Our Judicial System

Judicial Codes | Policy Statements

Policy Statements:

• Policy Statement A: Sexual Assault
• Policy Statement B: Zero Tolerance
• Policy Statement C: Aurora University Computer Use Policy
• Policy Statement D: Alcohol and Controlled Substances
• Policy Statement E: Alcohol Good Samaritan Policy
• Policy Statement F: Right of Access and Privacy
• Policy Statements G
  • Policy Statement G1: Code of Academic Integrity
  • Policy Statement G2: Procedures for Academic Dishonesty
  • Policy Statement G3: Appeals Process for Academic Dishonesty
• Policy Statement H: Appealing Allegedly Capricious Grades
• Policy Statement I: Disability Support Services
• Policy Statement J: Threatening or Dangerous Behavior
• Policy Statement K: Publicity and Posting
• Policy Statement L: Online Communities
• Policy Statement M: Student Employment Policies
• Policy Statement N: Smoke Free Campus

POLICY STATEMENT A: Sexual Assault

Sexual assault is defined as sexual acts, which include but are not limited to, unwanted touching of an intimate part of another person such as a sexual organ, buttocks or breast; sodomy; oral copulation; and rape by a foreign object by a friend, acquaintance or stranger:

• which is forced, manipulated or coerced through use of verbal coercion, intimidation (emotional and/or physical), threats, physical restraint and/or physical violence and/or
• where no consent is given due to the victim’s being unconscious, asleep or unable to communicate, or to the victim’s saying nothing; and/or
• where the victim is temporarily incapable of appraising or controlling his or her conduct owing to the influence of alcohol or other drugs he or she consumed or to any other act committed upon him or her without his or her consent.

A person who has been a victim of sexual assault should report the crime to the Campus Safety Office or the local police. The University provides support services for persons who have been victims of sexual assault. Staff will serve in an advocacy role and help refer individuals for appropriate medical, police, disciplinary, and counseling assistance. Those who report a sexual assault will be advised of the importance of preserving evidence which may be necessary to provide proof for prosecution. Upon request, assistance will be provided in changing academic schedules and living arrangements, when reasonably available.

Reported complaints of sexual assault will be investigated, and information obtained in the process will be kept as confidential as possible. Whether or not a victim chooses to initiate criminal charges, s/he retains the right to file a complaint through the student disciplinary system or employee grievance process. The University will support the victim’s choice in response to sexual assault.  Should the alleged misconduct of a student be subject to review through formal hearing procedures, the accused and accuser will be afforded the opportunity to present relevant information; be accompanied by a support person; and be appraised of the results of the disciplinary review. In the event the accused is found in violation, the entire range of sanctions outlined in the Code of Conduct may be considered including, but not limited to, disciplinary probation, suspension, or expulsion from the University. Should the alleged sexual assault involve an employee, sanctions will be determined under applicable employment contracts and agreements.  It is the legal obligation of all members of the University community to report to the Dean of Students any knowledge of an alleged sexual assault.

A thorough investigation will be conducted to prevent future occurrences.

Under the Clery Act, it is a federal requirement to report all incidents involving alleged sexual assault.  Aurora University and its representatives are considered “mandated reporters” and, as such, will report the incident to the appropriate civil authorities.  Notice will be given to the victim that a report of an alleged assault has been made.  Only notice that an incident has occurred will be reported; the victim’s name will be withheld, unless written consent is provided to the University by the victim.

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POLICY STATEMENT B: Zero Tolerance

Every member of the Aurora University community is valued and shall be treated with respect and dignity.  Aurora University strives to cultivate a climate of cultural competence among faculty, staff and students and community.  Aurora University is committed to recruiting/retaining a culturally diverse faculty, staff and student population.

Aurora University has no tolerance for any harassing/demeaning behavior.  Any member of the university (faculty, staff and students) who engages in adverse behaviors, surrounding race, class, culture, gender, sexual orientation or ability, will be subject to the laws of both the state of Illinois and the University, as stated in the A-Book, Faculty Handbook and Personnel Manual.  The University will take suitable action, which may include expulsion and/or dismissal, to protect its interests and its commitment to the right of every member of the Aurora University community to live, work and study in a bias-free environment.

The University condemns all discriminatory behaviors, whether verbal or physical.  Any member of the University community accused of harassment, discrimination or coercive sexual acts is subject to disciplinary procedures. In addition, the accused may be subject to prosecution under the criminal code of the State of Illinois.   

Students and employees are encouraged to file grievance procedures against people in violation of university standards.  Contact Human Resources, the faculty and/or staff ombudsperson, or the Provost for information and assistance.

Definition of Terms

Racial discrimination is defined as any action that results in unfair treatment of members of a minority group or in preferential treatment for majority group members.

Sexual harassment is defined as any unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature, when considering the totality of the circumstances:

• Submission to such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of an individual's employment or student status;
• submission to or rejection of such conduct is used as the basis for employment or academic decisions affecting such individual; or
• such conduct has the purpose or effect of substantially interfering with an individual's academic or work performance or of creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive classroom, work, or living environment.  Examples of such conduct include:
• offensive oral, physical, written or pictorial communication relating to gender or to sexual orientation.
• unwelcome and irrelevant comments, references, gestures or other forms of personal attention which are inappropriate to the academic or employment setting and which may reasonably be perceived as sexual overtures or denigration.
• such conduct which consists of sexual assault, that is, coercion for the purpose of sexual relations or sexual contact which is not freely agreed to by both parties (See Policy Statement A).

Violation of Policy

Nothing in these guidelines shall be construed to limit the rights of members of the Aurora University community to freedom of political or artistic expression.  In particular, the expression of political opinions about issues both on campus and in the wider national and international community explicitly does not constitute harassment.  Similarly, works of art created or presented by members of the Aurora University community are protected.

Retaliation against persons who report sexual harassment will not be tolerated.  Instances of retaliation in response to the initiation of formal or informal grievance procedures will be regarded as new cases of harassment and may result in the filing of additional complaints.

Information about sexual harassment and appropriate campus and off-campus procedures for filing complaints is available from the Human Resources Office and the Provost.

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POLICY STATEMENT C: Aurora University Computer Use Policy

Computers have become an essential tool in higher education for instruction, research, and public service.  Aurora University is committed to providing a wide range of high-quality computing services to students, faculty, and staff and to support the mission of the University as set out by the governing board.  The following policies have been established to ensure the security and integrity of the University's computing resources and the fair and equitable access to those resources by all the members of the University community.  These policies apply to all University computing systems (desktop, laboratory, and network), all personal machines attached to the campus network, and all hardware, software, data, and telecommunications devices associated with these systems.  Failure to abide by these policies may result in the loss of computing privileges, assessment of damage costs, and possible disciplinary action.

Authorized Use:  Access to Aurora University computing resources is available to faculty, staff, and all currently enrolled full-time and part-time students.  Access may also be extended to others in support of educational and community service activities in the Aurora University educational and community service activities in the Aurora University service area.  All computer accounts for staff leaving the University and students who do not register for the current semester will be removed within 30 days.  Students who have completed at least six hours of credit in the last year at Aurora University but are not currently enrolled may continue using their accounts until the end of one additional semester.  Accounts that have not been accessed for 120 calendar days will be deemed inactive and removed from the system.

Distribution of Resources:  The utility of the University's computing services depends on the balanced distribution of limited resources.  All users are expected to assist in the conservation of these resources and to avoid excessive system usage, connect time, and disk storage.  Specifically prohibited is the use of the network for recreational activities that place heavy load on scarce resources, the creation or distribution of mass mailings or exceptionally large e-mail messages, and other types of use that would cause congestion of the network or otherwise interfere with the work of others.

Disruptive Activities:  Any deliberate attempt to tamper with, disrupt, delay, or endanger the regular operation of the University's computing resources is prohibited.  Attempted access of AU servers using unauthorized methods, the creation or propagation of computer worms or viruses, or the distribution of electronic mail or software intended to replicate or do damage to another user's account or to University hardware, software or data is considered vandalism and will be treated as such.

Commercial Activity:  The University's computing resources are reserved for instructional purposes and the professional activities of its faculty and staff.  The use of these systems for personal business or commercial use, such as the posting of commercial web pages and the distribution of unsolicited advertising, is prohibited.

Property Rights:  All computer programs and files, unless they have been explicitly placed in the public domain by their owners, are private property and may not be copied or distributed without authorization.  The users of Aurora University computer resources are subject to applicable laws governing intellectual property and should be aware that the copying, distribution, or use of protected material without proper permission or license is prohibited.

Privacy:  Rights to privacy on the part of members of the Aurora University community extend into the computing environment.  Prohibited activities include the following: accessing or attempting to access another user's computer account or files without specific authorization; the deliberate, unauthorized attempt, through misrepresentation or any other mechanism, to access University computers, computer facilities, networks, systems, programs, or data; and the use of University computer resources to gain access to restricted databases.  Electronic mail poses unique challenges to the right of privacy; although all users have the right to expect that their electronic mail messages will not be viewed by others, for a variety of reasons this is difficult to ensure, and users are urged to post e-mail messages with the understanding that occasionally their messages may reach readers other than the intended recipients.  Users should also be aware that authorized computer  administrators may on rare occasions need to access users' accounts for purposes of system maintenance and resource management.

Harassment and Fraudulent Behavior:  The sending of harassing messages or files to or about another person, interfering with the legitimate work of another user, the transmission and display of abusive or obscene messages, and the sending of messages under an assumed name or modified address or with the intent to obscure the origin of the message is a violation of this policy and such activity may also be subject to applicable state and federal laws.

Freedom of Expression:  The free exchange of ideas is central to the educational process.  The Aurora University computer use policy supports this principle, with the exception of uses that violate the law, endanger computer resources, violate the policies articulated in this document, or are otherwise determined by University authorities to be inappropriate, unethical, or inconsistent with the educational goals of the university.

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POLICY STATEMENT D: Alcohol and Controlled Substances

The Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act Amendments of 1989, Public Law 101-226, require that, as a condition of receiving funds or any other form of financial assistance under any Federal program, an institution of higher education must adopt and implement a program to prevent the unlawful possession, use, or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol by students and employees. Aurora University supports this requirement and will maintain a drug-free environment in the workplace, on the campus, and for all University-sponsored events.

Aurora University prohibits the unlawful manufacture, possession, distribution, or use of illicit drugs and/or alcohol by students and employees. This policy applies both to on-campus and off-campus activities, including student-sponsored social activities. Additionally, Aurora University prohibits the manufacture, possession, distribution or use of alcohol on the Aurora University campus, including the residence halls.

Sanctions for Alcohol Violations

As an educational institution, Aurora University expects its students to behave in a mature and responsible manner. As an alcohol-free campus, intoxicants are not permitted on campus, no matter the student’s age. When a student fails to follow the alcohol policy, the University considers such a violation to be serious. The sanctions given for alcohol violations represent a commitment to providing learning outcomes that will help the student to understand the impact of their behavior not only on themselves but also on the University community.

The sanctions listed below do not represent an all-inclusive list. Based on the severity of the violation, the level of cooperation with staff members during the incident, the disciplinary history of the student, and/or any other factors, any Class of sanctions, any combination thereof, or any additional sanctions may be instituted, as deemed appropriate by the disciplinary hearing officer. Residence Life works in conjunction with other areas on campus, such as Athletics, who also reserve the right to respond to student conduct situations with their own processes.

Please note that other policies violated in conjunction with an alcohol violation may result in additional sanctions.

CLASS ONE

• Disciplinary Admonition. Notification that the student will face additional disciplinary action should he/she be held responsible for future policy violations.
• Educational. The student will complete the Alcohol.Edu assessment within three weeks.
• Fine. The student will pay a fine of $100, to be deposited into an alcohol and controlled substance education fund.
• Supplemental. Additional sanctions as deemed appropriate by the disciplinary hearing officer.

