next semester immediately following the semester in which the appealed action occurred. Semesters include the fall, spring, and summer sessions. Information regarding the specific steps involved in filing a grade appeal may be found at http://www.busn.ucok.edu/academicaffairs/Academic%20Appeals%20ProcedurePacket.pdf
Academic dishonesty includes, but is not confined to: plagiarizing; cheating on tests or examinations; turning in counterfeit reports, tests, and papers; stealing tests or other academic material; knowingly falsifying academic records or documents of the institution; accessing a student's confidential academic records without authorization; disclosing confidential academic information without authorization; and turning in the same work to more than one (1) class without informing the instructors involved. Each student is expected to engage in all academic pursuits in a manner that is above reproach. Students are expected to maintain complete honesty and integrity in the academic experiences both in and out of the classroom. Any student deemed to have engaged in academic dishonesty, including, but not limited to the following, will be subject to disciplinary action:
a) Cheating on an examination or the preparation of academic work;
b) Copying from another student's test paper, laboratory report, other report, or computer files, data, listings, and / or programs;
c) Using, during a test, materials not authorized by the professor or instructor;
d) Collaborating with or aiding another person, without authorization, during an examination or in preparing academic work;
e) Knowingly and without authorization, using, buying, selling, stealing, transporting, soliciting, copying or possessing in whole or in part, the contents of an un-administered examination;
f) Substituting for another student, or permitting another student to substitute for one (1) in taking an examination or preparing academic work;
g) Bribing another person to obtain an unadministered examination or information about an unadministered examination;
h) Attempting to bribe any faculty / staff or student to alter a grade;
i) Plagiarizing or appropriating another's work or idea without properly acknowledging incorporation of that work or idea into one's own work;
j) Unauthorized reuse of work or the turning in of the same work to more than one (1) class without informing the instructors involved;
k) Any forgery, alteration, or misuse of academic documents, forms or records, in hard copy or electronic format;
l) Attempts by unauthorized individuals or organizations to access student records without the expressed written consent of the student. Examples of violations include, but are not limited to the following:
1. Illegally accessing information from student or faculty information terminals;
2. Misrepresenting oneself to obtain another student's transcript, semester grades or class registration; and,
3. Using a student's ID number without his / her expressed written permission to gain access to other University services.
m) Knowingly falsifying admissions information.
a) Instructor-of-Record: The instructor-of-record is the individual responsible for the grade assignment. Other faculty members who are participating in a course (such as in team-taught courses) and teaching assistants are also expected to participate in any appropriate way in assessing penalties for misconduct or dishonesty, and in the case of an appeal.
b) Instructor Procedures: In instances where the instructor-of-record has clear and convincing information that a student has engaged in dishonest academic behavior, the following procedures will be used:
STEP ONE (1):
The instructor-of-record shall discuss the situation as soon as possible with the student, explaining the allegation, the reasons for it, and the disciplinary action(s) being considered, and shall give the student the opportunity to respond to the allegation. In cases where the instructor is unable to contact a student, i.e., at the end of a semester, the instructor may consult with the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs for assistance. A student who attempts to withdraw to avoid the consequences of alleged academic dishonesty may be denied or have the withdrawal disallowed until the issue has been fully resolved.
STEP TWO (2):
If, after consultation with the student, the instructor of record decides to initiate disciplinary action, the instructor may do one (1) or more of the following:
a) Require the student to complete a substitute assignment or examination.
b) Award a reduced grade for the examination, assignment, or course.
c) Award a "zero" or a grade of "F" for the assignment or examination.
d) Award a grade of "F" for the course.
e) Recommend to the academic dean more stringent disciplinary action (e.g., conduct probation, suspension, or expulsion) by the University. NOTE: If disciplinary action is taken by the instructor that involves STEP 2a, STEP 2b, or STEP 2c, and the student agrees to the disciplinary action, then no further written record is forwarded to the department chair / school director or academic dean.
STEP THREE (3):
If disciplinary action is taken that involves 2-d or 2-e, the instructor-of-record must communicate in writing, within five (5) school days, the actions taken and the reasons for them to the student, with copies to: instructor-of-record's department chair / school director, and academic dean.
