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Liberty Universitys

Student Honor Code


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Honor (honor)
Good name: Reputation


Principled uprightness of character:
Personal integrity


A good name is more
desirable than great riches
(Proverbs 22:1)

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TABLE OF CONTENTS
I. My School ................................................................................................................................. 4
II. My Role .......................................................................................................................................... 4
III. Academic Conduct ................................................................................................................... 5
A. Academic Ethics .................................................................................................................. 5
B. Computing Ethics ................................................................................................................ 6
IV. General Conduct ...................................................................................................................... 7
A. Substance Use .......................................................................................................................... 7
B. Harassment ............................................................................................................................... 8
C. Dress ....................................................................................................................................... 11
D. Respect............................................................................................................................... 13
V. Points & Procedures for Misconduct .................................................................................... 13
A. Point System ........................................................................................................................... 13
B. Other Discipline ..................................................................................................................... 16
C. Administrative Withdrawal .................................................................................................... 16
D. Reapplication/Readmission ................................................................................................ 18
E. Complaint Reporting .......................................................................................................... 18
VI. Self-Reporting ............................................................................................................................. 19
VII. Convocation ............................................................................................................................ 19
VIII. Living Off Campus ..................................................................................................................... 20
A. Qualifications ..................................................................................................................... 20
B. Conduct .............................................................................................................................. 20
IX. Communications ......................................................................................................................... 20
X. My Records ................................................................................................................................. 20

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I. MY SCHOOL

Welcome to Liberty University! While Liberty is not for everyone, it is the school of choice for
tens of thousands of students each year, and you are now an important part of this Community.
This is your school, and your conduct while here not only impacts you, it affects the Liberty
Community as a whole.

All societies and organizations have certain guidelines, standards, and expectations that govern
them in order to maintain an orderly community. A university is no exception, and this Student
Honor Code provides Liberty students with a framework that can enhance the college experience
for all.

These guidelines come in various forms: some are local, state or federal laws; some are Biblical
mandates or principles; and others are just preferences. However, all are important to creating the
kind of university community we seek to provide students.

The Student Honor Code educates all members of the Liberty University Community about the
Institutions expectations and Students rights and creates a standard by which Students are
expected to conduct themselves for the purpose of establishing an environment conducive to
academic excellence. Central to preserving this Community is the personal commitment of
students to conduct themselves in a manner that reflects the highest ideals of moral virtue and
professionalism in fidelity to the Christian faith expressed in the Bible.

To this end, the Honor Code sets forth the procedures that apply when misconduct by a student is
alleged to have occurred. Students are charged with notice of and are bound by this Code and all
students agree to comply with the terms of the Honor Code. Members of the university
community are also required to adhere to all applicable federal, state, and local laws.

Attendance at Liberty University is a privilege and as a private educational institution, Liberty is
free to control the admission and attendance of students. While this Code has evolved over the
past 40 years it has served our community well by articulating expectations of students and
providing guidelines and guardrails for maintaining a wonderful Christian community. This is
our school, and this is our Honor Code.

II. MY ROLE

Students of Liberty University have a responsibility to live a chaste, honorable and virtuous life,
which encompasses many principles, including honesty, integrity, respect and self-control.

Students are responsible to promptly report all circumstances, which they believe, constitute a
clear violation of the Honor Code to the Office of Student Conduct. Intentional breach of this
responsibility will be considered a violation of the Honor Code.

Every student should give testimony or evidence relevant to any alleged violation of the Honor
Code if requested by the student facing disciplinary charges, the person appointed to present
evidence in support of the charge, or the committee charged with investigating an allegation of
misconduct.

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Every student is asked to respect Liberty's Statement of Doctrine and Purpose and should avoid
engaging in any activity on or off campus that would compromise the testimony or reputation of
the University or cause disruption to Liberty's Christian learning environment.

"We, the students, faculty and staff of Liberty University, have a responsibility to
uphold the moral and ethical standards of this institution and personally confront
those who do not."

III. ACADEMIC CONDUCT

A. Academic Ethics includes, but is not limited to the following:

Academic Dishonesty

During examinations, academic dishonesty includes, but is not limited to . . .

Referring to information not specifically condoned by the instructor
Receiving information from a fellow student
Stealing, buying, selling or transmitting a copy of any examination

Plagiarism

Plagiarism (papers, projects or any assignment prepared outside of class) includes, but is not
limited to . . .

