Purpose

The Office of Student Conduct investigates alleged violations of the CSU Student Code of Conduct as outlined by the Board of Trustee’s Executive Order 1098 for the California State University. As the primary source of information about student conduct and academic integrity we strive to ensure all parties fully understand the steps involved in the conduct processes.

Mission

Our mission is to ensure the fair administration of the student conduct process while supporting a safe and inclusive educational environment for all students. Through this process, our goal is to educate students about their rights and responsibilities as well as provide feedback about behaviors that affect both themselves and the campus community.

Our Values and Goals

• Education and development of all students
• Respect, dignity and equity
• A socially just community
• Responsibility and accountability
• Fairness, honesty, and integrity

Good Samaritan Policy/Save A Seawolf

Students and other members of the community who observe a medical or other emergency are obligated to call for help by dialing 911. If the persons acting as good samaritans by placing such a call are found to be in violation of a University policy, the fact that they placed the call will be considered a mitigating circumstance in determining potential sanctions. Failing to call for emergency or medical assistance (including when alcohol or other drugs are involved) will be considered an aggravating circumstance and result in more serious sanctions. SSU does not condone or permit the unsafe or illegal use of alcohol and/or other substances.

University Conduct Administrator

The University Conduct Administrator is responsible for managing the University-wide judicial processes for both individual students and various student groups, investigating alleged violations of the Student Code of Conduct/Title V of the California Code of Regulations (and relevant CSU Executive Orders), and recommending disciplinary sanctions when appropriate. The Director for Student Conduct is Ben Ellis, ellisbe@sonoma.edu, 707-664-3396.

Student Conduct Referral

If a member of the University community has witnessed a violation of the Standards of Student Conduct by an SSU student and believes that formal conduct proceedings are warranted, a complaint may be directed to the Office of Student Conduct by submitting a Student Conduct Referral form or by calling 707-664-3396.

The Student Conduct Process

The Student Conduct process is not a legal process and is separate from federal, state, and local court proceedings. Instead, the standard of responsibility is based on a preponderance of evidence. The student conduct process is expected to: 

• Determine responsibility for behaviors that violate university rules, policies, and federal, state, and local laws or ordinances 
• Offer outcomes to assist students in learning about the impact of their actions on themselves and others within their respective communities
• Protect the integrity of students, faculty, staff, the institution, and the University community

Regulations and Policies pertaining to Code of Student Conduct: