Microsoft Word - The Liberty Way FINAL[55].docx

Division of Student Affairs

Liberty University

Rev. 8/11/2023

The Liberty Way

Student Honor Code

2023-2024

2 
 
 
 
OUR SCHOOL ......................................................................................................................................................... 3 
STUDENT ROLE ..................................................................................................................................................... 3 
ACADEMIC HONOR .............................................................................................................................................. 4 
Computing Ethics .............................................................................................................................................. 5 
Unprofessional, Unethical, and Dangerous Behavior ........................................................................................ 6 
GENERAL CONDUCT ............................................................................................................................................ 7 
Self-Reporting and Amnesty ............................................................................................................................. 7 
Discrimination, Harassment, and Sexual Misconduct Policy ............................................................................. 8 
Substance Use and Prevention........................................................................................................................ 10 
Dress Guidelines ............................................................................................................................................. 11 
Entertainment Guidelines ................................................................................................................................ 12 
Statement on Sexuality and Relationships ....................................................................................................... 12 
Statement on Personal and Community Respect ............................................................................................. 12 
Purpose of Community Standards ................................................................................................................... 13 
Community Standards Processes ..................................................................................................................... 14 
Enforcement of Community Standards (General Conduct – Non-Academic) .................................................. 17 
Appeals of Violations (General Conduct – Non-Academic) ............................................................................ 19 
Sanctions ......................................................................................................................................................... 20 
Reapplication and Readmission ...................................................................................................................... 24 
Complaint Reporting ....................................................................................................................................... 24 
CARE TEAM .......................................................................................................................................................... 24 
CONVOCATION ................................................................................................................................................... 24 
LIVING OFF CAMPUS ......................................................................................................................................... 25 
Qualifications .................................................................................................................................................. 25 
Conduct ........................................................................................................................................................... 25 
COMMUNICATION ............................................................................................................................................. 25 
STUDENT RECORDS ........................................................................................................................................... 25 
Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA) ....................................................................... 25 
Record Expungement ...................................................................................................................................... 25 
TABLE OF CONTENTS 

Welcome to Liberty University! Since 1971, our mission as a university has been to provide a world-class educational

experience with a solid Christian foundation to equip men and women with the values, knowledge, and skills essential

for success in every aspect of life. With our unique heritage and expanding influence, Liberty is dedicated to preparing

students to succeed in their chosen profession and service to others as true Champions for Christ.

Jesus Himself summarized all the laws of the Old Testament in the Great Commandment. He said that we are to love

God with all of our heart, soul, and mind and to love our neighbors as ourselves. The goal of The Liberty Way (Student

Honor Code) is to encourage and instruct our students on how to love God through a life of service to others. The way

we treat each other in our community is a direct reflection of our love of God.

Liberty’s community guidelines come in various forms. Some are requirements from local, state, and federal laws that

must be obeyed by all. Some are based on Biblical mandates or principles that lead us to develop virtues characteristic

of a Champion for Christ. Others are simply preferences that promote deference to one another while living in the

university community. However, all are important for creating and maintaining the kind of university community we

seek to provide.

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 the Student Honor Code has evolved over time, it has served our

community well by articulating expectations of students and providing guidelines for life in a Christian educational

community. Liberty is our university and this is our Student Honor Code.

Students are responsible for knowing and complying with the terms of The Liberty Way (Student Honor Code). Students

are also responsible for reporting all circumstances which they believe constitute a major violation of the Student Honor

Code to the Office of Community Life or the Office of Residence Life. Intentional breach of the responsibility to report

major violations may result in a violation of the Student Honor Code. Every student should also give testimony or

evidence relevant to any alleged violation of the Student Honor Code, if requested.

For Student Honor Code purposes, a student is defined as any person who is admitted, enrolled, or registered for study

in any online or residential program at Liberty University for any academic period. Persons who are not officially

enrolled for a particular term, but who have a continuing student relationship with Liberty University (e.g., breaks or

gaps in course attendance that do not cause a break in enrollment) are also considered students for Student Honor Code

purposes until a degree is conferred or an official withdrawal is processed. Liberty University College of Osteopathic

Medicine (LUCOM) and the Liberty University School of Law (LUSOL) each have fully self-contained conduct codes

for students officially enrolled in a program under those schools.

The Student Honor Code is not a contract and does not create obligations that bind the university. The university

reserves the right to revise the Student Honor Code at any time and for any reason, including an informal amendment

to ensure fairness in its procedures.

Every student is expected to respect Liberty's Statement of Doctrine and Purpose and should avoid any activity, on or

off campus, which would contradict the university’s mission or purpose, compromise the testimony or reputation of

the university, or disrupt Liberty's Christian learning environment. All members of the Liberty University community

are asked to affirm the following:

"We have a responsibility to uphold the moral and ethical standards of Liberty University and personally

confront those who do not."

OUR SCHOOL

STUDENT

ROLE

Academic misconduct is considered conduct that undermines the academic integrity of Liberty University and

includes, but is not limited to, academic dishonesty, plagiarism, and falsification. All such conduct is a violation of the

Student Honor Code.

Academic Dishonesty Academic dishonesty involves a student’s attempt to improve someone’s academic standing

through dishonest means. It includes, but is not limited to:

•

Unauthorized collaboration on any work for the course

•

Contract Cheating: Any involvement in the outsourcing of coursework to a third-party

•

Using unauthorized aids of any kind to create coursework without permission from the instructor. Unauthorized aids

include, but are not limited to:

•

The coursework of others

•

Artificial Intelligence (AI) aids

•

Paraphrasing software

•

Any other aid that compromises the originality or authenticity of coursework

•

Any act that compromises exam integrity and/or violates exam protocols

•

Stealing, buying, receiving, selling or transmitting coursework of any kind

•

Sabotaging another student’s academic work

•

Facilitating or aiding in any act of academic dishonesty

Any student who knowingly assists in any form of academic dishonesty will also be considered responsible along with

the student who accepts such assistance.

Plagiarism

Plagiarism is the failure to give attribution to the words, ideas, images, or information of others on papers, projects or

any assignment prepared for a course. It includes, but is not limited to:

•

Failure to provide citation of sources

•

Improper citation of sources

•

Acquiring material of any kind and submitting it as one’s own work

•

Self-plagiarism: Submitting work previously used to fulfill academic requirements for any course at any

institution at any level, including Liberty University, without permission from a student’s current professor

Falsification

Falsification is the misrepresentation of the truth in an effort to improve academic standing. It includes, but is not limited to:

•

Fabricating or altering any document, grade, correspondence, credential, or assignment that provides false information to

the university for academic gain

•

Any creation or use of fabricated and/or misleading sources

•

Intentionally distorting data

•

Falsifying attendance and/or participation

Reporting and Appeal Process for Academic Misconduct

The Student Honor Code applies a preponderance of the evidence standard for determining whether an allegation of

academic misconduct occurred. The preponderance of the evidence standard means the allegation must be proven by

the greater weight of the evidence, in other words, a determination of what is more likely than not to have occurred.

The reporting procedure is as follows:

•

The instructor (or staff member, if applicable) will confront the student within a reasonable period of time

from when the suspected academic misconduct is discovered or reported. The instructor or staff member will

give the student an opportunity to respond to the alleged academic misconduct.

•

If the instructor or staff member determines, by a preponderance of the evidence, that academic misconduct

has occurred and the student is responsible, the instructor or staff member will file a report and impose the

appropriate academic sanction(s) based on a standardized rubric, which guides in determining the appropriate

ACADEMIC

HONOR

sanction based on the specific violation.

•

The instructor or staff member will notify the student via email of the decision regarding the alleged academic

misconduct and any imposed sanctions.

•

The Office of Community Life may also contact the student to further address the incident. The Office of

Community Life is not limited by academic departmental sanctions and may impose additional sanctions as

it determines to be consistent with The Student Honor Code.

A student may choose to appeal an instructor or staff member’s finding of academic misconduct and/or the sanction

imposed. That appeal process is as follows:

•

The student must submit a written appeal to the department chairperson or designee within seven days of

receiving the notification from the instructor or staff member of a finding of academic misconduct. The

student’s appeal should include any supporting documents and should clearly state the reason(s) (a) why the

student disagrees with the finding of academic misconduct and/or (b) why the student believes the sanction

imposed was inappropriate and what sanction the student believes would be appropriate, if any.

