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Code of Community Standards

Introduction

Community Expectations and Values

Lycoming College is committed to the intellectual, personal, social, and ethical development of its students.  This commitment is realized through a rigorous undergraduate experience and a sustained dedication to fostering an inclusive and equitable campus community that supports all students, faculty, and staff.

The Code of Community Standards is grounded in the College's shared values of respect, integrity, responsibility, and care for others.  Students are expected to contribute to a safe, inclusive, and respectful community by:

• Demonstrating respect for the rights and dignity of others and exercising self-discipline;
• Acting with maturity, social responsibility, and respect for all members of the campus community and their property;
• Supporting their own health and well-being and that of others;
• Engaging thoughtfully with individuals from diverse identities, perspectives, and lived experiences.

In support of these values, the Community Standards process is guided by the following commitments:

• Treating all individuals involved in the process with respect and consideration for their identities and lived experiences:
• Ensuring fair, unbiased, and equitable resolution of alleged violations;
• Promoting reflection and learning regarding the impact of behavior on a diverse community;
• Encouraging hearing officers and board members to reflect on how their perspectives and experiences may influence decision-making; 
• Recruiting and selecting hearing board members who reflect the diversity of the campus community;
• Maintaining processes that are transparent, accessible, and equitable; 
• Supporting ongoing training and professional development related to inclusive excellence and unconscious bias.

Index

• Appeals
• Authority and Interpretation
• Conflict Resolution
• Definitions
• Disciplinary Records
• Formal Resolution
• Interim Measures
• Introduction
• Jurisdiction
• Medical Amnesty
• Prohibited Behavior
• Parent/Guardian Notification
• Procedures
• Reporting Violations
• Sanctions
• Standards of Evidence and Sanctioning
• Community Standards Board Hearing Student Rights

Jurisdiction

The Code of Community Standards applies to student conduct occurring both on and off the College premises.  This includes conduct at College-sponsored activities, whether on campus, off campus, abroad, or in online environments.

The Code applies to individuals, as well as to student groups and organizations.  Students residing off campus remain fully subject to all policies and regulations in the Code of Community Standards.

The Code of Community Standards also applies to conduct online, via email or other electronic media. Students should also be aware that online postings such as blogs, web postings, chats and social networking sites are in the public sphere and are not private. While most online speech by students does not involve College networks or technology will be protected as free expression and not subject to the Code of Student Conduct, there are exceptions where the College may determine the Code of Community Standards applies. Two of these exceptions include, but are not limited to:

• A threat a reasonable person would interpret as a serious expression of intent to inflict bodily harm upon specific individuals;
• Speech posted online about the College or its community members that causes a significant on-campus disruption.

The Code of Community Standards applies to the conduct of guests of students. The student host(s) is responsible for ensuring his or her guests comply with the Code of Community Standards and may be held accountable for the conduct of his or her guests.

Visitors to and guests of the College may seek resolution of violations of the Code of Community Standards committed against them by members of the College community.

There is no time limit on reporting violations of the Code of Community Standards; however, the longer someone waits to report an offense, the harder it becomes for the College officials to obtain information and witness statements and to make determinations regarding alleged violations.

Though anonymous complaints are permitted, doing so may limit the College's ability to investigate and respond to a complaint.

Those who are aware of misconduct are encouraged to report it as quickly as possible to the Office of Public Safety, the Dean of Students Office, or the Vice President for Student Affairs and Success.

Lycoming College proceeds with its standards processes regardless of the action or inaction of civil authorities with respect to violations of state and federal laws. The College may pursue disciplinary action against a student concurrently with the processing of criminal charges even if the criminal prosecution is pending or dismissed.

Lycoming College's community standards apply to students from the time of the offer of admission through graduation. This Code applies to each student, group and organization during the academic year and during periods between terms of actual enrollment, including conduct which occurs before classes begin, after classes end, and when conduct is not discovered until after a degree is awarded. Lycoming College reserves the right to revoke its degrees under circumstances that warrant such action. If a student withdraws from the institution prior to an alleged violation of the Code of Community Standards being fully adjudicated, a hold will be placed on the student's account. 

Definitions

When used in this code:

• "Advisor" is an individual who has agreed to support a student throughout the investigative, hearing or appeal process.

For alleged violations of the Code of Community Standards that do not fall under Lycoming College's Equal Opportunity, Harassment, and Nondiscrimination Policy, students may select an Advisor from among currently enrolled Lycoming College students, faculty, or staff.

For allegations of misconduct that fall under Lycoming College's Equal Opportunity, Harassment, and Nondiscrimination Policy, both the Complainant and the Respondent may select an Advisor of their choice from within or outside the College community at any stage of the proceedings.

The Dean of Students and the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs and Success maintain a list of faculty and staff who have been trained in the College's community standards process. Students may request this list by contacting Dean of Students Christie Kracker at krackerc@lycoming.edu or Vice President for Student Affairs and Success Dr. Sue O'Driscoll at odriscoll@lycoming.edu.

Additional information regarding the role and responsibilities of Advisors in the community standards process is available in the procedures section of this Code under "Community Standards Board Hearing Student Rights." For guidance specific to Advisors in cases involving the Equal Opportunity, Harassment, and Nondiscrimination Policy, please click here.

