University Policies And Procedures or Student Code of Conduct?

Student Code of Conduct 

The Office of Student Accountability and Restorative Practices (SARP) promotes a supportive community for students to address and navigate conflict in a peaceful, socially just, and self-reflexive manner. We strive to foster the personal development of students and emphasize the student’s personal understanding of their behavior as well as their responsibilities to the campus community. 

Through the student accountability process, we work with students to gain greater insight into their choices and behaviors in order to provide a welcoming environment for the campus community, one that supports the University’s vision of a CHAMP student experience. 

Student conduct is not considered in isolation within the University community but as an integral part of the educational process. Developing citizenship, respect for others, and responsible social behavior are part of the University’s commitment to the education of the whole person; it is expected that student behavior will reflect well on self, bring credit to the University, and to contribute positively to student and University life. This includes upholding all published University policies, rules, and regulations. It is clear that in a community of learning, willful disruption of the educational process, destruction of property and/or interference with the orderly processes of the University, or with the rights of other members of the University community, for example, cannot be tolerated. In addressing student behavior that harms the community, SARP offers a spectrum of conflict resolution pathways that are educationally focused, student-driven, and restorative in nature, which are adaptable to meet the needs of individuals experiencing conflict. 

You are encouraged to read this information in its entirety, as each member of the campus community is responsible for complying with Gallaudet’s policies, the Student Code of Conduct and applicable laws. Ignorance of such rules will not reduce accountability. More importantly, you owe it to yourself.

Scope of the Student Code of Conduct 

Gallaudet University reserves the right to investigate and resolve alleged violations of the Student Code of Conduct in all of these situations:

•       Involving students, a group of students, or a student organization affiliated with any school, department or the university;
•       Occurring from the time they first engage in official university activities (see 7 definition of “student”) through the actual awarding of a degree, including but not limited to:
•       During the academic year:
•       Before classes begin or after classes end;
•       During time pursuing credit away from the campus (e.g. study abroad, internship, etc.);
•       During periods between terms of actual enrollment;
•       While on leave from the university;
•       Occurring either on or off campus (*For Sexual Misconduct Policy, refer to A&O 3.19).

Interpretation of Regulations 

The purpose of publishing the Student Code of Conduct is to give students general notice of prohibited behavior. This Code is not written with the specificity of a criminal statute. 

DEFINITIONS

When used in this Code:

The term “University” means Gallaudet University.

The term “university premises” includes all land, buildings, facilities, and other property in the possession of or owned, leased, operated, controlled, or supervised by Gallaudet University. 

The term “university-sponsored event/activity” means any activity on or off university premises that is initiated and/or supervised by the University. 

The term “university official” includes any person employed by Gallaudet University, performing assigned administrative or professional responsibilities. 

The term “student” includes all persons enrolled in courses at Gallaudet University, either full-time or part-time, on-campus or remotely. This includes those pursuing undergraduate, graduate, professional studies;participating in the English Language Institute program; or engaging in university-sponsored study abroad or internship experiences; persons who withdraw or graduate after allegedly violating the Student Code of Conduct; persons who are not officially enrolled for a particular term but who have a continuing relationship with Gallaudet University; and/or are persons who are living in Gallaudet University residence halls and Kendall Apartments, although not enrolled in this institution. For the purposes of this Code, undergraduate students begin their student status when they first engage in official University activities (e.g., taking an online course, arriving to campus for new student orientation or athletic participation, etc.) and end their student status when they withdraw from the University or their enrollment is terminated (due to graduation or disciplinary action). 

The term “member of the Gallaudet community” includes any person who is a student, staff, faculty member, University official, or any other person employed by Gallaudet University. 

The term “student organization” means a group of students who have joined together for a common purpose and officially registered with Gallaudet through the Student Engagement and Leadership office as a student organization or club. 

The term “Accountability Board” means any person or persons (students, faculty and/or staff) who are impartial and appropriately trained to determine whether a student has violated the Student Code of Conduct and, upon finding of such a violation, to recommend appropriate sanctions. 

The term “complainant” means any member of the University community who submits a charge alleging that a student violated the Student Code of Conduct. 

The term “respondent” means any student accused of violating the Student Code of Conduct. 

The term “witness” means any person providing information relevant to a conduct incident during the investigation, informal and formal disciplinary processes. 

The term “advisor” means any person who supports a complainant or respondent as they participate in the conduct process. The advisor’s supporting role is limited to conferring with and advising the student directly and does not advocate for or represent students in the conduct process.

The term “administrative conference” means an informal forum in which the staff of Student Accountability and Restorative Practices meets with a student to adjudicate any alleged violation(s) of the Student Code of Conduct. 