Omitting quotation marks or other conventional markings around material quoted from
any printed source
Paraphrasing a specific passage from a specific source without properly referencing the
source
Replicating another student's work, in whole or in part and submitting it as original

Falsification

Falsification of a school document includes, but is not limited to . . .

Unauthorized signing of another person's name to an official form or document
Unauthorized modification, copying, or production of a University document

Reporting Process
Any student who knowingly assists in any form of dishonesty will be considered as
equally responsible as the student who accepts such assistance.

The reporting procedure is as follows:
The instructor will confront the student within one week of the discovery of the
infraction.

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The instructor will write a report outlining the violation
The report will be provided to the student along with the sanctions recommended
The student will receive a grade of "F" for the course.
NOTE: The student will be allowed to appeal (see appeal process below).
The report will be sent to the department chairperson
A copy of the report will be sent to the Division of Student Affairs at which time
the appropriate Student Conduct Officer will work with the faculty to determine
the penalty for each infraction.

Appeal Process
When a student has been accused of academic dishonesty, which necessitates
disciplinary action, and the student feels he/she is being unjustly accused or is being
treated unfairly, he/she may choose to appeal the decision of the faculty member. That
appeal process is as follows:
The student may submit a written appeal to the department chairperson. The
chairperson will review the instructor's report and the student's written appeal,
then notify the instructor and the student of his/her decision.

If the student is not satisfied with the department chairperson's decision, he/she
may submit a written appeal to the dean of the school, i.e., School of Business,
College of Arts and Sciences, etc. The Dean will review the student's appeal, as
well as the faculty member's report. When a decision has been reached, the Dean
will notify the department chairperson, the faculty member and the student.

If the student is not satisfied with the Dean's decision, he/she has one calendar
week from the date the notification is received to request a hearing before the
Senate Committee on Academic and Admissions Standards. The Dean will contact
the Registrar who will arrange the hearing. The committee will meet with the
student, review all reports and facts, and make a recommendation to the Vice
President for Academic Affairs (VPAA). The VPAA will make a decision based
on the committees recommendation and will notify the student of that decision.
The VPAA's decision is the final step in the appeal process.

B. Computing Ethics

Many students will use the computing resources of the University through classes requiring
such use or through on-campus employment. Liberty University stringently obeys copyright
laws and license agreements, which govern computer software. No student should ever make
copies of University-owned computer software.

Liberty University has established a "Code of Computing Ethics" and an "Academic
Computing Policy." If you use the computing resources of the University, you are responsible
for adhering to these policies. If the instructor or the campus employer authorizing your access
to the computer resources of the University does not give you a copy, it is your responsibility to
ask for one.

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Violation of these standards will make a student subject to disciplinary action by Liberty
University and may lead to denial of future computing privileges. For violation of laws and
license agreements, a student may also be subject to other private or public legal action under
applicable State of Virginia laws and regulations or federal laws and regulations. If the
violation of such laws and license agreement results in financial loss to Liberty University,
damages and costs assessed the University will in turn be assessed the student who violated the
laws/agreements.

IV. GENERAL CONDUCT

Co-curricular life comprises a significant portion of the time a student spends at Liberty and
the University expects students to take responsibility for their behavior and choices. When
those choices violate the Honor Code, the university has a responsibility to administer
discipline with love and mercy.

A. Substance Use

Liberty University prohibits the possession, use, manufacture or distribution of alcoholic
beverages, tobacco and illegal drugs or controlled substances by its students.

Enforcement

Possession, use, manufacture and/or distribution of illegal substances is a crime and Liberty
University will cooperate with law enforcement authorities who are charged with enforcing
current statutes. Students are warned that involvement with drugs or alcohol, on or off
campus, can result in disciplinary action by the University, as well as any criminal
penalties. The disciplinary action will most likely result in administrative withdrawal.

Education

Liberty University recognizes that substance abuse is a serious problem nationally and the
education of students and employees on dangers inherent in substance abuse is an important
aspect in addressing the problem. The University will use the following methods to educate
students and employees:

Incorporation of information into existing courses
Dissemination of information into existing courses
Presentation by Convocation speakers and community resources
Utilization of campus mental and health-care professionals

Counseling and Referral

Liberty University students and employees who are at risk of drug or alcohol abuse have
access to counseling at Student Care Office. The Student Care Office will make referrals to
other health-care agencies. Any cost incurred or insurance claims filed are the responsibility
of the student or employee.