• "Aggressive behavior" is defined as use or threat of physical violence, verbal abuse, threats, intimidation, harassment, coercion or other conduct which threatens or endangers the health, safety, or physical well-being of any person.
• "College Official" is any person employed either full time or part time by the College to perform duties and tasks in order to fulfill the mission and function of the College.
• "College premises" means buildings or grounds owned, leased, operated, controlled, or supervised by the College.
• "College-sponsored activity" means any activity on or off campus that is initiated, aided, authorized, or supervised by the College.
• "Complainant" means any individual who initiates a student conduct complaint or referral; the institution may act as a Complainant.
• "Day" means normal College business day, not including Saturday, Sunday, or any officially recognized College holiday.
• "Distribution" means making a product or service available directly or indirectly through a third party; sale or exchange of a product or service, directly or indirectly.
• "Excessive quantities of alcohol" means kegs, beer balls, or similar bulk containers, and may also include quantity of beer, wine and distilled beverages given the situation and number of people involved.
• "Group" is defined broadly as a number of persons who are in some way associated with each other.
• "Institution" and "College" mean Lycoming College.
• "Intoxicants" is defined broadly as any substance that is consumed and which may alter or affect mood, behavior or judgment.
• "Legal drinking age" means the threshold age to handle, possess, and/or consume alcohol required by any local, municipal, state, federal and/or national government which could assert jurisdiction over a student.
• "May" is used in the permissive sense.
• "Organization" means a number of persons who have complied with College requirements for registration or participation in a group, including athletic teams and groups affiliated with or supervised by an academic program or department. Any misconduct on the part of an organization during a time it is unrecognized by the College may influence the organization's ability to regain recognition by the College. 
• "Respondent" means any student alleged to have violated the Code of Community Standards.
• "Student" includes all persons who have been accepted to the College and have not withdrawn voluntarily or involuntarily.
• "Community Standards Administrator" includes any person(s) who is assigned by the Vice President for Student Affairs and Success to investigate, review, manage or resolve violations of the Code of Community Standards. 
• "Community Standards Board Member" includes any current faculty, staff, or students who have been trained by the Dean of Students or the Vice President for Student Affairs and Success to serve on a panel that investigates, reviews, manages, or resolves violations of the Code of Community Standards. 
• "Weapon" means an object or substance designed or used in a manner to inflict a wound, cause injury, or incapacitate.
• "Will" and "shall" are used in the imperative sense.

Authority and Interpretation

The behaviors described in this Code are not intended to be all-inclusive.  Rather, they provide examples of conduct that may violate the expectations set forth in the Code of Community Standards and may result in disciplinary action.  These standards are to be interpreted broadly and are not designed to define misconduct in exhaustive terms.

The President has delegated responsibility for the enforcement of the Code of Community Standards, including disciplinary authority, to the Vice President for Student Affairs and Success. The Vice President for Student Affairs and Success delegates certain matters to designees. The Vice President may designate responsibility for specific matters to appropriate staff members. 

The Vice President for Student Affairs and Success retains the authority to intervene at any stage of the process, as deemed appropriate, to resolve student conduct matters.

Matters not expressly addressed in the Code of Community Standards are subject to the interpretation and decision of the Vice President for Student Affairs and Success or their designee.

Prohibited Behavior

Behavior that violates the expectations of the Lycoming College community, including breaches of civility or other accepted standards of conduct, may result in disciplinary action.  Prohibited conduct includes, but is not limited to, behaviors specifically outlined in the Code of Community Standards. 

The following exemplifies types of behaviors that are subject to the community standards process:

1. Academic Integrity

The nature of violations, sanctions, and judicial procedures governing academic dishonesty are defined by the College's Policy on Academic Integrity and will be administered by the Provost. For more information on academic integrity, please visit https://www.lycoming.edu/student-handbook/academic-policies.aspx.

2. Behavior that Jeopardizes the Safety or Well-being of Others

This rule prohibits, but is not limited to:

1. Use or threat of physical violence, including engaging in any form of fighting.
2. Verbal abuse, threats, intimidation, harassment, coercion, initiating false reports or other conduct which threatens or endangers the health, safety, or physical or emotional well-being of any person.
3. Aggressive Student Behavior: https://www.lycoming.edu/student-handbook/aggressive-behavior-policy.aspx
4. Placing illicit substances into the food or beverage of others, without their knowledge or consent.
5. Unauthorized use or possession of any weapon, firearm, fireworks, or projectile impelling device: https://www.lycoming.edu/student-handbook/weapons-policy.aspx.

3. Discrimination and Harassment

Any behavior, whether written, electronic, verbal or physical which creates an intimidating, hostile or offensive work, learning or living environment. These behaviors may include bullying, bias-motivated incidents and hate crimes. This inappropriate behavior may be based on individual characteristics such as race, age, ethnicity, national origin, religion, disability, gender, sexual orientation or gender expression, veteran status, marital status or any other legally protected status. Discrimination or harassment on the basis of one's membership to a legally protected class are handled through the process outlined by Lycoming College's Equal Opportunity, Harassment, and Nondiscrimination Policy. 

4. Sexual Harassment & Sexual Misconduct

This policy prohibits sexual discrimination in all its forms, including but not limited to any act, attempt or threat of sexual misconduct, sexual harassment, stalking, dating violence, domestic violence and sexual assault.

Matters involving sexual discrimination, sexual harassment and sexual misconduct are governed by the College’s Equal Opportunity, Harassment, and Nondiscrimination Policy, and are not comprehensively addressed through the Community Standards Process. 

5. Hazing

Definition of Hazing

Hazing is any action or situation which intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly causes, coerces or forces a student to do any of the following:

• Violate federal or state criminal law;
• Consume any food, liquid, alcoholic liquid, drug or other substance which subjects the student to a risk of emotional or physical harm;
• Endure brutality of a physical nature, including whipping, beating, branding, calisthenics, or exposure to the elements;
• Endure brutality of a mental nature, including activity adversely affecting the mental health or dignity of the individual, sleep deprivation, exclusion from social contact or conduct that could result in extreme embarrassment.;
• Endure brutality of a sexual nature; or
• Endure any other activity that creates a reasonable likelihood of bodily injury to the student.

For purposes of this definition, any activity as described in this definition upon which the initiation or admission into or affiliation with or continued membership in an organization is directly or indirectly conditioned shall be considered to be “forced” activity. A student may not choose (give consent) to be hazed. The giving of consent does not excuse hazing activities. The good intention or the end result being positive will not be taken into consideration; if the action is considered hazing it is still in violation of the policy.

This applies to behavior on or off the Lycoming College campus. Events that are optional can be considered hazing due to the emotional status of the student and the fear of not being initiated for not participating.

Sanctions for hazing may include the imposition of fines; the withholding of diplomas or transcripts pending compliance with the rules, or pending payment of fines; and the imposition of probation, suspension, dismissal, and any other sanctions the Vice President for Student Affairs and Success office deems appropriate.

In the case of a College organization which authorizes hazing in blatant disregard of such rules, penalties may also include rescission of permission for that organization to operate on campus property or to otherwise operate under the sanction of the College. 

Lycoming College's Medical Amnesty Policy and Safe Harbor Policies are designed to reduce barriers to calling for immediate help in situations where emergency medical treatment is needed for onself or someone else. If a student is aware of an alcohol or other drug related emergency as the result of hazing, and takes action on behalf of oneself, another student, friend, guest, or any individual on the College campus, the students will not be subject to the formal standards process. Please refer to the "Medical Amnesty" and "Safe Harbor" section of the Code of Community Standards for more information. 

Safe Harbor

Safe Harbor (Lycoming College)

Lycoming College encourages all students to act responsibly and in particular for the well-being of another that can be helped to prevent bodily injury or other harm. As such, students who act on the behalf of another while engaged in an alleged act(s) of hazing will not be held responsible for violations of section 5. Hazing or section 8. Misconduct Involving Alcohol subsections a – k of the Lycoming College Code of Community Standards.

This immunity will be provided for the student that takes the initial action in notifying a College official (including a Resident Assistant) or any first responder e.g., law enforcement, ambulance, etc., based on a reasonable belief that another person needed immediate medical attention to prevent bodily injury or other harm.

To qualify for immunity, a student must provide their name and remain with the person requiring the medical attention until a college official or first responder arrives, and their presence is no longer required.

Individuals for whom medical response is required are also provided immunity for violations of section 5. Hazing and section 8. Misconduct Involving Alcohol subsections a-k of the Lycoming College Code of Community Standards.

Safe Harbor (Commonwealth of Pennsylvania)

Students should familiarize themselves with the Timothy Piazza Anti-Hazing Law to best understand civil and criminal liability as it relates to acts of Hazing in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/billinfo.cfm?sYear=2017&sInd=0&body=S&type=B&bn=1090 

6. Violations of Fire and Safety Regulations

Fire alarm systems, fire extinguishers and exit signs are required by the state, are for the protection of all residents, and are to be used only in case of fire. Each resident is responsible for being familiar with the location of exits, fire extinguishers and alarm pull stations. Residential Life Staff and Public Safety Staff will be happy to provide additional information or assistance in this area. Tampering with fire equipment or setting off a false fire alarm is a misdemeanor under state law. Deliberately causing a fire is a felony. Disciplinary action and/or arrest will be taken against a student found tampering with fire equipment, falsely setting off the alarm system, or causing a fire.

This rule prohibits, but is not limited to:

1. Intentionally initiating or causing to be initiated any false report, warning or threat of fire, explosion or other emergency.
2. The creation of a fire hazard, the endangering of the safety of persons or property through tampering with fire safety equipment; improper use and/or possession of flammable or hazardous substances, including candles; failure to follow proper emergency evacuation procedures; improper use of emergency equipment.
3. Breach of security including such behaviors as propping open a locked door, tampering with or removing an automatic door locking mechanism or door alarm or possession and/or use of a College access card or key when not specifically authorized.

Policy/Violation	Sanction
Fire Safety (e.g., Deliberately causing a fire)	$500 and/or suspension from the College
Fire Safety (e.g., Intentionally activating a false fire alarm)	$500 and/or suspension from the College
Fire Safety (e.g., Tampering with fire extinguishers or other fire equipment such as a fire exit signs or emergency pull stations)	$100 plus cost of returning the equipment to its original condition.
Fire Safety (e.g., Covering any part or all of a room smoke detector)	$200 shared between responsible students.
Fire Safety (e.g., Failure to promptly or properly evacuate a building which has gone into alarm)	$75 (Increased sanction possible for defiant failure to evacuate)
Fire Safety (e.g., Returning to a building which has gone into alarm before the "all clear" signal is given by College or emergency personnel)	$75 (Increased sanction possible for defiant early return to hall)
Fire Safety (e.g., use or possession of candles in campus housing)	$50 (students may proactively surrender candles to Residential Life staff without penalty)

7. Behavior Unbecoming of a Lycoming College Student

This rule prohibits, but is not limited to:

1. Disrupting, interfering or obstructing normal College or College-sponsored programs or activities, including, but not limited to teaching, research, College administration, fire, police, or emergency services.
2. Conduct that is disorderly 
3. Conduct that is lewd or indecent 
4. Aiding, abetting, or coercing another to engage in disruptive, disorderly, lewd, or indecent behavior 
5. Being present when and where a violation(s) of the Code of Community Standards is occurring and failing to leave the scene or notify campus authorities that there is a violation(s) of the Code of Community Standards taking place. 
6. Knowingly violating the terms of any community standards sanction imposed in accordance with this Code; not completing sanction(s) as assigned. 

8. Misconduct Involving Alcohol

This rule prohibits, but is not limited to:

1. Use and/or possession of alcohol by persons less than the legal drinking age.
2. Use and/or possession of alcohol in any first-year living area, regardless of one's age. This restriction applies to all students of Lycoming College, their guests, and members of their families.
3. Providing alcohol, either directly or indirectly, to a person less than the legal drinking age.
4. Use and/or possession of alcohol in any common area (e.g., lounges in traditional style residence halls, fraternity and sorority life lounges, public spaces in academic and administrative buildings) except where parties have been registered (see Social Events Policy). Exceptions may be made by the Vice President for Student Affairs and Success, or the President of the College. Alcohol possession/consumption is only permitted within individual unit common spaces where at least one assigned resident is of the legal drinking age. 
5. Possession of excessive quantities of alcohol in apartments, suites, and/or individual rooms or by any one person, group or organization. It is not permitted to have kegs, beer balls, or similar bulk containers; and may also include quantity of beer, wine and distilled beverages given the situation and number of people involved.
6. Use or possession of alcohol paraphernalia, such as beer bongs, funnels, pong tables and similar products.
7. Open, unconcealed alcohol containers in public areas, such as residence hall hallways or outdoors.
8. Serving alcohol to intoxicated individuals.
9. Impairment attributable to the consumption of alcohol that substantially interferes with student judgment and decision-making, as evidenced by factors including, but not limited to, slurred speech, red or bloodshot eyes, physical coordination difficulty, vomitting, unresponsiveness, or disorderly or erratic behavior generating a disturbance to the community. 
10. Participating in drinking games.
11. Use, possession, distribution or sale of grain alcohol.