The term “accountability hearing” means a formal forum in which a hearing is conducted to adjudicate an alleged violation of the Student Code of Conduct. 

The term “preponderance of the evidence” refers to the standard of proof used to determine whether a student violated the Student Code of Conduct. The term also means “more likely than not”. 

The term “restorative justice” is a philosophy that considers the importance of harms created during a conflict or violation, the needs of those impacted by the conflict, the obligations of the person who created the harm, and the engagement from community members who might be directly or indirectly affected by the harm. 

The term “restorative practices” means a utilization of practices derived from Restorative Justice principles, which may not align with typical Restorative Justice procedures, to address instances of conflict that arise on campus. The purpose of a restorative process is to bring together all parties involved in an incident for the purpose of addressing the harms associated with the conflict. This affords the opportunity for discussion of varying points of view and an opportunity to gain a better understanding of those involved. 

The term ‘SARP staff’ refers to the Director of Student Accountability and Restorative Practices, the Manager of Student Accountability, the Coordinators of Student Accountability, and trained student staff members who support the work of the office. They are the designated University officials authorized on a case-by-case basis by the Chief of Student Affairs Officer to impose sanctions upon any student(s) found to have violated the Student Code of Conduct. The Chief of Student Affairs Officer also authorizes the SARP staff to serve as the University official responsible for addressing and making decisions pertaining to all alleged violations of the Student Code of Conduct during administrative conferences or informal resolution meetings, as well as serving as the University representative (complainant) or a non-voting Chair of the Accountability Board. 

The term “written notice” is delivery of mail to a student’s local, permanent, and/or email address. Students are responsible for checking any/all email addresses listed on their Gallaudet account. Students are responsible for providing the university with current and updated addresses, email addresses, and phone numbers. 

Jurisdiction of the Student Code of Conduct 

All violations of University policies and procedures committed by students (and their guests) or student organizations on or off University premises, at University-sponsored/related activities, or through the misuse of Gallaudet technology resources fall within the scope of the Student Code of Conduct. The Student Code of Conduct does not protect or shield students or student organizations from their responsibilities under federal, state, and/or local laws and ordinances. The University reserves the right to refer any situations involving student misconduct to appropriate law enforcement authorities. Students are expected to engage in responsible on – and off-campus conduct that reflects well upon the University community and to model good citizenship across various communities. 

The Student Code of Conduct may also apply to behavior conducted online, including through email or other electronic means. Students should be aware that online activity—such as public posts, videos, live streams, chats, and other content shared on social media or digital platforms—is considered part of the public sphere and is not private. These postings can subject a student to allegations of conduct violations if information of policy violations is posted online. Gallaudet does not regularly search for this information nor is it responsible for online etiquette but may take action if and when such information alleging a violation of the Student Code of Conduct is brought to the attention of University officials and there is sufficient merit to support a charge. 

Each student is responsible for their conduct from the time they first engage in official University activities through the actual awarding of a degree, even though the conduct may occur before classes begin or after classes end, as well as during the academic year whether or not the University is in session, and during periods between terms of actual enrollment, even if such conduct is not discovered until after a degree is awarded. The Student Code of Conduct will apply to a student’s conduct even if the student leaves the University for any reason (e.g., voluntary withdrawal, academic suspension, etc.) while a disciplinary matter is pending. Charges will remain pending until the case is resolved, and an academic hold may be placed on their record. 

Off-Campus Jurisdiction 

Gallaudet University expects students to demonstrate responsible social behavior on- and off-campus and conduct themselves as good citizens in accordance with the law and the Student Code of Conduct. While the University does not concern itself with every violation occurring off-campus, nor is the University legally responsible or financially liable for the behavior of students off-campus, the Student Code of Conduct remains in effect at all times; students and student organizations/clubs are expected to conduct themselves as representatives of the University community. 

Generally, the Student Code of Conduct primarily prohibits misconduct on university premises, at university-sponsored events/activities off-campus, and at any location where a student is engaged in an official University activity (such as a practicum, internship, field trip, study abroad programs, student teaching, or participation in a Consortium course, etc.). The University reserves the right to review and adjudicate any occurrence of off-campus student behavior in violation of the Student Code of Conduct that may directly impact or have a significant effect upon the University. An off-campus violation(s) by a student of Gallaudet University of a criminal law or the Student Code of Conduct that brings the University into disrepute, adversely affects the University’s educational mission, objectives, and/or interests of the University community, raises serious health or safety concerns for the University community or its individual members, or significantly affects the ability of the University to continue its normal activities, for example, are considered to be of legitimate interest to the University. In addition, inappropriate behaviors in our surrounding neighborhood such as public urination, public intoxication, disruptive conduct to neighbors, loud and unruly gatherings, violations of the alcohol and/or other drugs policies, and misconduct demonstrating flagrant disregard for any person or persons would be in violation of the Student Code of Conduct and may be subject to appropriate disciplinary procedures. 