CLASS TWO

• Disciplinary Probation. The student will be placed on disciplinary probation for a period no less than one full semester in addition to the current semester.
• Educational. The student will host a screening of an alcohol education video, along with 5-10 friends they will invite. A staff member will facilitate the experience, including a pre-test, a post-test, and discussion questions.
• Fine. The student will pay a fine of $150, to be deposited into an alcohol and controlled substance education fund.
• Parental Notification. The Provost or designee will notify via letter the parents/guardians of residents under the age of 21 of the violation.
• Supplemental. Additional sanctions as deemed appropriate by the disciplinary hearing officer.

CLASS THREE

• Loss of Housing. The student will have their housing contract cancelled.
• Outside Involvement. The student will be prohibited from representing the University in a leadership capacity.
• Assessment. The student will complete an alcohol screening assessment through a University-approved resource at their own expense within three weeks and will complete any recommendations within a time period specified by the assessor.
• Fine. The student will pay a fine of $200, to be deposited into an alcohol and controlled substance education fund.
• Parental Notification. The Provost or designee will notify via telephone call the parents/guardians of residents under the age of 21 of the violation.
• Supplemental. Additional sanctions as deemed appropriate by the disciplinary hearing officer.

CLASS FOUR

• Suspension. The student will be suspended from Aurora University for a minimum of one full semester in addition to the current semester.
• Parental Notification. The Provost or designee will notify via telephone call the parents/guardians of residents under the age of 21 of the violation.
• Supplemental. Additional sanctions as deemed appropriate by the disciplinary hearing officer.

Sanctions for Controlled Substance Violations

As an educational institution, Aurora University expects its students to behave in a mature and responsible manner. In accordance with state and federal law, the University prohibits the use, possession, or distribution of any state or federally controlled substance or drug paraphernalia except as expressly permitted by law. When a student fails to abide by this policy, the University considers such a violation to be serious and the student will be subject to disciplinary action. The University also reserves the right to pursue criminal action against the offending student(s). According to state statutes, penalties for the delivery of controlled substances are increased if conducted on school grounds or within 1,000 feet of school grounds (720 ILCS 550/4, Section 5)

The sanctions listed below do not represent an all-inclusive list. Based on the severity of the violation, the level of the student’s cooperation with staff members during the incident, the disciplinary history of the student, and/or any other factors, any sanctions, any combination thereof, or any additional sanctions may be instituted, as deemed appropriate by the disciplinary hearing officer. Student Life works in conjunction with other areas on campus, such as Athletics, who also reserve the right to respond to disciplinary situations with their own processes and additional sanctions.

Please note that other policies violated in conjunction with a controlled substance violation may result in additional sanctions.

One or more of the following sanctions will apply if a student is found responsible for a violation of the controlled substance policy:

• Expulsion. The student is permanently expelled from Aurora University.  Suspension. The student is suspended from Aurora University for a minimum of one full semester in addition to the current semester.
• Disciplinary Removal from Residence Halls. The student is removed from the residence halls at Aurora University. This prohibits the student from entering any areas in the residence halls, including all public space in those halls, with the exception of the Office of Campus Safety, the Wellness Center and the Fitness Center. For a commuter student, this sanction prohibits entry to any residence hall, with the exceptions noted above.
• Fine. The student is assessed a fine of $200, to be deposited into an alcohol and controlled substance education fund.
• Outside Involvement. The student is prohibited from representing the University in a leadership capacity.
• Assessment. The student is required to complete a substance abuse screening assessment through a University-approved resource at their own expense within three weeks and will complete any recommendations within a time period specified by the assessor.
• Drug Testing. The student is required to submit to random drug testing at the student’s expense.
• Supplemental. Additional sanctions are imposed as deemed appropriate by the disciplinary hearing officer.

Effects of Using Alcohol and Controlled Substances

Substance and alcohol abuse not only affects the users, it affects their loved ones, and those with whom they work, live or attend class. Abusers can be unpleasant and dangerous. Substance/alcohol abuse can cause impaired eyesight, slower reaction time, lessened concentration, and poor judgment. In addition, it can affect the safety, motivation, and attitude of the abusers and those they are around.

Students should be aware of the health risks associated with the use of illicit drugs and alcohol. Student employees in supervisory roles, such as Resident Assistants, will be provided with training in the recognition of or early warning signals of drug/alcohol abuse. Informational materials will be made available to students and staff through the Division of Student Life.

The following counseling and treatment services for available for Aurora University students:

• Counseling Center at Aurora University – (630) 844-5416
  (students only-no fees)
• Breaking Free - (630) 859-0670
  Located in Aurora, Illinois. Chemical dependency treatment services. Early intervention services.
• Rush-Copley Medical Center (Care Unit) - (630) 978-6200
  Located in Aurora, Illinois. Drug and alcohol consultation service. Free consultations.

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POLICY STATEMENT E: Alcohol Good Samaritan Policy

The following policy is designed to protect the health and safety of students who may need medical attention as a result of excessive alcohol consumption. If you receive attention or seek medical assistance for a peer as a result of excessive intoxication or serious injury after consuming alcohol, you may not be subject to formal disciplinary action for violating the University’s alcohol policy as set forth in greater detail below.

The health and safety of students are of primary importance at Aurora University. Students must not only consider their own health and safety but also that of their peers. In addition, it is imperative that medical assistance be sought when an individual experiences excessive intoxication or serious injury after consuming alcohol.

Aurora University recognizes that the potential for disciplinary action by the University may serve as a disincentive to students seeking medical assistance for themselves or other students in alcohol-related incidents. When a student’s health or safety is threatened or appears to be in jeopardy, however, Aurora University wants to encourage all students to take immediate action.

Students needing or calling for medical assistance during an alcohol-related incident will not be subject to formal disciplinary action by the University for being under the influence of or in possession of alcohol (or otherwise acting in violation of the University’s alcohol policy) if they follow the steps described below.