9. Misconduct Involving Illegal Drugs, Controlled Substances, or Other Intoxicants

This rule includes, but is not limited to:

1. Use of any illegal drug, or drug paraphernalia. Marijuana, prescribed or otherwise, is not permitted on campus.
2. Possession of any illegal drug, or drug paraphernalia. Marijuana, prescribed or otherwise, is not permitted on campus.
3. Use or possession of controlled substances for which the person does not have a prescription or use for purposes not prescribed.
4. The intent or actual manufacture, sale or distribution of any controlled substance or illegal drug.
5. Impairment, attributable to the use of illegal drugs, controlled substances, or abuse of other intoxicants that substantially interferes with student judgment and decision-making, causes a disturbance, and/or requires the intervention of College personnel.

10. Theft, Property Damage or Vandalism

This rule includes, but is not limited to:

1. Misuse of College funds or resources.
2. Attempted or actual theft of property or of services; possession of stolen property.
3. Attempted or actual damage of, or defacing College property or personal or corporate property.

11. Acts of Dishonesty or Falsifying College Records

This rule includes, but is not limited to:

1. Furnishing false information to College personnel or concealing one’s identity.
2. Forgery, unauthorized alteration, or unauthorized use of any College document or form of identification.
3. Recording of any conversation, electronic or oral, without the consent of all parties involved.

12. Unauthorized Presence In or On College Property

This rule includes, but is not limited to:

1. Unauthorized presence in or use of College premises, facilities or property including telephones and computers.
2. Unauthorized presence in another student's room, any College building, or other College premises or property.
3. Unauthorized access or attempted access to any computer file, program, or facility.
4. Attempting to access College facilities when not authorized to do so; inviting, encouraging, or admitting an unauthorized person to enter College facilities or property.

13. Failure to Comply

This rule includes, but is not limited to:

1. Failure to comply with the directions of College officials, and in a civil manner, including campus public safety officers, student affairs administrators, resident assistants, faculty and staff members, and dining room employees in the performance of their duties.

14. Affiliation with Unrecognized Groups

This rule includes, but is not limited to:
Affiliation in any manner with a student organization or group that has had its recognition revoked, including formerly recognized fraternities and sororities.

15. Violation of Other Rules and Policies

This rule includes, but is not limited to:
Violation of published College regulations or policies. Such regulations or policies include but are not limited to the Information Technology and Acceptable Use, College Parking Policies, all Campus Life Policies and, Student Club and Organization policies. 

16. Violations of Local, State, or Federal Laws

Violations of local, state, or federal laws, even if not explicitly stated in the Code of Student Conduct, may subject the student to the student conduct process by the College. A student at Lycoming College charged with or convicted of a criminal act while off campus may also be subject to action by the College. It is the responsibility of students to notify College Officials if they have violated laws.

Reporting Violations of the Code of Community Standards

Any member of the Lycoming College community may submit a report alleging a violation of the Code of Community Standards.  Reports should be submitted as soon as reasonably possible after the incident occurs. 

The College reserves the right to act as the Complainant in a matter and to refer reported information to local law enforcement when appropriate.

Reports should include as much detail as possible, such as the names of involved individuals, the date and location of the incident, and a description of the alleged behavior.

To make a report of any concerning student behavior, contact:

Department of Public Safety
Emergency: (570) 321-4911
General Phone: (570) 321-4064
Office: Rich Hall, Public Safety
Email: security@lycoming.edu

Code of Community Standards Procedures

This section outlines the procedures used to resolve alleged violations of the Code of Community Standards.  Questions regarding prohibited conduct or the community standards process should be directed to the Vice President for Student Affairs and Success, Dr. Sue O'Driscoll (odriscoll@lycoming.edu), or their designee.

Initial Review and Case Determination

 

College officials will make an initial assessment to determine whether there is a reasonable basis to believe that a violation of the Code and/or other policies may have occurred or whether a student may benefit from support services. As part of this process, the Dean of Students will convene Public Safety staff, Campus Life staff, and other designated officials to gather review reports.  

If sufficient information exists to suggest a potential violation, the matter will be referred to an appropriate resolution process.

Resolution Process and Hearing Assignment

The Vice President for Student Affairs and Success or their designee determines the appropriate forum for resolution, which may include:

• Conflict Resolution
• Simple Resolution
• Administrative Hearing
• Community Standards Board Hearing

The Vice President or designee also determines which Community Standards Administrator(s) will review and decide  each matter.

Students may raise concerns regarding a potential conflict of interest involving a hearing board member.  The Vice President for Student Affairs and Success retains final authority to determine whether a conflict exists.

Participation and Cooperation

Members of the College community are expected to comply with requests issued by a Community Standards Administrator related to disciplinary proceedings, unless doing so would result in significant personal hardship or substantial interference with normal College functions. Such concerns must be communicated within two (2) days of the request.  

Students are required to participate in meetings, hearings, and investigations when requested by College officials.  Failure to participate or cooperate may constitute a separate violation of the Code of Community Standards.

Failure to Appear

If a Respondent fails to appear for a scheduled hearing, does not provide a satisfactory explanation for their absence, or leaves before the conclusion of the proceeding, the hearing may continue in their absence.  A decision may be made based on the available information.  Every effort will be made by the hearing officer to meet with the respondent.

Withdrawal During Pending Proceedings

If a student withdraws from the College after an incident that may involve a policy violation, the disciplinary process will be terminated, and a hold may be placed on the student's account.  Should the student later seek readmission, the Vice President for Student Affairs and Success or their designee will determine whether resolution of the pending matter or additional conditions are required.