Upon receipt of a complaint alleging off-campus student misconduct, the Chief of Student Affairs or their designee will review the allegations to determine jurisdiction over such conduct and to determine the appropriate course of action by the University. As a general rule, Student Accountability and Restorative Practices should not process a charge that a student has violated, off-campus, a local, state or federal law, unless the matter is clearly contrary to the legitimate purpose and interests of the University. 

Violations of Law and the Student Code of Conduct 

Students at Gallaudet University are subject to all District of Columbia and Federal laws and are accountable to District of Columbia and Federal courts for any violations of such laws. A charge alleging that a student of Gallaudet University has violated, on-campus, a District of Columbia or Federal law may be processed, when appropriate, through the University student disciplinary process (See Student Conduct Programs). University disciplinary proceedings may be carried out against a student charged with conduct that potentially violates both the criminal law and the Student Code of Conduct (that is, if both possible violations result from the same factual situation) without regard to the pendency of civil or criminal litigation in court or criminal arrest and prosecution. Proceedings under the Student Code of Conduct may be carried out prior to, simultaneously with, or following civil or criminal proceedings off-campus at the discretion of the Chief of Student Affairs Officer. Determinations made or sanctions imposed under the Student Code of Conduct will not be subject to change or challenge because criminal charges arising out of the same fact-giving rise to violation of university rules are pending, were dismissed, reduced, or resolved in favor of/or against the criminal law defendant. 

Court-Issued Protective Orders 

Gallaudet University recognizes lawful civil protection orders, temporary protection orders, restraining orders, anti-stalking orders, and similar orders issued by a court of competent jurisdiction. Members of the University community who obtain a court-issued protective order that may affect their safety, access to University property, or interactions with another member of the University community are encouraged to promptly provide a copy of the order to the Department of Public Safety (DPS) and Student Accountability and Restorative Practices (SARP). 

A student who is subject to a court-issued protective order involving another member of the University community, or whose access to University premises, programs, activities, housing, or events is restricted by such an order, is expected to comply fully with the order. Students are also encouraged to notify DPS and SARP when the terms of the order may affect their access to University property, housing, classes, employment, activities, programs, or other University services. 

District of Columbia Civil Protection Orders 

A District of Columbia Civil Protection Order (CPO) is an order issued by the D.C. Courts. Enforcement of a CPO is the responsibility of the appropriate law enforcement agency and the D.C. Courts. DPS does not determine whether a CPO has been legally violated and does not exercise the enforcement authority of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) or the D.C. Courts. 

Students who have a CPO in effect and believe that the order has been violated may contact DPS or MPD. If an alleged violation occurs on University premises, students are encouraged to make an initial report to DPS. DPS will document the incident and, when appropriate, contact MPD or assist the student in contacting MPD or another law enforcement agency with jurisdiction over the location of the incident. 

A court-issued protective order is distinct from a University-issued No Contact Order (NCO) or other University administrative restriction. A court-issued protective order is enforced through the appropriate law enforcement agency and court, while a University-issued NCO or other administrative restriction is enforced through University processes. 

DPS will assist with documenting and responding to alleged violations occurring on University property and may contact or assist individuals in contacting MPD or another appropriate law enforcement agency. 

If DPS officers witness violence, threats, intimidation, or other conduct presenting a safety concern on University premises, DPS may intervene consistent with its authority and University policy, regardless of whether a protective order is in effect. 

University Actions Related to Protective Orders 

The University will take reasonable and appropriate steps, within its authority, to facilitate compliance with a court-issued protective order on University property and at University-sponsored activities. Depending on the terms of the order and the circumstances, the University may implement administrative or supportive measures, including restrictions on access to University property or facilities, changes to housing or class assignments, modifications to work schedules or locations, University-issued No Contact Orders, or other measures reasonably necessary to support safety and compliance with the court order. 

Conduct that violates the terms of a court-issued protective order may also constitute an independent violation of the Student Code of Conduct or other University policy. The University may address such conduct through its student accountability process based on the underlying conduct and applicable University policies, regardless of whether an arrest occurs, criminal charges are filed, or a court determines that the protective order has been violated. 