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Drug Testing Program

The University has conducted an on-going program of mandatory random drug testing since
1988. Students agree to the following:

To participate in and cooperate with the Universitys drug-testing program, which
permits the testing of any student (hair, urine or blood as specified by the
administration), irrespective of the method by which that student was selected
(randomly or based on suspected use or possession).

NOTE: Students who test positive for drug use will be responsible for covering the cost
of the drug test.

Failure to cooperate with the University's drug testing program will result in
disciplinary action, including the likelihood of administrative withdrawal from the
University
Failure to achieve a negative drug test (i.e., the absence of illegal drugs) will result in
disciplinary action against a student, including the likelihood of administrative
withdrawal from the University
Possession and use of illegal drugs may also require notification of law enforcement
authorities
The persons administering the tests may communicate all student drug test results to the
Office of Student Conduct for possible disciplinary action. Such communication will
not constitute a breach of any confidentiality
To waive all claims one might have against Liberty University or its employees as to
any threatened or actual damage to reputation, privacy, mental/emotional condition
resulting from the administration of the drug tests, the processing of the drug tests or the
enforcement of the University's disciplinary or academic penalties
To waive all legal claims of any nature, such as those claims one might have against
Liberty University or its employees, arising out of drug testing
Any disciplinary action against a student could also involve academic penalties,
including the possibility of loss of credit from work completed during the semester in
which the disciplinary action is taken
Any possible refund of monies paid will be subject to the refund policy as stated in the
Liberty University catalog
Admission to and enrollment at Liberty University does not exempt a student from the
University's disciplinary and academic penalties, even though a drug problem was
revealed to the University prior to, at the time of, or after enrollment

B. Harassment

Sexual Harassment

Liberty University is committed to providing students and employees with an environment
free of harassment in any form. Any act of harassment (i.e., physical, psychological, verbal
or sexual) that threatens a person or persons is considered a serious offense and will not be
tolerated.

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The University provides educational programming to promote the awareness of rape,
acquaintance rape, sexual harassment and other sexual offenses. Any person or group who
commits acts of harassment based upon race, ethnicity, gender or disability on or off
campus will be subject to disciplinary action, which could result in dismissal from the
University.

Behavior that constitutes sexual harassment, which is a form of sexual discrimination
prohibited by Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 and Title VII of the 1964
Civil Rights Act, includes but is not limited to, unwanted sexual attention, requests for
sexual favors and/or other verbal or physical contact of a sexual nature, which negatively
affects another person.

Reporting Process

Any student who believes that he/she has been the subject of harassment in any form
should immediately report the incident to the Office of Student Conduct or the
Student Care Office. The student will be given the opportunity to express his/her
concerns and will then be informed of the recourse available to him/her under school
policy and local and state statutes.

Consequences

Students who engage in any harassment behavior are subject to disciplinary action,
which may result in community service or dismissal from the University. Since the
University takes such charges seriously, where the results of an investigation reveal a
complaint of harassment/sexual harassment to be frivolous or groundless, the
individual having made such a complaint may be subject to the same disciplinary
action.

Racial Harassment & Discrimination

Liberty University insists that all members of the University Community are entitled to and
shall be afforded an environment free of racismwhether overt or subtle. Therefore,
members of the Community will not tolerate racial discrimination or harassment of any kind.

Behavior that constitutes racial discrimination or harassment is prohibited by Title VII of the
1964 Civil Rights Act. This includes, but is not limited to racial/ethnic slurs, coarse jesting
with racial/ethnic overtones and other forms of communication resulting in disparagement or
intimidation.

Reporting Process

Report the incident to the Office of Student Conduct or the Center for
Multicultural Enrichment
Student Conduct Officers will review the racial discrimination/harassment policy
with the complainant
A Racial Discrimination/Harassment Grievance Form will be filed

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Complainant must decide if he/she wants to pursue a formal complaint, which
may result in disciplinary action
Investigation
The Student Conduct Review Committee will examine the results of the
investigation and determine the best course of action
The Student Conduct Officer will conduct a final interview with complainant
Consequences

Any Liberty University student who commits racial discrimination or harassment is
subject to disciplinary action, which may result in 18 or 30 points (see Sec. V), along
with possible fines, and community service and/or possible administrative withdrawal.
In addition, since the University takes such charges seriously, where the results of an
investigation reveal a complaint of racial discrimination or harassment to be frivolous
or groundless, the individual having made such a complaint may be subject to the
same disciplinary action.