•

The department chairperson or designee will review the instructor or staff member's report and the student's

written appeal. The department chairperson or designee may (but is not required to) consult with the instructor

or staff member and/or student and may investigate further. The department chairperson will notify the

instructor or staff member and the student of the decision on the initial appeal via email.

•

The student may appeal the department chairperson’s decision to the associate dean or designee of the school

or college (e.g., School of Business, College of Arts and Sciences, etc.) within seven days of receiving the

department chairperson’s decision by stating, in writing, the reasons why the department chairperson’s

decision was incorrect or inappropriate. The associate dean or designee will review the student's second

written appeal, as well as the instructor or staff member's report, the department chairperson’s decision on the

student’s initial appeal, and any other relevant information. The associate dean will notify the department

chairperson, the instructor or staff member, and the student of the decision on the second appeal via email.

The decision of the associate dean on the second appeal is final and no further appeal is permitted.

•

Should any appeal result in a final decision of “no academic misconduct,” a report indicating such will be

forwarded to all appropriate parties and the student's record will be updated accordingly. A decision of “no

academic misconduct” will be considered a final academic determination and cannot be appealed by an

instructor or staff member. A decision to uphold the determination of academic misconduct and/or the

sanction may be referred to the Office of Community Life to proceed accordingly.

Computing Ethics

Many students will use Liberty University’s computing resources through classes that require such use, through on-

campus employment, and for other reasons. Liberty University strictly obeys copyright laws and licensure agreements

that govern computer software and web applications. No student should ever make unauthorized copies of university-

owned computer software or otherwise violate copyright laws.

Liberty University has established a Code of Computing Ethics and an Academic Computing Policy. Students using

the university’s computing resources are responsible for adhering to that code and that policy. If the instructor or the

campus employer who authorizes the student’s access to the university’s computer resources does not provide a copy

of that code and that policy, it is the student’s responsibility to ask for them.

Violation of the Code of Computing Ethics and Academic Computing Policy may also be a violation of the Student

Honor Code, subjecting a student to disciplinary action by Liberty University and may also lead to sanctions, including

a denial of future computing privileges. Violation of laws and license agreements may also subject a student to legal

action under applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations and private causes of legal action. If any action

by a student results in financial loss to Liberty University, damages and costs assessed to the university may also be

assessed to the student.

Unprofessional, Unethical, and Dangerous Behavior

Liberty University has a professional and ethical responsibility to evaluate students based on their ability to

successfully carry out the tasks associated with their degree and/or required licensure (if applicable). As such, the

faculty of Liberty University will not approve program completion and may suspend enrollment privileges for students

who demonstrate behaviors that may interfere with future professional competence. Liberty University reserves the

right to require a plan of remediation if any of the following apply:

•

The student demonstrates unprofessional or unethical conduct while acting as a representative of Liberty

University, in interactions with Liberty University faculty or staff, or while participating in an internship,

externship, or clinical experience for academic credit on or off campus.

•

The university determines that the student’s current emotional, mental, or physical well-being compromises the

integrity of the degree or licensure, or potentially places a person in harm’s way or in an unduly vulnerable

position.

Such actions constitute unprofessional, unethical, and/or dangerous behavior and may be violations of the Student

Honor Code. In any of these cases, a remediation plan will be formulated in conjunction with the appropriate dean or

associate dean, the student, and may include the Office of Community Life. The purpose of the remediation plan is to

assist students in correcting any deficits in their ability to successfully complete the requirements of their degree and/or

required licensure so that the students may successfully complete the program.

Remediation procedures can include actions such as repeating particular courses, obtaining personal counseling,

completing additional assignments, blocking enrollment privileges for some or all courses, and in some cases academic

or disciplinary suspension from Liberty University.

Life outside the classroom involves a significant amount of a student’s time and the university expects students to take

responsibility for their behavior and choices. When those choices violate the Student Honor Code, the university

administers discipline with love and grace. Liberty University policies are always in effect for students (as defined in

the “Student Role” section), including summer break and school breaks (e.g., weekends, holidays, fall break, Christmas

break, spring break, etc.). All students, whether residing on- or off-campus, are expected to abide by the guidelines

and standards of conduct outlined in the Student Honor Code until the student graduates or is no longer a student at

the university. Similarly, all student groups are expected to abide by these guidelines and standards. The university’s

disciplinary process is separate from the law enforcement process, and students who violate such laws that cover

conduct also prohibited by the Student Honor Code may be held responsible and face penalties under both processes.

The university may impose sanctions for violations of its policies even if governmental authorities choose to not

prosecute.

Self-Reporting and Amnesty

Liberty strongly encourages the reporting of violations of the Student Honor Code. The integrity of the process is

dependent upon the honesty of all involved. Sometimes, individuals are hesitant to report to Liberty officials or

participate in investigations of violations of this policy because they fear they themselves may be accused of policy

violations that may have been occurring at the time of the incident being investigated. To encourage reporting and

cooperative transparency, individuals who make good faith reports of their own violations of this policy and individuals

who participate in the investigation of violations will not be disciplined by Liberty for any violation of Liberty policies

in which they might have engaged in connection with the incident being investigated. There may be limited exceptions

as outlined in this section.

A Self-Reporting student is one who violates the Student Honor Code and Self-Reports that violation(s) to either the

Office of Community Life, the Office of Residence Life, or LUPD. A student(s) admitting to being involved in behavior

contrary to the Student Honor code after being asked by a staff or faculty member about their violation of the policy,

or during an investigation of the violating behavior to which they admit, is not a Self-Report under this policy.

Because Liberty wants to encourage students to take responsibility for wrongdoing and self-correct their behavior,

OCL will extend amnesty (impose no disciplinary sanction) for Self-Reports except in the limited circumstances

outlined in this section. Amnesty may also be provided in cases where a Self-Report is not present, at the discretion

of the university. In cases involving highly concerning behavior (e.g., significant alcohol or drug use), Liberty may

seek to have a conversation with individuals designed to reduce risk and promote health, safety, and well-being.

However, any recommended training or educational programming would be optional, non-disciplinary, and not

reflected on a student’s official records if not completed. In addition, Liberty may still pursue disciplinary action for

the alleged violation of Liberty policies in instances where any other individual is physically harmed by the connected

conduct constituting a violation of the Liberty policies, or where the connected conduct constitutes a felony or

Prohibited Conduct as defined by Liberty’s Sexual Misconduct Policy.

General eligibility requirements for amnesty for a Self-Report are as follows:

•

The violation admitted is not already under investigation by or reported to a Student Affairs staff member

•

A Self-Report has not already been processed for the student engaging in similar behavior during the current

semester (except in the case of a bystander of hazing incidents, as provided in the Statement on Personal and

Community Respect (Hazing), below)

When a student receives amnesty for a Self-Report, the university will offer discreet counsel and support to the student.

The information may be shared with Liberty University personnel as deemed appropriate. Outside of these limited

circumstances and measures, Liberty will not discipline an individual who makes a good faith Self-Report or is granted

amnesty for participating in an investigation for any violation of Liberty policies in which they might

GENERAL

CONDUCT

have engaged in connection with the incident being investigated.

Amnesty and the Sexual Misconduct Policy and the Nondiscrimination and Equal Opportunity Policies: To

encourage reporting and transparency, individuals who make a good faith report of Prohibited Conduct, and

individuals who participate in a Prohibited Conduct complaint resolution process with the OEC, will not be disciplined

by Liberty for any violation of Liberty policies in which they might have engaged in connection with the reported

incident, except in the limited circumstances outlined above in this section. Please refer to the Policies for more specific

information.

Pregnant Students: The Liberty University community promotes chastity for its unwed students, as well as promotes

life; accordingly, women who become pregnant and men whose sex acts result in conception will not receive a

disciplinary sanction under the Student Honor Code; however, they will be informed of the availability of the LU

Shepherd Office and Counseling and Psychological Services to assist students through this process.

