Social Policies
Elon University students should exemplify honesty, be trustworthy, fair, ethical, and respect the truth in all of their dealings. They should be authentic, accept the consequences of their actions, and learn from their experiences. Conduct that violates this value includes but is not limited to:
Complicity
Any act that knowingly aids, facilitates, promotes or encourages the commission of a crime or Code of Conduct violation by another person. Failure to report a crime as may be required by law.
Sanctions – normally, not less than official warning with possible permanent separation, based on the severity of the violation; educational and/or restorative program or project, and additional sanctions based on the cumulative effect of all policy violations.
Fraud/Lying
A statement, action or representation that is false, misrepresents the truth, and/or is intended to deceive another. Examples include but are not limited to: falsifying statements, records, forms, computer applications, cable television or telecommunications equipment; manufacturing, altering or falsifying an official identification card or possession and/or use of another person’s ID or a fake identification card; or presenting another person’s Phoenix Card, name or ID number for identification, meals or purchases, or allowing another person to use one’s Phoenix Card for fraudulent purposes.
Sanctions
First Offense – normally, not less than official warning, with possible disciplinary probation or suspension; $100 fine, and restorative or educational program or project.
Second Offense – normally, not less than disciplinary probation with possible disciplinary suspension or permanent separation.
Possession of Lost or Stolen Property
This includes, but is not limited to, the possession of property reported or known to be lost or stolen, regardless of the item’s place of origin. Possession of traffic cones, signs, markers, and/or other Department of Transportation materials are strictly prohibited.
Sanctions
First Offense – normally, not less than official warning and restitution with possible disciplinary suspension, and educational program or project.
Second Offense – normally, not less than disciplinary suspension with possible permanent separation; restitution, and educational program or project.
Stealing (Social Policy)
The unauthorized taking of property from the possession of another person or the University. This includes, but is not limited to, taking another’s personal property, the unauthorized possession of parking decals, or consumption of food. See the Academic Policies for the policy on Academic Stealing or Vandalism.
Sanctions
First Offense – normally, not less than disciplinary probation with possible disciplinary suspension; restitution, loss of campus housing, and educational program or project.
Second Offense – permanent separation.
Unauthorized Entry or Access of University or Personal Property
Unauthorized entry or access to university or personal property, or misuse of access privileges to University facilities. Examples include but are not limited to: occupancy of university when university housing is closed, use of electronic devices or software to obtain or attempt to obtain private data; entering or opening a student’s private property without express consent; use of another person’s password or ID to attempt to gain access to personal information.
Sanctions
First Offense – normally, not less than disciplinary probation with possible disciplinary suspension, loss of university housing and restitution.
Second Offense – normally, not less than disciplinary suspension and restorative educational program or project. Upon return from suspension, student may not live in campus owned or operated housing.
C. Alcohol & Other Drug Policies
Alcohol: Possession and/or Consumption of Alcoholic Beverages by Students Under 21 Years of Age
Possession and/or consumption of alcoholic beverages by any student on or off-campus or returning to campus after consuming by a student less than 21 years of age is prohibited. (At this level there may not be visible signs of intoxication.) Note: Possession of empty beverage containers or packaging may be considered evidence of possession or consumption of alcohol.
Sanctions
First Offense – normally, not less than alcohol confiscated and disposed of and official warning; $100 fine, and alcohol education program or project.
Second Offense – normally, not less than alcohol confiscated and disposed of and official warning or disciplinary probation (if incident occurs within one year of first offense); $150 fine, alcohol education program or project, substance abuse assessment and compliance with recommendations
Third Offense – normally, not less than alcohol confiscated and disposed of and disciplinary probation with possible disciplinary suspension (if incident occurs within one year of second offense); $300 fine, substance abuse assessment and compliance with recommendations.
Any subsequent violations may result in disciplinary suspension, substance abuse assessment and compliance with recommendations, and $300 fine.