STEP ONE (1):
Review academic dishonesty charges.
STEP TWO (2):
Forward copy of instructor's letter within five (5) school days to the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs, along with any comments from the academic dean.
STEP THREE (3):
When a student appeals an instructor's decision, the dean of the college:
a) Gives the student notice of receipt of the appeal,
b) Notifies the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs that an appeal is being made,
c) Assembles the verification documents and transmits the case to the College Grade Appeal Committee.
d) Forwards College Grade Appeal Committee decision to Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs recommending further sanctions.
NOTE: A student may not withdraw from a course in which a case of academic dishonesty is pending. The outcome will determine whether the student will receive a grade of “W” or “F”.
If a student believes the practices and procedures used by the instructor to address an allegation of academic misconduct were inappropriate or unfair, the student may have the ability to have an appeal heard by the Board of Academic Appeals. All appeals must be filed within the first four (4) weeks of the next semester immediately following the semester in which the appealed action occurred. Semesters include the fall, spring, and summer sessions. Information regarding the specific steps involved in filing an academic misconduct appeal may be found at http://www.busn.ucok.edu/academicaffairs/Academic%20Appeals%20ProcedurePacket.pdf
The objective of the University of Central Oklahoma is to provide an opportunity for education to all of its students. In order to achieve this objective, it is important to define standards of conduct or limits of behavior that will enable students to work together with the faculty, staff, and administration in a positive manner.
Attendance at the University of Central Oklahoma is not compulsory. The voluntary entrance of a student into the University of Central Oklahoma means that the student also voluntarily assumes obligations of performance and behavior reasonably imposed by the University. The University of Central Oklahoma is an institution of higher learning. Thus, the rules and regulations are designed to insure optimal conditions of learning for all students. Standards of conduct for students are seen as a base or foundation of behavior rather than arbitrary limits of behavior. The University's approach to student discipline emphasizes assisting students in understanding and accepting responsibilities for their behavior. Both the interests of the student and the University are taken into account in deciding the desirability and appropriateness of undertaking a course of discipline.
1. The University authority is vested in the Board of Regents and the President. This includes authority to control and regulate various aspects of student behavior through disciplinary means. The President of the University of Central Oklahoma delegates to the Vice President for Student Affairs or the Vice President's designees the authority to investigate potential or alleged violations of University regulations or law and to determine and administer appropriate penalties using a preponderance or weight of the evidence standard.
All disciplinary decisions are carried out in the name of the President or other appropriate University Official as designated by the Vice President for Student Affairs. Any sharing or delegation of the student conduct function remains revocable.
2. Misconduct is considered a matter of concern to the University. Reports of misconduct that are labeled offensive, unacceptable, destructive, and in violation of University regulations usually are made in the first instance to the Office of Student Conduct. Generally, reports of academic misconduct are dealt with through the faculty chair / director of each academic department or college.
3. The primary responsibility for student discipline will lie with the Director of Student Conduct. The Director of Student Conduct may be reached in the Office of Student Conduct, Lillard Administration Building 211, (405) 974-2361.
4. The Director of Student Conduct will review with the accused student the nature of the complaint, relevant information and witness statements. The Director of Student Conduct will also allow the accused student’s version of the incident to be heard. When the investigation is completed, including interviewing of the accused student and alleged victim, the Director of Student Conduct will make appropriate recommendations for the disposition of the case. The Director of Student Conduct has the responsibility and authority to take disciplinary action, if such action is appropriate. Any information obtained either from the accused student or other sources may be used by University agencies in determining proper action, including closing the case without action.
5. The Vice President for Student Affairs reserves the right to intervene and / or hear any case of student misconduct.
6. The Director of Student Conduct shall determine the composition of student conduct bodies and / or boards and determine which student conduct body (board or committee) or Acting Conduct Officer shall be authorized to hear each case.