Timeframes

The timeframes outlined in the Code of Community Standards may be adjusted only by the Vice President for Student Affairs and Success or their designee when extenuating circumstances exist.  Decisions regarding extensions are final.

Organizational Offenses

Student groups and organizations, as well as their officers and members, may be held collectively and individually responsible for violations of the Code of Community Standards when such behavior:  

• Occurs at organization-sponsored or co-sponsored events, whether sponsorship is formal or informal:
• Is encouraged, supported, or approved by the organization, its leaders, or officers; or
• Was known, or reasonably should have been known, by the organization's membership or leadership.

Alleged violations involving student organizations are addressed using the same general procedures outlined in the Code of Community Standards.

In such cases, determinations of responsibility will be made for both the organization and individual members, where appropriate.  Sanctions may be assigned to the organization as a whole and/or to individual members, and will be proportionate to each party's level of involvement.

Interim Measures

The College may implement interim measures as necessary to support the safety and well-being of individuals, protect the campus community, or preserve the integrity of the disciplinary process.

The Vice President for Student Affairs and Success, Dean of Students, Director of Residence Life, Director of Public Safety, or their designees are authorized to impose interim measures.  Such measures may include, but are not limited to:

• No-contact directives;
• Public Safety escorts;
• Referral to counseling or support services;
• Modifications to housing, academic schedules, or campus employment; 
• Interim suspension.

An interim suspension may involve the temporary suspension of specific privileges or full separation from the College.  During an interim suspension, a student may be restricted from accessing residence halls and/or campus facilities, including classes, reassigned to a different residence location, have changes made to their academic schedule, and/or be prohibited from participating in other College activities or privileges. 

The imposition of interim measures, including interim suspension, does not replace the formal student conduct process.  

Administrative Action Outside the Conduct Process

In limited circumstances, the Vice President for Student Affairs and Success or the Dean of Students may take action outside of, or in lieu of, the Code of Community Standards process.  Such action may be taken when deemed necessary to: 

• Protect the safety and well-being of members of the College community;
• Protect the physical or emotional health of the student involved;
• Safeguard College property; or
• Address behavior that poses on ongoing threat of disruption or interference with College operations.

Steps for Resolution

Depending on the type of allegation(s), some procedures may be more appropriate than others. The Vice President for Student Affairs and Success or designee generally decides on the appropriate procedure for the type of matter.

Conflict or Restorative Resolution

In some instances, conflict or restorative resolution may be an acceptable means of resolving a matter. Students, organizations, or groups may bring to conflict or restorative resolution any conflict that materially and negatively impacts their own status or that of other members of the College community. Any member of the College community may, likewise, refer students for conflict or restorative resolution. The purpose of the conflict or restorative resolution process is to promote reconciliation and effect an agreement amoung the parties. This process also affords the opportunity for discussion of varying points of view and encourages individuals to come forward to seek means for informal conflict or restorative resolution and the prevention of inappropriate behavior. Parties develop an agreement that each person is then responsible for upholding. Conflict or restorative resolution can be used only when all parties agree to the process as an option of resolving their dispute.

If a mutually agreeable settlement is reached, the terms will be drafted by the parties. The document will be signed by all parties and kept in confidential student files for as long as the students are enrolled or the student organization(s), or group(s) continues to be recognized. Each party receives a copy of the agreement. If the matter cannot be resolved by mutual agreement, or parties do not comply with the outcome, the matter may be referred for a Formal Resolution.

If you are interested in Conflict or Restorative Resolution, contact: Vice President for Student Affairs and Success, Dr. Sue O'Driscoll at odriscoll@lycoming.edu.

Resolution Opportunities

The College provides multiple resolution options depending on the nature and severity of the alleged violation(s).  The Vice President for Student Affairs and Success or their designee determines the most appropriate resolution process.

Simple Resolution

Simple Resolution is a formal, written process used to address minor alleged violations of the Code of Community Standards.

A Community Standards Administrator reviews available information and notifies the student, organization or group - typically via email - of the alleged violation(s) and the recommended sanction(s).

• If the Respondent accepts responsibility and agrees to the recommended sanction(s), the matter is resolved.  A record of the outcome will be maintained in the appropriate student or organizational file.
• If  the Respondent does not accept responsibility or disagrees with the recommended sanction(s), they may request a formal Administrative Hearing within five (5) days of the notice.

Administrative Hearing

An Administrative Hearing (sometimes referred to as an educational conversation) is an informal process used to resolve alleged violations that are unlikely to result in suspension or expulsion. 

Administrative Hearings are typically conducted by one (1) or two (2) Community Standards Administrators and provide an opportunity for the Respondent to discuss the matter, share their perspective, and respond to the allegation(s). 

Respondents will receive written notice of the hearing - generally at least two (2) days in advance - which typically includes: 

• The date, time, and location of the hearing;
• The alleged violation(s) of the Code of Community Standards; 
• A link to the Code of Community Standards.

Following the hearing, the Respondent will receive a written decision. Respondents have the right to request an appeal in accordance with the Appeals section of this Code.

Community Standards Board Hearing

A Community Standards Board Hearing is a more formal process used for cases involving more serious allegations, including those that may result in suspension or expulsion. 

Hearings ae typically conducted by a board of two (2) to three (3) trained members of the College community, which may include faculty, staff, and students.  The Vice President for Student Affairs and Success, Dean of Students, or designee serves as a non-voting Chair.

For cases involving alleged violations of the Colleges' Equal Opportunity, Harassment, and Nondiscrimination Policy, hearing boards are composed of faculty and staff only; student members do not participate in these cases.  

Student Rights in a Community Standards Board Hearing

Students participating in a Community Standards Board Hearing are afforded the following rights:

• The right to receive notice of the alleged violation(s);
• The right to an advisor in accordance with the Advisor policy.
• Reasonable access to information related to the allegation(s);
• A reasonable opportunity to respond to the allegation(s) and present their perspective;
• The ability to ask questions or have questions posed to the order primary party, as appropriate;
• The right to identify material witnesses (individuals with direct knowledge or relevant expertise);
• The right to request reasonable modification to the hearing process (e.g. use of technology, separate meeting spaces, or alternative formats), when deemed appropriate;
• The right to challenge the participation of a specific hearing board member based on a perceived conflict of interest;
• The right to receive a written decision;
• The right to request an appeal.