The recipients of medical attention will not be subject to formal disciplinary action if they elect to schedule a meeting with the Dean of Students or designee within two working days after the incident. If the student is hospitalized, this meeting must be scheduled within two working days after his/her release from the hospital. The student must agree to timely completion of any recommended alcohol education, assessment or treatment as determined at this meeting. These recommendations will be based on the University’s concern for student health and safety. If the student does not follow these conditions, he/she will not qualify under the Alcohol Good Samaritan Policy and would be subject to formal disciplinary action.

Similarly, any student seeking medical assistance on behalf of a peer will not be subject to formal disciplinary action, regardless of whether the reporting student was under the influence of or in possession of alcohol (or otherwise acting in violation of the University’s alcohol policy) at that time.

Reporting students will not be subject to formal disciplinary action if they elect to schedule a meeting with the Dean of Students or designee within two working days after the incident. If the reporting student was in violation of the University’s alcohol policy at the time of the incident, the student must agree to timely completion of any recommended alcohol education, assessment or treatment as determined at this meeting. These recommendations will be based on the University’s concern for student health and safety. If the student does not follow these conditions, he/she will not qualify under the Alcohol Good Samaritan Policy and will be subject to formal disciplinary action.

To the extent permitted by law, University officials or hospital personnel reserve the right to contact the parents of students that are hospitalized for alcohol abuse or that are unconscious or otherwise in serious physical jeopardy. In these cases, parental notification will be taken as a precautionary measure.

Please note that the University cannot control how local law enforcement officials will respond should they become aware of an alcohol-related incident.

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POLICY STATEMENTS F: Right of Access and Privacy

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (federal law) and the amendments attached to it grant to students attending a post-secondary educational institution three general rights with respect to their education records on file with the institution: the right to examine their records under certain qualifying provisions, the right to a hearing to provide an opportunity for correcting information in their records and the right of privacy for personally identifiable information that may be contained in their records.

Under the first heading, student access to records, the law requires all educational institutions to allow attending students and former students access to their personal records.

At Aurora University, the records of attending students include the general file in the office of Academic Advisement, the permanent academic record in the Registrar's Office, financial records in the Student Accounts Office, the financial aid files in the Financial Aid Office, and where appropriate, the files in the academic offices of the University, Office of Student Life and Career Services.

The files of former students are found in the Alumni Office, Registrar's office, and, where appropriate, in the academic offices of the University, Office of Student Life and Career Services.

Specifically exempted from viewing by the student are the financial records of students' parents and the confidential recommendations and statements written for and placed in the file prior to January 1, 1975. A student may or may not sign a waiver of his/her right to access to recommendations and statements written for and about him/her after January 1, 1975.

Copies of student records will be furnished upon written request of the student. Official transcripts of a student's college academic record are available. Other student records for which copies are requested will be issued at a charge of $.25 per page with a minimum charge of $2. Student credentials maintained by the College of Education Placement Service also are available. The first set of five credentials is free of charge; all subsequent sets are issued at a rate of $2.

The law requires educational institutions to provide hearings for students to challenge any record that they consider inaccurate or misleading. Aurora University, in complying with this law, has established the following procedures for implementing it.

1. A student must present a written request to see the contents of his/her files to the appropriate office. An appointment will then be made for him/her to read his/her file in the presence of a member of the University staff. Identification will be required at the time of the appointment. A student may read the contents of these files, but may not remove or destroy any of the contents.
2. A University Judicial Board hearing may be requested by a student for the purpose of challenging any record s/he considers inaccurate or misleading. The decision of the University Judicial Board will be appropriately implemented in all such cases. If the decision is not to amend the record, the student will be allowed to place a written comment or explanation in his/her file. If the contested portion of the file is disclosed to anybody, the student's statement also will be disclosed.

Under the second heading, the release of student records, the law requires prior written consent of the student before releasing personally identifiable data about him/her from the records to other than a specified list of exceptions that includes school officials, officials of other schools in which a student seeks to enroll, parents of "income tax dependent" students, appropriate government officials, accrediting organizations, in response to a legal subpoena and to certain others if the knowledge of such information is necessary to protect the health or safety of the student or other persons.

Excepted from this requirement is "directory information," including the student's name, address, telephone number, date and place of birth, major field of study, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, weight and height of members of athletic teams, dates of attendance, current registration, degrees, honors, and awards received, photographs, e-mail addresses, and the most recent previous educational institution attended by the student.

Such information may be made public once the institution gives notice of the categories of information that it has designated as such "directory information" and allows a reasonable period of time after such notice has been given for a student to inform the institution that some or all of the information designated should not be released without his/her prior written consent. This announcement constitutes such public notice.

A chart showing which school personnel have access to various records may be found and inspected in the Registrar's Office containing student records.

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Policy Statements G: Academic Integrity

Policy Statement G1: Academic Integrity

Aurora University’s core values include integrity and ethical behavior. A community of learners, Aurora University students and faculty share responsibility for academic honesty and integrity. The University expects students to do their own academic work. In addition, it expects active participation and equitable contributions of students involved in group assignments. Aurora University’s Code of Academic Integrity (henceforth, the Code) prohibits the following dishonest and unethical behaviors, regardless of intent.

Cheating
Cheating is obtaining, using or attempting to use unauthorized materials or information (for example; notes, texts, or study aids) or help from another person (for example looking at another student’s test paper, or talking with him/her during an exam), in any work submitted for evaluation for academic credit. This includes exams, quizzes, laboratory assignments, papers and/or other assignments. Other examples include altering a graded work after it has been returned, then submitting the work for re-grading; or submitting identical or highly similar papers for credit in more than one course without prior permission from the course instructors.

Fabrication
Fabrication is unauthorized falsification, invention or copying of data, falsification of information, citations, or bibliographic references in any academic course work (for example, falsifying references in a paper); altering, forging, or falsifying any academic record or other University document.