7. A student conduct body (board or committee) consisting of students and faculty members will be created to consider the appeal of cases resulting in temporary suspension, suspension, expulsion, degree revocation or recession of credit. This committee will be designated as the “Committee on Student Conduct." The Committee on Student Conduct shall be composed of nominated and volunteer faculty members and student applicants, whose selection will be based upon the following criteria: current academic standing, applicable experience demonstrable through required essay, availability, and references. This committee shall be approved by the President of the University and the President of the University of Central Oklahoma Student Association (UCOSA).
Any act by a properly constituted committee, at which a quorum of the committee is present, shall be binding. Please refer to subsection IV. J. for further details on the composition and operations of the Committee on Student Conduct.
8. The Director of Student Conduct shall develop policies for the administration of the student conduct program and procedural rules for student conduct hearings, which are consistent with the provisions of the Code of Student Conduct.
9. Decisions made by the Director of Student Conduct and / or a student conduct body shall be final, pending the normal appeal process.
10. A student conduct body may be designated as arbiter of disputes within the student community in cases which do not involve a violation of the Code of Student Conduct. All parties must agree to arbitration, and to be bound by the decision with no right of appeal.
Generally, University jurisdiction and discipline shall be limited to conduct which occurs on or near University premises or which adversely affects the University Community and / or the pursuit of its objectives.
Admission of students who are currently under disciplinary sanctions at other institutions must first be approved through the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs, Lillard Administration Building 213, (405) 974-2361. The University reserves the right to deny admission or readmission to any student based upon prior conduct and / or based upon prior illegal activity.
Each student assumes an obligation to obey all rules and regulations made by the University, to preserve faithfully all property provided by the State for his or her education, and to discharge such duties as a student with diligence, fidelity and honor. Any student found to have committed the following misconduct is subject to the disciplinary sanctions outlined in section IV. G. (Please refer to Section II. 2. for the University definition of a student.)
1. Acts of dishonesty, including but not limited to the following:
a) Cheating, plagiarism, or other forms of academic misconduct.
b) Furnishing false information to any University official, faculty member or office.
c) Forgery, altercation, or misuse of any University document, record, or instrument of identification.
d) Knowingly falsifying or being a party to the falsification of any official University record.
e) Tampering with the election of any University recognized student organization.
f) Assuming the identity of another
2. Disruption or obstruction of teaching, research, administration, disciplinary proceedings, other University activities, including its public-service functions on or off campus, or other authorized non-university premises.
3. Physical abuse, verbal abuse, threats, intimidation, harassment, stalking, coercion and / or other conduct that threatens or endangers the health or safety of any person.
4. Attempted or actual theft of and / or damage to property of the University or property of a member of the University community or other personal or public property.
5. Failure to settle outstanding University accounts. Students shall make satisfactory arrangements for the settling of University accounts promptly. Failure on the part of a student to make satisfactory arrangements for the settlement of a University account by the due date will result in a late payment penalty; continued failure to settle the account will result in either suspension or the placing of a "hold" on the student's records. He or she may neither reenroll, receive a diploma, nor obtain a transcript until he or she has done one (1) or more of the following:
a) Cleared the account,
b) Paid the assessed service charge to cover the administrative expense involved in placing the "hold" on their record, or,
c) Received special written clearance from the Bursar
6. Hazing and / or any solicitations to engage in hazing are strictly prohibited at the University of Central Oklahoma. Hazing is an act which recklessly or intentionally endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student, which may degrade any person or lead to the destruction or removal of public or private property for the purpose of initiation, admission into, affiliation with, or as a condition for continued membership in, a group or organization. No student organization or any person associated with any organization sanctioned or authorized by the University shall engage or participate in hazing. Any penalties imposed by the University for hazing are separate from, and in addition to, penalties imposed by criminal statutes.
Regardless of the incident location(s), any student(s) and / or student organization(s) found responsible for any form of hazing may be subject to immediate suspension and / or expulsion. The expressed or implied consent of the victim shall not be considered as a defense. Apathy and / or consent in the presence of hazing are not neutral acts; they shall be considered violations of this policy. Please refer to Section VI. I. for more information on the Oklahoma Law against hazing.
7. Failure to comply with the directions of University officials or law enforcement officers acting in performance of their duties and / or failure to identify oneself to these persons when requested to do so.
8. Unauthorized possession, duplication or use of keys to any University premises or unauthorized entry to or use of University premises.
9. Violation of published University policies, rules or regulations.
10. Violation of federal, state or local law on University premises or at University sponsored or supervised activities.
11. Use, possession, manufacturing, being in the presence of, or distribution of marijuana, heroin, narcotics or other controlled substances except as expressly permitted by law. The consumption or possession of illegal narcotics in any form, on the campus, in University Housing (to include sorority and fraternity housing) or at student organization or other University sponsored activities for students is strictly prohibited.
12. Use, possession, manufacturing, being in the presence of, or distribution of alcoholic beverages and / or non-intoxicating beverages as defined in Section 163.2 of Title 37 of the Oklahoma Statutes except as expressly permitted by the law and regulations, or public intoxication. The consumption or possession of alcoholic beverages, or illegal narcotics in any form, on the campus, in University Housing (to include sorority and fraternity housing) or at student organization or other University sponsored activities for students is strictly prohibited.
13. Use, possession, manufacturing or distribution of alcoholic beverages, in any circumstances, by or to any person under the age of twenty-one (21).
14. Violation of published Residence Life / Housing policy.
15. Violation of Residence Life / Housing contracts.
16. Illegal or unauthorized possession of firearms, explosives, other weapons, or dangerous chemicals on University premises or use of any such item, even if legally possessed, in a manner that harms, threatens, or causes fear to other University community members. The possession or firing of firearms, fireworks, explosives, or weapons such as bows and inappropriately-used knives by students is prohibited on campus, in any student residence, sorority, fraternity, approved private housing or University-operated housing, except as they are used in officially approved University programs.
17. Participation in an on campus or off campus demonstration which disrupts the normal operations of the University and infringes on the rights of other members of the University community; leading or inciting others to disrupt scheduled and normal activities within any campus building or area; intentional obstruction which unreasonably interferes with freedom of movement, either pedestrian or vehicular, on campus.
18. Obstruction of the free flow of pedestrian or vehicular traffic on University premises or University sponsored or supervised functions.
19. Conduct which is disorderly, lewd, or indecent; breach of peace; or aiding, abetting, or procuring another person to breach the peace on University premises or at functions sponsored by, or participated in by, the University or members of the University community. Disorderly conduct includes, but is not limited to: Any unauthorized use of electronic or other devices to make an audio or video record of any person while on University premises or at a University sponsored event without his or her prior and effective knowledge and consent when such a recording is likely to cause injury or distress. Indecent conduct includes indecent exposure as defined by Oklahoma law.
20. Conduct in which a student engages or threatens to engage in behavior that poses a danger of causing physical harm to self or others.
21. Conduct which would cause property damage, directly impede the lawful activities of others, or interfere with the educational process and the orderly operation of the University.
22. Theft or other abuse of computer time, including but not limited to:
a) Unauthorized entry into a file, to use, read, or change the contents, or for any other purpose.
b) Unauthorized transfer of a file.
c) Unauthorized use of another individual's identification and password.
d) Use of computing facilities to interfere with the work of another student, faculty member or University official.
e) Use of computing facilities to view or send obscene or abusive messages.
f) Use of University computing facilities and / or other University resources to interfere with normal operation of the University computing system or network.
g) Any violation of the University Computer and Network Management and Use Policies, which can be located at http://technology.ucok.edu/officeit/policies.htm.