The role of an advisor in Community Standards Board Hearings is to provide support and guidance.  Advisors do not represent students and generally do not participate directly in the hearing.  The role of advisors in cases involving the Equal Opportunity, Harassment, and Nondiscrimination Policy may differ, as outlined in that policy.

Some of these rights may be exercised during the investigation phase or the hearing itself, as determined by the Community Standards Administrator.  In certain circumstances, the structure of a hearing may be modified to ensure a fair and equitable process for all parties involved.

General Provisions for Community Standards Board Hearings

Hearing Notice and Preparation

Respondent(s) will receive written notice of a Community Standards Board Hearing, generally at least three (3) days prior to the scheduled hearing. The hearing notice typicaly includes:

• The date, time and location of the hearing;
• The alleged violations of the Code of Community Standards;
• Notice of the right to an advisor, in accordance with the Advisor policy;
• A link to the Code of Community Standards;
• The names of the assigned Community Standards Board members

Respondents may challenge the participation of a Board member on the basis of potential bias by submitting a written statement to the designated conduct official no later than two (2) days prior to the hearing. The conduct official will determine whether the challenge is valid and, if so, appoint a replacement.  

The Vice President for Student Affairs and Success, the Dean of Students, or their designee determines what information may be presented at the hearing. Board members will generally receive relevant materials no later than two (2) days prior to the hearing.

Hearing Procedures

• Hearings are closed to preserve the confidentiality of the process and protect the privacy of all parties.
• The Chair may exclude information that is irrelevant, immaterial, or unduly repetitive.
• The Chair determines whether participants, including material witnesses, may remain present after providing information.  The Complainant and Respondent may remain for the duration of the hearing, as appropriate.
• Information regarding prior misconduct will be considered only after a determination of responsibility and may be used in determining sanctions.
• The Chair may record the hearing. Participants will be notified in advance, and continued participation constitutes consent.
• Deliberations are conducted only by Community Standards Board members and the Chair.  Decisions are based on a preponderance of the evidence standard and reached by consensus.
• The Board's decision will be communicated in writing, typically within two (2) days of the hearing.

Order of Presentation in Community Standards Board Hearings

The general sequence of a Community Standards Board Hearing is as follows:

1. The Chair introduces Board members; Board members and witnesses are introduced to the parties.
2. The Chair reviews the hearing process, outlines the allegations, and summarizes any relevant investigative information.
3. Board members and the Chair may ask questions of the Respondent, Complainant and any witnesses.
4. The Respondent and Complainant may ask questions of one another, except in cases involving allegations under the Equal Opportunity, Harassment, and Nondiscrimination Policy.  Questions may be posed to witnesses, as permitted by the Chair. 
5. The Complainant may present a closing statement.
6. The Respondent may present a closing statement.
7. The hearing concludes, and all participants except the Board members and Chair are excused.  The Board deliberates.  The Chair may remain to provide procedural guidance and, if applicable, introduce prior conduct history following a finding of responsibility.
8. The Board reaches a decision and communicates it to the Chair, who provides written notification to the Respondent(s), generally within two (2) days.

Appeals

A student, organization or group found responsible for violating the Code of Community Standards may request an appeal within two (2) days of the date of the decision letter. Failure to file a request for an appeal in a timely manner constitutes a waiver of any right to an appeal. In requesting the appeal, the student, organization or group must specify the ground(s) for appeal and his/her rationale for the request.

The basis for an appeal is limited to the following grounds:

1. There is new or newly discovered information that may affect the outcome of the hearing;
2. There was a procedural error that substantially affected the outcome of the hearing.
3. The sanction is excessively severe.

The appeal process is not a hearing, but rather a review of the relevant information and materials; it represents a procedural safeguard for the student. The student, organization or group may be asked to meet with the Appeal Official or Appeal Panel; however, it is the decision of the Appeal Official or Appeal Panel to request a student, organization or group to attend a meeting for this review process.

When an appeal request is received, the Appeal Official(s) will consider the appeal in two consecutive parts. One, the Appeal Official(s) consider whether or not the appeal request meets the grounds for an appeal. If the grounds are not met, then the Appeal Official or Chair of the Appeal Review Panel will notify the student and the matter will be concluded. The original decision will stand.

If the appeal request meets the grounds, the Appeal Official(s) will review the matter and make a decision. The decision may be to refer the case back to the original Community Standards Administrator or Community Standards Board members to reconsider the information; refer the case for further investigation and/or process; reverse the decision, in whole or in part or uphold the original decision.

If a decision was reached by a Community Standards Administrator, such as a Residential Life Coordinator, the appeal will normally be reviewed by the Director of Residential Life.

If a decision was reached by the Director of Residential Life the appeal will be reviewed by the Dean of Students.

For decisions rendered by either the Vice President for Student Affairs and Success, the Dean of Students, or the Community Standards Board, the appeal request should be emailed to the appropriate person listed below, who acts as Chair of the Appeal Review Panel. The chair will determine if the appeal meets the criteria for an appeal. If it does not meet criteria, the chair will inform the student by email. If the appeal does meet criteria, the Appeal Review Panel will be convened. The Appeal Review Panel consists of three (3) members: one faculty, one administrator and one student. The Chair will deliver the decision rendered by the Appeal Review Panel to the student within two (2) days.

For cases involving violations of the College's Equal Opportunity, Harassment, and Nondiscrimination Policy, including cases of sexual harassment and sexual misconduct, a student representative will not serve on the Appeal Review Panel.