Discrimination, Harassment, and Sexual Misconduct Policies

The Office of Equity & Compliance (OEC) enforces the university’s Nondiscrimination and Equal Opportunity Policy

and its Sexual Misconduct Policy (the “Policies”). The Policies prohibit Discrimination, Harassment (Non-Sexual),

Sexual Harassment, Sexual Violence, Sexual Exploitation, Stalking, Dating Violence, Domestic Violence,

Intimidation, False Reporting, Retaliation, and Complicity, as those terms are defined in the Policies (collectively, those

terms are referred to in the Policies as “Prohibited Conduct”). The Policies are incorporated herein by reference such

that a violation of either of the Policies also violates The Liberty Way. Prohibited Conduct is harmful to the well-being

of the university community and its members, the learning and working environment, and collegial relationships among

students, faculty, and employees. In accordance with the Policies and applicable laws, the OEC will promptly and

equitably respond to complaints and reports of Prohibited Conduct with measures designed to eliminate such misconduct,

prevent its recurrence, and remedy any adverse effects of the misconduct on individuals, members of the campus

community, and university-related programs and activities. All members of the university community, including

students, are strongly encouraged to read the university’s Nondiscrimination and Equal Opportunity Policy and the

Sexual Misconduct Policy and utilize available resources and support at the university and in the community.

Emergency medical assistance and campus safety/law enforcement assistance are available both on and off campus.

Additionally, several blue light call boxes are located throughout the campus to promote campus safety. Persons are

encouraged to contact law enforcement and/or seek medical treatment as soon as possible following an incident that

may pose a threat to safety or physical well-being and following a potential criminal offense.

To contact law enforcement:

Liberty University Police Department (“LUPD”)

Green Hall, Southwest Corner

1971 University Blvd Lynchburg, VA 24515

434.592.3911 (Emergency)

434.592.7641 (Non-Emergency) or, if off-campus:

Lynchburg Police Department

900 Court Street Lynchburg, VA 24504

911 (Emergency)

434.455.6050 (Non-Emergency)

To access on-campus confidential medical treatment, contact:

Liberty University Student Health Center (Operated by Central Virginia Family Physicians “CVFP” Medical Group)

Commons 3, Lower Level 1

1606 Regents Parkway

Lynchburg, VA 24515

434.338.7774 (Office)

Local hospitals can be contacted for confidential medical treatment:

CENTRA Lynchburg General Hospital 1901 Tate Springs Rd.

Lynchburg, VA 24501

434.200.3000 (Switchboard)

CENTRA Virginia Baptist Hospital 3300 Rivermont Ave.

Lynchburg, VA 24503

434.200.4000 (Switchboard)

To access confidential crisis counseling and community resources:

Sexual Assault Response Program (“SARP”)

YWCA

Lynchburg Office

1900 Tate Springs Rd., Suite B Lynchburg, VA 24501

434.947.7422 (Office)

888.947.7273 (24 Hour Confidential Hotline)

Veterans Crisis Line 800.273.8255

Students can access other confidential resources on-campus as follows:

Counseling and Psychological Services

Green Hall, Suite 1830 1971 University Blvd.

Lynchburg, VA 24515

434.582.2651 (Office)

Employees can access confidential resources off-campus through:

Employee Assistance Program (provided at no cost) The Hartford Ability Assist (“EAP”) 800.964.3577

For more information about the Policies or to report Prohibited Conduct, please consider the following options:

•

Visit the Office of Equity and Compliance in DeMoss Hall 1232

•

Call the Office of Equity and Compliance at (434) 592-4999

•

Text 4999 to the Office of Equity and Compliance at 24502 (reply text will give instructions)

•

Email the Office of Equity and Compliance at OEC@liberty.edu

•

Utilize the university’s SpeakUP! report process

Substance Use and Prevention

Liberty University prohibits the possession, use, manufacture, or distribution of alcoholic beverages, marijuana/THC,

tobacco, nicotine, illegal drugs (including drugs that are illegal under federal law but may be lawful under state law),

and non-prescribed controlled substances by its students. Also prohibited is the possession, use, or distribution of

prescription medication not prescribed to the student by a licensed medical physician and the abuse or distribution of

medication prescribed to the student by a licensed medical physician. Possession of drug paraphernalia is also

prohibited. All the foregoing applies on and off campus.

Violations under this section may result in disciplinary action, including a sanction of Non-Return, Suspension, or

Expulsion. Moreover, the possession, use, manufacture, or distribution of illegal drugs and non-prescribed controlled

substances, as well as the possession, use, manufacture, or distribution of alcoholic beverages, tobacco, and nicotine

by underage students, may also be crimes. Liberty University will cooperate with law enforcement authorities who are

charged with enforcing the relevant laws.

Regarding beverages labeled as “non-alcoholic,” students are encouraged to know and abide by common-sense

guidelines to avoid the appearance of impropriety. Activities inconsistent with these standards and guidelines are

violations of the Student Honor Code.

NOTE: Students enrolled in an online program (meaning they are specifically enrolled in the Liberty University Online

program, as opposed to being enrolled in online classes through the residential program) are not prohibited under the

Student Honor Code from lawful possession, use, manufacture, or distribution of alcoholic beverages, tobacco, or

nicotine off campus. However, any lawful possession, use, manufacture, or distribution of alcoholic beverages, tobacco,

or nicotine off campus by a student enrolled in an online program that causes another student (e.g., residential student)

to violate the Student Honor Code is prohibited and may result in disciplinary action.

Education

Liberty University recognizes that substance abuse is a serious problem, and the education of university community

members on the inherent dangers of substance use and abuse is an important aspect in addressing the problem. The

university incorporates educational information on substance use and abuse through campus-wide programming,

training modules, academic courses, Convocation, community resources, pastoral resources, and utilization of campus

mental and health-care professionals. Where appropriate, sanctions may include an educational component.

Counseling and Referral

Liberty University students who are at risk of substance abuse have access to counseling through Liberty’s Counseling

and Psychological Services and its programs, including local chapters of Celebrate Recovery. Counseling and

Psychological Services may also refer students to other healthcare agencies or counselors as needed. Any cost incurred

or insurance claims filed for outside services are the sole responsibility of the student.

Substance Use Testing Program

For the protection of its students and community, the university may test students for substance use. Substance use

testing includes testing for the aforementioned prohibited substances. Students must participate in and cooperate with

the university’s substance use testing program, which permits the substance use testing of any student. Students may

be randomly selected for testing or selected based on reasonable suspicion of use or possession. Methods of testing

include breath, hair, urine, or blood. The testing method is chosen by the one requiring the administration of the test. The

selection of the student for testing, whether random or based on reasonable suspicion of use or possession, has no bearing

on the selection of the testing method. A student testing positive on an initial substance use test may be subject to

subsequent mandatory substance use testing.

Failure to cooperate with the university's substance use testing program, which includes refusal to submit to a substance

use test at the designated time and place, will be viewed as non-compliance and may result in disciplinary action

against a student. Failure to achieve a negative substance use test (i.e., the absence of prohibited substance) may also

result in disciplinary action against a student. Such disciplinary action may include Suspension or Expulsion from the

university. Parents may be notified when students are under 21 years of age. Law enforcement authorities may also be

notified. Consistent with the law, a person administering a substance use test may communicate the student’s test results

to the Office of Community Life, or other relevant university office(s), for possible disciplinary action. Such

communications will comply with the law and seek to respect the student’s privacy to the extent possible to fulfill the

university’s responsibilities.

Any disciplinary action against a student could also involve academic penalties, including the possibility of loss of

credit for 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 relevant Liberty University catalog. Admission to and

enrollment at Liberty University does not exempt students from having the university's disciplinary and academic

penalties apply to them for actions taken while students, even when prohibited substance use may have been revealed

to the university prior to admission or enrollment.

Dress Guidelines

While the university recognizes that opinions vary considerably regarding what constitutes appropriate dress, the

university has established reasonable guidelines that students are required to follow while on campus.

Cleanliness, neatness, appropriateness, and modesty are the general guiding factors regarding dress. Though these dress

guidelines do not extend off campus, any form of dress that is deemed to be obscene, harmful, or compromising to

Liberty’s mission or purpose may result in a violation.

Resident Assistants (RAs), Resident Directors (RDs), Office of Community Life Associate Directors (ADs), as well as

other university employees will enforce dress guidelines and educate students regarding these guidelines.

Questions concerning the standard of dress should be directed to the Office of Community Life, which may make the

final determination as to appropriateness.

Dress for Men and Women

Students must dress modestly and appropriately at all times. Clothing should cover all aspects of the chest, mid-section

(including sides), and waist to approximately mid-thigh while on campus. See-through clothing should not be worn

without opaque clothing covering those body areas specified. Earrings and plugs may be worn in ears. Small studs/rings

may be worn in the nose. No other facial jewelry is permitted.