Sexual Assault

Sexual assault means "any unwanted forced sexual contact. Areas of sexual assault include,
but are not limited to the following:

Any forced sexual contact or relations
Rape (which includes date and acquaintance rape) - sexual relations that constitute the
lack of consent, committed either by force, intimidation or through the use of the victim's
mental or physical incapacity
Any coercion of a sexual nature

Reporting Process

Any person wishing to report a suspected violation of this policy may contact any of
the following:

LUPD: 582-3911
Office of Student Conduct: 582-2320
Student Care Office: 592-4138
Health Services: 200-6370
Lynchburg Police Department: 847-1614
Sexual Assault Response Program (SARP): 947-7273
Students who would like assistance in contacting local authorities may request such
help from campus authorities. The University will provide prompt, compassionate and
discreet support services to victims of sexual assault and will strictly enforce its
Sexual Assault Policy. The University will also inform the student of the recourse
available to him/her under school and state statutes. The student has the option to
pursue on-campus discipline. The Division of Student Affairs will proceed with the
on-campus disciplinary procedures.

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Consequences

Any Liberty University student who has engaged in sexual assault is subject to
disciplinary action, which will result in dismissal for a minimum of two semesters.
He/she will also be restricted from campus.

C. Dress
As a Christian University, modest dress is important to our Community. While we
recognize opinions vary considerably about appropriate dress, we have established some
simple guidelines, which we ask students to respect while here. Cleanliness, neatness,
appropriateness and modesty are the general guiding factors with regard to dress.

Resident Assistants (RAs), Resident Directors (RDs), Student Conduct Officers and others
will enforce dress guidelines and educate all students regarding what is acceptable and what
is not. Questions concerning the standard of dress should be addressed to the Office of
Student Conduct.

Mens Dress

Hairstyles and fashion should avoid extremes. Facial jewelry (other than earrings) is
prohibited.
Class Dress should be worn in academic and administrative buildings before 4:30 pm
on weekdays and in all classes, regardless of time. Collared or collarless shirts,
sweaters, sweatshirts (without inappropriate logos), pants (includes neat jeans,
properly worn, without holes, patches, or tears), footwear including sandals or flip-
flops should be worn for class dress. (Thank you for not wearing hats, durags or
hoods in class or convocation.)
Casual Dress is acceptable in academic and administrative buildings after 4:30 pm on
weekdays and in the Reber/Thomas Dining Hall for all meals. Shirts, neat pants, jeans,
wind suits, loose-fitting modest shorts (mid-thigh or longer), shoes, sandals or flip-flops
may be worn for casual dress. (Thank you for not wearing hats, durags or hoods during
church services.)
Athletic Dress should meet the standard of appropriateness and modesty. Athletic
clothing and footwear should be appropriate for the activity (no-scuff shoes on
basketball courts, etc.). Spandex should be worn underneath modest athletic attire.
Game Day Dress for Student-Athletes includes warm-ups only. Warm-ups should not
be worn to class by student-athletes who do not have a game that day; however if
student-athletes have a home contest on Saturday, they may wear their warm-ups to
class on Friday. Sweats should not be worn at any time, even on game days, in the
academic facilities before 4:30 pm. On travel days, all student-athletes should attend
class in regular University dress code.

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Swimming Pool Attire includes appropriate casual or sports attire going to and from
the pool. Speedos, spandex suits or cut-off jeans should not be worn at the pool. This
policy applies to all Liberty University swim facilities/properties and all Liberty
University-sponsored events.

NOTE: Individual schools, i.e. School of Business, etc., may implement a more rigorous
standard of dress for students enrolled in their school. Liberty University Online students
are asked to follow these guidelines only while present on university property.