Alcohol: Being Under the Influence of Alcoholic Beverages
A person who, having consumed alcoholic beverages, exhibits signs of intoxication and/or experiences any loss of the normal use of their mental and/or physical faculties. Examples include but are not limited to: slurred speech, vomiting, stumbling or needing assistance walking, loss of motor coordination, aggression, brief loss of memory, or abusive behavior.
Sanctions
First Offense – normally, not less than alcohol confiscated and disposed of and official warning or disciplinary probation; $150 fine, alcohol education program or project, substance abuse assessment and compliance with recommendations.
Second Offense – normally, not less than alcohol confiscated and disposed of and disciplinary probation with possible disciplinary suspension; $300 fine, substance abuse assessment and compliance with recommendations.
Third Offense – normally, disciplinary suspension for one year.
Alcohol: Extreme Intoxication
A person who, having consumed alcoholic beverages, exhibits signs of significant and/or dangerous intoxication. Examples include but are not limited to: blacked out, loss of consciousness or limited responsiveness, no withdrawal from painful stimuli, loss of bladder/bowel functions, excessive vomiting, or severe physical depression (slow or shallow breathing, pale or blue-tinged skin, or reduced heart rate).
Sanctions
First Offense – normally, not less than official warning with possible disciplinary suspension for one year; $150 fine, alcohol education program or project, substance abuse assessment and compliance with recommendations.
Second Offense – normally, not less than disciplinary probation with possible disciplinary suspension; $300 fine, alcohol education program or project, substance abuse assessment and compliance with recommendations.
Third Offense – normally, not less than disciplinary suspension; alcohol education program or project, substance abuse assessment and compliance with recommendations, with possible permanent separation.
Alcohol: Rapid Consumption of Alcohol or Actions that May Endanger the Well-being of Self or Others
Any form of rapid consumption of alcohol or participation in drinking games that may create a risk of danger to self, others or the university community. Examples include but are not limited to: bongs, shots, keg stands, beer pong, flip cup, and the like.
Sanctions
First Offense – normally, not less than official warning with possible disciplinary probation; $150 fine, educational program or project, substance abuse assessment and completion of recommendations.
Second Offense – normally, not less than disciplinary probation with possible disciplinary probation; $300 fine, educational program or project, substance abuse assessment and completion of recommendations.
Third Offense – normally, not less than disciplinary suspension with possible permanent separation.
Alcohol: Public Consumption and/or Possession of Alcohol
Possession or consumption of alcoholic beverages is allowed by students who are 21 years of age or older only in their housing assignment (room, suite or apartment) or another location approved by the University. Alcohol is not allowed in the common areas of residential buildings, in non-residential buildings, or outdoors except for events where alcohol use has been formally approved.
Sanctions
First Offense – normally, not less than alcohol confiscated and disposed of and official warning; $ 100 fine, and alcohol education program or project.
Second Offense – normally, not less than alcohol confiscated and disposed of and official warning or disciplinary probation (if incident occurs within one year of first offense); $150 fine, alcohol education program or project, substance abuse assessment and compliance with recommendations.
Third Offense – normally, not less than alcohol confiscated and disposed of and disciplinary probation with possible suspension (if incident occurs within one year of second offense); $300 fine, substance abuse assessment and compliance with recommendations.
Alcohol: Provision and/or Distribution of Alcohol to Students Under 21 Years of Age
By an individual – any person purchasing, providing or distributing alcohol to any individual below the age of 21 years.
By an organization – any organization that purchases, provides or distributes alcohol to any individual below the age of 21 years.
Sanctions- for an individual:
First Offense – normally, not less than disciplinary probation with possible disciplinary suspension; $150 fine, and alcohol education program or project.
Second Offense – normally, not less than disciplinary suspension for one year with possible permanent separation; $300 fine; substance abuse assessment and compliance with recommendations.
Sanctions – By an organization (within a four-year period):
First Offense – normally, not less than alcohol confiscated and disposed, loss of specific social privileges with possible loss of university housing and/or recognition for one year, $400 fine, and education program or project.
