Hearing Guidelines /Student Rights

The following procedural guidelines are established for the direction of all persons or bodies conducting formal hearings in student conduct matters:

  • An appropriate University official will notify the student, through the student's University of Dubuque email, that the student is accused of violating a policy/regulation.
  • The Dean of Student Formation or their designee (usually a member of the Student Life staff,) will conduct all initial formal hearings on student conduct matters.
  • The student is entitled to an expeditious hearing of the case.
  • The student may admit to the suspected violation and request that the official take whatever action seems appropriate.
  • All hearings are private and confidential.
  • In cases involving more than one student, any of the involved students may request that their case be heard separately.
  • The hearing officer may choose to hear the cases separately.
  • The student may examine written testimony of any witness (names may be withheld to protect witnesses.)
  • The complainant, the alleged violator, or the hearing officer shall have the privilege of presenting witnesses.
  • The student may be accompanied by an advisor of their choice at the hearing. The advisor is there only to advise the student. The advisor may not speak on behalf of the alleged violator.
  • The student may refuse to answer questions (without implication of admitting violation of University values, policy, or procedure.)
  • The student is entitled to an explanation of the reasons for any decision rendered against them.
  • An appropriate sanction will be imposed as soon as possible. The student would retain the right of appeal if they felt the sanction imposed was not in keeping with the gravity of the violation.
  • If the student wishes to appeal the decision, they must do so in writing within three (3) school/business days. The Appeal Letter must be delivered to the Dean of Student Formation who will either act on the appeal or forward to the appropriate party depending on the origination of the hearing decision. An appeal of a decision made by the Dean of Student Formation will be heard by the Dean of Student Engagement or another UD official, dependent upon the type of case.
  • The student shall be notified of their right to appeal an initial decision. Should the student appeal, any judgment assessed shall be suspended until acted upon by a higher body, unless the person's actions are considered dangerous to others.