Womens Dress

When dresses and skirts are worn they should be no shorter than the top of the knee. Skirt
slits should be modest; open slits should be no higher than the top of the knee, closed slits
should be no higher than two inches from the top of the knee. Shoulder straps should be two
inches wide. Anything tight, scant, backless, see-through, low in the neckline or revealing
the midriff (in any position) is considered inappropriate and should not be worn. Slips
should be worn under thin material. Earrings and plugs may be worn in ears and small studs
may be worn in nose. No other facial piercings or plugs are allowed, including tongue.
Class Dress should be worn in academic and administrative buildings before 4:30 pm
on weekdays and in all classes, regardless of time. Sweaters, loose-fitting tops,
sweatshirts (without inappropriate logos), skirts, dresses, pants, which would include
capris/cropped pants and neat jeans (without holes, patches, or tears), footwear
including sandals or flip-flops.
Casual Dress is acceptable in academic and administrative buildings after 4:30 pm on
weekdays and in the Reber/Thomas Dining Hall for all meals. Shirts, neat pants, jeans,
warm-ups, loose-fitting, modest shorts (mid-thigh or longer), shoes including sandals or
flip-flops may be worn for class.
Athletic Dress should meet the standards of appropriateness and modesty. Athletic
clothing and footwear should be appropriate for the activity (no-scuff shoes on
basketball courts, etc.). Spandex should be worn underneath modest athletic attire.
Game Day Dress for Student-Athletes includes warm-ups only. Warm-ups should not
to be worn to class by student-athletes who do not have a game that day; however if
student-athletes have a home athletics contest on Saturday, they may wear their warm-
ups to class on Friday. Sweats should not to be worn at any time, even on game days, in
the academic facilities before 4:30 pm. On travel days, student-athletes should attend
class in class dress.
Swimming Pool Attire includes appropriate casual or sports attire going to and from
the pool. Women are asked to wear a one-piece suit that is in good taste. Swimsuits that
are see-through/mesh, expose the midriff and/or are low in the front or back or cut high
on the legs are not considered appropriate. This policy applies to all Liberty University
swim facilities/properties and all Liberty University-sponsored events.

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NOTE: Individual schools, i.e. School of Business, etc., may implement a more rigorous
standard of dress for students enrolled in their school. Liberty University Online students are
expected to follow these guidelines only while present on university property.

D. Respect

Respect is an attitude and behavior that should be afforded to all members of the University
community through proper acknowledgment of their personal and professional position.
Students are asked to observe academic courtesy with regard to all titles (Dr., Dean, Mr., Mrs.
or Miss). Students should not use first names when speaking to or about faculty or staff
members. Students are expected to exercise proper decorum in the classroom. Men must
remove headwear in classrooms and academic buildings.

Students are required to respect Liberty's Statement of Doctrine and Purpose and are not
permitted to engage in any activity on or off campus that would compromise the testimony or
reputation of the University or cause disruption to Liberty's Christian learning environment.
Proper respect should be shown from one student to another at all times. No hazing or student
initiations will be permitted.

Derogatory comments of a sexual, religious or racial nature will not be tolerated. Students are
expected to treat Liberty University faculty and students in a spirit of Christian love, mutual
respect, and individual dignity.

V. POINTS & PROCEDURES FOR MISCONDUCT

A. Point System

Liberty University uses a point, fine and disciplinary community service system to address
discipline-related issues. Sanctions are administered according to the guidelines listed
below. The Office of Student Conduct or their representative(s) administer all disciplinary
penalties. When points are issued, the student will receive notification by email. Upon
consideration of extenuating circumstances, the University may make adjustments when
applicable. (Single commuter students who receive 30+points within a semester may be
required to move back on campus immediately.)

NOTE: Points are accumulated and tabulated on a per-semester basis.

1 Point

Late to Convocation (1 additional point for each additional 15 minutes late)
Late for curfew (1 additional point for each additional 30 minutes late

4 Points (+ $10.00 Fine)

Absence from required meeting (Convocation, etc.)
Disturbance/non-participation during Convocation
Dress/hair code violation



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Failure to respond to official call slip within 48 hours (for Student Affairs use only)
Horseplay (plus financial restitution)
Personal contact beyond hand-holding
Improper sign-out
Music code violation
Out of the residence halls after curfew

Appeal process for one-to-four point offenses should be submitted in writing to the
respective Resident Director (RD) within 48 hours (two working days) of notification.
Appeals for one-point offenses are directed to the Resident Assistant (RA) in writing within
48 hours. If you are not satisfied with the outcome, a written appeal must be directed to the
RD within 24 hours of the RAs decision.

6 Points (+ $25.00 Fine)

Possession and/or use of tobacco
Direct disobedience
Disrespect
Gambling
Attendance at a dance

Appeal process for 6-point offenses should be submitted in writing to the respective RD or
the Student Court within 48 hours (two working days) of notification.

NOTE: Student Conduct Officers do not consider appeals for less than 12 points.