•

Class Dress is required in Convocation, class, and when visiting university academic and administrative

offices. Class dress should consist of footwear, long pants (including capri/cropped pants), and shirts. Women

may wear skirts or dresses that come to approximately mid-thigh (sitting or standing). Pants, skirts, and

dresses should not have rips or tears above mid-thigh that exposes skin.

•

Casual Dress is acceptable any time class dress is not required. Casual dress consists of class dress and/or

loose-fitting, shorts that come to approximately mid-thigh (sitting or standing), warm-ups, and footwear. Rips

or tears above mid-thigh must not expose skin. Swimming pool attire should be a modest swimsuit (Men:

shorts style swimsuit, not briefs. Women: one-piece or tankini, no bare midsection).

NOTE: Dress inconsistent with these guidelines are violations of the Student Honor Code. Individual colleges and

schools within Liberty University (e.g., the School of Business) may implement a more rigorous standard of dress for

students enrolled in their schools. Violations of such college- and school-specific dress codes also violate the Student

Honor Code. Liberty University Online (LUO) students are required to follow these guidelines while present on

university property.

Entertainment Guidelines

Liberty University maintains a conservative standard in its approach to the arts and entertainment.

•

Media and entertainment that is offensive to Liberty's standards and traditions (i.e., lewd lyrics, anti- Christian

message, sexual content, nudity, pornography, etc.) are not permitted on or off campus.

•

Resident Directors and Community Life Associate Directors (ADs) are available to give guidance and clarify

areas of confusion. Guidance and clarification should be sought in advance.

•

While industry ratings systems for movies, games, and other media generally are not reliable standards, they

can be helpful in identifying content. Movie, game, and other media content rated “X”, and “NC- 17”, and

video game content rated “A” are not permitted.

•

Caution should be used in viewing movie content rated “MA”, “R”, “PG-13”, and video game content rated

“M”.

•

Personal entertainment should not disrupt the academic environment of any residence hall. Noise of any kind

(including music, television and other electronic devices) in a resident room is considered too loud if it can

be heard in the hallway or outside.

•

The Division of Student Affairs will continue to develop guidelines and principles related to all forms of

entertainment.

NOTE: Activities inconsistent with these standards and guidelines are violations of the Student Honor Code.

Statement on Sexuality and Relationships

Liberty University is bound by its Doctrinal Statement and by the teaching of the traditional biblical definition of

gender, which is that humans are created by God either biologically male or female from the womb, as well as the

traditional biblical definition of marriage, which is that it is only between a natural-born man and a natural-born

woman. Statements and other conduct contravening this traditional biblical definition of gender or marriage are

inconsistent with the Liberty University Doctrinal Position and the Bible and are not permissible for members of the

university community. For example, sexual relations outside a biblically ordained marriage, romantic displays of

affection with a member of the same sex (e.g., hand-holding, kissing, dating, etc.), and actions confirming denial of

biological birth sex (e.g., asking to be referred to by pronouns inconsistent with one’s birth sex, using restrooms and

changing facilities reserved for persons other than one’s birth sex, etc.) are prohibited by The Liberty Way.

In personal relationships, students are encouraged to know and abide by common-sense guidelines to avoid the

appearance of impropriety. For example, students should avoid visiting alone with the opposite sex at an off-campus

residence, entering the residence hallway, quad, or on-campus apartment of the opposite sex or allowing the same, or

visiting any dwelling or residence with a member of the opposite sex in inappropriate circumstances. Additionally,

sexual misconduct, including sexual activity, inappropriate personal contact, any state of undress in inappropriate

circumstances, or spending the night with a member of the opposite sex are prohibited. Activities inconsistent with

these standards and guidelines are violations of The Liberty Way.

Statement on Personal and Community Respect

Respectful attitudes and behaviors should be afforded to all members of the university community, including respect

through proper acknowledgment of personal and professional positions. Failure to do so is a violation of the Student

Honor Code. Students are asked to observe academic courtesy with regard to all titles (e.g., Dr., Dean, Mr., Mrs.,

Miss). Students should not use first names when speaking to or about Liberty faculty or employees. Students are

expected to exercise proper decorum in the classroom and respect for university property.

Liberty University believes in the inherent value and dignity of all men and women as God has created them. We are

committed to treating everyone on our campus, including visitors for athletic competitions or some other purpose, with

respect, and we actively encourage all members of the university community to love others as Christ loves them.

Proper respect should also be shown from students to other students at all times. Vulgar comments (e.g., comments of

a sexual nature) and derogatory comments concerning a person’s protected status (e.g., religion, sex, race, etc.) will

not be tolerated. In addition to violating the Student Honor Code, such comments may also violate the Policy. Students

and student groups are expected to treat all members of the university community and guests in a spirit of Christian

love, mutual respect, and individual dignity.

Participation in bullying, hazing, and doxing is prohibited.

•

Bullying is the unwelcome, aggressive and repeated use of intimidation to force a more vulnerable person to do what

the bully desires or to harm a more vulnerable person. Bullying includes oral or written derogatory name-calling,

taunting, and threatening harm; social actions of spreading false rumors to damage a reputation, and causing extreme

embarrassment; and physical actions of hitting, kicking, spitting, tripping, pushing down, rude hand gestures, and

injuring or taking another’s property.

•

Hazing occurs when a student(s) endangers the health or safety or another student(s) or physically injures another

student(s) in connection with or for the purpose of initiation, admission, or affiliation with a student organization or

as a condition of continued membership in such organization. Further, hazing occurs even if the endangered or injured

student(s) participates voluntarily in the hazing activity. Consistent with the Self-Reporting/Amnesty section above,

students who report pre-planned hazing activity, hazing incidents in progress, or hazing incidents after the fact will

not be subject to disciplinary action for the hazing incident(s) itself or for alcohol and/or drug-related misconduct

(including association with another person engaged with these substances) that occurs in conjunction with the hazing

incident(s). While active participants and bystanders are generally eligible for amnesty under this section, only students

who are bystanders (non-participants in the hazing incident) are eligible for multiple extensions of amnesty under this

provision during the same semester.

•

Doxing is the publication through any format (e.g., oral, written, or online) of a person’s or group’s personally

identifiable information in an attempt to incite harassment or harm against the identified person or group. Doxing

involves but is not limited to, reporting or posting personal information such as employer information, place of

employment, place of worship, place of personal residence, or personal contact information with the intent to exact

revenge, impose punishment, or obtain justice through the use of the information by third parties.

•

Obstruction is a violation of the Student Honor Code. Behavior is considered obstruction when a student

or student group threatens or engages in other acts of retaliation against another person who acted in good

faith (honestly and with the intention of being fair) in reporting Student Honor Code violations, even if

reported mistakenly. Any report of alleged misconduct made in bad faith (knowingly making false reports

or inventing allegations) is also a violation of the Student Honor Code. Similarly, making false reports of

Prohibited Conduct under the Policy, as well as engaging in retaliation against any person for either reporting

Prohibited Conduct or participating in an investigation of Prohibited Conduct under the Policy, are strictly

prohibited.

Living as part of the university community is a privilege. All members of the university community are expected to

respect the rights of and give proper deference to others. Conduct that disrupts the university community’s living and

educational environment is not permitted and is a violation of the Student Honor Code, especially when the disruptive

conduct is contrary to the university’s Christian beliefs / mission and has the potential to influence another person in

such a manner.

Purpose of Community Standards

Liberty University’s community standards are designed to maintain an environment that supports the spiritual

development and academic success of its students. Enforcement of the community standards is intended to be

redemptive, restorative, and carried out with love and grace.

Restorative Practices

Restorative Practices refers to the multifaceted approach to conflict or disciplinary issues, which promotes holistic and

healing processes that encourage students to live peaceably in community with one another. Restorative Practices

include all those who are impacted by the behavior (responsible parties, harmed parties, and community members),

and focus on repairing the damage, as well as preventing future harms. Restorative Practices is comprised of a spectrum

of services, including Conflict Coaching, Mediation, and Restorative Conferences, which are facilitated through the

Office of Community Life.

•

Conflict Coaching is a means through which students experiencing conflict in the residence halls can use

student leadership as a resource for support in addressing and resolving low-level conflicts and disputes.

•

Mediation is a form of conflict resolution, which allows students to work through difficult situations or

disagreements with the assistance of a trained facilitator, who serves as a neutral third party.

•

Restorative Conferences are an alternative process of discipline for students that focus on helping students

learn from mistakes and repair harm caused to others by the violations committed. Restorative Conferences

involve a number of individuals, in addition to responsible parties, including victims and community

members, who work collaboratively to find effective ways to repair harms, restore trust, and prevent further

violations from occurring.

