Accountability Procedures

Copied below is the 2025-26 academic year version of the Accountability Procedures, which rules are applicable to incidents adjudicated on or after August 15, 2025.

The Accountability Procedures below pertain to our processes for individual students, students in the University residence halls, and registered student organizations.

For any incidents adjudicated before August 15, 2025, please see the 2024-2025 version of the Accountability Procedure.

A. Individual Student Accountability Procedure:

Section 1: Purpose

The University of Iowa’s Student Accountability Procedure is designed to provide a process to investigate and resolve alleged violations of University policies by students. This procedure is intended to be an educational process. It is not a substitute for the civil or criminal court system. Rather, the Student Accountability Procedure provides a mechanism for the University to determine if University rules have been violated and act in accordance with the findings.

This procedure will provide all students:

You will receive a notice of investigation letter prior to any meetings being scheduled. This letter will include a summary of all allegations made against you and the corresponding policies you are alleged to have violated.
The opportunity to have up to two support-persons present with you, which include an attorney provided at your own cost.
The opportunity to present your account to a neutral investigator who starts with the assumption that you are not responsible for the alleged behavior.
The understanding that decisions regarding your responsibility will be made by the preponderance of the evidence standard, also known as the “more likely than not” standard.
The opportunity to appeal the final decision and the sanctions imposed, if applicable.

Section 2: Reports

The University may learn of possible misconduct from any person, law enforcement agency, or unit/department of the University. The report will ordinarily be in writing but can be received verbally as well. Online reports may also be submitted anonymously through the Dean of Students reporting form. Reporting anonymously may, however, limit the University’s ability to respond.

When a report is received:

Upon receiving the report, the Office of Student Accountability (OSA) will consider the nature of the incident or report, the evidence available, and the parties involved. After review, OSA may:

Determine there is not sufficient evidence available to pursue an investigation (e.g. we cannot determine the identity of the allegedly responsible party);
Determine that the behavior alleged would not violate the Code of Student Life if it occurred as reported (e.g. protected speech/expression, or allegations of behavior that falls outside of the jurisdiction of OSA);
Refer the matter to another University unit/department; or
Proceed with an investigation.

Reports that involve any allegations of sexual misconduct, domestic or dating violence, stalking, harassment, bias, discrimination, equity or free speech will be forwarded to the Office of Civil Rights Compliance (OCRC). Reports involving alleged violations of other University policies (for example, the Human Rights Policy and the Anti-Harassment Policy) may be referred to the appropriate University offices for investigation and/or adjudication.

Most reports occurring in the University Residence Halls will be referred to and adjudicated by Residence Education. If a student violates policies, rules, or regulations within University of Iowa Housing and Dining facilities, they are generally subject to the procedures followed by University Housing and Dining. However, the Associate Director of OSA has the discretion to retain the matter within OSA.

Reports of most other misconduct will ordinarily be handled by OSA.

OSA may impose sanctions on students under this procedure for violations of any university policy, even if OSA did not investigate the allegation.

Section 3: Standard of Evidence

OSA uses the preponderance of the evidence standard, also known as the “more likely than not standard.” The case would be dismissed if the preponderance of the evidence standard is not met. If the investigator determines that it is more likely than not that one or more University policies were violated, a sanction or sanctions may be imposed.

Physical Evidence includes pictures, texts, videos, social media communication, etc.

Witnesses are individuals directly viewing or identifying the allegation in question. Character witnesses are not permitted.

Section 4: Interim Measures

Depending on the information received, an interim measure may be placed at the time of notice, or at any time prior to the completion of an investigation. Interim measures could include any outcomes in the accountability procedure other than restitution, fines, or expulsion. In cases where suspension is being considered as an interim measure, the Associate Dean, Accountability and Care, will consider whether the student’s continued presence at the University pending the outcome of the investigation creates a continuing danger to persons or property or constitutes an ongoing threat of disruption to the academic process.

Within ten (10) University business days after an interim measure is imposed, a request may be made in writing to the Associate Dean, Accountability and Care, to review and reconsider the interim measure by following the procedures outlined in Section 5.

In situations where an investigation will take an extended length of time, and when serious interim measures are imposed against a Responding Student (i.e., interim suspension, interim campus ban, interim housing contract cancellation, or interim housing transfer), the interim measure(s) will be continuously reassessed by the investigators based on available information. A Responding Student may request that the investigator reconsider serious interim measures at any time.

In circumstances where there is a Reporting Party for a case, the Associate Dean, Accountability and Care, will notify the Reporting Party of and provide them with an opportunity to provide input in advance of any changes to interim measures that directly impact the Reporting Party.