Second Offense – normally, not less than loss of university housing and/or recognition, with possible permanent loss of university recognition.
Alcohol: Sponsorship of an Activity Involving the Unauthorized use of Alcoholic Beverages by Individuals or Organizations
Sponsorship of any activity or event involving the use of alcoholic beverages without specific university approval to do so, said sponsorship being carried out by an individual or organizations.
Sanctions – for individuals:
First Offense – normally, not less than alcohol confiscated and disposed, disciplinary probation with possible disciplinary suspension; $150 fine, and alcohol education program or project.
Second Offense – normally, not less than disciplinary suspension for one term; $300 fine; substance abuse assessment and compliance with recommendations.
Sanctions – for organizations (within a four-year period):
First Offense – normally, not less than alcohol confiscated and disposed, loss of specific social privileges with possible loss of university housing and/or recognition, $400 fine, and education program or project.
Second Offense – normally, not less than loss of university housing and/or recognition with possible permanent loss of university recognition.
Alcohol: Possession of a Keg, Common Alcohol Beverage Container or Excessive Amounts of Alcohol on University-Owned Property or by a Student Organization on or off the Campus
Possession and/or consumption of a keg or any common container of alcohol, including buckets, pony kegs and other bulk containers. This includes kegs and multi-serving containers that are empty. Students may not have more than the equivalent of 12 drinks per number of legal age residents in campus housing. (Example: one drink is a 12-ounce beer, 4-ounce glass of wine or 2 ounces of liquor.)
NOTE: As with all other alcohol violations, kegs and multi-serving containers that are confiscated will not be returned to the student and all claims to deposit refunds are forfeited.
Sanctions – for individuals:
First Offense – normally, not less than container confiscated and disposed of; disciplinary probation with possible disciplinary suspension; $150 fine, alcohol education program or project.
Second Offense – normally, not less than disciplinary suspension; $300 fine; substance abuse assessment and compliance with recommendations.
Sanctions – for organizations (within a four-year period):
First Offense – normally, not less than alcohol confiscated and disposed, loss of social privileges with possible loss of university housing and/or recognition, $400 fine, and education program or project.
Second Offense – normally, not less than loss of university housing and/or recognition with possible permanent loss of university recognition.
Alcohol: Alcohol-related vehicular violations
Any operation of a motor vehicle during or following consumption of alcohol that creates a risk of danger to self, others or the university community.
Sanctions
First Offense – normally, not less than disciplinary probation with possible disciplinary suspension for one year; $200 fine, restitution, educational program or project, substance abuse assessment and compliance with recommendations.
Second Offense – normally, not less than disciplinary suspension for one year with possible permanent separation; $200 to $400 fine, restitution, educational program or project, substance abuse assessment and compliance with recommendations.
Third Offense – normally, not less than permanent separation.
Behavior that Endangers the Health & Safety of Self and/or Others
Any behavior that creates a risk of danger to self, others or the university community. Behaviors include but are not limited to creating a disturbance that may lead to a dangerous situation; propping doors to residence halls; not calling for medical assistance when a fellow student is at risk due to alcohol or drugs; throwing objects from windows or balconies; disclosure and/or use of residence hall or fraternity/sorority house combinations or door access cards by an individual other than a resident of the community; intentionally obstructing egress or exit of a room or building, failure to evacuate a building during a fire alarm; and being on the roof or unapproved balcony of any buildings.
Sanctions
First Offense – normally, not less than disciplinary probation with possible disciplinary suspension for one year; $150 to $300 fine, restitution, educational program or project, and mental health and/or certified substance abuse assessment and compliance with recommendations.
Second Offense – normally, not less than disciplinary suspension with possible permanent separation; $200 to $400 fine, restitution and educational program or project.
Third Offense – normally, not less than permanent separation.
