PSU Code of Student Conduct and Responsibility

Click on the links below to go to specific sections of the Portland State Code of Student Conduct and Responsibility, or scroll down to read the document in its entirety.
I. General Policy
II. General Statement of Authority
III. Purview/Jurisdiction
IV. Conduct Prohibited by Portland State University
V. Interim Measures
VI. Student Conduct Procedures
VII. Other Considerations
VIII. Sanctions
IX. Records
X. Definitions
XI. Interpretation and Revision

I. General Policy

The University supports the right of all people to live and learn in a safe and respectful environment that promotes excellence in instruction, research, and public service. The Code of Student Conduct and Responsibility (“Code”) is designed to protect the freedoms, fundamental rights, and responsibilities of those in the PSU community. Students are expected to conduct themselves in a manner consistent with these principles. Adhering to this Code will contribute to students' ability to be successful at Portland State University.

A Student whose conduct is determined incongruent with the standards of the University as described in this Code is subject to disciplinary action. The procedures for that action are generally educational in nature and are intended to lead to the preservation of community, self-evaluation, and accountability.
The procedures of this Code consider each case individually. Review of alleged conduct code violations shall be done in a prompt, fair, and impartial manner.
In addition to the requirements of this Code, all Student Parties must follow the academic and professional standards of all applicable academic units, departments, schools, and colleges.
This Code is effective as of July 1, 2026. For conduct that occurred before July 1, 2026, the conduct will be evaluated and adjudicated under the prior Code.

II. General Statement of Authority

As provided in PSU’s Student Conduct and Responsibility Policy, the Senior Conduct Officer has overall responsibility for developing and implementing policies for the administration of the Code and procedural rules for conduct meetings and Committee Conduct Review meetings that are consistent with provisions of the Code and applicable law.
The Senior Conduct Officer will review all reports of alleged violations of this Code and has sole discretion to determine purview/jurisdiction, if adjudication is appropriate, and determine the appropriate review body or University Official for adjudication.

III. Purview/Jurisdiction

Purview, another word for jurisdiction, means, in general, the people and allegations that this Code applies to.

The provisions of this Code apply to all Students and activities on University Premises; during any University Sponsored Activity regardless of location; and to off-campus conduct that has a rational nexus to the University and/or the pursuit of its objectives or that poses a potential threat to the health, safety, or assets of the University or any person associated with the University or substantially impacts any person’s ability to continue their University-related pursuits. Questions regarding purview will be resolved by the Senior Conduct Officer.
Students participating in co-admission programs between Portland State University and other institutions will be accountable to conduct standards at Portland State University regardless of the standards applicable at the other institution and regardless of whether the other institution is reviewing an allegation(s) under that institution’s policy.
Allegations of certain behavior may be adjudicated within the University’s administrative conduct program as outlined in this Code as well as within any off-campus criminal justice system. Adjudication of allegations of misconduct for Student parties will occur expediently without regard to the status of any off-campus adjudication.
Generally, allegations may be adjudicated up to six months from the date of the alleged violation regardless of the student’s current enrollment status. However, the Senior Conduct Officer may determine that adjudication is appropriate beyond the six-month period. An adjudicated violation of a prior or inactive student may result in a notation on the permanent record, degree revocation, or permanent separation from the University.
During a period of suspension, individuals remain subject to this Code. Any behavior that violates the Code during this time may be reviewed upon consideration for reenrollment.

IV. Conduct Prohibited by Portland State University

The following is a list of conduct that is prohibited by the University.