Section 5: Interim Measure Appeals

Within ten (10) University business days after receipt of the notice of the interim measure(s), a request may be made in writing to the Associate Dean, Accountability and Care, to review and reconsider the interim measures. A student may request an extension of the deadline by emailing OSA (dos-accountability@uiowa.edu) at least two (2) University business days prior to the due date of the appeal.

The appealing party must support the appeal by addressing one or more of the following grounds:

There was significant procedural error sufficient to adversely affect the decision (e.g., lack of notice, opportunity to be heard, etc.);
The decision was not supported by substantial evidence when viewed as a whole or not appropriate in light of the allegation(s);
The decision amounted to misapplication of the rules;
New, substantial evidence, not reasonably available at the time the interim measure was imposed, could materially change the decision.

Section 6: Support Person(s)

Any student participating in a meeting with OSA may bring up to two (2) support individuals to a meeting. The support person provides emotional support to the party and helps clarify the process. A witness in the case is not eligible to serve as a support person. Support persons could include an attorney, advocate, friend, family member, etc. Support persons may ask clarifying procedural questions of the investigator or Associate Dean, Accountability and Care, but otherwise may not speak during meetings with the investigator or Associate Dean, Accountability and Care.

Section 7: Investigation Procedure

All investigations will begin when the Responding Student receives a written summary of the allegations made against them and a copy of the corresponding policies they are alleged to have violated. It is possible that the investigation may conclude during the initial meeting with an investigator. More complex matters may require the Responding Student to participate in multiple meetings with an investigator, as well as time for the investigator to review evidence and interview witnesses, as applicable. Character witnesses who do not have knowledge of the incident in question are not permitted. If suspension or expulsion is a possible outcome of a case due to the severity of the allegations, or the student’s prior misconduct history, the student will be informed of the serious nature of the case in the letter initiating the investigation or a subsequent letter should the situation warrant it at a later date. During their meeting(s) with an investigator, all students will be provided the opportunities outlined above in Section 1.

Students who disagree with the jurisdictional reach as defined in the Code of Student Life, Section D, may mention their disagreement to the investigator during the investigation process. The investigator will provide and document their response to the concern raised by the student in the investigation report.

Following the first meeting with the investigator, students may request to be allowed to review and respond to all evidence that will be used to make a decision regarding the allegations. All such student requests will be granted and coordinated by OSA. Depending on the nature of the information, some documents may need to be redacted as a matter of law (i.e., to protect personally identifiable information).

Following an investigation through OSA, the possible outcomes include:

A decision to dismiss the allegations. The matter is then closed and documentation in OSA would reflect the allegations were dismissed.
A decision that it is more likely than not that the Responding Student violated student conduct policies. The investigator has the authority to impose sanctions, with the exception of suspension or expulsion cases as detailed in Section 10. If the investigator recommends suspension or expulsion as a possible outcome, the Associate Dean, Accountability and Care, has the authority to suspend or expel as detailed in Section 11.

Section 8: Impact of Criminal Charges

University investigations may be initiated against a student regarding behavior that potentially violates both criminal laws and University policy, even if a criminal investigation or court proceeding is pending. The criminal and university processes are separate and distinct; therefore, each process can be resolved according to its own individual timeline. In this section, references to criminal court may include contempt hearings for violating a court order as well as violations of any federal, state, or local law or ordinance. The investigator or Associate Dean, Accountability and Care, may elect to delay the resolution of a report, in whole or part, if criminal charges are pending.

If charged in criminal court of behavior prohibited under the Code of Student Life, a student may also be charged with violating Section E.2 Criminal Conduct of the Code of Student Life and subject to disciplinary sanctions. For purposes of these procedures, a conviction includes a guilty plea, jury verdict, misconduct decision, or deferred judgment.

Due to the differences between the standard of evidence used by a criminal court and the preponderance of the evidence standard used in university misconduct investigations, a student charged but not convicted of a crime is still subject to the student accountability process and may be found responsible for a policy violation. Findings and sanctions imposed under this Student Accountability Procedure shall remain in place even though criminal charges arising out of the same facts may be dismissed, reduced, expunged, or resolved in favor of the Responding Student.

Section 9: Impact of a Student Withdrawing

As detailed in the Code of Student Life, Section D (Jurisdiction), withdrawal from the University, including the decision not to re-enroll in a subsequent semester, does not end jurisdiction under these rules for behavior that took place while the Responding Student was considered a student as defined by the Code of Student Life.

If a student is not registered when a report is filed against them, the Associate Dean, Accountability and Care, may:

Proceed with an investigation, or
Restrict future registration, delay investigation, and/or resolve the report at a later date when or if the student seeks to register in a university course or program.

Section 10: Investigator Resolution

After considering the facts and relevant evidence, when an investigator determines that it is more likely than not a policy violation occurred, the investigator has the authority to impose any disciplinary sanction other than suspension or expulsion. An explanation of potential sanctions can be found in Section 12.