23. Abuse of the student conduct system, including but not limited to:
a) Failure to obey the notice of a student conduct body (board or committee) or University official to appear for a meeting or hearing as part of the student conduct system.
b) Falsification, distortion, or misrepresentation of information before the Director of Student Conduct or a student conduct body (board or committee).
c) Disruption or interference with the orderly conduct of a student conduct body (board or committee) proceeding.
d) Facilitation of an unauthorized Student Conduct Hearing.
e) Attempting to discourage an individual's proper participation in, or use of, the student conduct system.
f) Attempting to influence the impartiality of a member of a student conduct body (board or committee) prior to, and / or during the course of, the student conduct proceeding.
g) Harassment (verbal or physical) and / or intimidation of a member of a Student Conduct body (board or committee) prior to, during, and / or after a Student Conduct body (board or committee) proceeding.
h) Failure to comply with the sanction(s) imposed under the Code of Student Conduct by the Vice President for Student Affairs,
Director of Student Conduct, the Committee on Student Conduct, or any other University Official who has the authority to impose sanctions
i) Influencing or attempting to influence another person to commit an abuse of the student conduct system.
24. Sexual misconduct, including but not limited to, sexual harassment, sexual assault, and rape.
The Policy Manual of the Regional University System of Oklahoma states that the Board affirms its commitment to ensuring an environment for all employees and students which is fair, humane, and respectful—an environment which supports and rewards employee and student performance on the basis of relevant considerations such as ability and effort. Behaviors which inappropriately assert sexuality as relevant to employee or student performance are damaging to this environment. Sexual harassment by any member of the University community, including students, faculty and staff, is a violation of both law and the Board policy, and will not be tolerated. Sexual harassment is a particularly sensitive issue which may affect any member of the University community and as such will be dealt with promptly and confidentially by the University administration. The Board reserves the right to deal administratively with sexual harassment issues whenever it deems it appropriate to do so. All employment or academic decisions at the University of Central Oklahoma must be made purely on the basis of ability and qualifications related to job and academic performance devoid of unreasonable considerations of sex. Toward this end, all members of the academic community should support the principle that sexual harassment represents a failure in ethical behavior and that sexual exploitation of professional relationships will not be condoned.
Sexual harassment shall be defined as unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature in the following context:
a) When submission to such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of an individual's employment or academic standing; or,
b) When submission to or rejection of such conduct by an individual is used as the basis for employment or academic decisions affecting such individual; or,
c) When such conduct has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with an individual's work or academic performance or creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive working or academic environment.
Conduct prohibited by this policy may include, but is not limited to:
a) Unwelcome sexual flirtation; advances or propositions for sexual activity;
b) Continued or repeated verbal abuse of a sexual nature, such as suggestive comments and sexually explicit jokes;
c) Sexually degrading language to describe an individual;
d) Remarks of a sexual nature to describe a person's body or clothing;
e) Display of sexually demeaning objects and pictures;
f) Offensive physical contact, such as unwelcome touching, pinching, and brushing the body;
g) Coerced sexual intercourse;
h) Sexual assault;
i) Actions indicating that benefits will be gained or lost based on response to sexual advances.
j) Making unsolicited written, verbal, physical and / or visual contact with sexual overtones. (Written examples include but are not limited to: suggestive or obscene letters, notes, text or instant messages, invitations. Verbal examples include but are not limited to: derogatory comments, slurs, jokes, and epithets. Physical examples include but are not limited to: assault, touching, impeding, or blocking movement. Visual examples include but are not limited to: leering, gestures, display of sexually suggestive objects or pictures, cartoons, or posters.)
k) Continuing to express sexual interest after being informed that the interest is unwelcome. (Reciprocal attraction is not sexual harassment.)
l) Making reprisals, threats of reprisal, or implied threats of reprisal following a negative response. For example, within the work environment either implying or actually withholding support for an appointment, promotion, or change of assignment; suggesting that a poor performance report will be prepared, or suggesting that probation will be failed. Within the educational environment, either implying or actually withholding grades earned or deserved; suggesting that a poor performance evaluation will be prepared, or suggesting a scholarship recommendation or college application will be denied.
m) Within the work environment, engaging in implicit or explicit coercive sexual behavior which is used to control, influence, or affect the career, salary, and / or work environment of another employee. Within the educational environment, engaging in implicit or explicit coercive sexual behavior that is used to control, influence, or affect the educational opportunities, grades, and / or learning environment of a student.
n) Offering favors for educational or employment benefits such as grades or promotions, favorable performance evaluations, favorable assignment, favorable duties or shifts, recommendations, or reclassification, in exchange for sexual favors.