Gallaudet No Contact Orders 

No Contact Orders (NCOs) are University-issued supportive measures available through SARP and/or the Title IX Office. NCOs are designed to limit contact and communication between two or more individuals for a variety of reasons, including supporting access to educational programs and activities and maintaining an environment free from harassment. 

SARP or its designee may issue a No Contact Order (NCO) prohibiting contact between students when the University determines that there is a reasonable concern that physical or psychological harm may result from such contact. Circumstances that may warrant an NCO include, but are not limited to: 

• A request for an NCO as a Title IX supportive measure;
• Allegations, threats, or evidence of physical violence; 
• Allegations, threats, or evidence of emotional abuse or harassment; 
• A substantial risk of emotional harm from continued contact between students; 
• Continued contact between students that may interfere with or affect University disciplinary proceedings; 
• A good-faith request for or agreement to an NCO by the students affected; and/or 
• Allegations of serious University policy violations. 

An NCO is a University directive and is separate from a court-issued protective order. Students who are subject to an NCO are expected to comply with its terms. Violations of an NCO may result in University disciplinary or other appropriate action. 

If an urgent situation occurs during non-business hours, including evenings, weekends, or holidays, Residence Life & Housing staff may provide temporary instructions to the parties to refrain from communicating with each other until SARP can follow up on the next business day. Such temporary instructions do not replace or constitute a formal NCO unless and until an NCO is issued by SARP. 

Authority of the Student Code of Conduct 

Student Accountability and Restorative Practices has the overall responsibility for the implementation and administration of the Student Code of Conduct and the Student Conduct Program, as delegated by the Chief of Student Affairs Officer. The Chief of Student Affairs Officer holds the ultimate authority over the Student Code of Conduct and the Student Conduct Program and, as such, can exercise discretion in functions that include but are not limited to: 

• Taking interim action;
• Adapting processes, updating and/or altering procedures and/or policies, particularly when a matter, incident or factors are unprecedented, egregious, pose a significant risk or danger to campus, self or others; 
• Undertaking steps to defer or delay the conferring of the student’s degree and/or impose other restrictions until resolution of the disciplinary process, when a student scheduled to graduate engages in behavior prior to or following completion of academic requirements that may violate the Code of Conduct; 
• Delegating responsibilities to Associate Deans or staff in Student Accountability and Restorative Practices, and/or;
• Determining the severity or egregiousness of a case. 

Interim Suspension 

When the University determines that the continued presence of a student on the University campus or in University housing poses a substantial threat to the health and safety of others, or to the stability and continuation of normal university functions, SARP or their designee may take temporary and immediate action and suspend the student for an interim period pending the resolution of the matter. In taking such action, the University need not assign further reasons. During an interim suspension, the student may be removed from or denied access to on-campus housing, excluded from access to University premises, all other University activities on- or off-campus and/or privileges for which the student might otherwise be eligible. An interim suspension will become effective immediately, without prior notice, and may be terminated by the person issuing it at any time prior to or after the outcome of disciplinary proceedings. 

Students may appeal the interim suspension by meeting with the Associate Dean of Student Affairs overseeing Student Accountability and Restorative Practices (SARP) or their designee within two business days from the date the SARP charge letter was sent. A decision will be made within two business days following the meeting. Any exceptions to these deadlines will be communicated, if applicable. 

A student suspended on an interim basis may discuss only the following issues: 

a) the reliability of the information concerning the student’s conduct, including the matter of their identity; or 

b)  whether the conduct and surrounding circumstances reasonably indicate that the continued presence of the student on university premises poses a substantial and/or immediate risk to self or to others, to university property, or to the stability and ability of the University to carry out its normal functions. 

Standards of Classroom Behavior 

The primary responsibility for managing the classroom environment rests on the faculty. Students who engage in any prohibited conduct that result in disruption of a class or academic activity may be directed by the faculty member to leave the class for the remainder of the class period. Additionally, a student who persists in disrupting a particular class after a warning by the faculty member may be suspended from the class for an interim period pending the resolution of the matter through Student Accountability and Restorative Practices. 

Administrative Prerogative 

The administration may make all necessary rules and regulations for the orderly management of the University and the preservation of discipline therein. The University also reserves the right to suspend or expel any student from the University, from any classes whenever in the best interest of the student or the University, or when the administration deems it advisable. Such action may include pursuing disciplinary action for any violation of local, state, or Federal law, on- or off-campus, which affects the University’s educational interests and ability to carry out its normal functions. 