The investigator will inform the student of the decision in writing and will include a summary of the evidence considered, credibility assessment, when necessary, how the evidence factored into the outcome of the case, the sanction imposed or recommended, and a rationale for each sanction imposed. In cases where there is a difference between the information provided by the Responding Student and evidence provided through other witnesses or means, the investigator will conduct a credibility analysis to determine the facts that will be used to analyze the policy.

The investigator’s decision and/or sanction imposed can be appealed through the process identified in Section 13.

Section 11: Suspension / Expulsion Case Resolution

In cases where an investigator determines that it is more likely than not that a policy violation occurred and the most likely sanction for the behavior is suspension or expulsion, the Associate Dean, Accountability and Care, or their designee, has the authority to suspend or expel the Responding Student.

The investigator will complete an investigation report including a summary of the evidence considered, credibility assessment when necessary, and how the evidence factored into the findings of the associated charges. The investigator will send the investigation report to the Responding Student and Associate Dean, Accountability and Care. The Associate Dean, Accountability and Care, will coordinate a meeting with the Responding Student.

During the Responding Student’s meeting with the Associate Dean, Accountability and Care, the student will have the opportunity to share their response to the investigation report and advocate for the sanction they believe is reasonable. When cases involve a reporting party, the reporting party will also have an opportunity to meet with the Associate Dean, Accountability and Care, and advocate for the sanction they believe is reasonable. Within five (5) University business days following the meeting, the Associate Dean, Accountability and Care, will issue a written sanction decision, including the rationale for the sanction(s), an explanation of how the evidence supports the sanction(s), and why the sanction(s) was/were selected over any alternative sanction(s).

Section 12: Sanctions

When it has been determined, after an investigation that one or more University policies was violated, one or more sanctions may be imposed.

Sanctions will vary based upon the facts and circumstances of the specific violation(s). Sanctions are usually progressive in nature and include the probability of more serious sanctions if the student is found responsible for multiple violations of the Code of Student Life or other policies.

Most alcohol offenses and possession of cannabis under ten (10) grams may be sanctioned through a disciplinary reprimand, appropriate educational sanction, notification to a parent or guardian if the student is a minor, and participation in the Critical MASS program (see minimum sanctions for alcohol and drug violations in the Policy Regarding Use of Illegal Drugs and Alcohol).

Students who fail to comply with a sanction within the given timeline may be subject to additional disciplinary action, which could include a hold on their ability to register for classes until compliance is achieved. The Associate Dean, Accountability and Care has the authority to take additional action in cases of non-compliance. This includes concerns arising out of reports investigated by another investigator or University departments.

In the event that a student fails to comply with a sanction, and the Office of Student Accountability intends to place a hold on the student’s registration, the individual will be notified beforehand. Once the sanction has been resolved, the hold will be removed by staff in OSA.

The following is a non-exhaustive list of potential sanctions that may be imposed individually or in combination:

Status Sanctions: Sanctions that impact a student’s status with the university, ranging from a Disciplinary Reprimand to Expulsion.

A. Disciplinary Reprimand: A written warning to the student explaining that the student's violation of university policy requires an official record to be kept in OSA. Students who have received a disciplinary reprimand may automatically have the reprimand removed from their record, so long as they meet the following criteria:

It has been at least 12 months since the behavior occurred.

The student has not been found responsible for any additional Code of Student Life, including any alcohol or drug related offenses, on or off campus, in the past 12 months.

The student completed all assigned sanctions and, if applicable, actions required by courts having jurisdiction over the matter.

B. Disciplinary Probation: A written acknowledgement of a violation of a university policy(ies). The student may remain enrolled at the university only on the condition that the student complies with university policies including the Code of Student Life, and any other sanctions or restrictions on privileges, for the specified amount of time. Probation will typically last for the semester in which probation is imposed, plus one additional semesters, which will not include summer or winter terms. Probation duration will be based on the nature and circumstances of the incident(s), with less serious circumstances generally resulting in a shorter probation duration and more severe circumstances generally resulting in longer probation duration.

Students with disciplinary probation status are not considered to be in good standing with respect to the non-academic disciplinary system for the duration of the sanction. Students who violate university policy during the probationary period may receive more serious disciplinary sanctions, including the possibility of suspension or expulsion.

Once the designated probation period has elapsed, the student will again be considered in good standing. A record of the disciplinary probation sanction will be kept with OSA in compliance with the university’s regular record retention schedule.

Students who are placed on disciplinary probation may be ineligible for certain campus jobs, leadership positions, or other academic opportunities, such as study abroad.

C. Disciplinary Suspension: Involuntarily separation from the University for a pre-determined period of time after which reapplication may be required. Conditions for return may be specified at the time of the sanction decision. The Associate Dean, Accountability and Care, may be required to approve any request for readmission.