Plagiarism
Plagiarism is representing someone else’s work (including their words and ideas) as one’s own or providing materials for such a representation, (for example, submitting a paper or other work that is in whole or part the work of another, failing to cite references, presenting material verbatim or paraphrased that is not acknowledged and cited).

Obtaining an Unfair Advantage
This is (a) stealing, reproducing, circulating or otherwise gaining access to examination materials before the time authorized by the instructor; (b) stealing, destroying, defacing, or concealing library materials with the purpose of depriving others of their use; (c) intentionally obstructing or interfering with another student’s academic work; or (d) otherwise undertaking activity with the purpose of creating or obtaining an unfair academic advantage over other students’ academic work.

Unauthorized Access to computerized records or systems
This is unauthorized review of computerized academic or administrative records or systems; viewing or altering computer records; modifying computer programs or systems; releasing or dispensing information gained via unauthorized access; or interfering with the use or availability of computer systems of information.

Facilitating academic dishonesty
This is helping or attempting to assist another commit an act of academic dishonesty in violation of this Code (for example, allowing another to copy from one’s test or allowing others to use or represent one’s work as their own).

Notes: Examples provided are illustrations only and are not inclusive. Other behaviors, not exemplified, apply.

The above is in part adapted from “Issues and Perspectives on Academic Integrity,” a pamphlet distributed by the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators.

Academic programs, colleges, and departments within the University may have additional guidelines regarding academic dishonesty that supplement this Code.

Policy Statement G2: Procedures for Academic Dishonesty

First Violation
A faculty member who identifies an act of academic dishonesty shall meet with the student to address the violation and articulate the nature of the violation in writing. At this time the faculty member will, at his/her discretion, impose consequences and sanctions as they relate to the course in which academic dishonesty is identified.

The faculty member shall also report the violation to the Registrar. The faculty member must provide the Registrar with a written summary along with material evidence of the violation, if such evidence exists. This material is placed in an academic dishonesty file identified to the particular student and maintained with confidentiality by the Registrar.

The Registrar will then send the student a certified letter, notifying him/her that a violation has been reported and advising the student of future sanctions on the part of the University in the event of subsequent violation. The letter also shall inform the student of the appeals process for academic dishonesty, (see Policy Statement F3). In the event that a student appeals successfully under Policy Statement F3, the faculty member’s allegation shall be removed from the academic dishonesty file.

The contents of the academic dishonesty file will not be shared with faculty members and staff, with the exception of members of the Academic Standards Committee in the event that the student appears before that body. The academic dishonesty file shall be destroyed upon the completion of the degree by the student.

Second Violation
In the event that a second violation is reported to the Registrar, the Registrar shall inform the student of the allegation via certified letter. This letter shall inform the student that s/he has ten business days from the date of the letter to contact the Registrar’s Office to arrange a hearing before the Academic Standards Committee. Failure to do so shall be taken as an admission of guilt and shall result in dismissal from the university. The student shall be permitted to attend class and other university-sponsored activities during the ten business days following the mailing of the certified letter by the Registrar to the student. If the student schedules a hearing, s/he shall be permitted to attend classes and other university-sponsored activities while the hearing is pending.

The committee shall determine whether the violation occurred. The Provost shall not participate in the hearing. If the committee finds that a violation occurred, the student shall be immediately dismissed from the university. If the committee finds that the violation did not occur, the allegation shall be expunged from the student’s record.

Note: In unusually serious cases, the judiciary procedure normally initiated by the second academic dishonesty violation may be triggered in the event of a first violation by specific request of either a faculty member or the registrar. This would occur only in cases that are particularly egregious. The term egregious means here that the act is both premeditated and, by itself, potentially damaging to the academic culture of the university if not immediately redressed. Examples of egregious academic dishonesty include, but are not limited to misrepresenting a degree-completion work like a doctoral dissertation, master’s thesis, or senior capstone project as one’s own; committing an act of academic dishonesty intended to cause harm to another person or group; committing a crime while committing an act of academic dishonesty intended to result in direct material gain from the act; and others. This list of examples is illustrative and not exhaustive. Other behaviors may also apply.

Policy Statement G3: Appeals Process for Academic Dishonesty

First Violation
A student who believes that he/she has not violated the Code of Academic Integrity as reported by the faculty member, may appeal to the Academic Standards Committee. This must be done in a written letter to the Registrar, within one week after the certified letter from the Registrar informing the student of the opening of an academic dishonestly file was sent.

The Academic Standards Committee will review all relevant materials. It will meet with the student who will present his/her response to the academic dishonesty charge(s). The committee may also question the faculty member who reported the dishonesty.

The Academic Standards Committee shall make one of two decisions:

1. Violation of the Code took place and the report remains in the academic dishonesty file;
2. Violation of the Code is not substantiated and the faculty member’s allegation shall be removed from the academic dishonesty file.

The decision of the Academic Standards Committee shall be final.

Second or Egregious Violation
A student who has appeared before the Academic Standards Committee for an egregious first violation or second violation and been found guilty and dismissed from the University may appeal the decision to the Provost of the University. This must be done in the form of a written request to the Provost within one week after the Academic Standards Committee has informed the student of its decision.

The Provost will appoint two faculty members to serve with him/her as an ad hoc committee to review the student’s appeal. This committee will review all relevant materials and meet with the student and others, as it deems necessary. The decision of this committee to either uphold or overturn the decision of the Academic Standards Committee shall be final.

Readmission to the University
A student who has been dismissed for violation of the Code of Academic Integrity shall not be readmitted to the University. The student’s transcript shall indicate that the student was “dismissed with cause.”

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POLICY STATEMENT H: Appealing Allegedly Capricious Grades

The following procedures are available only for review of alleged capricious grading, and not for review of the judgment of an instructor in assessing the quality of a student's work. Capricious grading, as that term is used herein, is limited to one or more of the following:

• the assignment of a grade to a particular student on some basis other than performance in the course;
• the assignment of a grade to a particular student by more exacting or demanding standards than were applied to other students in that course;
• the assignment of a grade by a substantial departure from the instructor's standards announced during the first fourth of the term.