Sexual harassment is against the law and requires immediate attention and appropriate disciplinary action which may include a range of actions up to and including the dismissal of the offending party. The University of Central Oklahoma's policies offer both an informal mediation procedure and a formal grievance procedure to resolve cases of alleged sexual harassment. A complete copy of the sexual harassment policy is available online at http://administration.ucok.edu/employeerelations/employee_handbook.htm or from the following UCO offices:
a) Vice President for Student Affairs, Lillard Administration Building 213, (405) 974-2361.
b) Human Resources Department, Lillard Administration Building 204, (405) 974-3348.
c) Office of Legal Services, Lillard Administration Building 114D, (405) 974-2573.
d) The UCO Police Department, Public Safety Building, (405) 974-2345
UCO students may contact their Resident Advisor (RA), a Residence Hall Director, an appropriate class instructor, their department chair / school director, their college dean, the Office of Student Conduct and / or the Vice President for Student Affairs if they feel that they have become a victim of sexual harassment. To file a formal complaint, students should submit a written, signed, and dated report to one (1) of the following offices:
a) Vice President for Student Affairs, Lillard Administration Building 213, (405) 974-2361.
b) Office of Legal Services, Lillard Administration Building 114D, (405) 974-2573.
After the receipt of the complaint, the Director of Student Conduct or a representative from the Office of Legal Services shall promptly commence an investigation of the issue. If for any reason the aforementioned campus entities are involved in the alleged harassment or discrimination, or the student does not believe that either can be impartial, the student may file the complaint with the UCO Police Department, Public Safety Building, (405) 974-2345. The complaint should also include a statement as to the reasons why the complaint was not filed with the designated aforementioned offices.
The University of Central Oklahoma will not tolerate nor condone any form of sexual misconduct, physical, mental, or emotional in nature. This includes, but is not limited to rape, (including date or acquaintance rape) or other forms of sexual assault. In instances where there is reason to believe that University policy prohibiting sexual misconduct has been violated, the University will pursue disciplinary action. A victim of sexual misconduct may elect to pursue the concern through the state criminal justice system, as well as the University's student conduct system. Even if the victim chooses not to press criminal charges, he or she has the option of pursing sanctions through the University system. University sanctions may include warnings, probation, restrictions, suspension or expulsion.
Sexual assault is a broad term covering a wide range of actions. Sexual assault is defined as having sexual contact or sexual intercourse with another person without consent of that person.
Conduct prohibited by this policy includes, but is not limited to:
a) Unwanted sexual contact with a stranger or a friend, acquaintance, spouse, or former intimate partner “95% of sexual assaults perpetrated on college campuses were committed by someone the woman knew” Abbey, A., Ross, L.T., McDuggie, D., and McAuslan, P. (1996).
b) Unwanted sexual contact committed by force, threat, surprise, coercion, or intimidation
c) Unwanted physical contact, such as touching, brushing, and groping the body
d) Sexual contact without active consent
e) Indecent exposure or non-consensual voyeurism
a) Consent is defined as positive cooperation due to an exercise of free will.
b) Consent is an active communication that clearly indicates willingness to engage in mutually agreed upon sexual activity.
c) Consent must be freely given, not obtained through coercion, passive compliance, or incapacity.
a) Passive compliance when consent is not actively communicated;
b) Sexual contact with an individual whose ability to consent is compromised due to
alcohol and/or drug use;
c) Sexual contact with an individual whose ability to consent is compromised due to
mental disorder, developmental disability, physical disability, age (being under 16), or
family relations (incest);
d) Sexual contact committed by force, threat, surprise, intimidation or through use of
mental or physical helplessness; and
e) Actions related to sexual harassment (as defined previously in Section IV. D.)
In the event of a sexual assault, the victim is encouraged to report the crime to the University of Central Oklahoma Police Department (UCOPD) if the crime occurred on campus, or to the appropriate authority if the crime occurred off campus. Victims should take care to preserve evidence of a sexual assault which is of paramount importance in offering proof of the crime. For example, victims should not bathe or wash clothing. The victim of a sexual assault should seek medical attention.