D. Expulsion: Permanent separation from the University and all other Board of Regents, State of Iowa, institutions.

Restorative Sanctions: Sanctions that are intended to reestablish a student’s standing at the university. These sanctions are intended to be educational in nature and address the nature of the misconduct.

E. Student Wellness Sanctions: Students found responsible for alcohol and/or other drug violations may be required to complete alcohol and/or drug education. This education is facilitated by Student Wellness or another local agency in the community. The student is responsible for any associated costs in completing this requirement.

F. Restitution and/or Fine: A student may be assessed reasonable expenses related to the misconduct. This may include, but is not limited to, the repair/replacement cost for any damage they caused to university property. In addition, University Housing & Dining may impose fines on students who are found responsible for violating alcohol or drug policies. In these instances, the fines are used to help pay for the student’s alcohol and/or drug education and for alcohol alternative events.

G. Educational Sanctions: A student may be required to provide an identified service or participate in a particular program, receive specific instruction, or complete a research assignment. The student may be responsible for the cost of completing this requirement.

Denial of Privileges: Sanctions that involve restricting a student’s involvement in a campus activity, academic course, or program as result of being found responsible for misconduct.

H. No-Contact Directive: A student may be prohibited from contacting an individual who was impacted by their actions at any time. Such prohibition may be in effect for a specific or an indefinite period of time and may be imposed as an interim or final outcome.

I. University Housing Transfer or Contract Cancellation: A student may be moved within, between, or removed from, University housing or residence halls. The student may also be prohibited from entering any or all University residence halls, including reapplying for future university housing accommodations. Conditions for readmission may be specified when the sanction is assigned.

J. Building Prohibition: A student may be prohibited from entering a specific building or set of buildings. This prohibition may be in effect for a specific or an indefinite amount of time and may be imposed as an interim or final outcome.

K. Campus Prohibition: A student may be prohibited from entering the University of Iowa campus property. This prohibition may be in effect for a specific or indefinite amount of time, and typically is a component of suspension or expulsion sanctions.

Section 13: Appeal Procedure

In all cases, a student may appeal the decision of an investigator and/or the sanction imposed. The appeal must be submitted in writing and filed with OSA within ten (10) University business days following notification of the investigation decision or sanction imposed, whichever is later. The appeal form can be found here.

A student may request an extension of the appeal filing deadline by emailing OSA (dos-accountability@uiowa.edu) at least two (2) University business days prior to the due date of the appeal and providing an explanation for the request.

The appealing party must support the appeal by addressing one or more of the following grounds.

There was significant procedural error that materially affected the outcome (e.g., lack of notice, opportunity to be heard, or opportunity to challenge information);
The decision was not supported by substantial evidence when viewed as a whole;
The decision amounted to misapplication of the rules;
The sanction imposed was not appropriate in light of the policy violation(s);
New, substantial evidence, not reasonably available at the time of the investigation or sanctioning, could materially change the decision.

The Associate Dean, Accountability and Care, or their designee, will send an acknowledgement of receipt of the appeal to the student, generally within two (2) University business days.

The Associate Dean, Accountability and Care, will transmit the student’s appeal and the record to the appropriate University office within two (2) University business days.

Appeals of cases heard only by a hearing officer from University Housing and Dining are heard by the Director of Residence Education.
Appeals of cases that involve suspension or expulsion are heard by the Office of the Provost.
Appeals of all other cases (including deferred sanctions) are heard by the Office of the Vice President for Student Life.

Sanctions imposed by the investigator or Associate Dean, Accountability and Care, will remain in effect while the appeal is being considered, unless otherwise noted.

The appeal officer will review the student’s written appeal and the case record, which includes investigator notes and evidence collected. The appeal officer will not meet with the student or witnesses, nor will they engage in further investigation with respect to the allegations.

The appellate officer will transmit a written decision on the appeal to the Associate Dean, Accountability and Care, within ten (10) University business days from when the record was received by the appeal officer. The Associate Dean, Accountability and Care, will circulate the decision on appeal within two (2) University business days after receipt of the decision.

The decision made by the appellate officer on appeal is the final university decision on the matter. The student may appeal the University’s final decision to the Board of Regents, State of Iowa, subject to its policies, procedures, and deadlines. The University’s final decision letter will provide a hyper-link to the appeal procedures for the Board of Regents. Any sanctions imposed will remain in effect until the Board of Regents appeal process has been completed.