Student Code of Conduct – Rules and Regulations 

Any student found to have committed, to have attempted to commit, and/or knowingly encouraged or assisted others to commit such acts that are prohibited by this Code is subject to the disciplinary sanctions listed in the Student Conduct Programs section. An attempt to commit is defined as conduct that, if successful, would constitute or result in the prohibited conduct. In addition, a student who has knowledge of another person or persons committing or attempting to commit a violation of the Code of Conduct is required to remove themself from the situation (and is obligated to report any suspected crime or serious violations), and failure to do so when reasonable under the circumstances may be the basis for a violation of the Code of Conduct as well. It should be emphasized that the list is not all-inclusive. 

Abuse of Conduct Process – This includes abuse or interference with, or failure to comply in, University processes including conduct investigations and hearings. This includes, but is not limited to:

• Falsification, distortion, or misrepresentation of information; 
• Failure to provide, destroying, or concealing information during the course of an investigation and/or University conduct proceeding; 
• Attempting to discourage an individual’s proper participation in, or use of, the University conduct system; 
• Harassment (verbal and/or physical) and/or intimidation of a member of the Accountability Board prior to, during, and/or following the University conduct proceeding; and 
• Influencing, or attempting to influence, another person to commit an abuse of the Student Code of Conduct. 

Academic Integrity – This is defined as a firm adherence to the code or standard of values of the University and the individual professions, as well as honest and responsible scholarship. Violations of academic integrity for undergraduate students may include cheating, fabrication and/or misrepresentation, plagiarism, facilitation of academic dishonesty, impeding academic progress or computer misconduct. Procedures for handling instances of suspected violation(s) by undergraduate and graduate students of academic integrity occurring within or outside the course are described in the Undergraduate and Graduate Academic Catalogs. 

Alcohol Policy Violation – This includes misconduct related to alcohol and alcoholic beverages include the following: 

a. Use and/or possession of alcohol (15% or less alcohol content), or containers that previously contained alcohol, by students under the age of 21 
b. Use and/or possession of hard liquor (16% or more alcohol content), or containers that previously contained hard alcohol, by students regardless of age*
c. Use and/or possession of alcohol, or containers that previously contained alcohol, by students or guests regardless of age in any area designated as alcohol free (dry residence hall or dry floor)*
d. Providing or distributing alcohol to individuals under the age of 21 (for hosting a party with underage students present, please see “Additional Violations”.
e. Use and/or possession of alcohol by a student who is 21+ in Ballard North or any other dry floor/residence hall
f. Possession of an open container of alcohol, regardless of age, in any common areas, public building, streets, sidewalks, parking lots, or in any location not designated for alcohol consumption (e.g. lobby area, hallway, athletic facilities, outdoor spaces).
g. Public drunkenness (defined as seriously impaired behavior that does not require hospitalization) by a student who is 21+, and/or engaging in alcohol-related disruptive behavior
h. Possession of a large common source of alcohol (e.g. keg or barrel, punch with alcohol, container requiring a tap to operate, etc.) regardless of age, on University premises
i. Use of alcoholic beverage cans/bottles/containers as decorations in Ballard North (dry residence hall) or a room occupied entirely by underage students
j. Use of hard liquor beverage cans/bottles/containers as decorations in non- dry residence halls
k. Hosting a social event with alcohol that includes disruptive behavior, underage drinking, alcohol possession/consumption in public/common areas, and/or other related violations
l. Hosting a party that involves alcohol and drinking games such as beer pong, flip cup, etc.
m. Possession of mass or rapid alcohol consumption paraphernalia including beer bongs, drinking funnels, or other implement used to facilitate the rapid and large consumption of alcohol and/or for drinking games
n. Underage student presence in a location involving an alcohol policy violation, when the student failed or did not take, a voluntary BAC test to verify no alcohol was consumed
o. Consumption/possession of alcohol by an underage guest of a student in violation of any alcohol policy applicable to University students
p. Selling, distributing, and/or manufacturing alcoholic beverages on University premises
q. Driving under the influence of alcohol on University premises
r. Violation of other laws pertaining to alcohol 

*Rooms and suites occupied by residents who are all under the legal drinking age are considered ‘dry rooms’ and no alcohol is permitted regardless of the age of guests. 

A more complete definition can be found in the Alcohol and Other Drugs Policy, beginning on page 28. 

Bias-Related Harassment – This includes harassment (verbal or written abuse, humiliation, intimidation, bullying, and violence or other conduct which has the purpose or effect of creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive educational or living environment) against an individual or group because of race, religion, creed, gender, age, ethnicity, national origin, physical or mental disability, or sexual orientation.