Drugs: Use or Possession of Controlled, Illegal or Prohibited Substances
Any possession or use of controlled, prohibited, or illegal substances or use of (or intent to use) substances for purposes or in manners not as directed. Examples include but are not limited to: possession or use of illegal substances; possession or use of prescription drugs without a valid/current medical prescription; use of prescribed medication not as directed (over-use, snorting prescribed medication, and the like); huffing, snorting, smoking or otherwise possessing or using legal substances not as intended. Substances such as JWH-018 (K2, “Spice”), salvia and pyrovalerone derivatives (found in substances marketed as “bath salts”) are not intended for human consumption and are prohibited for possession or use by any Elon student.
Sanctions
First Offense – normally, not less than official warning with possible disciplinary probation (Schedule VI and unscheduled substances) with disciplinary suspension for up to one year (Schedule I-III), depending on type/amount of prohibited substance; $200 fine, drug education program, substance abuse assessment and compliance with recommendations.
Second Offense – normally, not less than disciplinary suspension for one year with possible permanent separation; $400 fine, educational program or project, substance abuse assessment and compliance with recommendations.
Drugs: Manufacturing, Distribution or Sale of Prohibited, Controlled or Illegal Substances
Any manufacturing, distribution, or sale of controlled or illegal substances or any substances prohibited by the Elon University Drug Policy (including sharing of prescription medication). This policy applies regardless of financial gain.
Sanctions
First Offense – normally, not less than disciplinary suspension with possible permanent separation (depending on type/amount of prohibited substance); $300-$400fine, substance abuse assessment and compliance with recommendations.
Second Offense – normally, not less than permanent separation.
Drugs: Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
Possession and/or use of drug paraphernalia, including, but not limited to, roach clips, bongs, hookahs, blow tubes, papers, scales or any material or apparatus containing drug residue.
Sanctions
First Offense – normally, not less than official warning with possible disciplinary probation with possible disciplinary suspension for paraphernalia related to drug manufacturing, sale, or distribution; $100 fine, drug education program, substance abuse assessment and compliance with recommendations.
Second Offense – normally, not less than disciplinary suspension with possible permanent separation; $200 fine, drug education program, substance abuse assessment and compliance with recommendations.
Third Offense – normally, not less than permanent separation.
Drugs: Being in the Presence of Drug Use, Possession or Sale
Being in the presence of the use, possession, or sale of prohibited, controlled or illegal substances.
Sanctions
First Offense – normally, not less than official warning with possible disciplinary suspension; $150 fine, drug education program, substance abuse assessment and compliance with recommendations.
Second Offense – normally, not less than disciplinary suspension with possible permanent separation; $300 fine, drug education program, substance abuse assessment and compliance with recommendations.
D. Respect (Social Policies)
Bias-Related Conduct
Conduct directed toward a person, or persons, that is intimidating or hostile in nature based on actual or perceived age, race, color, creed, religion, sex, national or ethnic origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or veteran’s status. Bias-related conduct may be in verbal, written, electronic, online, graphic, or physical form. The determination as to whether this policy has been violated takes into account the totality of the circumstances. This policy is not intended to undercut the free exchange of ideas even on sensitive topics, but rather to prohibit personal threats and hostile conduct motivated by bias.
Sanctions
First Offense – normally, not less than disciplinary probation, with possible disciplinary suspension; educational and/or restorative program or project; possible loss of social and/or housing privileges.
Second Offense – normally, not less than disciplinary suspension; with possible permanent separation.; educational and/or restorative program or project; possible loss of social and/or housing privileges.
Bullying
Any on-going behavior directed at or about a student that is degrading, humiliating, malicious or defamatory. Behaviors may occur in person, in print, via electronic means or through social networking (cyber-bullying). Examples include, but are not limited to: ongoing pranks or ridicule directed against an individual, graffiti, posting insults against a student in a public setting or on any website.
Sanctions
First Offense – normally, not less than disciplinary probation with possible disciplinary suspension, educational and/or restorative program or project; mental health assessment, and compliance with recommendations
Second Offense – normally, not less than disciplinary suspension with possible permanent separation; educational and/or restorative program or project; mental health mental health assessment and compliance with recommendations.