Participation in Restorative Practices is voluntary, and either party can request to end participation in Restorative

Practices at any time. Participation in Restorative Conferences involves signing a waiver to the standard Disciplinary

Resolution processes and sanctions. For more information about how Restorative Practices work, please contact the

Office of Community Life.

Community Standards Processes

There are three possible process options utilized by the Office of Community Life to enforce the Student Honor Code:

Restorative Conferences, Pathways, and Traditional Sanctioning.

•

Restorative Conferences refer to a community-based approach to conflict or disciplinary issues, which

promotes holistic and healing processes that encourage students to live peaceably in community with one

another. This process is most often utilized when the student accepts responsibility and harmed/affected

parties are easily identified. Restorative Practices include all those who are impacted by the behavior

(responsible parties, harmed parties, and community members), and focus on repairing the damage, as well as

preventing future harms.

•

Pathways provides the responsible student the opportunity to work with the Office of Community life to select

structured transformational sanctioning tailored to their specific situation. This process is most often utilized

when the student accepts responsibility, but no harmed/affected parties are easily identifiable.

•

Traditional Sanctioning will be used when Restorative Practices or Pathways are not appropriate. Traditional

Sanctions generally include a fine, community service, and the possibility of Non-Return, Suspension or

Expulsion but also may include other options. This process is most often utilized when a student is non-

cooperative with the investigative process, or when the investigation concludes with a finding of responsible

and the student does not accept responsibility.

Points and Violations

Sanctions for Student Conduct Code violations are determined based upon the following system. The violations below

are not limited to any parenthetical examples provided, rather the examples are used to help provide clarity. If a student

feels any of the listed sanctions lack clarity, they should contact the Office of Community Life.

NOTE: Fines and Community Service do not apply to students enrolled in the Liberty University Online program (as

distinct from students in the Liberty University Residential program taking online classes.

Point

•

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

•

Absence from Convocation (NOTE: The first two unexcused absences from Convocation will result in a

$25 fine per absence. Subsequent unexcused absences will result in a $50 fine per absence.)

Appeals for Convocation violations must be submitted to the respective RD, Community Life

representative, or Student Life representative through the link provided in the notification email within 48

hours of notification of a decision. The RD, Community Life representative, or the Student Life

representative will uphold, modify, or overturn the violation(s) and or sanction(s). The decision will be

final.

Point

•

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

5 Points (May Include a $15 Fine)

•

Absence from or disturbances in a required meeting (e.g., hall meeting, disciplinary proceeding, etc.)

•

Disturbance in/leaving early from Convocation

•

Dress code violation

•

Failure to respond to Student Affairs official correspondence within 48 hours

•

Improper sign-out

•

Curfew violation other than late for curfew

•

Possession and/or use of tobacco/nicotine (LUO students see note under Substance Use and Prevention)

•

Use of e-cigarettes or vaping (LUO students see note under Substance Use and Prevention)

•

Illegal Gambling

•

Attendance at a dance

•

Violation of the Entertainment Guidelines (may be considered a 5-15-point violation depending upon

severity)

•

Minor violation of the Statement on Sexuality and Relationships (may be considered a 5-10-point

violation depending upon severity)

•

Violation of the Statement on Personal and Community Respect

Appeals for 1- to 5-point offenses must be submitted to the respective RD, Community Life representative, or

to the Student Appeals Court through the link provided in the notification email within 48 hours of notification

of a decision. The RD, Community Life representative, or the Student Appeals Court will uphold, modify, or

overturn the violation(s) and or sanction(s). The decision will be final.

10 Points (May Include a $50 Fine)

•

Deception

•

Minor violation of the Statement on Sexuality and Relationships (may be considered a 5-10-point

violation depending upon severity)

•

Violation of the Entertainment Guidelines (may be considered a 5-15-point violation depending upon

severity)

•

Violation of the Statement on Personal and Community Respect

Appeals for 10-point offenses must be submitted to the respective RD, Community Life representative,

or the Student Appeals Court through the link provided in the notification email within 48 hours of

notification of a decision. The RD, Community Life representative, or the Student Appeals Court will

uphold, modify, or overturn the violation(s) and/or sanction(s). The decision will be final.

15 Points (May Include a $150 Fine and/or 15 Hours of Community Service)

•

Academic misconduct, including dishonesty, plagiarism, or falsification

•

Commission or conviction of a misdemeanor

•

Falsification of information on an official document (including residence hall sign-out sheet)

•

Failure to properly identify oneself

•

Obstruction or making bad-faith claims of misconduct

•

Participation in a social gathering where alcohol is served (e.g., party, bar, nightclub, etc.) (LUO students

see note under Substance Use and Prevention)

•

Obscene, profane, or abusive language or behavior

•

Possession of drug paraphernalia

•

Violation of the Entertainment Guidelines (may be considered a 5-15-point violation depending upon

severity)

•

Violation of the Statement on Sexuality and Relationships (may be a 15-30-point violation depending

upon severity)

•

Threat to do bodily harm to others

•

Violation of the Statement on Personal and Community Respect

•

Violation of the Discrimination, Harassment, and Sexual Misconduct Policy (may be considered a 15-30-

point violation depending upon severity)

•

Theft (plus financial restitution and/or return)

•

Vandalism or property damage (plus financial restitution)

Appeals for 15-point offenses must be submitted to the Associate Dean of Students or to the Student

Appeals Court through the link provided in the notification email within 48 hours of notification of a

decision. The Associate Dean of Students or the Student Appeals Court will uphold, modify, or overturn

the violation(s) and/or sanction(s). The decision will be final.

30 Points (May Include a $300 Fine, 30 Hours of Community Service, and/or Possible Suspension or Expulsion)

•

Severe or recurring academic misconduct violation, including dishonesty, plagiarism, or falsification

•

Commission or conviction of any felony

•

Violation of the Discrimination, Harassment, and Sexual Misconduct Policy (may be considered a 15-30-

point violation depending upon severity)

•

Violation of the Statement on Sexuality and Relationships (may be a 15-30-point violation depending

upon severity)

•

Life-threatening behavior or language towards others (possible immediate removal/exclusion from

campus

•

Violation of the Statement on Personal and Community Respect

•

Non-participation in classes or extended absence from university community without notice

•

Disruption to university community

•

Non-compliance with a directive of any university representative, Disciplinary Probation or Behavioral

Plan

•

Possession, use, manufacture, or distribution of illegal drugs or non-prescribed controlled substances or

involvement with another person engaged in any of these acts

•

Possession or consumption of alcoholic beverages (LUO students see note under Substance Use and

Prevention)

•

Refusal to submit to an Alco-Sensor test or substance use test, as directed by a university representative

•

Procuring, financing, facilitating, or obtaining an abortion

•

Stealing or possession of stolen property (plus financial restitution)

•

Unauthorized possession or use of weapons

•

Violation of Liberty University’s Weapons Policy

•

Conduct inconsistent with Liberty’s mission or purpose that compromises the testimony or reputation of

the university, or disrupts Liberty’s Christian learning environment

Appeals for 30-point offenses (when Non-Return, Suspension, or Expulsion is not imposed) must be submitted

to the Dean of Students or to the Student Appeals Court through the link provided in the notification email

within 48 hours of notification of a decision. The Dean of Students or the Student Appeals Court will uphold,

modify, or overturn the violation(s) and/or sanction(s). The decision will be final. Appeals for 30-point offenses

(when Non- Return, Suspension, or Expulsion is imposed) must be submitted to the Executive Vice President

for Student Affairs (EVPSA) or the Judicial Review Board (JRB) through the link provided in the notification

email within 48 hours of notification of a decision (see the appeals section for further explanation of the JRB). If

a request is made for the EVPSA to decide the appeal in place of the JRB, the EVPSA will determine whether

to decide the appeal or refer it to a JRB. The EVPSA or the JRB will uphold, modify, or overturn the violation(s)

and or sanction(s). The decision of the appellate body will be final.

For On-Campus living guidelines that are not part of the Student Conduct Code point system, please

refer to the On-Campus Living Guide. The On-Campus Living Guide is governed by the Office of

Residence Life.

NOTE: For students who fail to complete, or choose not complete, community service, fines will be

issued as follows: 15 hours = $150.00 fine; 30 hours = $300.00 fine. Any student who violates

disciplinary probation may not be allowed to return for the following semester.

