The conduct process is designed to be a part of the educational mission of the University, one that focuses on upholding the commitments inherent in the Sewanee community. The conduct process teaches students in the College of Arts and Sciences appropriate and acceptable behavior within a community. The College provides a conduct process in which members of the Sewanee community may resolve violations of the Code of Conduct with mutual respect for one another while fostering relationships. These relationships help to create an environment where members of the community are held responsible for their actions with the ultimate goal of encouraging and fostering the personal growth and development of each student.

Student Conduct Process vs. Criminal or Civil Systems

The student conduct process is not a criminal or civil court system. The two systems are independent, have different purposes, processes, and standards used to determine responsibility and consequences. The criminal/constitutional defense of double jeopardy does not apply. While some procedural elements may seem similar, Sewanee’s system is founded on educational philosophies and fundamental fairness rather than criminal or civil court systems. As a private institution, the University’s conduct process seeks fundamental fairness by establishing these rights and procedures. Accordingly, Sewanee Constitutional Due Process does not apply to Sewanee’s.

Interim Administrative Measures

The University may impose interim administrative measures upon a student when there is reason to believe, based upon available information, that the student has engaged or threatened to engage in behavior that (a) poses a danger of imminent physical harm to the student or to others, (b) directly and substantially impedes the lawful activities of other members of the campus or (c) has or is likely to cause property damage. Following the imposition of interim administrative measures, the standard conduct process shall be provided as expeditiously as possible.  Interim Administrative Measures include, but are not limited to the following.

Resolution Process

A detailed overview of the resolution process is included in the EQB Guide to Living in Community.  Once a report is received and a potential violation of policy is charged, the case will be heard either administratively by the Director of Community Standards or by the Student Conduct Board.

Preponderance of the Evidence

The prevailing evidentiary standard in criminal matters for determining guilt, “beyond a reasonable doubt” does not apply in the student conduct process. The University uses a preponderance of the evidence standard to determine responsibility which states that if it is more likely than not that the student violated a policy, the student will be found responsible.

Appeal Process

The decisions made by a Conduct Officer or Student Conduct Board related to responsibility or sanctions can be appealed, provided that one or more of the reasons for appeal is relevant to the case.