Discrimination
Conduct which is discriminatory and an individual suffers an adverse academic, employment, or educational opportunity on the basis of a person’s actual or perceived race, color, gender, national or ethnic origin, age, religion, creed, disability, veteran’s status, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression.
Sanctions
Individuals – normally, not less than disciplinary probation with possible permanent separation and educational and/or restorative program or project
Organizations – normally, not less than disciplinary probation with possible suspension of official university recognition with possible permanent removal of official university recognition.
Note: Discrimination based on sex, gender, gender identity or sexual orientation is addressed in the Sexual Misconduct and Interpersonal Violence Policy.
Failure to Comply with the Directive of a University Official
Direct disobedience of an order of a university employee (including, but not limited to, assistant directors, resident assistants, house captains, Student Life staff, lab supervisors, dining hall personnel, faculty and police/security staff). This includes, but is not limited to, failure to evacuate a building, campus, or area of campus when so ordered by a university official (including evacuating a building during a fire alarm); refusing to present an ID upon request; failure to comply with a reasonable request of a faculty or staff person; or failure to complete prescribed sanctions as given by an administrative hearing officer or hearing board.
Sanctions
First Offense – normally, not less than official warning with possible disciplinary suspension, and $50 fine.
Second Offense – normally, not less than disciplinary probation with possible disciplinary suspension and $100 fine.
Fighting or Acts of Physical Aggression
An encounter with blows or other personal violations between two or more persons. This includes but is not limited to actual or attempted pushing, hitting, kicking, spitting, wrestling, pulling hair, etc.
Sanctions
First Offense – normally, not less than official warning with possible disciplinary suspension; $100 fine, mental health assessment and compliance with recommendations, and a restorative and/or educational program.
Second Offense – normally, not less than disciplinary suspension with possible permanent separation; $200 fine, and mental health mental health assessment and compliance with recommendations.
Harassment
Conduct (including verbal, written, visual, or physical conduct) that denigrates or shows hostility against an individual/group/entity when such conduct has the purpose or effect of:
a. unreasonably interfering with an individual’s work or academic performance, or
b. creating an intimidating, hostile, humiliating, or offensive working, living or learning environment.
Offenses that occur in a classroom may result in temporary or permanent suspension from a class, pending the outcome of a hearing.
Sanctions
First Offense – normally, not less than disciplinary probation with possible permanent separation; educational and/or restorative program or project, and mental health mental health assessment with compliance with recommendations. Temporary or permanent suspension from a class may result when the offense occurs in a class or is class-related.
Second Offense – normally, not less than disciplinary suspension with possible permanent separation. Temporary or permanent suspension from a class may result when the offense occurs in a class or is class-related.
Note: Harassment based on sex, gender, gender identity or sexual orientation is addressed in the Sexual Misconduct and Interpersonal Violence Policy.
Hazing
Any activity expected of someone who is joining a group (or who is trying to maintain full status in a group) that humiliates, degrades, or risks harming that person emotionally or physically, regardless of the person’s willingness to participate. Examples include but are not limited to:
a. Subtle hazing – behaviors that are based on a power imbalance between current and new members; may involve activities that ridicule, embarrass or humiliate.
b. Harassment hazing – behaviors that cause emotional distress, mental anguish, or physical discomfort in order to feel like a part of the group; or confuses, frustrates, and causes undue stress for new members/rookies.
c. Violent hazing – behaviors that have the potential to cause physical and/or emotional or psychological harm.
Sanctions
Individuals – normally, not less than disciplinary probation with possible permanent separation; educational and/or restorative program or project, mental health assessment and compliance with recommendations.
Organizations – normally, not less than disciplinary probation with possible suspension of official university recognition; educational/change program or project, and restorative program or project.
Retaliation
Any threatening or harassing behavior directed against another individual or entity who has, in good-faith, reported a potential violation of university policy or the law; or against an individual or entity involved in the student conduct or legal process (witnesses, student conduct advisors, etc.).