Enforcement of Community Standards (General Conduct – Non-Academic)

What is the evidentiary standard?

All student conduct disciplinary proceedings, including appeals, use a preponderance of the evidence standard

following a review of all the available information and evidence to determine whether a violation of the Student Honor

Code occurred. A preponderance of the evidence is the greater weight of the evidence or, in other words, a determination

of what is more likely than not to have occurred.

What happens if a student is charged with a violation?

Any student who is reported for a violation of the Student Honor Code (also sometimes referred to during the process

as the "respondent") for which the student could, if found responsible, receive a sanction of 0-10 points will be notified

by the appropriate Student Affairs staff member. The Student Affairs staff will provide opportunity for the respondent

to provide a response to the alleged violation. Student Affairs may also contact any identified complainants or

witnesses. Violations that carry 0-10 points are generally adjudicated solely by an RD (within Residence Life) or an

AD (within Community Life).

For an alleged violation that could result in a sanction of 15 or more points, the student who is reported for the violation

of the Student Honor Code will meet with the appropriate Office of Community Life Associate Director (AD). For all

credible reports of an alleged violation(s), regardless of the potential point sanction, the student will receive notice of

the alleged violation(s) and be given an opportunity to respond to the allegation(s). The AD or Student Affairs staff

member, depending on the level of the alleged violation, will investigate the alleged violation(s). Other Student Affairs

staff members may assist in the investigation. In the event that a student under investigation for alleged Student Honor

Code violation(s) is deemed to pose a potential risk to the campus community, the student under investigation may be

restricted from living on campus, attending class, and/or being present on campus. The university will seek to impose

such restrictions in the manner that has the least effect on the student’s education while addressing the risk. If a student

is required to move off campus, the student may be responsible for the costs of relocation and off-campus housing.

Following the investigation for alleged violations that could result in 15-or 30-point violations, the AD or Student

Affairs staff member will proceed as follows:

•

For 15-point violations, if the AD or Student Affairs staff member determines, by a preponderance of the

evidence, that a violation occurred, the AD or Student Affairs staff member will schedule a follow-up meeting

with the student to notify the student of the outcome of the investigation, the sanction(s), if any, and the appeal

process. The student will also receive written notification via email. The AD or Student Affairs staff member

is a sole decider for 15-point violations.

•

Some 30-point violations may be adjudicated solely by the AD at the discretion of the Dean of Students or

designee. These are generally less egregious violations that do not involve multiple students. For most 30-

point violations, a Conduct Review Committee (CRC), comprised of members of the Office of Community

Life, will consider the facts and relevant information and make a determination as to whether, by a preponderance of the

evidence, the student violated the Student Honor Code. The student does not have a right to attend the CRC. The AD

endeavors to give students an opportunity to review and respond to the evidence that will be considered

by the CRC before it meets, where possible, but such an opportunity is not required. The student is

encouraged to provide a statement for record and any supplemental letters of references or documentation

for the CRC to consider. The CRC will rely on the facts and relevant information gathered during the

investigation. If the CRC determines that a violation occurred, the AD will schedule a follow-up meeting

to notify the student of the outcome of the investigation, the sanction(s) (if any), and the appeal

process. The student will also receive written notification via email.

Parents or legal guardians may be notified of a student's conduct process and any violations and/or sanctions, including

Suspension or Expulsion.

What happens with a sanction of Non-Return, Suspension, or Expulsion?

Non-Return and Suspension are generally defined in the Student Honor Code as a separation from the university for a

defined period of time (generally one or two semesters), after which the student may be eligible to reapply for

admission to the university. Expulsion is generally defined in the Student Honor Code as an indefinite separation from

the university without an opportunity to reapply or enroll in courses.

If the CRC imposes a sanction of Non-Return, Suspension, or Expulsion, an Associate Director for Community Life (or

designee) will communicate the decision to the student in writing. The student has 48 hours after receiving notification

of a decision to appeal, in accordance with the instructions for appeal below. If the student waives the right to appeal

and accepts the determination of responsibility and/or the sanction(s), the student will follow the procedures required

to process the determination. The student may also choose to accept the determination of responsibility but appeal the

sanction(s).

Once the student accepts a sanction of Non-Return, Suspension, or Expulsion by not filing an appeal or after a final

sanction of Non-Return, Suspension, or Expulsion has been imposed following all appeals, the student will have no

more than 48 hours from notification of the decision to leave the university unless the student receives permission

otherwise from OCL in writing. For example, a Non-Return in lieu of Suspension allows a student to complete the

semester in which the sanction of Suspension was provided. At that time, the student will generally also be issued a

campus ban by LUPD. A banned student may not enter the campus property without first contacting LUPD to request

for the ban to be lifted temporarily for a given purpose and LUPD agreeing in writing to the request. The student may

be required to vacate campus sooner if the student is considered by the university to be a disruption to the campus

community or a safety threat. When Suspension or Expulsion occurs during a semester, all academic work is lost for the

semester except classes that have been completed before the time the decision is imposed.

Students have the option to appeal any violations and/or sanctions provided, including those of Non-Return, Suspension,

or Expulsion. The appeals process is outlined below. If a student appeals, they should continue to engage in academic

and extracurricular activities as they normally would (unless instructed otherwise by their Associate Director or LUPD

throughout the appeals process).

Applications for academic re-admission to Liberty University for all students, including those who have been

suspended, are subject to administrative review. Following a Non-Return, Suspension, the student must have been absent

from the university for at least the designated period of time and have fulfilled any conditions before such an application

will be approved. Re-admission to the university is not guaranteed.

Appeals of Violations (General Conduct – Non-Academic)

An appeal of a violation of the Student Honor Code is not a rehearing of the evidence of a case, and the Dean of

Students, the Associate Dean of Students, the Student Appeals Court, the Student Affairs Representative(s), the

Judicial Review Board (JRB), or the Executive Vice President for Student Affairs (EVPSA) (collectively, “the

appellate body”) do not generally substitute their determination for that of the AD, the Student Affairs staff member, or

the CRC (with the specific appellate body depending on the level of the alleged violation and potential sanction).

Rather, the appeal is the student's (or student group’s) opportunity to have the procedures of the investigation or the

determination (including sanctions) evaluated for fairness based on the certain grounds of appeal set forth below. All

requests for appeals must be provided in writing, which includes email, and must include an explanation of how one

or more of the grounds for appeal apply. Students should submit all information and evidence supporting the ground(s)

for appeal within their appeal. Failure to articulate at least one of the grounds for appeal may result in the requested

appeal being denied without a hearing. Students have the opportunity to appeal any violations and/or sanctions. To

make a valid appeal, students must comply with all instructions from the university. A summary of those instructions

and processes is as follows:

•

The deadline to submit an appeal is 48 hours from notification of the decision, and hours are counted on every

calendar day, not just business days or school days.

•

The appeal must clearly state in writing at least one of the following three grounds for appeal:

–

There was a procedural error that prevented a fair, impartial, or proper investigation or CRC (i.e.,

affecting the outcome of a case) that materially affected the determination.

–

The disciplinary sanction(s), in consideration of the student's prior conduct history and other relevant

information, are not fair and/or consistent with the violation.

–

New evidence introduced as part of the appeal that was unavailable at the time of the investigation or

CRC and could not have reasonably been made available, and which could have reasonably affected

the outcome in favor of the student appealing.

•

The appeal must contain an explanation, including any information and evidence, supporting the stated

ground(s) for appeal.

•

If the student making the appeal received a sanction of Non-Return, Suspension, or Expulsion the student should

indicate in the written appeal whether he or she requests the appeal to be determined by the JRB or by the

EVPSA. If the student does not expressly request an appeal to the EVPSA, the default appeal is to a JRB.

Students may request, but they are not guaranteed, an appeal to the EVPSA who may deny the student’s

request for appeal.

•

As a preliminary matter, on all appeals, the EVPSA, or designee, will first determine whether the student has

stated at least one ground for appeal so that the appeal will be taken. Appeals that do not state at least one of

the above grounds for appeal may be automatically denied. Where a student requests the EVPSA to take the

appeal, the EVPSA will next determine if he will decide the appeal or not. If the EVPSA chooses not to take

the student’s request for appeal, the appeal will be automatically submitted to the JRB. For all appeals, the

student will be notified in writing whether the appeal will be taken and who will decide it. If the appeal is

taken, the student will also be notified of the date, time, and location of the appeal hearing (if a hearing is

granted). Although the JRB will always conduct an appeal hearing, the EVPSA reserves the option of deciding

appeals based only on a written submission without an appeal hearing.