The assessment of the quality of a student's academic performance is one of the major professional responsibilities of university faculty members and is solely and properly their responsibility. It is essential for the standards of the academic programs at Aurora University and the integrity of the degrees conferred by this university that the professional judgments of faculty members not be subject to pressures or other interference from any source.

It is necessary, however, that any term grade be based on evidence of the student's performance in a course, that the student have access to the evidence, that the instructor be willing to explain and interpret the evidence to the student, and that a grade be determined in accordance with announced guidelines. These guidelines should be announced in and put in writing for each class at the beginning of each term.

Appeal Process
A student who believes his/her own term grade is capricious may seek clarification and, where appropriate, redress, as follows:

Step 1: The student shall confer with the instructor, informing the instructor of questions concerning the grade, and seeking to understand fully the grounds and procedures the instructor has used in determining the grade. The aim of such a conference is to reach mutual understanding about the grade, the process by which it was assigned, and to correct errors, if any, in the grade. The student should do this within two weeks of receiving his/her final grade.

Step 2: If after consultation with the instructor, the student believes that a grade is capricious, the student shall confer with the program chair, who shall consult and advise with both the instructor and student separately or together, in an effort to reach an understanding and resolution of the matter.

Step 3: If Steps 1 or 2 do not resolve the problem, the student may submit a petition in writing to the appropriate Academic Dean. This petition must be submitted to the Academic Dean not later than the end of the fourth week of the term following that for which the grade is being appealed, excluding the summer term.

Step 4: The petition shall request a meeting with the appropriate Academic Dean and shall present evidence that the grade is capricious as defined above, and shall present the student's arguments that substantiate his/her conclusions. The Academic Dean shall refer the petition to the instructor and secure from the instructor a response in writing, setting forth the instructor's position on the matter.

Step 5: On the basis of a consideration of the student's petition and the instructor's response, the Dean shall conduct an inquiry that shall include a meeting with the student and the instructor separately or together and ascertain and consider relevant facts. (The instructor and/or student may bring an advocate if he/she so chooses. If an advocate is to be present at a meeting, the appropriate Academic Dean must be informed prior to the meeting.)

The Academic Dean shall make one of these decisions:

1. That the grade was not assigned capriciously and shall stand as assigned.
2. That the grade was assigned capriciously and should be changed. The Academic Dean shall then, as a result of its consideration, assign a grade different from the grade decided to be capricious. The Academic Dean of the school or college shall authorize the Registrar to make the grade change and such a decision shall be final.

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POLICY STATEMENT I: Disability Support Services

Aurora University will provide reasonable accommodations for students with a diagnosed and verified learning disability, physical disability, or psychological disability. In order to be entitled to such accommodations, the student must present a diagnostic report that is acceptable to the University. A diagnostic report indicating a learning disability must be prepared by a qualified psycho-educational practitioner and be based on standardized, reliable, and valid testing instruments. The report must include testing of intellectual ability and achievement, a specific diagnosis, and recommended accommodations based on the diagnosis. Students with physical or psychological disabilities will need documentation from an appropriate medical, psychological, or psychiatric practitioner, indicating diagnosis, impact of the disability and/or treatment plan on major life activities, expected duration of the condition and/or treatment, and recommendations for accommodations. Documentation for students with learning disabilities must be recent, having been prepared within the past three years. Documentation for students with psychological disabilities must have been prepared within the past six months.

Statement for Students with Special Needs:
Individuals who have any situation / condition, either permanent or temporary, which might affect their ability to perform in class or access course materials are encouraged to inform the instructor at the beginning of the term. Adaptations of teaching methods, class materials, or testing may be made as needed to provide equitable participation.

Definition of a Learning Disability:
A learning disability may exist in the presence of average-to-superior intelligence and adequate sensory and motor systems. The marked discrepancy between intellectual capacity and achievement is what characterizes a learning disability. Many learning disabled students have high intellectual ability and creative talent, the development of which benefits society as much as the well being of these individuals. Although the majority of learning disabled students can be characterized as having difficulty with reading, writing skills, and math skills, the degree and scope of these difficulties vary, as do the defects in the underlying psychological processes. For these reasons, academic adjustments must be made on an individual basis.

A learning disability is any of a diverse group of conditions that cause significant difficulties in perception, either auditory, visual, and/or spatial. Of presumed neurological origin, it covers disorders that impair such functions as reading (dyslexia), writing (dysgraphia), and mathematical calculation (dyscalculia), aural receptive dysphasia, sequential memory, and minimal brain dysfunction. Learning disabilities, even of the same type, will vary widely between and among students. Learning disabilities are defined as a "handicapping condition" under Section 504 of the Federal Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and as a permanent life condition under the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. The act required post-secondary educational institutions to make "reasonable adjustments" for such students with disabilities in order for them to fulfill academic requirements.

Identification Procedures:
Students with disabilities who are seeking accommodations must identify themselves to the university by contacting the Center for Teaching and Learning. If a request for accommodations comes to the Admission Office, staff will correspond with the student or parent indicating the need to provide a diagnostic report to the Center for Teaching and Learning. A student's disability will in no way impact the decision of the University to admit or decline an applicant. When a student approaches the Center for Teaching and Learning, staff will outline the policy and the need for a verifiable diagnosis. If a student does not have appropriate documentation of a learning disability, the Center for Teaching and Learning staff will offer assistance to the student in locating qualified individuals in the Chicagoland area who can provide a psycho-educational evaluation.

Institutional Review and Reasonable Accommodations
Upon receipt of the diagnostic report, the Center for Teaching and Learning staff will confirm that the report is competent and reliable and that it identifies a bona fide disability. If a diagnosis of a disability is not confirmed, the Center for Teaching and Learning will inform the student and refer the student to other appropriate sources of help. If the diagnostic report is confirmed, then the Center for Teaching and Learning will provide the student with documentation which indicates that the student has been recognized as having a disability. This documentation also indicates what reasonable accommodations might be appropriate for the student to receive. The Center for Teaching and Learning staff will not share specific information on a student's disability with faculty members unless requested to do so by the student.