Cannabis Policy Violation – “Cannabis” means the parts, products and derivatives of the plant Cannabis sativa, indica, ruderalis and hybrid strains, regardless of the delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol level. Misconduct related to cannabis on campus premises or at University sponsored events on or off campus includes the following: 

a. Use and/or possession of cannabis
b. Use and/or possession of cannabis (over 2 oz.) 
c. Use and/or possession of cannabis by a guest
d. Selling and/or distribution of cannabis
e. Cultivation of cannabis
f. Use and/or possession of cannabis paraphernalia
g. Being in the presence of the use or misuse of cannabis
h. Severe cannabis intoxication resulting in disruptive behavior or other violations
i. Driving under the influence of cannabis
j. Violation of other laws pertaining to cannabis 

A more complete definition can be found in the Alcohol and Other Drugs Policy, beginning on page 28. 

Collusion – This refers to the act of intentionally or knowingly helping or attempting to help another individual to commit a violation of the Code. 

Complicity – This includes complicity with or failure of any student or student organization to appropriately address known or obvious violations of the Student Code of Conduct, Residence Hall Policies, or other published University policies, rules or regulations, or law. 

Cyberbullying – This includes a broad range of repeated behaviors or actions in which a person uses technology to cause emotional harm and is perceived as intimidating or threatening to another person or group. Examples include, but are not limited to, sending threatening messages, posting derogatory comments or images, or other forms of public shaming or humiliation. 

Cyberstalking – This includes an extension of physical stalking of repeated and unwanted pursuit, monitoring or contact done through electronic communications such as social media to harass or harm someone. Examples include, but are not limited to, trolling, catfishing, doxing, posting sexual images (real or fake), online impersonation, GPS tracking, sending threatening emails or hacking into accounts. 

Damage, Destruction, or Impairment of Property – This includes any act of misuse, vandalism, malicious or unwarranted damage or destruction, defacing, or disfiguring of property belonging to the University or members of the University community, and in certain instances, of the surrounding neighborhood. 

Disorderly Conduct –  This is generally defined as any action by the student that impairs, interferes with, or obstructs the orderly conduct, processes, and functions of the University and its members, including, but not limited to, excessive noises, inappropriate and loud or disruptive behavior, unruly gatherings, public drunkenness, lewd or indecent conduct or exposure, and other such behaviors.  

Disruption and/or Obstruction of University Academic or Non-Academic Activity – This includes conduct that unreasonably or substantially obstructs or disrupts teaching, research, disciplinary proceedings, student organization activities and/or events, fire, police, or emergency services, or other University activities, including its public service functions on- or off-campus, or other authorized non-University activities, when the act occurs on University premises or at University sponsored activities off-campus. This also includes causing, inciting, or participating in a campus demonstration that disrupts the normal operations of the University and infringes on the rights of other members of the University community, leading or inciting others to disrupt scheduled and/or normal activities within any campus building or area, and intentional obstruction that unreasonably interferes with freedom of movement, either pedestrian or vehicular, on campus. 

Drones – Federal laws prohibits flying Unmanned Aircraft Systems, such as drones, anywhere in the District of Columbia. Washington, D.C. and the U.S. Capitol Grounds are designated as a NO DRONE ZONE. Accordingly, Gallaudet University prohibits the use of drones on campus. 

Anyone violating Traffic Regulation §16.2.90 will be subject to arrest, a $300 fine, and/or 90 imprisonment and may also face additional federal civil and criminal penalties. 

Failure to Comply – This includes failure to comply with or defiance with any University or Student Conduct decision, directive, sanction, and includes: 

• Failure to promptly comply with the reasonable directives or instruction of University officials or emergency personnel acting in performance of their duties;
• Failure to provide identification or identify oneself when requested by University officials, faculty, staff, paraprofessional staff or campus security staff acting in performance of their duties; 
• Refusing to dispose of or turn over to University officials prohibited items; 
• Failure to comply with temporary guidelines or expectations for health and safety purposes; 
• Failure to comply with any official University or SARP decision or directive, including a No-Contact Order, restriction on access to University facilities, property, or activities, Campus Access Restriction (CAR) notice, interim measure, or other administrative or safety directive, including a directive issued to facilitate compliance with a court-issued protective order; and 
• Failure to comply with the terms of any student conduct sanction(s) or other outcome assigned in accordance with this Code. 

Falsification or Forgery of a University Record – This includes unauthorized alteration, forgery, or misuse of a University document, record, or instrument of identification, including, but not limited to, identification cards, medical notes, parking stickers, transcripts, and admission applications. 

Furnishing False Information – This includes knowingly furnishing or possessing false, falsified, or forged materials, documents, accounts, records, identification or financial instruments; withholding material information from the University; intentionally initiating or causing to be initiated any false report, warning, or threat of fire, explosion, or of other emergency; giving false information in an accountability hearing, sexual misconduct investigation, administrative conference, or any University procedure; and knowingly furnishing false information to any University official, faculty or staff member, or office, including misrepresenting oneself as a faculty or staff member. 