A UCO Police Officer or designee can transport the victim to an appropriate medical facility to be examined and treated by a physician. After acquiring medical attention, the victim will be interviewed by UCO Police Officers to aid in their investigation and gather information necessary to apprehend the assailant. Prosecution of the assailant is a matter for the victim to consider apart from reporting the crime. The information will be treated with the confidentiality afforded any victim of crime. Students may also report the crime to staff within the residence halls, the Student Health Center, the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs or other University staff who shall inform the UCO Police Department and the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs.
a) The UCO Police Department, Public Safety Building, (405) 974-2345
b) Student Health Center, Wellness Center 105, (405) 974-2317.
c) Vice President for Student Affairs, Lillard Administration Building 213, (405) 974-2361.
Retaliation against reporters of sexual assault is prohibited by University policy and federal and state laws. Retaliation includes threats, intimidation, and/or reprisals against anyone who reports prohibited sexual behaviors.
If you are the victim of sexual assault, the most important thing is to know that the sexual assault was not your fault. YOU are not guilty.
a) Do not bathe, change your clothes, douche or do anything to change your appearance. Most physical evidence is gone after forty-eight (48) hours, so it is absolutely imperative to act quickly.
b) Call a friend or call the Rape Crisis Center, (405) 943-7273. This is a 24-hour crisis line. Counselors can accompany you to the UCO Police Department or the hospital, but they recognize that this is your decision. They will help you no matter what you decide to do. If you elect to go to the police or the hospital, you are strongly urged not to undergo this ordeal alone.
c) Call the UCO Police Department and report the sexual assault even if you do not want to prosecute. It is important to report sexual assault, so that the crime can be reported for the protection of others.
d) Go to the nearest hospital emergency room, regardless of whether you have physical injuries resulting from the assault. The ER will provide testing for semen, pregnancy, and sexually transmitted infection (S.T.I.) tests. In addition, this will help if you choose to pursue criminal charges. Even if you do not want to prosecute now, you may change your mind later. It is important to return for a repeat syphilis test in six (6) weeks since it often takes that long for a positive result when a person is infected.
e) A follow-up check may be recommended by the health care provider since some STI's cannot be detected immediately.
An anonymous report is an unofficial means to inform the University administration and/or the UCO Police Department (UCOPD) that a sexual assault has occurred on campus, near campus, or against a University student. This method has been developed to encourage student reporting of sexual assaults without the risk of identity exposure and the pressures of filing a report with the Office of Student Conduct and/or filing criminal charges with a local law enforcement agency. The anonymous report will provide valuable information to the University administration and the UCO Police Department, which will allow for improved prevention programming and resources in the future for the UCO campus community.
Student victims of sexual assault may file an anonymous report with the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs, whether or not the victim of a sexual assault decides to file criminal charges against the offender at a later date. Anonymous reports may be acquired and submitted in the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs Lillard Administration Building 213, (405) 974-2361, or online at www.ucok.edu/ssvp/conduct.
Anonymous reports will remain confidential to the public, but may be shared with UCO Police Department and / or the Student Counseling Center for statistical, programmatic, and / or referral purposes.
Since the anonymous reporting method is unofficial, the Office of Student Conduct may not be able to hold the offender responsible and take disciplinary action. Similarly, the police will most likely not be able to make an arrest based upon the anonymous report.
Regardless of the location of the assault, several options may be pursued. Victims may choose to pursue one or more of the following options, which include but are not limited to:
a) Pursuing criminal charges through the University of Central Oklahoma Police Department, City of Edmond Police Department, or other law enforcement agency within the vicinity of the incident and / or your residence;
b) Obtaining a Victim’s Protection Order (VPO) through the office of the Oklahoma County District Attorney Victim Services, (405) 713-1600.
c) Pursuing University sanctions through the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs, Lillard Administration Building 213, (405) 974-2361. (See Section H- Sanctions.)