Section 14: Withdrawal of Enrollment, Transcript Notations and Registration Holds

A Responding Student whose case could result in suspension or expulsion, either due to the severe nature of the allegations or a prior misconduct record, shall not withdraw their current enrollment without the permission of OSA. Should a student withdraw without permission while an investigation is occurring that could result in suspension or expulsion, including failing to re-enroll for a subsequent academic semester, OSA will place a notation on the student’s transcript stating, “Withdrew After Disciplinary Complaint Was Filed.” The notation will remain on the student’s transcript until they elect to return to the University of Iowa and complete the process.

When a student is suspended, the transcript notation will read: “Non-Academic Misconduct – Suspension from (semester) to (semester).” The notation will remain on the student’s transcript until one of the following occurs: (1) the suspension is overturned on appeal; or (2) completion of the suspension period and, when appropriate, OSA receives evidence that the student has met all requirements for other imposed sanctions.

When a student is expelled, the transcript notation will read: “Non-Academic Misconduct – Expulsion.” The notation will remain on the student’s transcript unless the expulsion is overturned on appeal.

OSA may place a hold on a student’s ability to register if any of the following occurs:

The student fails to meet with an OSA staff member after receiving multiple notifications of a notice of investigation.
A report is received by OSA involving a student who is not currently registered but is still considered a student as outlined in Section D of the Code of Student Life.
The student fails to complete a sanction required by OSA or University Housing and Dining.

OSA may place a hold on the conferral of a degree until the student accountability process is completed and all sanctions, if applicable, have been satisfactorily completed, even if the student has satisfied all academic requirements for the degree.

B. Student Organization Discipline Procedure:

Section 1: Purpose

The University of Iowa’s Student Organization Discipline Procedure is designed to provide a process to investigate and resolve alleged violations of University policies by student organizations, including fraternities, sororities, and sport clubs registered by Recreational Services. The Discipline Procedure is not a substitute for the civil or criminal court system. Rather, the Discipline Procedure provides a mechanism for the University to determine if University policies have been violated and act in accordance with the findings.

Unless otherwise denoted, the use of the term “student organization” shall include all registered student organizations associated with the University of Iowa. This includes all student organizations registered by the Leadership, Service and Civic Engagement, Recreational Services, student governance organizations (USG, GPSG, IFC, PHC, MGC, NPHC, ARH), or an academic college/department/unit.

Fraternity and sorority chapters affiliated with the Interfraternity Council (IFC), Panhellenic Council (PHC), National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC), or Multicultural Greek Council (MGC) must also abide by the judicial policies established by their respective governing body and are subject to their respective council’s judicial processes.

Section 2: Jurisdiction for Registered Student Organizations

This Student Organization Discipline Procedure generally governs reports that allege student organization violations of University policies or organizational policies including, but not limited to, rules promulgated by the respective student governance organization.

As referenced in the Registration of Student Organizations policy, the university will not adjudicate or hear appeals related to student organization leadership selection processes or final leadership selection by organizations that select their leadership on the basis of a commitment to a set of beliefs or affirmations. These selection processes are defined and enforced by individual student organizations and the university shall respect the organization’s decision-making process.
Formal complaints of bias, harassment, discrimination, equity, free speech, and sexual misconduct concerns should be made to The Office of Civil Rights Compliance.

Section 3: Reports

Allegations of a possible violation of this policy may be brought to the University’s attention by a police report, incident report, report by organization leadership, media account, or any other method to:

Leadership, Service, and Civic Engagement
Recreational Services,
Office of the Dean of Students,
Office of Student Accountability, or
Other University offices, including the Office of Civil Rights Compliance.

Possible policy violations or reports can be referred for behavior that occurs both on and off campus. Additionally, any office, department, student organization, or individual (faculty, staff, student, or individual not affiliated with the University) may submit a report here.

All such reports should be forwarded to the Office of Student Accountability. The Associate Dean, Accountability and Care, or their designee will review the initial report to determine how a case should proceed.

Section 4: Standard of Evidence

Standard of Evidence: The standard of evidence used for cases investigated using the Student Accountability Procedure is a “preponderance of the evidence.” If the investigator determines that it is more likely than not that no policy violation occurred, the report will be dismissed. If the investigator determines that it is more likely than not that one or more University policies were violated, a sanction or sanctions will be imposed.

Section 5: Interim Measures

Pending the completion of an investigation and issuance of a report, a student organization may be subjected to any measure set forth in these student organization procedures, other than revoking the student organization’s registration, on an interim basis.
1. The assigned investigator has the authority to impose suspension of certain activities as sanctions on an interim basis. The Associate Dean, Accountability and Care, and/or the investigator will consult with the Assistant Dean of Leadership and Engagement, the Director of Recreation Services, or their designees, as applicable, regarding the case and any interim sanctions.
2. The Associate Dean, Accountability and Care, Assistant Dean of Leadership and Engagement, or the Director of Recreational Services, or their designee, has the authority to suspend all of an organization’s activities pending the outcome of the investigation if in their opinion the organization’s continued operation poses either:
  1. a continuing danger to persons or property or
  2. constitutes an ongoing threat of disruption to the academic process.
3. Interim measure decisions will be based on evidence available at that time. In situations where an investigation will take an extended length of time, and when serious interim measures are imposed against a student organization (i.e., interim suspension), the interim measure(s) will be continuously reassessed by the investigators based on available information.