12 Points (+ $50.00 Fine)

Attendance at, possession or viewing of an R-rated movie
Deception
Malicious horseplay/behavior (plus financial restitution)
Participation in an unauthorized petition or demonstration
Unauthorized possession of a school key
Visiting alone with the opposite sex at an off-campus residence
Entering residence hallway, quad or on-campus apartment of the opposite sex (or
allowing the same)
Cheating on a quiz

Appeal process for 12-point offenses should be submitted in writing to the respective RD or
the Student Court within 48 hours (two working days) of notification. The RD or Student
Court will uphold, dismiss or adjust the sanction. The decision of the RD or Student Court
will be final.

18 Points (+ $250 Fine & 18 Hours Disciplinary Community Service)

Cheating on a test, paper or project (up to 30 points)
Association with those consuming alcohol
Commission of a misdemeanor


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Obscene, profane or abusive language or behavior
Possession and/or viewing of sexually-explicit material or movies (X or NC-17)
Entering the bedroom of the opposite sex on or off campus (or allowing the same)
Failure to properly identify oneself
Falsification of information on an official document (including sign-out sheet)
Sexual harassment (i.e., unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors or other
conduct or comments of a sexual nature)
Sexual misconduct and/or any state of undress
Threat to do bodily harm
Two or more individuals of the opposite sex together in a motel room without proper
permission
Vandalism (plus financial restitution)
Racial discrimination or harassment (up to 30 points plus possible fines, community
service and/or possible administrative withdrawal)

Appeal process for 18-point offenses should be submitted in writing to the RD or Student
Court within 48 hours (two working days) of notification. A decision will be rendered in
writing regarding the appeal and the decision will be final.

30 Points (+ $500.00 Fine, 30 Hours Disciplinary Community Service, & Possible
Administrative Withdrawal)

NOTE: For each accumulation of six or more points after 30, an additional $150 fine will
be assessed.

Assault/sexual assault (minimum two semesters out)
Commission/conviction of any felony
Illegal drug association/possession, use/distribution (minimum two semesters out)
Immorality
Involvement with witchcraft, sances or other satanic or demonic activity
Life-threatening behavior or language to others or oneself (immediate
removal/exclusion from campus and a minimum of two semesters out)
Non-participation/disruption/non-compliance (possible removal/exclusion from
campus)
Possession or consumption of alcoholic beverages
Procuring/financing/facilitating/obtaining an abortion
Refusal to submit to an Alco-Sensor test and/or drug test as specified by the
Administration
Spending the night with a person of the opposite sex
Sexual relations outside of a marriage, between a natural-born man and a natural-born
woman, as biblically ordained in Scripture and sanctioned by a state government
Stealing or possession of stolen property (plus financial restitution; minimum two
semesters out)
Unauthorized possession/use of weapons

Appeal process for 30-point offenses (non-dismissal) should be submitted in writing to the
Student Court within 48 hours (two working days) of notification of sanction.



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NOTE: As the semester comes to a close, there may not be time for the student to complete
his/her DCS. In that case, fines will be issued in lieu of DCS as follows: 18 hours = $100
fine; 30 hours = $150. Any student who violates disciplinary probation may not be allowed
to return for the following semester.

B. Other Discipline

Disciplinary Probation

Disciplinary probation is a means by which the University can closely monitor a student's success
when there has been a semester of discipline-related difficulties. Disciplinary probation includes
any required accountability by the Office of Student Conduct. A student may be placed on
disciplinary probation if one of the following occurs:

Accumulation of 22+points during any semester of attendance
Student has been dismissed from school for the previous semester in attendance

A written notice will be recorded in the student's conduct file. Any student who accumulates 34+
points (in total, in a one semester period) while on disciplinary probation will be considered in
violation of probation and may not be allowed to return for a period of one (1) semester. Any single
student placed on disciplinary probation may be required to live on campus for the semester of the
disciplinary probation. Any student on disciplinary probation may not run for or hold an office in
the Student Government Association.

Retention/Non-Return

Enrollment at Liberty University does not guarantee continuance. Any student who accumulates
30+points for two consecutive semesters may be asked not to return to school the following
semester. In addition, any student who commits a 30-point offense may not be allowed to return
the following semester. A student will not be permitted to participate in intensives or summer
school during the time of their non-return.