•

On appeal, the appellate body will consider all information and evidence relevant to the appeal and will

determine, by a preponderance of the evidence, whether each ground for appeal was met. If the appellate body

finds that no ground for appeal was met, the determination and any sanction(s) will be upheld. If a ground for

appeal is found to be met, the appellate body will determine an appropriate outcome.

•

The outcome of the appeal is final, and no further appeal is available.

•

The appealing student will be notified in writing of the final determination, and the university will update the

student’s education records, as necessary, to reflect the outcome.

Appeals to the Judicial Review Board and Requests for Appeal to the Executive Vice President for Student Affairs

Once the EVPSA, or designee, determines that an appeal will be taken, appeals by students who have received a

sanction of Suspension or Expulsion will generally be heard by the Judicial Review Board (JRB). Appeals by students

who have received a sanction of Non-Return or Non-Return in lieu of Suspension will generally be reviewed by the

EVPSA. The JRB will be comprised of three faculty members approved by the Provost, along with two students who

represent the Student Government Association who are approved by the EVPSA. In instances where a JRB cannot be

formed, all appeals will route to the EVPSA. The EVPSA, or designee, will chair the JRB. The chairperson is a non-

voting member of the JRB. The Office of Community Life will provide the JRB with a summary of the incident, along

with a background report of the student’s behavioral record, and will present the facts and evidence revealed through

its investigation to the JRB. For appeals heard by the JRB, the JRB will make its decision by majority vote using a

preponderance of the evidence standard of review. For appeals heard by the EVPSA, the EVPSA considers all of the

same information and evidence as the JRB and the EVPSA serves as the sole decider of the student’s appeal.

The JRB or the EVPSA may examine the circumstances and details of the incident. Accordingly, the JRB or the EVPSA

may also, but are not required to, hear testimony, review the new evidence previously unavailable that is presented,

and call any witnesses deemed necessary to make a fair decision. The JRB or the EVPSA will consider all information

and evidence relevant to the appeal and will determine, by a preponderance of the evidence, whether each ground for

appeal was met. If the JRB or the EVPSA finds that no ground for appeal was met, the determination of a violation

and any sanction(s) will be upheld. If a ground for appeal is found to be met by the JRB or the EVPSA, the JRB or the

EVPSA will determine an appropriate outcome and/or sanction consistent with the ground(s) for appeal met and then

submit a final report indicating the findings and appropriate outcome and/or sanction(s). In the final report, the JRB or

the EVPSA will either uphold, modify, or overturn the prior outcome and/or sanction(s). The JRB or the EVPSA may

also modify conditions required for readmission or return (which may include considering an early return or the ability

to continue studies online).

In appeals to the JRB the EVPSA in which at least one ground for appeal was found to be met, the EVPSA, or designee,

will communicate the final determination by the JRB or the EVPSA to the student in writing. If the JRB or the EVPSA

decides to overturn the decision, the violation and any sanction(s) will be removed from the s0tudent’s records.

Sanctions

As previously stated, enforcement of community standards, through the use of sanctions, is intended to be redemptive,

restorative, and carried out with love and grace. The university seeks to use sanctions to provide students with

opportunities to learn from past choices to help them best understand how to engage in the university’s unique culture

and its surrounding community.

When a student or student group is ultimately found responsible for violating the Student Honor Code, the RD, Office

of Community Life Associate Directors, the Associate Dean of Students, the Dean of Students, the Student Appeals

Court, the Conduct Review Committee (CRC), the Judicial Review Board (JRB), or the Executive Vice President for

Student Affairs (EVPSA) (each hereinafter referred to as a “sanctioning body”) may impose one or more sanctions.

The sanctioning body may include any of the sanctions that are listed below, as well as any sanctions that are set forth

in other applicable university policies or conduct codes.

Sanctions may include educational, restorative, rehabilitative, and punitive components. Some violations, however,

are so egregious in nature, harmful to the individuals involved, or deleterious to the educational process that a severe

sanction, such as Non-Return, Suspension, or Expulsion, is required. Moreover, when a violation is determined to be

motivated by a legally-protected status (e.g., race, religion, gender, disability, and national origin), the sanction may be

more severe.

The sanctioning body may request additional information from the respondent(s), which may be a student or a student

group, and anyone who can provide information relevant to its determination of an appropriate sanction. In determining

an appropriate sanction, the sanctioning body may consider the following factors:

•

the nature and level of violence of the conduct at issue;

•

the impact of the conduct on those injured or damaged, and other individuals;

•

the impact or implications of the conduct on the community or the university;

•

whether the conduct was motivated by another person’s membership in a legally protected class;

•

prior misconduct by the respondent, including the respondent’s relevant prior discipline history, both at the

university and elsewhere (if available), including criminal convictions;

•

whether the respondent has accepted responsibility for the conduct;

•

whether the respondent cooperated with the university’s investigation;

•

maintenance of a safe and respectful environment conducive to learning;

•

protection of the university community and property; and

•

any other mitigating, aggravating, or compelling circumstances useful in reaching a just and appropriate

resolution in each matter.

Sanctions may be imposed by the sanctioning body or other departments within the university, individually or in

combination with other sanctions. For determinations of responsibility for violations of the Student Honor Code, the

following sanctions may be imposed:

•

Loss of Funding - The University may withhold funding for a definite or indefinite period of time (for student

groups only)

•

Deactivation - Loss of all rights and privileges, including university recognition, for a definite or indefinite

period of time (for student groups only)

•

Warning - A formal admonition, which appears in the student's disciplinary record at the university and may

be disclosed by the university when the student consents in writing or as otherwise required or when permitted

by law

•

Written Apology - Submission of a written apology for the violation and the harm caused to other persons,

groups, and entities. The written apology will be submitted through the university, rather than directly to the

recipient(s)

•

Points - Residential students may be assigned up to 30 points for a violation of The Liberty Way (for students

only)

•

Community Service - Community service work for a church or other non-profit organization for a prescribed

number of hours. Any incomplete hours may be converted to fines at a rate of $10 per hour.

•

Educational Assignments and Programs - Required participation in educational programs, or the completion

and submission of educational assignments (e.g., essays)

•

Failing Grade - A failing grade for an individual assignment or in a class as a result of academic misconduct

(for students only)

•

Monetary Penalties - Fines payable to Liberty University. Fees payable as restitution to damaged person(s),

groups, and entities submitted through the university

•

Restriction of Access to Space, Resources, and Activities - Restrictions placed on a student or student

group’s access to space and/or resources or on participation in activities. Student groups may also be restricted

from certain rights and privileges, such as the recruitment of new members. Campus Restrictions may be

utilized outside of a discipline process.

•

Removal or Reassignment of University Housing - Removal from university housing or reassignment to a

different location within university housing (for students only)

•

Recovery Program - Required completion of a recovery program, such as a 12-Step Celebrate Recovery

program or another similar program approved by the university

•

Disciplinary Probation - Disciplinary probation is a more serious admonition applied upon accumulation of

30+ points and is in effect until the end of the next semester in attendance. Students placed on disciplinary

probation may receive a Judicial Housing (JD) hold which may restrict the student from moving off campus

during the probation period. Students living off campus at the time they receive disciplinary probation may

be required to move on campus during the probation period. One consequence of disciplinary probation is

that any future policy violation, of whatever kind, during that time, may be grounds for a violation for non-

compliance, which may lead to Non-Return, Non- Return in lieu of Suspension, Suspension, or Expulsion

from the university. Disciplinary probation will be taken into account in judging the seriousness of any

subsequent infraction, even if the probationary period has expired. A student on disciplinary probation may not

run for or hold an office in the Student Government Association until the student is no longer on probation.

Disciplinary probation appears in a student’s disciplinary record at the university and may be disclosed by the

university when the student consents in writing or as otherwise required or when permitted by law.