Sanctions
First Offense – normally, not less than disciplinary probation with possible permanent separation; educational and/or restorative program or project, mental health assessment and compliance with recommendations, loss of university housing.
Second Offense – normally, not less than disciplinary suspension and possible permanent separation.
Note: Retaliation based on reported violations of sexual misconduct or interpersonal violence are addressed in the Sexual Misconduct and Interpersonal Violence Policy.
Threatening Behaviors
Any (direct, indirect, conditional or veiled) expression of intent to cause physical or mental harm. Any communication of a threat is presumed to constitute a statement of intent without regard to whether the student communicating the threat has the present or future ability to carry it out.
Sanctions
First Offense – normally, not less than disciplinary probation with possible disciplinary suspension; mental health assessment with compliance with recommendations, educational and/or restorative program or project, and loss of incident-related privileges.
Second Offense – normally, not less than disciplinary suspension and possible permanent separation.
E. Community Safety and Well-Being (Social Policies)
Destruction or Defacing of Property
Destruction, damage or defacement of personal, public, or university property; including, but not limited to: defacing structures, bulletin boards, equipment and facilities; tampering with or damaging thermostats; parking/driving on grass and sidewalks; grinding or rail sliding with skates or skateboards; littering; and removing window screens.
Sanctions
First Offense – normally, not less than official warning with possible disciplinary suspension; $150 fine, restitution, and housing relocation or loss of university housing.
Second Offense –normally, not less than disciplinary suspension; $300 fine, restitution, housing relocation or loss of university housing, mental health assessment and compliance with recommendations.
Disorderly Conduct
Conduct that is disruptive to the rights of others. Examples include but are not limited to: intentionally preventing others from listening or presenting their ideas in class; use of cell phones in classrooms or during campus events; excessive noise; public urination, defecation, or exposure (without sexual misconduct); horseplay, practical jokes; hiding from university officials or resisting police/security officers; hall sports; and general annoyances. Offenses that occur in the classroom may result in temporary or permanent suspension from the class, pending the outcome of a hearing.
Sanctions
First Offense – normally, not less than official warning with possible disciplinary suspension; $150 fine, educational program or project. Temporary or permanent suspension from a class may result when the offense occurs in a class or is class-related.
Second Offense – normally, not less than disciplinary probation with possible disciplinary suspension; educational program or project, $300 fine. Temporary or permanent suspension from the class may result when the offense occurs in the class or is class-related.
Fire Safety
Violation of local, state, federal or campus fire policies including, but not limited to:
a. fire setting – intentionally or recklessly starting a fire without authorization;
b. arson – setting fires with the intention of destroying property;
c. improper use of University fire safety equipment; or
d. tampering with, covering or removing smoke detectors, fire alarms, fire extinguishers, exit signs or other life safety equipment, as well as the breaking of pull station or fire extinguisher covers unless the situation warrants such action and/or causing a false fire alarm to be pulled.
Sanctions
First Offense – normally, not less than disciplinary probation with possible disciplinary suspension loss of campus housing, $100-500 fine, and educational and/or restorative program or project.
Second Offense – normally, not less than disciplinary suspension with possible permanent separation, permanent loss of campus housing, and mental health assessment.
Firearms and/or Weapons
The possession or use, whether openly or concealed, of any weapon or ammunition is strictly prohibited (even if the student has a concealed handgun license) while on university-owned property or at university-related events. Examples of “weapons” include, but are not limited to: the possession or use of any object as a weapon or in a threatening manner; guns, rifles, pistols, bullets, explosives, stun guns, BB guns, air soft guns, paint pellet guns, bow and arrows, sling shots, bowie knives, daggers, switch-blade knives, metallic knuckles, throwing stars, knives of more than six inches when opened and any other weapon of any kind.
Sanctions – Possession of firearms or weapons
First Offense – normally, not less than disciplinary probation (for possession without use of non-lethal items such as slingshots or air soft guns) with possible permanent separation (for any possession of lethal weapons/firearms or use of weapons; weapon confiscated, $200 fine, and immediate loss of campus housing.