Academic Misconduct: actual or attempted, fraud, deceit, unauthorized use of materials prohibited or inappropriate in the context of the academic assignment, or any act that aims to achieve an unfair academic advantage. Unless otherwise specified by the faculty member, all submissions, whether in draft or final form, must either be the Student’s own work, or must clearly acknowledge the source(s). Academic Misconduct includes, but is not limited to, academic sabotage, cheating, copying, allowing others to copy, falsification of research data or sources, performing academic assignments in another person’s stead, plagiarism, unauthorized materials (including generative artificial intelligence programs and content), the buying, selling, or disclosure of academic assignments or information, unauthorized collaboration, submitting assignments for multiple courses, or any combination of the above or other act that is not otherwise permitted by an instructor.
Alcohol and Other Drugs: violation of the PSU Alcohol and Drug-Free University Policy, including but not limited to:
1. possession or consumption of alcohol beverages by persons under 21 years of age, or furnishing of alcoholic beverages to persons under 21 years, on University Premises or at any University Sponsored Activity.
2. illegal use, possession or distribution of any federally controlled substances, synthetic drugs or inhalants, and natural substances used for drug effects, and/or its paraphernalia. This includes any misuse or distribution of prescription or over the counter medications.
3. appearing in a state of intoxication or being under the influence of any substance to the extent that it endangers oneself or others, disrupts the University environment, or requires medical or emergency intervention.
Bad Faith Participation: abuse of the University conduct program as outlined in this Code, including but not limited to:
1. falsification, distortion or misrepresentation of information before any conduct body;
2. knowingly initiating any conduct proceedings without cause; or
3. attempting to discourage an individual's participation in, or use of, any conduct system.
Collusion: inciting, enabling, or coercing others to engage in any of the conduct or to perform any of the acts prohibited in this Code.
Discriminatory Harassment: verbal comments, graphic or written statements, or physical conduct by a student based on Protected Class(es) that is so severe, persistent, or pervasive that it interferes with or limits a student, employee, volunteer, or PSU community member’s ability to participate in or benefit from the university’s educational and/or employment opportunities, programs, or activities.
Disruptive Behavior:
1. any behavior that interrupts the normal operations of the University, including teaching, classroom activities, research, administrative functions, disciplinary procedures, or other authorized University activities.
2. persistent demands that place an undue emotional, physical, or logistical burden on another member of the university community, such that it impairs that person’s ability to conduct their academic or professional duties.
Electronic or Digital Misconduct:
1. Unwanted or unreasonably excessive communication with another person using computers, email, cell phones, or any other digital device.
2. Abuse, misuse, and/or theft of data, equipment, or software, including unauthorized file sharing, distribution of electronic materials, creating or presenting false information, whether as a hoax, to incite fear, or to embarrass, harass, or ridicule another person.
3. PSU ID badges are assigned to specific individuals and may not be duplicated, cloned, or otherwise shared with anyone.
4. Hacking: unauthorized entry into any off-campus, University-owned, or University-controlled network or other online space.
5. Illegal download: use of any University-owned or controlled network to illegally download any material that is under copyright or other ownership.
6. Surveillance: recording, streaming, or viewing another person without consent through the use of electronic, digital, or online devices, including sharing such materials with others
Endangerment: threatening behavior that constitutes an existing or potential threat to the health or safety of others. Direct or implied threat of harm or hostile behavior that creates a reasonable fear of injury to another person or unreasonably subjects another person to emotional distress and/or brandishing a weapon or an object which appears to be a weapon in a threatening manner is prohibited.
Failure to Comply: refusal to comply with and respond appropriately to directives of a University Official(s) made in the performance of their duties. A violation of any sanctions imposed as a result of previous disciplinary proceedings under the Code.
Fraud, False Statements, or Misrepresentations: furnishing false or misleading information to the University, including but not limited to knowingly failing to provide requested or required information to the University, including forgery, alteration or unauthorized use of University documents, records, identification or resources, tampering with the election of any Student, Recognized Student Organization or group, or misrepresenting a person's identity to a Course Instructor or other University Official.
Harassment: a course of conduct, including intimidating, coercive, or verbally abusive behavior, directed at a specific individual(s) that causes, or is intended to cause, emotional or physical distress and/or serves no legitimate purpose.