Harm to Person (s) – this includes one or more of the following: 

• Bullying – This includes any written, verbal, or physical act, directed toward a person that is intended to cause or that a reasonable person would know is likely to cause, and that actually causes, physical harm or substantial emotional distress and thereby adversely affects the ability of another person to participate in or benefit from the University’s educational programs or activities. 
• Harassment – This includes conduct directed toward a person that includes repeated or continuing unconsented contact that would cause or that actually causes a reasonable individual to suffer substantial emotional distress. 
• Physical Abuse – This includes physical force or attempting to use physical force against another person or group of people. No student shall communicate an expression of the intent to commit an act of unlawful violence against another person or group of people to that person or group. Examples of physical force include, but are not limited to, spitting, pushing, shoving, hitting, kicking, or other physical contact that causes harm, pain, or discomfort. Using physical force as a response to physical force that continues and/or escalates an altercation may also be addressed by this policy. 
• Threats and Intimidation – This includes written, verbal, implied, or other conduct that communicates or suggests a threat of harm and causes a reasonable fear or expectation of harm to the health or safety of any person or damage to property. 

Hazing – This includes all forms of hazing as defined in the University Hazing Policy.

Health and Safety Violation – This includes the creation of health and/or safety hazards (dangerous pranks, hanging out of or climbing from/on/in windows, balconies, roofs, etc.), and/or other university health and safety policies or directives. 

Illegal Gambling or Gaming –  This includes illegal gambling or gaming as defined by the District of Columbia and/or Federal law. 

Illegal or Unauthorized Possession of Firearms, Explosives, Other Weapons,or Dangerous Chemicals on University Property – The possession, storage, or use of any weapon, firearm, ammunition, explosive, or other dangerous item on University property or at University-sponsored activities is prohibited. 

Prohibited items include, but are not limited to: firearms of any kind, whether loaded or unloaded; ammunition; antique, decorative, inoperable, replica, imitation, “toy”, or 3D-printed firearms or weapons; explosives; fireworks; flammable or highly combustible materials; dangerous chemical; air guns, BB guns, pellet guns, paintball guns, and similar devices designed to discharge a projectile; Tasers, stun guns, and similar devices; bows, crossbows, and arrows; slingshots; marital arts weapons; swords; sabers; machetes; axes and hatches; throwing stars; nunchucks; clubs or similar striking weapons; and knives or other cutting instrunments designed or commonly used as weapons, and knives with blades exceeding three (3) inches, except ordinary kitchen knives used for the preparation or serving of food. 

The possession of a permit, licnese, or other legal authorization to possess or carry an item does not permit its possession on Universty property or at University-sponsored activities. The use of any prohibited item in a manner that harms, threatens, intimidates, or cause a reasonable fear of harm to another person may constitute an additional violation of the Student Code of Conduct. 

Other Drugs Policy Violation – This includes misconduct by students and their guests related to illegal drugs and controlled substances (including narcotics, cocaine, heroin, prescription medicine, synthetic marijuana, and any chemical substantially similar to a controlled substance). The use of prescription or household products in a manner that deviates from the label instructions and/or prescription or abuse of non-prescription drugs is prohibited. Sharing, selling, overusing, stealing a prescription, or having possession of another’s prescription medicine is prohibited, and using any household products or other chemicals to alter one’s senses is also prohibited. Violations include, but are not limited to, the following: 

a. Use and/or possession of illegal drugs and controlled substances other than cannabis 
b. Abuse of prescription drugs, non-prescription drugs, household products, or other chemicals
c. Use and/or possession of illegal drug paraphernalia
d. Being in the presence of the use or misuse of illegal drugs other than cannabis
e. Selling, distributing and/or manufacturing illegal drugs other than cannabis, including but not limited to, cocaine, heroin, hallucinogens, stimulants, sedatives, ecstasy, fentanyl, opiates, inhalants, and/or prescription drugs 
f. Driving under the influence of illegal drugs other than cannabis
g. Violation of other laws pertaining to other drugs. 

A more complete definition can be found in the Alcohol and Other Drugs Policies. 

Retaliatory Discrimination or Harassment – This includes any intentional, adverse action taken by a responding individual or third party, against a participant in a student conduct or civil rights grievance proceeding or other protected activity. 