Second Offense – normally, not less than disciplinary suspension and possible permanent separation; weapon confiscated, mental health assessment and compliance with recommendations.
Sanctions – Use of firearms or weapons
First Offense – normally, not less than disciplinary suspension and possible permanent separation.
Second Offense – permanent separation.
Fireworks
The possession and/or use of fireworks on university owned or leased property or at university or student sponsored events.
Sanctions
First Offense – normally, not less than fireworks confiscated, official warning (for possession without use) with possible disciplinary suspension (for use indoors or other high-risk activities); $100 fine; and loss of university housing
Second Offense – normally, not less than disciplinary suspension or permanent separation; $200 fine, and loss of university housing
Gambling
To play, or game, for money or other valuable stakes with the hope of gaining something significant beyond the amount an individual pay.
Sanctions – not less than official warning with possible disciplinary suspension, educational program or project, mental health assessment and compliance with recommendations.
Guest Behavior
A guest is defined as anyone who is present at the invitation of a student or anyone who is received or accompanied by a student on university owned or leased property. Students are responsible for educating their guest(s) regarding university policies and are accountable for the behavior and actions of their guest(s). Students will be charged with violating this policy and all other policies their guest(s) violate, as if the student(s) violated the policies themselves. Non-student guests are also subject to criminal prosecution for violation of campus policies and state and federal laws. Students are responsible for all guest activities and incidents occurring on university owned or leased property. Guests with repeat or serious violations of campus policies may be permanently trespassed from campus and may be subject to criminal prosecution.
In order to ensure the safety and comfort of all residents, students may not leave guests unattended in their residence hall, apartment, or common area at any time. Students must escort their guests at all times, including trips to the bathroom in halls with community single sex bathrooms.
Sanctions – Sanctions will be determined by the cumulative effect of all related social policy violations.
Host Responsibility
Students residing in University-owned or managed residences are responsible for all conduct that occurs in their room, suite or apartment including ensuring the safety, well-being and conduct of their guests, whether invited or uninvited. This includes hosting events or gatherings where alcohol is available for underage students or guests, students drink to excess, or use illegal drugs. Student hosts may be held responsible for damages to the community, students jumping from windows, etc. Also, students are not allowed to host more guests than is reasonable for each type of “living unit” or which violates fire code. (Two person rooms may have no more than six total at any time – four person suites may have twelve total – eight person flats/apartments may have 20 total, etc.)
Sanctions
First Offense – normally, not less than official warning with possible disciplinary suspension; alcohol/drugs confiscated and disposed of, $150 fine, restitution, alcohol or other education program or project, and substance abuse assessment with compliance with recommendations.
Second Offense – normally, not less than disciplinary probation with possible disciplinary suspension; alcohol/drugs confiscated and disposed of, substance abuse assessment with compliance with recommendations, restitution, and $300 fine.
Laws of the Wider Society and Student Behavior at Off-Campus Sites
All students are required to abide by the laws of local, state and national governments and may be subject to university action for failing to act in accordance with any local, state, or national law, including Town of Elon ordinances. University sanctions may be assigned to students through the Code of Conduct for behavior that adversely affects individuals, entities, or groups at off-campus sites or disrupts the community. University action does not preclude the possibility of civil or criminal charges being placed against an individual nor does the filing of civil or criminal charges preclude action by the university.
Sanctions – official warning with possible permanent separation, based on the severity of the violation; educational and/or restorative program or project, and additional sanctions based on the cumulative effect of all policy violations.
Misuse of University Brand or Property
Students must refrain from actions that impair the university’s purpose or its reputation, including but not limited to the unauthorized and/or inappropriate use of the university’s logo or brand, the unauthorized use of university property (including misuse or duplication of university keys, university vehicles, or university equipment/furniture).
Sanctions – normally, not less than official warning with possible disciplinary suspension; restriction or removal of privileges, restitution, and educational program or project.