Appeal Review Process

Decision Made by	Send Appeal Request to
Residential Life Professional Staff	Director of Residential Life, Samantha Dawson (dawson@lycoming.edu)
Director of Residential Life	Vice President for Student Affairs and Success, Dr. Sue O'Driscoll at odriscoll@lycoming.edu
V.P. for Student Life	Appeal Review Panel or designee who will organize and forward materials to the Review Panel.
Standards Board	Appeal Review Panel, send appeal letter to Vice President for Student Affairs and Success, Dr. Sue O'Driscoll at odriscoll@lycoming.edu or designee who will organize and forward materials to A Review Panel.

Appeals are generally completed within 2 weeks, following receipt of the request.

Appeal Review Panel Deliberations and Decisions

1. Only the members of the Appeal Review Panel may be present during deliberations. The Chair may remain to answer any policy or procedural questions.
2. The Appeal Review Panel has authority to refer the case back to the original Community Standards Administrator(s) to reconsider the information; refer the case for further investigation; reverse the decision, in whole or in part or uphold the original decision.
3. A consensus is necessary to uphold or change the decision
4. All Appeal Review Panel decisions are final, with the exception of those resulting in expulsion. The Respondent may further appeal a decision of expulsion to the President of the College within two (2) days from the date the Appeal review decision is issued. The appeal will be in writing. The President’s decision is final and is not subject to further appeal.

Disclosure of Findings

The College may disclose the results of any conduct proceedings regarding crimes of violence or non-forcible sex offenses to an alleged victim.

Standard of Evidence and Sanctioning

The purpose of the conduct process is to determine whether, more likely than not, the information presented at the hearing supports a finding that a standards violation occurred and, if so, to assign a sanction(s). In assigning a sanction(s), Community Standards Administrators will consider the following:

• the conduct record of the Respondent (the number of past violations and the current status/standing);
• the nature of the offense; and
• the severity of any damage, injury, or resultant harm.

Sanctions

Community Standards Administrators are not bound to the examples below and may vary their decisions based on the educational need of the situation. Students, organizations or groups that have violated the Code of Community Standards are subject to one or more of the following sanctions:

• Formal Warning is a written notice, that the student has violated College policy and continuation or repetition of prohibited conduct may result in more serious disciplinary action.
• Disciplinary Notice is a written notice indicating that the student has violated College policy, carries additional educational sanctions, and notifications and includes a warning that continuation or repetition of prohibited conduct may be cause for additional disciplinary action, including disciplinary probation.
• Disciplinary Probation is a period of review during which the student, organization or group remains in good standing, but must demonstrate the ability to comply with College policies and any sanction(s) assigned. Notification is generally made to parent(s)/guardian(s).
• Deferred Suspension is a period of review during which the student, organization or group is not in good standing. The Student, organization or group must demonstrate an ability to comply with College rules, regulations, and all sanctions. Deferred Suspension may negatively impact the student’s ability to participate in campus positions, leadership programs and employment opportunities. Notification is generally made to parent(s)/guardian(s), coaches and some academic or co-curricular program advisors, as appropriate. If, during the period of the Deferred Suspension, the student is again found to be in violation of any policy or an order from a Community Standards Administrator, the student may be immediately suspended from the College. As part of the Deferred Suspension sanction, the student, organization, or group will meet with the Vice President for Student Affairs and Success, or designee, on a periodic basis throughout the determined period of the Deferred Suspension. The student is not in good standing with the College during their period of Deferred Suspension.
• Residence Hall Suspension: Separation of the student from the residence halls for a specified period of time, after which the student is eligible to return. The student will not be permitted to be present in any residence halls during the course of the suspension. Residence hall suspension may be specified during weekends.
• Residence Relocation: Administratively moved to a different on-campus residence.
• Residence Restriction: Restricted access to certain college housing.
• Disciplinary Suspension is a written notice to the student that s/he is separated from the College for a designated period of time. The student will receive "W’s" in current courses and the "W’s" will appear on the student’s transcript. During the suspension period, a Judicial Hold is active on the student’s account. The student is not permitted to register for classes and is not permitted to attend any College-sponsored events, on or off-campus, without permission from the Vice President for Student Affairs and Success, or designee. A student is not eligible for any financial refund. For permission to return to the College, the student must petition the Vice President for Student Affairs and Success, or designee, in writing, showcasing completion of any sanction(s). The student should contact the Vice President for Student Affairs and Success, or designee, at least six (6) weeks in advance of the start of the new semester.
• Restitution: Compensation for loss, damage, or injury. This may take the form of appropriate service and/or monetary or material replacement.
• Fines: May be imposed for violations of specific policies and procedures.
• Educational Sanctions: Educational discussion with hearing official(s), service hours, attendance at a workshop, writing a paper, or other appropriate assignment may be applied.
• Loss of Privileges: Denial of specified privileges for a period of time. These may include, but are not limited to:
  • Exclusion from certain College buildings or areas;
  • Denial or revocation of automobile registration privileges;
  • Prohibition from holding office in any student group or organization;
  • Denial of the opportunity to participate in certain College activities or of eligibility to represent the College in any co-curricular activity;
  • Suspension, disassociation, loss of status or termination as a recognized student organization. For fraternities and sororities, this may include notification to national headquarters.
• Social Probation: A loss of privilege to host social events (alcohol free and/or with alcohol) on campus or off-campus for a specified period of time. In addition, while on social probation, organizations are prohibited from providing funds to other organizations in support of an event/activity. Further, the name of the organization is not to be included in the promotion of an event/activity without prior permission from the Vice President for Student Affairs and Success. If the organization would like to seek permission for a special event during their probationary period that request must be sent to the Vice President for Student Affairs and Success at least one week in advance.
• Parent/Guardian Notification: alerts the student that his/her parent(s)/guardian(s) will be notified of the conduct decision; generally, a copy of the Decision Letter will be sent to parent(s)/guardian(s).
• Expulsion: Permanent separation of the student or organization from the College. This sanction may include restriction on the use of College facilities. Notification of expulsion will appear on the student’s transcript.
• Advisor/Coach Notification/Meeting: alerts the student that his/her Coach, Academic Advisor, International Advisor or other appropriate staff member will be notified of the conduct decision. Generally, the Advisor/Coach will be copied to the Decision Letter. The student may be sanctioned to meet with the Advisor/Coach.
• No Communication/No Contact: restricts the student from any contact, whether in person, electronic, or via third parties, with one or more community members.
• Victim Notification: victim(s) of the "Aggressive Behavior policy" will be notified in writing of the outcome of the Student Conduct Board Hearing.