Hazing: conduct which subjects a person to bodily danger, or physical, mental, or emotional harm, or to the likelihood of bodily danger or physical, mental, or emotional harm, or requiring, authorizing or permitting that the person be subjected to such conduct or act, for the purpose of initiation, admission into, affiliation with, or as a condition for continued membership in a student group or organization (affiliated or unaffiliated). The real or alleged participation in, consent to, or acquiescence in such conduct by a person subjected to hazing does not relieve an individual or group from responsibility for violating the Code.
Misuse of University Property: using, taking, or misappropriation of property, equipment, resources, or services that is owned or operated by the University for purposes for anything other than the intended use or that which was expressly permitted by an authorized University Official. Use of University property, Premises, activities, or programs to facilitate conduct that is contrary to any federal or state law or city or local ordinance.
Obstruction: any behavior or action that interferes with freedom of movement, blocks access to pathways, buildings, or property, or prevents the application of administrative processes.
Retaliation: any adverse treatment that is taken because a person has opposed an act or practice, made a report, testified, assisted, or participated in any manner in a review, proceeding, or Conduct Review meeting concerning their protected rights and that would discourage a reasonable person from engaging in those protected activities. Retaliation also means coercing, intimidating, threatening, interfering, or discriminating against any person for the purpose of interfering with any protected right or because they have exercised any protected right, or aided or encouraged another person to exercise any protected right.
Possession, Use, or Misuse of Weapons:
1. Any possession of unauthorized weapons, use of weapons, or misuse of authorized weapons on University-owned or -controlled property, at University-sponsored activities or programs, or where a rational nexus exists. Types of weapons include, but are not limited to, guns and ammunition, including all calibers and pellet, BB, paintball, airsoft guns, knives, swords, axes, devices that cast projectiles, including tasers and bows and arrows, chemical weapons, explosives, dangerous chemicals, or reasonable facsimiles or instrumentalities, and any other object used to threat or harm another person.
2. This includes any knife that features a fixed or folding blade that exceeds 2.5 inches (6.35 cm) in length; or any knife, regardless of blade length, that is structurally designed, manufactured, or marketed primarily as a weapon, tactical instrument, or combat device (e.g., daggers, switchblades, ballistic knives, butterfly knives, karambits, or dirks), rather than a standard utility, or culinary tool.
Property Damage: malicious or negligent damage or destruction of property, including University-owned buildings, equipment, supplies, and other property belonging to the University or any member of the University community.
Physical Assault: physical abuse of any person or conduct which intentionally or negligently causes harm, intends to cause harm, or is intended to threaten imminent danger to the health and safety of any person.
Public Indecency: any sex act or exposure of genitals while in a public place or a place visible from a public place not otherwise in accordance with the law.
Sexual Misconduct
1. Sexual Harassment: unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature. Sexual harassment includes sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal comments, non-verbal, or physical conduct of a sexual nature, where such conduct is sufficiently severe or pervasive that it has the effect, intended or unintended, of unreasonably interfering with an individual’s academic performance, interferes with an individual’s access to University Services, Programs, or activities, or creates an intimidating, hostile environment.Examples of inappropriate behavior include: sexual or derogatory comments; grabbing or touching parts of the body; and sending letters, notes, cartoons, emails, text, or audio messages of a sexually suggestive nature. Sexual harassment does not refer to occasional compliments of a socially acceptable nature. Sexual Harassment includes, but is broader than, Title IX Sexual Harassment.
2. Title IX Sexual Harassment: a specific form of Sexual Harassment that is regulated under Title IX of the Amended Education Act of 1972, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex in PSU’s education programs or activities. The procedures that apply to this form of Sexual Harassment are found in PSU’s Title IX Policy. Whether Title IX Sexual Harassment processes apply may depend on when and where the behavior occurred and the connection of the involved parties to PSU.
3. Examples of Prohibited Conduct: Sexual Harassment includes a host of behaviors, only a few of which are defined here. Many of these behaviors involve the absence of Effective Consent, including instances in which a person is incapacitated. Some additional behaviors that constitute Sexual Harassment include the following:
  1. Quid Pro Quo Sexual Harassment: making submission to unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature explicitly or implicitly as a term or condition of an individual’s employment or educational experience. This may include employment, salary, or other benefit changes affecting an employee, or as a basis for educational decisions or benefits affecting a student.
  2. Dating Violence: sexual violence or physical abuse or the threat of such abuse, on the basis of sex, committed by a person who is in or has been in a “social relationship of a romantic or intimate nature” with the Complainant. PSU determines whether such a relationship exists by considering the Complainant’s statement and the length of the relationship, the type of relationship, and the frequency of interaction between the people involved.
  3. Domestic Violence: sexual violence or physical abuse or the threat of such abuse, on the basis of sex, committed by a student who is a current or former spouse or intimate partner of the Complainant, or shares a child in common with the Complainant, or is cohabitating with, or has cohabitated with, the Complainant as a spouse or intimate partner, or is similarly situated to a spouse of the Complainant under the domestic or family violence laws of Oregon. The relationship between the student and the Complainant is more than just two people living together as roommates.
  4. Fondling: the touching of the private parts of another person, without the consent of the other person, including instances where the other person is incapable of giving consent because of their age or because of their temporary or permanent mental incapacity.
  5. Incest: sexual intercourse between persons who are related to each other within degrees wherein marriage is prohibited by law.
  6. Rape: the penetration, no matter how slight, of the vagina or anus with any body part or object, or oral penetration by a sex organ of another person, without the consent of the victim.
  7. Sexual Assault: any sexual act directed against another person, without the consent of the victim, including instances where the victim was incapable of giving Effective Consent.
  8. Sexual Exploitation: this means that a student takes non-consensual or abusive sexual advantage of another for their own advantage or benefit or to benefit another person. Examples of Sexual Exploitation include, but are not limited to: invasion of sexual privacy, taking or transmitting photographs of a sexual nature without consent, engaging in voyeurism, exposing one’s genitals in non-consensual circumstances, prostituting another person, or inducing incapacitation with the intent to commit other acts of sexual misconduct.
  9. Stalking: engaging in a “course of conduct” (two or more acts, including, but not limited to acts in which the student directly, indirectly, or through third parties, by any action, method, device, or means), follows, monitors, observes, surveils, threatens, or communicates to or about a person, or interferes with a person’s property; on the basis of sex, directed at a specific person, that would cause a reasonable person to fear for the person’s safety, or the safety of others; or suffer substantial emotional distress, which includes anguish that may, but does not necessarily require, medical or other professional treatment or counseling.
  10. Statutory Rape: sexual intercourse with a person who is under the statutory age of consent as defined by the laws of the State of Oregon.
Smoking: smoking of any inhalant in university buildings and other unauthorized areas. This includes but is not limited to Tobacco cigarettes, marijuana, cigars, e-cigarettes, cloves, bidis, vaping pens and other related equipment.
Theft: taking of property belonging to any other person or the University without the express permission of that person or an authorized University Official.
Threatening Communication: threats made verbally, online or through electronic communication with sufficient content such that it causes fear of injury or other harm are prohibited.
Unauthorized Entry: entrance into or use of University facilities, including buildings and grounds, or use of keys or ID Cards without authorization.
Unlawful Detention: restraint of a person against their will through physical restraint or denying freedom of movement, departure, or access by any means, including threat, coercion, or any form of restraint.
Violation of Law: engaging in conduct that is contrary to any federal or state law or city or local ordinance when such violation interferes with, or is detrimental to, the mission of the University or interferes with other students’ legitimate educational activities and interests shall automatically be deemed to be detrimental to the mission of the University. This includes the conviction of a felony or misdemeanor under circumstances where it is reasonable to conclude that the presence of the person at the University would constitute a danger to health, personal safety, or property. University disciplinary proceedings may be instituted against a Respondent alleged to have engaged in conduct that potentially violates both the law and this Code without regard to the pendency of civil or criminal litigation or criminal arrest and prosecution. Determinations made or sanctions imposed under this Code are not subject to change merely because criminal charges arising out of the same facts are dismissed, reduced, or resolved in favor of or against an individual.
Violation of University Policy: any act that would be a violation of this or any other University policy or rule that is not covered by this policy.