Off-Campus Parties
Students residing in off-campus residences are responsible for ensuring the safety, well-being and conduct of their guests, whether invited or uninvited. This includes hosting events or gatherings where alcohol is available for underage students, students drink to excess, or use illegal drugs.
Sanctions
Sanctions will be determined by the cumulative effect of all related social policy violations. For example, students may be charged with violations of the alcohol and drug policies of the university as presented in this handbook. Students should also familiarize themselves with state social host liability laws, to which they are subject.
Swimming or Wading in Restricted Areas
Unauthorized swimming or wading in any body of water on the Elon campus including, but not limited to, Lake Mary Nell, Lake Verona, Boney Fountain, Chandler Fountain, Fonville Fountain, or Francis Center Fountain.
Sanctions – normally, not less than an official warning and possible disciplinary probation; educational program or project.
Technology Use
The University has strong expectations that students will use technology in a responsible manner that supports the mission of the university and the law. Students are responsible for all actions originating through their account or network connection. University technology is not to be used for operate businesses. Students are expected to review and become familiar with the University’s technology policies and to abide by and uphold these policies. The complete policies may be accessed at https://wiki.elon.edu/display/TECH/Technology+Policies.
a. Acceptable Use Policy – Student accounts and network connections are for students’ individual use. A computer account is to be used only by the person to whom it has been issued. Each student is responsible for all actions originating through their account or network connection. They must not impersonate others, misrepresent oneself, or conceal their identity in electronic messages and actions.
b. Email Policy – Elon’s email is a means of official communication to persons who are members of the Elon community. As such, official University communication mechanisms (including, but not limited to: official bulk email and course email) should be read on a regular basis since they may affect day-to-day activities and responsibilities. Email is a privilege, and certain responsibilities are attached to its use. All users are expected to adhere to bounds of decency, law, ethics, common sense and good taste in email communications.
c. Network Connection Policy – Elon University must provide a secure network for our educational, research, instructional and administrative needs and services. An unsecured computer on the network allows denial of service attacks, viruses, Trojans, and other compromises to enter the university’s campus network, thereby affecting many computers, as well as the network’s integrity. Therefore, individuals who connect computers, servers, and other devices to the Elon network must follow specific standards and take specific actions.
d. Online Social Networks – Elon University recognizes participation in cyber communities (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Snapchat, blogs, ePortfolios, LinkedIn, etc.) is significant and can be used in positive ways to build community on and off campus. However, these outlets may also be used in inappropriate and harmful ways. Elon expects students who choose to utilize cyber communities/online social networks to exercise discretion and uphold standards of good taste and respect. Students found violating University policy, as well as local, state and federal laws in these cyber communities may be held accountable through the student conduct system and/or the court system. Students are also responsible for any content on their personal online space that is submitted to their site by individuals affiliated and not affiliated with the institution.
e. Videotaping, Audio Taping, and Photography Without Consent – Videotaping, audio taping, or photography (camera and video phones included) of students, faculty or staff without their express consent.
f. World Wide Web – Individuals and university-sanctioned student organizations must comply with the Elon University Web Policy as well as all local, state and federal laws for material residing on or any activity (e.g. file-sharing) conducted through any server on the Elon University computer network.
Sanctions
First Offense – normally, not less than official warning, loss of computing privileges on a temporary basis and possible loss of privilege to exhibit a web site or use university email.
Second Offense – normally, not less than disciplinary probation with possible disciplinary suspension; loss of technology privileges, and educational and/or restorative program.
Third Offense – normally, disciplinary suspension or permanent separation.
University Policies Governing Student Organizations
Student organizations and its members are responsible for abiding by all university, national, and departmental polices which may govern student organizations on and off campus. In addition to all Student Code of Conduct Policies, these may include (but are not limited to): policies published in the Student Organization Handbook, van and transportation policies, event/ risk management policies, and departmental policies for fraternities, sororities, and club sports.
Sanctions – official warning with possible loss of university recognition, based on the severity of the violation; educational and/or restorative program or project, and additional sanctions based on the cumulative effect of all policy violations.