•

Suspension – Student status at the university may be indefinitely and immediately terminated for a

minimum specified period during which the student may not enroll in any residential classes or intensives

(even during a summer term) but, at the option of the sanctioning body, may or may not enroll in online

classes. Suspensions are generally either or the shorter of one semester or six months, or for the shorter of

two semesters or one calendar year, at minimum. Re-admission may or may not be conditioned upon

fulfilling certain conditions listed by the sanctioning body. These conditions may include, but are not

limited to, restitution of damages, completion of a recovery program, community service, payment of a

fine, and written apology. Relevant information remains in the student’s disciplinary record at the

university and may be disclosed by the university when the student consents in writing or as otherwise

required or when permitted by law (for students only). If a student accepts the CRC’s sanction of

Suspension or if the JRB or EVPSA upholds the Suspension on appeal, the student typically will need to

move out of the residence hall within 48 hours of the final decision. The student may be required to leave

sooner if the student is considered by the university to be a disruption to the campus community or a safety

threat. When the Suspension occurs during a semester, all academic work is lost for the semester except

classes that have been completed before the time the decision is imposed.

•

Non-Return – Student status at the university may be indefinitely terminated with a specified period after

which the student may apply for re-admission or enroll in classes. Re-admission may or may not be

conditioned upon fulfilling certain conditions listed by the sanctioning body. These conditions may include

but are not limited to, restitution of damages, completion of a recovery program, community service, payment

of a fine, and written apology(ies). Relevant information remains in the student’s disciplinary record at the

university and may be disclosed by the university when the student consents in writing or as otherwise required

or when permitted by law (for students only).

•

Non-Return in lieu of Suspension – Student status at the university may be indefinitely terminated for a

minimum specified period of time that begins at the end of the current academic semester, during which period

of time the student may not enroll in any residential classes or intensives (even during a summer term) but, at

the option of the sanctioning body, may or may not be permitted to enroll in online classes. The student is

permitted to complete the current academic semester. Re-admission may or may not be conditioned upon

fulfilling certain conditions listed by the sanctioning body. These conditions may include but are not limited

to, restitution of damages, completion of a recovery program, community service, payment of a fine, and

written apology(ies). Relevant information remains in the student’s disciplinary record at the university and

may be disclosed by the university when the student consents in writing or as otherwise required or when

permitted by law (for students only).

•

Expulsion – Indefinite and permanent separation of a student without the opportunity to reapply for admission

or enroll in residential or online classes.

•

Campus Ban – The withdrawal of any permission for the student to enter upon the property maintained by

Liberty University and used for university operations or purpose. Students with Campus Bans who enter the

property are subject to arrest and prosecution for trespass, Campus Bans are administered by the Liberty

University Police Department (LUPD). A student with a campus ban may not enter Liberty’s campus property

without first contacting LUPD to request for the ban to be lifted temporarily for a given purpose and LUPD

agreeing in writing to the request. Campus Bans may be put in place for various reasons, including campus

safety, Non-Return, Suspension, or Expulsion from the university.

•

Transcript Notation - In accordance with Virginia Code Section 23.1-900 and Liberty’s Discrimination,

Harassment, and Sexual Misconduct Policy, Liberty University will make a prominent notation on the

academic transcript of each student who has been suspended or expelled or has withdrawn from the university

while under investigation for an offense involving “Sexual Violence” under Virginia law, under this policy,

or under the university’s Discrimination, Harassment, and Sexual Misconduct Policy. The notation will be

removed once the respondent is found not responsible or has otherwise been determined to be in good standing

by the university (i.e., the process for applying for, and returning to, good standing for offenses involving

sexual violence is different than the re-admission processes).

•

Revocation or Withholding of Degree - The University reserves the right to revoke or withhold the award

of academic degrees. If the violation is found to have occurred before graduation and during the time the

student applied to, or was enrolled at the university, but a complaint was not filed prior to graduation, the

degree may be revoked. If the violation occurred prior to a student graduating and is under investigation, the

university may postpone the awarding of a degree pending the outcome of the investigation and imposition

of appropriate disciplinary sanctions (for students only).

•

Other Sanctions - Any other sanction not listed above, as determined appropriate under the circumstances.

Sanctions will be imposed immediately, except in the case of separation from the university pursuant to a Non- Return

or Non-Return in Lieu of Suspension sanction. In matters adjudicated prior to the last day of classes, if the final sanction

is separation from the university (e.g., Suspension or Expulsion), the granting of credit for the

semester and/or the awarding of a degree will be at the discretion of the university. The imposition of sanctions by the

sanctioning body is final and is not subject to further review.

Reapplication and Readmission

A student who has received a sanction of Non-Return or Suspension may contact the Office of Admissions to begin the

reapplication process. In considering an application for readmission, Enrollment Management will request that the

student provide a thorough account of the actions that led to the student’s Suspension from the university and the

student’s strategy for successful continuance at the university. Enrollment Management will also look to see whether

the minimum term of Suspension has been served and whether other conditions for return, if any, have been met.

Additionally, a letter of recommendation from a pastor, counselor, or civic leader, along with a letter of

recommendation from the student’s parent(s) or legal guardian(s) (if the student is less than 21 years of age), should

be submitted. Readmission to the university will be subject to any stipulations made by the Dean of Students in

consultation with the Office of Community Life and/or CARE and Support. Reapplication does not guarantee

readmission. If readmission is granted, the Office of Admissions will contact the student with its decision.

Complaint Reporting

All complaints regarding violations of the Student Honor Code should be submitted via Beacon. The complainant will

be encouraged to complete an official “Statement for Record” detailing the information relevant to his or her complaint.

The Dean of Students, the Executive Vice President for Student Affairs, and/or a designated representative will review

the complaint.

The Liberty University CARE Team (Collaborate, Assess, Resource, Empower) promotes the safety and well-being

of the Liberty community by partnering with community members to identify students who may be in need of timely

support. In an effort to prevent self-harm or injury to others, the Team helps students navigate challenges that inhibit

their success, by collaborating with other university departments to provide access to appropriate on and off campus

resources. University community members are encouraged to submit referrals for concerning student situations and

behaviors via the CARE Referral form.

For additional information, please visit www.liberty.edu/CARE.

Green Hall 1845

(434) 592-5638

CARE@liberty.edu

Convocation is an assembly of the university community and its purpose is to develop campus unity, disseminate

information, and challenge students spiritually, socially, morally, civically, 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 and performers from the worlds of business, politics, education, religion,

athletics, entertainment, and the sciences also help to make Convocation a refreshing and challenging time. All students

are required to attend Convocation and remain present until dismissed. Students are permitted one “skip” per semester.

All students assigned to a section with an RA, must inform the RA of their intent to use the skip before Convocation.

LUO students are encouraged, but not required, to attend via on online streaming platform.

CARE TEAM

CONVOCATION

Qualifications

To qualify for living off campus, students must either be 21 years of age or older by December 31 to live off campus

for the fall semester or by May 31 to live off campus for the spring semester, or be living with a parent or with a sibling

who is at least 21 years of age.

Conduct

Students who live off campus are expected to abide by the Student Honor Code. Living off campus is a privilege that

may be revoked at the discretion of the Office of Community Life. Students who repeatedly violate the Student Honor

Code may be required to move back on campus immediately. Such students are responsible for the costs of relocation

and campus housing that result from their off-campus housing privilege being revoked.

Liberty student e-mail accounts are the official means of communication for the Liberty University community, and

students are expected to check their e-mail account on a daily basis. The university is not responsible for information

that students do not receive as a result of not checking their e-mail account regularly. Students are also expected to

visit the Liberty University Splash Page regularly for official announcements and information.

Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA)

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) of 1974, as amended, sets forth requirements pertaining to

the privacy of a student’s education records. FERPA governs the release of such education records maintained by an

educational institution, such as Liberty University, as well as the access to those education records. For detailed

information on FERPA, visit the webpage for the Registrar’s Office.

Students may inspect and review their education records, including disciplinary records, by submitting a written request

to the Office of Community Life. The university will comply with this request within 45 days of receiving the request.

When an education record contains information pertaining to other students, the student may inspect and review only

the information pertaining to the student requesting the information, and the information pertaining to other students

will be redacted.

Record Expungement

At Liberty University, current and former students have the ability to request that their student conduct record, in full,

be expunged. If a student conduct record is expunged, it is completely removed from the records maintained by the

Office of Community Life (OCL). For current students whom have not yet graduated, records may be sealed until

graduation, at which time they would be expunged. Records not eligible for expungement will remain open and

accessible through standard inquiry. Visit the Office of Community Life website to access the Record Expungement

Request Form for more information.

Please note that any records maintained outside of OCL are not subject to expungement through this process.

LIVING OFF CAMPUS

COMMUNICATION

STUDENT

RECORDS