A "reasonable accommodation" is any accommodation offered by a faculty member, department, or the university which enables a student to participate equitably in a class and access course materials without fundamentally altering the service being provided. Reasonable accommodations may include testing accommodations (e.g., additional time, quiet environment, readers, and scribes), classroom accommodations (e.g., changes to the physical environment of a classroom, adjustments in how material is presented in class), providing course materials in an accessible form (e.g., readings on cassette or disk, notetakers), or access to assistive technology (e.g., use of on-campus computers with adaptive software). The Center for Teaching and Learning staff initially determines what would be reasonable accommodations, taking note of the preferences of the student requesting accommodations. The student then may request those accommodations from a faculty member by presenting to the faculty member the documentation provided by the Center for Teaching and Learning. In considering requested accommodations, the faculty member may instead choose to suggest other appropriate accommodations. The faculty member and student are encouraged to consult the Center for Teaching and Learning in this event. It is ultimately the decision of the faculty member whether to implement the determination of the Center for Teaching and Learning; however, the faculty member shall adhere to the above-stated policy and to all applicable laws in making that decision.

Confidentiality:
Any documentation concerning a disability provided by a student to the Center for Teaching and Learning is confidential. The faculty and staff of the university will not have access to these materials unless a student specifically requests that an individual be allowed to view these documents or share in this information. In the event that a student were to challenge a determination made by the Center for Teaching and Learning, it would be necessary for the appropriate university officials to access these materials in order to review the Center for Teaching and Learning's determination.

Student Responsibility:
It is understood that it may be necessary for a disabled student to put in extra work, use a tutor, and/or seek special help outside of class. The student has a responsibility to fulfill his/her part by continuing extra help as recommended for his/her particular condition. If a student requires specialized services beyond what is normally provided by the university, these services must be paid by the student.

Grievance Procedure:
Any student who desires to challenge the accommodations made in his or her case should follow the procedures outlined:

• Informal Review:
  The dean of the school in which the student is majoring will review the student's complaint and take appropriate action if necessary.
• Formal Review:
  If the informal review does not resolve the issue, the student may request a formal review. The Provost of the university will ask the Faculty Senate to appoint a three-person committee to investigate and make a recommendation for his or her decision on the matter.

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POLICY STATEMENT J: Threatening or Dangerous Behavior

Aurora University strives to balance their concern for the health and welfare of individual students with those of the larger campus community. Consequently, when a student’s conduct is dangerous or disruptive to campus life, the University may take action against him or her. In some cases, the Provost or designee may offer the student the option of obtaining psychological assessment from an agency, institution or practitioner selected by the University, instead of or in addition to such action.

A student selecting this option will be required to sign a release giving appropriate university officials access to the assessment results. The University will use the information gathered through the assessment to determine whether the individual will be allowed to continue as a student and/or remain in a University residence hall.

A student who is permitted to continue at the University will be required to follow the recommendations of the assessing agency/practitioner as well as those imposed by the Provost or designee. The student will be required to execute a release to enable University officials to receive copies of the agency’s/practitioner’s records to monitor the student’s compliance with the treatment plan.

The student will be responsible to pay the costs of treatment, including those associated with the initial assessment. Any failure to adhere to the treatment plan, further endangerment to the well being of the student or others, or further disruption of the campus environment will result in immediate suspension or expulsion.

If it can be reasonably determined that a student poses a significant risk of harming him/herself or any other member of the community, that student may be released from his/her relationship with Aurora University and asked to leave campus immediately. In such cases the Provost or designee will outline conditions upon which a person may safely return to campus and resume normal activities.

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POLICY STATEMENT K: Publicity and Posting

Publicity for events on the Aurora University campus is allowed for all officially recognized student organizations, clubs, academic classes and departments, and other non-academic Aurora University departments. Advertising for events not affiliated or officially sanctioned by Aurora University will not be approved for posting.

All publicity materials designated for non-residence hall facilities must be approved by the Office of Student Activities; postings for residence halls must be approved by the Office of Residence Life. Prior to approval for publicity, the event must be approved and the room reservation confirmed. All publicity materials must indicate the Aurora University-affiliated group sponsoring the event; the date, time, and location of the event; and contact information for the event. It is the responsibility of the sponsoring group to remove all postings within three days of the event. Publicity containing any of the following will not be approved and will be removed immediately if posted:

• Any reference to illegal substances, unless in connection with an educational message or event.
• Any reference promoting the use of alcohol, unless in connection with an educational message or event.
• Offensive language or images and/or graphic illustrations.
• Language and/or graphic illustrations/images that dehumanize or discriminate against individuals on the basis of race, age, gender, religion, sexual orientation, national or ethnic origin, disability, or any other characteristic protected by Aurora University policy and/or applicable law.
• Any information that would violate local, state, or federal law or Aurora University policy.

Please adhere to the following when posting:

• Materials only may be posted on bulletin boards in hallways and classrooms designated for general use.
• Only staples, tacks, or masking tape may be used to post flyers on bulletin boards.
• Postings may not cover, deface, or remove the posted materials of another organization.
• All postings must be approved by the appropriate office.

Non-compliance with posting policies will be referred to the Office of Student Activities or the Office of Residence Life, as appropriate. Repeat violations of the posting policy may result in disciplinary action.

Please refer to the Office of Residence Life Guidebook for more information on publicity and posting in the residence halls.

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POLICY STATEMENT L: Online Communities

Aurora University recognizes that students are using online communities such as Facebook and MySpace in positive ways to connect with each other. At the same time, however, users of these virtual communities should be aware of the potential consequences when posting to these sites. Faculty and staff will not actively monitor the use Facebook or any other online community for policy violations. However, policy violations brought to the attention of the University will be subject to investigation and may be pursued through the disciplinary process.