Failure to complete sanctions by their assigned due date and/or according to instruction may result in additional conduct proceedings, and/or the Vice President for Student Affairs and Success, or designee, placing a hold on the student's College record which affects their ability to register for classes. The Vice President for Student Affairs and Success, or designee, will lift the hold once sanctions are completed as originally instructed.

Below are guidelines for minimum sanctions for violations of the alcohol and drug policy. At the discretion of the Community Standards Administrator, Community Standards Board, or Appeal Review Official(s) these sanctions can be modified or increased.

Statement on Medical and Adult use Marijuana

Lycoming College receives federal funding through Title IV in the form of student financial aid (grants, loans, and work-study programs) and through other federal grants. As a condition of accepting this money, Lycoming College is required to certify that it complies with the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act (DFSCA) (20 U.S.C. 1011i; 34 C.F.R. part 86). To comply with the Federal Drug Free School and Communities Act and avoid losing federal funding, Lycoming College prohibits all marijuana use, including medical marijuana, and students may be sanctioned for its use.

Alcohol and Marijuana Sanctioning

Lycoming College does not condone the unlawful use or abuse of alcohol and consistent with the Drug Free Schools and Communities Act prohibits the use of marijuana on campus for any reason. Therefore, in upholding the Drug Free School and Communities Act, Lycoming College differentiates sanctioning between alcohol violations and marijuana violations. Alcohol can be lawfully possessed for persons of the legal drinking age whereas under the Drug Free School and Communities Act marijuana under any circumstance cannot be possessed lawfully on campus.

Through mutual agreement with the Williamsport Bureau of Police, the Williamsport Bureau of Police are called to incidents involving marijuana and marijuana paraphernalia to confiscate items as well as consider if charges are warranted.

Policy Violation	1st offense	2nd offense	3rd offense
Alcohol	Simple Resolution - possession, no additional code violations or, Formal Warning & Educational Discussion possession and additional code violations	Formal Warning & Educational Discussion possession or, Disciplinary Notice, possession and additional code violations	Disciplinary Notice, possession or, Disciplinary Probation, possession and additional code violations May include: Referral for AOD Assessment with requirement to comply with recommendations by professional AOD Counselor Parent/Guardian Notification Advisor/Coach Notification
Drug Misconduct (e.g., Use/possession of marijuana not including sale or distribution)	Formal Warning & Educational Discussion	Disciplinary Notice Educational Activity/Program	Disciplinary Probation (possession and/or paraphernalia – no other code violations) Educational Activity/Program Parent/Guardian Notification Internship/Field Experience/ Advisor/Coach Notification or, Deferred Suspension (possession and/or paraphernalia; incomplete sanctions; other code violations) Educational Activity Parent/Guardian Notification Internship/Field Experience/ Advisor/Coach Notification

• The costs of any substance abuse counseling, a substance assessment, and resulting treatment conducted off campus are the student’s responsibility.
• When appropriate, restrictions of participation in extracurricular activities or other loss of privileges are sanctioned.

Parent/Guardian Notification

The Vice President for Student Affairs and Success, Dean of Students, Director of Residential Life or designee(s) have the authority to notify parents or guardians about possible violations of the Code of Community Standards under any of the following circumstances:

1. When a student has authorized the College to release educational records to parents or guardians;
2. When a student is found responsible of any violation of the College's policies on alcohol misconduct or illegal drugs;
3. When a student is involved in a community standards violation that could result in suspension or expulsion from the College;
4. When a student is facing a medical or psychological emergency; or
5. In the judgment of the Vice President for Student Affairs and Success, Dean of Students, or Director of Residential Life notification may be to the benefit of the health and well-being of the student.

Disciplinary Records

Disciplinary Records are maintained by the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs and Success, and Director of Residential Life and are maintained as follows:

• Records of suspension and/or dismissal from the College will be maintained permanently;
• Records of deferred suspension will be maintained for a period of one (1) year after a student graduates or may be maintained for a longer period of time at the discretion of the Vice President for Student Affairs and Success based on the circumstances of the incident;
• Records of warning, probation, or other sanctions will be destroyed upon a student's graduation;
• The judicial records of a student who has voluntarily withdrawn from the College will be destroyed after two consecutive years of such withdrawal unless the record indicates a prior suspension in which case the record will be maintained permanently. For additional information on student educational records, please visit: https://www.lycoming.edu/student-handbook/student-records.aspx.

Medical Amnesty

Student health and safety are of primary concern to Lycoming College. The College recognizes that students may be reluctant to report concerns or emergencies involving substance use because of possible consequences specified in our Code of Community Standards. Lycoming College is committed to reducing reporting barriers and strongly encourages a student to contact College staff regarding any substance use emergency. A student should feel comfortable calling for immediate help whether it is for them, another student, a guest or any individual on campus.

If a student is aware of an alcohol or other drug related emergency and takes action to call for help, on behalf of himself or herself, another student, friend, guest or any individual on the College campus, the students will not be subject to the formal standards process. The student may be asked to meet with a staff member to have an educational discussion and be given information for support services, such as Counseling.

It is very important that students follow the Medical Amnesty guidelines in order to support the person who needs medical attention.

Medical Amnesty may not apply to incidents where there may be other policy violations, such as an organizational violation, physical or sexual violence, hazing or possession of substances that induce incapacitation, such as "date-rape" drugs. Lycoming College will review incidents where an individual uses Medical Amnesty more than one time by the same individual. In such situations, the matter may be referred to the Vice President for Student Affairs and Success or designee to determine appropriate next steps.

The Code of Community Standards is in effect beginning August 11, 2022. Lycoming College students should explore the contents in this Code of Community Standards, as there have been many changes aimed to support an efficient, equitable and fair process for our students.