Section 6: Interim Measure Appeals

A student organization may request that the investigator reconsider serious interim measures at any time.

Within ten (10) University business days after an interim measure is imposed, a student organization may submit a written request for review and reconsideration of the interim measures.
In situations where an investigation will take an extended length of time, and when interim suspension measures are imposed against a student organization, the interim measure(s) will be continuously reassessed by the investigators based on available information and involved parties will be updated.

Section 7: Support Persons

Any student participating in a meeting with OSA may bring up to two (2) support individuals to a meeting. The support person provides emotional support to the party and helps clarify the process. Inclusion of this individual must be initiated by the student. A witness in the case is not eligible to serve as a support person. Support persons could include an attorney, advocate, friend, family member, etc. Support persons may ask clarifying procedural questions of the investigator or Associate Dean, Accountability and Care, but otherwise may not speak during meetings with the investigator or Associate Dean, Accountability and Care.

Section 8: Investigation Procedure

The Associate Dean, Accountability and Care, may assign an investigator to investigate the alleged violations of University policies committed by student organizations.
During the investigation, a representative(s) of the student organization will be notified of the allegations in writing and given an opportunity to meet with the investigator to explain the organization’s side of the incident prior to the issuance of the final investigative decision.
The student organization representative(s) also has the opportunity to submit documents and other relevant evidence to the investigator and identify witnesses who may have relevant information.

Following an investigation through OSA, the possible outcomes include:

A decision to dismiss the allegations. The matter is then closed and documentation in OSA would reflect the allegations were dismissed.
A decision that it is more likely than not that the Registered Student Organization violated student conduct policies, the case will move to the resolution phase

Section 9: Impact of Criminal Charges

University disciplinary proceedings may be instituted against a student organization or student organization representative(s) charged with conduct that potentially violates both criminal laws and University policy, notwithstanding the fact that an investigation or court proceeding might be pending. University proceedings may occur before, during, or after the criminal court process.

A student organization or student organization representative(s) charged with criminal misconduct will be considered responsible for violating University Code of Student Life expectations and rules and therefore subject to disciplinary sanctions if convicted in criminal court of conduct prohibited under the Code of Student Life.
For the purposes of these procedures, a conviction includes a guilty plea, no-contest plea, jury verdict, judicial decision, or deferred judgment.
Due to the less stringent standard of proof under these procedures, a student organization or student organization representative(s) charged but not convicted of a crime is still subject to University disciplinary action if found responsible of violating University policy.
Findings or sanctions imposed under this policy shall not be subject to change even though criminal charges arising out of the same facts were dismissed, reduced, or resolved in favor of the responding student organization or student organization representative(s).

Section 10: Group vs. Individual Responsibility

A registered student organization may be held accountable for the behavior of its members and guests. An organization’s officers or members are encouraged to seek assistance from University offices (UI Department of Public Safety, Leadership, Service, and Civic Engagement, Student Engagement & Campus Programs, Fraternity and Sorority Life Programs, Office of Student Accountability, etc.) or outside agencies (police, fire department, ambulance) proactively to mitigate possible violations.
The University will determine whether alleged violations of policy are individual or organizational in nature. Generally, a student organization may be held responsible for violations of University policy when:
1. A policy or practice of the student organization was responsible for a violation, including:
  1. The violation was committed at an activity funded, co-sponsored, or endorsed by the organization or by an individual in the name of the organization and/or the misconduct occurred on property owned, controlled, rented, leased, and/or used by the student organization and/or any of its members/alumni acting on the student organization’s behalf;
  2. Members, officers, or advisors failed to report knowledge or information about a violation to appropriate University authorities;
2. One or more officers, acting within the scope of their stated or written duties, endorsed, permitted, encouraged, aided, or assisted in committing a violation or committed a violation;
  1. To endorse means having prior knowledge the misconduct was reasonably likely to occur and failing to take reasonable preventive or corrective action; failing to attempt to stop known misconduct while it is occurring; and/or helping to plan, promote, or carry out the misconduct.
  2. In determining whether an organization or its officers failed to take reasonable precautions, the University may take into account the repeated occurrence of other relevant incidents involving the organization;
  3. A pattern of individual violations occurs without appropriate accountability action by the student organization;
3. One or more members or alumni permitted, encouraged, aided, or assisted, in committing a violation, including:
  1. The violation was committed as part of an activity or assignment supported by the organization and/or approved by the local, regional, or national leadership;
  2. The violation was committed by members attending a function as representatives of the University, including, but not limited to, competitions, conferences, and conventions;
  3. Members, officers, or alumni committed a violation in the name of the organization.

Section 11: Resolution

Adaptable Resolution Process:
1. The Office of Student Accountability has the authority to impose sanctions if they conclude that Code of Student Life violations occurred and that sanctions are warranted by a full or partial investigation. When the investigator determines there has been a policy violation, and/ or the student organization acknowledges or admits that they engaged in the alleged behavior and cooperatively participates in the process, an Adaptable Resolution Process can be utilized.
2. While the Adaptable Resolution Process is typically available for Level 1 and 2 violations, the Associate Dean, Accountability and Care, and the investigator will consider other circumstances for proceeding with an adaptable resolution that include: the overall safety and appropriateness to utilize this process, the complexity of the violation, the organization’s motivation and ability to participate, disciplinary history, and whether or not adequate resources exist to invest in the adaptable resolution (time, staff, etc.) as well as which form of resolution may be most successful for the student organization and the University.
3. If Adaptable Resolution is applicable, the investigator will determine whether all parties and the University of Iowa are able to agree on responsibility, sanctions, and/or remedies. If so, the investigator implements the accepted finding that the student organization is in violation of University of Iowa policy and implements agreed-upon sanctions and/or remedies, in coordination with other appropriate administrator(s), as necessary.
4. The Adaptable Resolution Process includes the following steps:
  1. The investigator and student organization representative(s) collaborate to co-create an adaptable resolution agreement for the incident.
  2. Before creating the adaptable resolution agreement, the investigator will consult with the Assistant Dean of Leadership and Engagement or the Director of Recreational Services (or their designees) and, where applicable, the (inter)national / sponsoring organization for the local student organization/chapter, regarding the case and their sanction recommendations.
  3. The adaptable resolution agreement will be authored by the investigator, agreed upon by all parties, and signed by the student organization representative(s).
  4. Due to the nature of the adaptable resolution process, an appeal is not available after the agreement is signed by the responding student organization representative(s).
Administrative Resolution Process:
When it has been determined, via the Adaptable Resolution Process, that a Level 3 violation(s) was committed and that suspension of University registration of the organization may be warranted (i.e. typically for Level 3 violations or resulting from progressive discipline), the case will be referred to the Associate Dean, Accountability and Care, for Administrative Resolution.
1. In these instances, the sanctions will be determined by the Associate Dean, Accountability and Care, who will consult with the Assistant Dean of Leadership and Engagement or the Director of Recreational Services, (or their designee) as applicable and, where applicable, the (inter)national / sponsoring organization for the local student organization/chapter, regarding the case and their sanction recommendations.
2. The student organization representative(s) will have ten (10) University business days after receipt of the notice of a decision to request an appeal to the Associate Dean, Accountability and Care.
Formal Process:
1. The Office of Student Accountability has the authority to impose sanctions if they conclude (via responding party admission or investigation) that the Code of Student Life was violated and that sanctions are warranted.
  1. An investigator may proceed with an accountability process if the student organization representative fails to respond to the notice letter or fails to attend their scheduled investigation meeting.
2. If the investigator determines there has been a Level 1 or 2 policy violation, sanctions can be applied by the investigator. When sanctioning, Office of Student Accountability staff will consult with the Assistant Dean of Leadership and Engagement, the Director of Recreational Services, (or their designee, as applicable) and, where applicable, the (inter)national / sponsoring organization for the local student organization/chapter, regarding the case and their sanction recommendations.
3. If the investigator determines there have been level 3 violation(s), the case will be referred to the Associate Dean, Accountability and Care, for resolution. The report prepared by the investigator may include a list of recommended sanctions.
  1. The Associate Dean, Accountability and Care, will schedule a resolution meeting with the student organization representative(s) following the completion of the investigation.
  2. The Associate Dean, Accountability and Care, or their designee may issue a decision if the student organization representative fails to respond to the notice letter or fails to attend their scheduled investigation meeting.
4. The student organization representative(s) will have ten (10) University business days after receipt of the notice of a decision to request an appeal to the Assistant Dean of Leadership and Engagement, or the Director of Recreational Services, as applicable.

Section 12: Sanctions

When it has been determined that one or more University policies have been violated, one or more sanctions may be imposed. Student organizations that fail to comply with a sanction in a timely manner are subject to additional disciplinary action, which may include loss of registration until compliance is achieved.