Given the significant use of online communities among Aurora University students, it is important to share cautions and concerns regarding the use of these tools.

Students should be careful about how much and what kind of identifying information is posted online. Virtually anyone can access profiles or web pages posted at on-line communities. It is unwise to put information like date of birth, social security number, address or phone number on these pages, as doing so could lead to identity theft or stalking. Most online communities provide numerous privacy settings for information contained on their pages; please use these settings to protect private information.

Students should be aware that potential current and future employers often can access information placed online, and many are increasingly using online communities in just this way. Think about any information posted as potentially providing an image to a prospective employer.

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POLICY STATEMENT M: Student Employment Policies

Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity

Aurora University is committed to the process of affirmative action in maintaining and promoting nondiscrimination in all areas of recruitment and employment of individuals at all levels. Our commitment is to maintain a supportive educational environment for minority and non-minority individuals of the University community.

It is the policy of Aurora University to treat people as individuals, respecting them for who they are, what they have achieved as individuals, and how they contribute to the growth and betterment of this institution.

It is the policy of the University to apply this respect for individuals to all areas of employment practice. The University will provide employment opportunity to individuals based on the operational needs of the University and the qualifications of the individuals who are applicants and employees, and will do so without discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, ancestry, disability or age.

This policy extends to all employment practices including recruitment, hiring and appointment, selection for training, upgrading, promotion, demotion, job classification, assignment, working conditions, employee treatment, hours, compensation, benefits, transfer, layoff, termination and all other terms, conditions and privileges of employment.

This policy extends to all individuals both employed and potentially employed by Aurora University, and whether full-time, part-time, student or temporary employee.

If any person believes he or she is the victim of an act of employment discrimination, he or she is encouraged to report the incident to the Director of Human Resources. Action may also be channeled through the State and/or Federal Government. The phone number for the State of Illinois Department of Human Rights is 630-814-6200.

Drug-Free Schools And Communities Act

Implications of the Drug-free Schools and Communities Act Amendments of 1989, Public Law 101-226 for Student Employees

• Student employees must notify Human Resources of any criminal conviction for a violation occurring in the workplace no later than five days after such conviction.
• Student employees who use prescribed drugs or narcotics during work should report this fact to the Wellness Center Director along with acceptable medical documentation.
• Student employees who are experiencing work-related problems resulting from drug, narcotic, or alcohol abuse or dependency may request, or be required to seek, counseling help. University sponsored or required counseling is to be kept confidential and is not to influence performance appraisals.
• Any employee who is abusing drugs or alcohol may be granted a leave of absence to undertake rehabilitation treatment. The employee will not be permitted to return to work until certification is presented to the Human Resource Office stating that the employee is capable of performing his job. Failure to cooperate with an agreed-upon treatment plan may result in discipline, up to and including termination. Participation in a treatment program does not insulate an employee from the imposition of discipline for violations of this or other company policies.
• Alleged violations will be handled on a case-by-case basis. Circumstances surrounding each case will be thoroughly investigated. Sanctions will range from probation to expulsion from the University and referral for prosecution. General procedures if anyone is suspected or alleged to have violated the standards are as follows. It is understood that the University reserves the right to skip any or all steps.

1. Notice in writing of the specific violation that is being charged.
2. A meaningful opportunity to be heard and to present any relevant information in response to the charge.
3. The right to assistance in such proceedings by an advisor of his or her choice.
4. A determination based on clear and convincing evidence that a standard of conduct occurred.

Questions regarding this policy should be directed to the Human Resource Office. The University retains the right to change or terminate this policy at its discretion without notice. For additional information regarding student alcohol policy, please refer to “Alcohol and Illegal Substance Policy” under University Policies in this handbook.

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POLICY STATEMENT N: Smoke Free Campus

Aurora University recognizes that environmental tobacco smoke has been classified as a Group A carcinogen by the United States Environmental Protection Agency. In light of the risks associated with tobacco smoke exposure Aurora University has adopted a smoke-free campus policy in order to minimize health risks, improve the quality of air and enhance the campus environment. This policy applies to the Aurora University campus in Illinois.

In order to protect the health, safety and comfort of Aurora University students, faculty, staff and visitors, the smoking of tobacco products is prohibited at all times while on Aurora campus property.

• Tobacco product is defined as follows:
  • Cigarettes, cigars, and pipes
• Use of tobacco product is defined as follows:
  • The inhaling, exhaling, burning, or carrying of any lighted smoking material
• Aurora campus property is defined as follows:
  • All buildings owned, rented, or leased by Aurora University
  • All outside property or grounds owned or wholly leased by Aurora University. This includes but not limited to: sidewalks, parking lots, outdoor seating areas, stadium seating and all landscaped and recreational areas
  • All university vehicles and moving equipment at any Aurora University location.
• Smoking materials must be extinguished and disposed of prior to entering upon Aurora University Property, or exiting your vehicle. Improper disposal includes but is not limited to:
  • Littering (i.e. discarded cigarette butts and/or throwing cigarette butts out of windows)
  • Anything that creates fire hazard

Advertisement of tobacco products or their use is prohibited in all Aurora University publications and on all University owned, occupied or leased properties. Any sale or free sampling of tobacco products on campus is prohibited.

This policy relies on the consideration and cooperation of smokers and nonsmokers. All members of the university community (students, faculty, staff), including visitors and contract workers, are asked to observe this policy.

Enforcement of this policy will depend upon the cooperation of all faculty, staff, and students not only to comply with this policy but also to encourage others to comply with this policy, in order to promote a healthy environment in which to work, study and live.

Violations of this policy should be referred to the appropriate administrative office for review and appropriate administrative action:

• for faculty/staff, Human Resource Department
• for students, the Dean of Students

Questions regarding this policy should be referred to the Human Resource Office (faculty/staff) or the Office of the Dean of Students (students).

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