· Victims have the option of consulting with the Director of Student Conduct in the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs regardless of whether they have finalized a decision about pursuing sanctions.
Sexual assault is a very traumatic experience. Victims may feel calm at first or numb from shock. Yet, soon many feelings may surface. It will help recovery if victims discuss these feelings with a crisis counselor or another understanding person. Sexual assault is a serious disruption of your life. It can have many long range effects, both physical and emotional. Women suffer from nausea, soreness, tension and trouble with eating and sleeping. Sexual assault victims may withdraw, have nightmares or be unable to concentrate. Many of those who have been sexually assaulted drop out of school, move or change their jobs. The University of Central Oklahoma Student Counseling Center, Nigh University Center 402, (405) 974-2215, will provide follow-up counseling and other resources for you and your family and friends so that you can deal with these problems.
In addition to addressing sexual assault through the criminal justice system, another alternative is available. Cases involving sexual misconduct may be assigned to the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs. Individuals found responsible of sexual misconduct may face a number of sanctions, up to and including, expulsion. Further information regarding the disciplinary process may be obtained by contacting the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs at (405) 974-2361. In addition, copies of the Code of Student Conduct may be obtained at the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs, Lillard Administration Building 213, (405) 974-2361.
The University of Central Oklahoma Student Counseling Center can provide individual and group counseling services for those victimized by sexual or physical assault. Services are available to all University students. The Student Counseling Center can provide consultation services for staff and faculty. The UCO DPS operates a program entitled "Operation Safe Walk." The program operates twenty-four (24) hours a day, seven (7) days a week. The program is designed to provide escorts to any member of the University who desires this service. In addition, uniformed student DPS Officers equipped with hand-held radios, patrol the campus and buildings reporting anything unusual to the UCO Department of Public Safety (DPS).
The University has installed Emergency Call boxes throughout the campus. The purpose of the call boxes is to provide additional security throughout the campus. Individuals may utilize the call boxes at anytime to contact University DPS for reporting a crime, suspicious activity, or medical assistance. DPS also encourages using the call boxes in non-emergency situations, such as requesting an escort or motorist assistance.
The University will continue to foster an environment of safety with continuing educational programs such as Crime Prevention and Safety Awareness and Sexual Assault / Acquaintance Rape Awareness.
1. University student conduct proceedings may be instituted against a student charged with violation of a law which is also a violation of this Code of Student Conduct; for example, if both violations result from the same factual situation, without regard to pending civil litigation in court or criminal arrest and prosecution. Proceedings under this Code of Student Conduct may be carried out prior to, simultaneously with, or following civil or criminal proceedings off-campus. Moreover, determinations made or sanctions imposed under this Code of Student Conduct shall not be subject to change because of criminal charges arising out of the same facts.
2. When a student is charged by federal, state, or local authorities with a violation of law, the University will not request or agree to special consideration for that individual because of his or her status as a student. If the alleged offense is also the subject of a proceeding before a student conduct body under the Code of Student Conduct, however, the University may advise off-campus authorities of the existence of the Code of Student Conduct and of how such matters are typically handled internally within the University community. The University will cooperate with law enforcement and other agencies in the enforcement of criminal law on campus and in the conditions imposed by criminal courts for the rehabilitation of student violators. Individual students and faculty members, acting in their personal capacities, remain free to interact with governmental representatives, as they deem appropriate.
1. Any member of the University community may file complaints against any student for violations of the Code of Student Conduct. All complaints shall be prepared in writing and directed to the Director of Student Conduct, responsible for the administration of the student conduct system. All complaints should be submitted as soon as possible after the event takes place or as soon as the complainant becomes aware of an event, preferably within forty-eight (48) University business hours. (The student conduct process requires a written complaint from the alleged victim, unless other documentation outweighs the need for the written complaint.) Complaints may be submitted online at www.ucok.edu/ssvp/conduct/complain-web.htm, by fax at (405) 974-3817, or by hand delivery to the Office of Student Conduct in the Lillard Administration Building, 211.
2. Once the Office of Student Conduct receives a written complaint, th