The following is a non-exhaustive list of potential sanctions that may be utilized individually or in combination:

Disciplinary Reprimand: A written warning to the student organization explaining that the violation of university policy requires an official record to be kept in the Office of Student Accountability. A subsequent University policy violation following a Disciplinary Reprimand may result in the imposition of more serious sanctions.
Educational Program. A student organization may be required to provide an identified service or participate in a particular program, receive specific instruction, or complete a designated assignment. The student organization is responsible for any related expenses, including expenses for education, counseling, and/or services.
Organization Leadership Development Opportunity. Student organization leaders may be required to participate in additional leadership development or educational opportunities intended to build leaders capable of guiding culture change and providing overall leadership to their organization or enhance specific knowledge on policy or related issues.
Attainment of Standards. A student organization or student organization representative(s) may be required to attain a specific standard(s) over the course of a designated period of time. Examples of these standards include, but are not limited to: organizational grade point average, organizational arrest and citation rate, organizational member retention, organizational member certifications/trainings.
Disciplinary Probation: A written acknowledgement of a violation of university policy. The student organization may remain eligible for registration as a student organization at the university only on the condition that the organization complies with university policies including the Code of Student Life, and any other sanctions or restrictions on privileges, for a specified amount of time.
Restitution: A student organization may be assessed reasonable expenses related to the misconduct. This may include, but is not limited to, the following: the repair/replacement cost for damage to University property.
Denial of Privileges: A student organization may be denied access to certain University privileges for a definite or indefinite period of time. Such sanctions may include, but are not limited to, the following: prohibitions on University space usage, prohibition from receiving and/or expending funds, suspension to participate in certain student organization and/or University sponsored activities.
Loss of Registration: A student organization may be involuntarily separated from the University for a specified period of time or permanently. Conditions for a return may be specified as needed.

Sanctions will vary based upon the facts and circumstances of any specific offense. Sanctions are usually progressive in nature and include the probability of more severe disciplinary sanctions if the student organization or student organization representative(s) are found to violate the same or any other University policies. In some circumstances, the Assistant Dean of Leadership and Engagement or Director of Recreational Services may elect to defer a sanction. A deferred suspension, for example, means that the sanction does not go into effect as long as the student organization complies with all requirements during the interim period. In those cases where the student organization completes all expectations during the interim period, the student organization’s record will show that the sanction was never imposed.

Organization Leadership Development Opportunity. Student organization leaders may be required to participate in additional leadership development or educational opportunities intended to build leaders capable of guiding culture change and providing overall leadership to their organization or enhance specific knowledge on policy or related issues.

In the event that a student organization or student organization representative(s) fail to comply with a sanction and the Associate Dean, Accountability and Care, has decided to impose a suspension, the student organization will be notified of the apparent failure to comply and of the Associate Dean's intent to suspend, and provided an opportunity to meet personally with the Associate Dean and explain the circumstances prior to a final decision.

Section 13: Appeals

The responding student organization may appeal the decision by filing a written notice of appeal within ten (10) University business days following the receipt of the decision. The notice of appeal shall be filed with the Office of the Dean of Students.

Grounds for appeal:

There was significant procedural error that materially affected the outcome (e.g., lack of notice, opportunity to be heard, or opportunity to challenge information);
The decision was not supported by substantial evidence when viewed as a whole;
The decision amounted to misapplication of these rules;
The sanction imposed was not appropriate in light of the policy violation(s);
New, substantial evidence, not reasonably available at the time of the investigation or sanctioning, could materially change the decision.

Process for appeal:

The Associate Dean, Accountability and Care, will send an acknowledgement of receipt of the appeal to the student organization, generally within two (2) University business days.
The Associate Dean, Accountability and Care, will typically transmit the student organization’s appeal and the record to the appeal officer who shall be the Assistant Dean of Leadership and Engagement or Director of Recreational Services, as applicable, in a timely manner. The Associate Dean, Accountability and Care, will determine another suitable appellate officer should a conflict of interest be present with the Assistant Dean of Leadership and Engagement or Director of Recreational Service. Sanctions imposed by the investigator or Associate Dean, Accountability and Care, will remain in effect while the appeal is being considered, unless otherwise noted.
The appeal officer will review the student organization’s written appeal and the case record, which includes the investigation report, investigator notes and evidence collected. The appeal officer will not meet with the student or witnesses, or engage in further investigation with respect to the allegations.
The appeal officer will transmit a written decision on the appeal to the Associate Dean, Accountability and Care, within ten (10) University business days from when the record was received by the appeal officer. The Associate Dean will circulate the decision on appeal within two (2) University business days after receipt of the decision.
The decision made by the Assistant Dean of Leadership and Engagement or Director of Recreational Services on the appeal is the final university decision on the matter. The student organization may appeal the University’s final decision to the Board of Regents, State of Iowa, subject to its policies, procedures, and deadlines. The University’s final decision letter will provide a hyper-link to the appeal procedures for the Board of Regents. Any sanctions imposed will remain in effect until the Board of Regents appeal process has been completed.