Retention/non-return decisions may be appealed in writing to the Vice President for Student
Affairs (VPSA). A decision will be rendered in writing regarding the appeal and the decision will
be final. The student's cumulative discipline record is reviewed as part of this process.

Vacation/Breaks

Only behavior considered a dismissal offense, as stated in the Student Honor Code, which occurs
during vacations/breaks, may jeopardize a person's status as a student. This includes weekends,
fall, spring, summer, and Christmas breaks.

C. Administrative Withdrawal

Students, who are reported to have violated the policies or regulations of the University that
stipulate administrative withdrawal, will meet with the appropriate Student Conduct Officer for a
personal conference. The Student Conduct Officer will present the alleged violation(s) to the



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student and the student will then be given full opportunity to present his/her position concerning
the allegation. The Student Conduct Officer, and possibly other Student Affairs staff or their
representatives, will conduct an investigation of the alleged violation(s).

When the investigation is complete and the allegation is determined to be true, the Conduct Office
Review Committee (CORC) will consider the facts and relevant information concerning the
violation(s), including the student's prior disciplinary record, before voting.

NOTE: During the investigative process, the student should continue attending classes.

What happens if the CORC votes for administrative withdrawal?

The VPSA reviews all administrative withdrawal decisions reached by the CORC. A
determination is made to either uphold or overturn the CORCs decision and alternate
discipline may be administered in lieu of administrative withdrawal.

If the VPSA upholds the decision of the CORC, the student has 24 hours (one working day),
after receiving notification of the VPSAs decision. If the student decides to accept the
VPSAs decision, he/she will be asked to sign a "Waiver of Appeal". The student will then
follow the procedures required to process an administrative withdrawal. If the student decides
to appeal the decision to a J RB, that decision must be reported to the appropriate Student
Conduct Officer within 24 hours (one working day) after receiving notification of the decision.
At that time, the student will be presented with formal written notification of the violation(s).

NOTE: Failure to meet the 24-hour deadline will result in an automatic administrative
withdrawal.

If the student decides to appeal the decision to a JRB, the time of the appeal hearing will be
determined and the student will be notified by his/her respective Student Conduct Officer. The
VPSAs Office will do its best to schedule it within seven days of the students request for
appeal.

NOTE: During the appeal process, the student should continue attending classes.

If the J RB upholds the administrative withdrawal, the student will need to move out of the
residence hall within 48 hours of the final decision. All academic work is lost for the semester
except classes that have been completed before the time of the decision. The student may be
asked to leave sooner if he/she is considered to be a disruption to the campus community.
Once the student has been administratively withdrawn, he/she will not be permitted to visit
the campus until his/her student status has been reinstated.
Reapplication is subject to administrative review after a six-month period of absence from
the University.
Readmission will be considered after a minimum one-year absence from the University for the
commission of a felony, assault, drug and/or stealing dismissals and is also subject to
administrative review and approval.





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Judicial Review Board

The J udicial Review Board (J RB) will be comprised of three faculty members and two
students representing the Student Government Association and approved by the Executive
Vice President (EVP) of the University. The VPSA will chair the J RB; however, if for
some reason an alternate chairperson is needed, the VPSA will appoint him/her. The
chairperson is a non-voting member of the J RB. The Student Conduct Officer who led the
investigation will present the facts to the J RB, along with a background report on the
student's behavioral record. The J RB will:
Receive a summary of the incident
Examine the circumstances and details of the incident
Hear testimony, review evidence and call any witnesses deemed necessary
Determine whether a violation of the student code of conduct has occurred
Establish whether the imposed discipline is fair and consistent with the stated
policies of the institution

The J RB's decision is determined by majority vote. The J RB will vote to either uphold or
overturn the previous decisions. In the case of an overturn, the J RB may recommend
alternative discipline to the VPSA. The VPSA will make the final determination for any
alternate discipline. If the J RB decides to uphold the administrative withdrawal decision,
the J RB may also recommend additional requirements for return or that consideration be
given for early return. The appeal to the J RB is the last step in the appeal process and the
J RBs decision is final.

NOTE: Parents may be notified of a student's disciplinary probation, assignment of
disciplinary community service, retention or administrative withdrawal and a copy of the
aforementioned action will be placed in the student's conduct file.

D. Reapplication/Readmission

If a student is administratively withdrawn or asked not to return, he/she should submit a
written request for readmission to the appropriate Student Conduct Officer. Before a return
will be considered, the student should provide a thorough account of the actions that led to
his/her dismissal or non-return and his/her strategy for successful continuance at the
University. Additionally, a letter of recommendation from a pastor, counselor or civic
leader, along with a letter of recommendation from the students parent(s) or guardian
should be submitted.

Readmission to the University will be subject to any stipulations made by the Office of
Student Conduct. This process does not guarantee readmission. If readmission is granted,
the appropriate Student Conduct Officer will notify the student and the Office of
Admissions.

E. Complaint Reporting

All complaints may be directed to the Dean of Students Office via telephone (434-582-
2687), email (deanofstudents@liberty.edu/CN1830), or in person. The complainant will be
encouraged to complete an official Statement of Record detailing the information

19
relevant to his/her complaint in the Dean of Students Office. The Dean of Students or Vice
President for Student Affairs and/or his designated representative will review the complaint.

The Dean of Students will direct the complaint to the appropriate University department for
official investigation and appropriate follow-up.

VI. SELF-REPORTING

Students are encouraged to self-report when they have knowingly committed a violation of
the Student Honor Code (6 to 30 points). When this is done, the University will provide
discreet counsel and support to the student. This policy is intended for students seeking to
acknowledge wrongdoing and make immediate corrections.

A student has the option of self-reporting to any Liberty University Community member
within one week of the offense. It is then the responsibility of the Community member to
whom the offense was reported to accompany the student to the Student Care Office as
soon as possible. (If an investigation has begun and there is already prior knowledge of the
incident, it will not be considered a self-report). The appropriate Student Care Officer will
work with the student in setting the necessary boundaries and accountability measures in
place to foster an environment for growth. This plan will not include points or fines.
Students may only self-report the same behavior once per semester without sanctions.

The Liberty University community promotes chastity for its unwed students; however
women who become pregnant are included in this self-report policy. The Student Care
Office is available to assist students through this process.

NOTE: Violations of the law (serious misdemeanors or felonies) may carry sanctions up
to and including administrative withdrawal even when there is a self-report.

VII. CONVOCATION

Convocation is an assembly of the University community and its purpose is to develop
campus unity, disseminate information, and challenge students spiritually, socially,
morally and intellectually. Convocation provides forums for the social and political issues
of the day, as well as educational topics of diverse interest for the benefit of students,
faculty, and staff. Guest speakers from the world of business, politics, education, religion,
and the sciences also help to make Convocation a refreshing and challenging time.

All students are required to attend Convocation on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.
This includes all resident students, commuters, undergraduates, graduate and seminary
students. Failure to attend Convocation without proper approval will result in the issuance
of four points. Resident must check in with their Resident Assistants upon arrival and sit in
their assigned section in order to be counted as present. Failure to attend will result in the
issuance of four points.


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VIII. LIVING OFF CAMPUS

A. Qualifications

To qualify for off campus living, students must either be 21 years of age or older
by December 31 for the fall semester or May 31 for the spring semester, or be living with a
parent or sibling who is over the age of 21.

B. Conduct

Off campus students are expected to follow the LU Honor Code the same as on campus
students. Any unmarried student, under the age of 30, who receives 18+points while living
off campus, may be required to move back on campus immediately or the following
semester of attendance.

IX. COMMUNICATIONS

Liberty student email accounts are the official means of communication for the Liberty
University community and students are expected to check their email account on a regular
basis. Students are also expected to visit the Liberty University Splash Page regularly for
official announcements and information.

X. MY RECORDS

Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA)

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) of 1974, as amended, sets forth
requirements regarding the privacy of student records. FERPA governs the release of these
records (known as education records) maintained by an educational institution, as well as the
access to these records. For detailed information, visit the Office of the Registrars webpage
regarding FERPA.

Students may inspect and review his/her disciplinary record by submitting a written request to
the Office of Student Conduct. The University will comply with this request within 45 days
after receiving the request and an explanation and interpretation of the records will be provided
to the student. When a record contains information pertaining to other students, the student may
inspect and review only the information pertaining to student requesting the information.

If a student cannot commute a reasonable distance to inspect and review a record, a copy of the
record (as specified by FERPA) will be provided. A fee to cover copying and postage will be
assessed. Liberty University reserves the right to deny copies of records or transcripts in the
following situations:

The student has an unpaid financial obligation to the University
There is unresolved disciplinary action pertaining to the student
The student lives within a reasonable commuting distance to Liberty University

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