Sex Discrimination or Sex Based Harassment – This includes all forms of sex discrimination or sex based harassment as defined in the Title IX Sexual Harassment Policy (Administrations and Operations Manual Policy #3.19) 

Stalking – A course of conduct directed at a specific individual that places that individual in reasonable fear for their safety or the safety of another person; to feel seriously alarmed, disturbed, or frightened; or suffer emotional distress. 

Such behaviors or activities may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Unwanted or repeated communication of any kind, including: 
  
  • Text messages, emails, or other electronic communication 
  • Letters, notes, or gifts, 
  • Phone calls, voicemail messages, or similar communication methods
• Pursuing, following, observing, and/or surveillance
  
  • Monitoring or tracking a person’s activities, including through social media, GPS, or other technology
  • Showing up uninvited at a person’s residence, workplace, or class 
• Using someone else to communicate or gather information (e.g., third parties) 

Theft – This includes attempted or actual theft of property or of services, misappropriation, or unauthorized possession or sale of University property, property of a member of the University community, or possession of stolen property. 

Tobacco and Vaping Policy – The use of tobacco and vaping products—including cigarettes, cigars, smokeless tobacco, e-cigarettes, and vape pens—is prohibited on all university property, except in designated smoking areas, and in university vehicles, unless specifically permitted by university policy (A&O 1.07). 

In accordance with federal law, students under the age of 21 are not permitted to purchase, possess, or use any tobacco or vaping products on campus. 

Unauthorized Audio or Video Recording in Private Spaces – Recording or attempting to record another individual in a private space without the express knowledge and consent of all parties being recorded.  This includes: 

• The use of audio, video, streaming, or photographic technology to record conversations, meetings, or activities in any location where individuals have a reasonable expectation of privacy. 
• Recording or attempting to record another individual in a private space without the express knowledge and consent of all parties being recorded. Private spaces include, but are not limited to: 
  • Residence hall rooms or apartments
  • Restrooms, locker rooms, and other personal facilities
  • Counseling, health, and wellness offices
  • Faculty or staff offices
  • Classrooms or meetings not open to the public 

Examples of prohibited conduct include: 

• Secretly recording a roommate, guest, faculty member, or staff in a private setting 
• Recording during a medical or counseling appointment without all parties’ express consent 
• Posting or sharing unauthorized recordings through any medium, including social media

Recordings may be permitted under the following conditions: 

• All individuals being recorded have given express consent 
• The recording is made in connection with an approved disability accommodation through the Disability Services Center 
• The recording is explicitly authorized in writing by a faculty or staff member for academic or research purposes 
• The recording is authorized or required by law or official University policy 

D.C. one-party consent:  Although the District of Columbia is a one-party consent jurisdiction (D.C. Code § 23–542), the University requires the consent of all parties involved when recordings occur in private settings. 

Unauthorized Entry into a University Building or Facility – This includes entering or attempting to enter any dwelling, building, or facility on university premises without permission or in instances where the person knew or should have known that such access is restricted. 

Unauthorized Possession of a Pet on Campus – This includes having an animal on campus in violation of residence hall policy and/or the University’s Service Animal Policy. 

Unauthorized Use of Property – This includes unauthorized use of property belonging to the University, including but not limited to furniture, equipment, elevators, University keys, University ID cards, library materials, any document or instrument of identification, and/or safety devices. 

Violation of Campus Traffic and Parking Rules – This includes cases referred by the Department of Public Safety (DPS) for resolution through the Student Conduct disciplinary process. 

Violation of Federal, State or Local Law – This applies to violation(s) of Federal, state or local laws on or off university premises when substantiated through the University conduct process. 

Violation of Fire Safety Regulations – This includes failing to comply with evacuation procedures, activating a false fire alarm, arson or intentionally setting a fire, tampering with fire apparatus, covering smoke detectors and/or fire alarm strobe lights, use/possession of flammable items such as sky lanterns or charcoal/charcoal fluid, and other fire/safety violations as described in the Residence Hall Policies. 

Violation of Published University Policies, Rules, or Regulations – This includes all University rules, policies, or regulations published in hard copy or available electronically on the University website. 

Violation of Residence Hall Policies – This includes all residence hall regulations and policies established by the Office of Residence Life and Housing. 

Violation of the Service Animal Policy – This includes any violation University’s Service Animal Policy (Administrations and Operations Manual, Policy 1.08) which also covers emotional support and therapy animals. Allowing another person to possess their service animal, emotional support animal, or therapy animal is also considered a violation of the policy. 

Violation of the University Technology Policy – This includes any violation of the University’s computer and technology use policies. Students are expected to follow all guidelines outlined in Gallaudet Technology Services’ Expectations for Students’ Responsible Technology Use directive. 

UPDATED AS OF AUGUST 21, 2020