V. Interim Measures

When the health and safety of a member of the PSU community is at immediate risk of harm, or when a disruption is so great that it significantly impacts the residential or educational community, the Dean of Student Life or the Senior Conduct Officer may take emergency action to implement interim measures before a Conduct Review Meeting is held. Interim Measures may include, but is not limited to, one or more of the following:
1. immediate interim suspension of the Student;
2. exclusion from University Premises or any portion thereof;
3. loss of any of the privileges of being a Student;
4. mandating completion by the Student of an assessment by a qualified professional and compliance with the recommendations of the professional; or
5. any other action determined to be reasonable due to the circumstances.
A Student Party will be provided written notice of the interim measure(s), including justification for the determination and opportunity to contest the determination. The notice on interim measures will provide information about the time, date, and modality/location of a Show Cause Meeting. The Show Cause Meeting will typically be held within 3 days of the notice of interim measures and it is the Student Party’s decision about whether to participate in the meeting.
A Student subject to interim measures will be provided an opportunity to attend a Show Cause Meeting with the Dean of Student Life (or designee). The purpose of this meeting is to allow the Student Party to explain or “show cause” as to why the interim measures should not be continued or why they should be modified. The Show Cause Meeting is not a hearing on the merits of the underlying conduct identified in the notice of interim measures. Instead, the Student Party may elect to provide information regarding why their continued presence or unrestricted access to the campus community does not present an immediate risk of harm or substantial disruption, along with any mitigating circumstances that would sufficiently address the University's safety and/or disruption concerns.Following the meeting, the Dean of Student Life (or designee) will provide a written notification to the student within 24 hours stating whether the interim measures will be maintained, modified, or rescinded.
Incidents in which interim measures are taken will then be reviewed following the procedures outlined in Section VI of the Code. The interim measure will remain in effect for the duration of the Conduct Review Process, unless modified by the Dean of Student Life (or designee), in their sole discretion. In matters where interim measures are implemented, the Conduct Review Process will be initiated promptly and without undue delay.

VI. Student Conduct Procedures

Report and Intake Process
1. Any person may submit a report to the Senior Conduct Officer alleging that a Student has engaged in conduct prohibited by this Code. At their discretion, the Officer may initiate a Conduct Review irrespective of complainant participation.
2. Any allegation should be submitted as soon as possible after the event takes place. Where reports are submitted more than six (6) months after the alleged conduct, the University may have limited ability to review and address the matter due to the potential unavailability of witnesses and loss of evidence. It is at the sole discretion of the Senior Conduct Officer to determine if a Conduct Review is appropriate when a report is made longer than six months after the alleged conduct, considering factors such as the severity of the allegations, the availability or unavailability of potential witnesses and supporting or exculpatory evidence, continued participation of the potential respondent in University programs and activities, and the impact of the allegations on the PSU community.
3. All reports submitted to the Office of the Dean of Student Life are subject to a threshold assessment by the Senior Conduct Officer to determine if the allegation, if true, would constitute a violation of this Code and/or what process under this Code would be the appropriate process for addressing the alleged conduct. Should a report provide insufficient information to determine this, the Senior Conduct Officer may initiate a preliminary review to make this threshold assessment, including interviewing persons who may have knowledge related to the report. If that person may be a potential respondent, the person shall be told this at the time a request for an interview is made and that they have an option not to participate.
4. Should the Senior Conduct Officer conclude that the available information is insufficient to warrant a Conduct Review, the report shall be maintained as a record and the reporting or impacted parties referred to appropriate resources and support services. In such instances, the Senior Conduct Officer may issue a non-adjudicated warning letter to the student, serving as notification of the report and a summary of Code expectations. Such correspondence is not classified as disciplinary action.
5. Where there is purview to proceed with the Conduct Review Process, the Senior Conduct Officer will determine which Adjudicating Body will conduct the review. While the Respondent may request that the Senior Conduct Officer choose a particular Adjudicating Body, the final decision will rest with the Senior Conduct Officer.
  1. Senior Conduct Officer or Designee
    1. If the Senior Conduct Officer hears the case, the Senior Conduct Officer will facilitate the Conduct Review procedures and may decide the matter based on the available information. All meetings before the Senior Conduct Officer are closed, and the information and supporting documents presented are confidential except as required by law or policy. The Conduct Review meeting is informal and does not follow administrative contested case or courtroom procedures, including formal rules of evidence. It will be at the discretion of the Senior Conduct Officer to review information brought forward by any party involved and determine if it will be considered as a part of the Conduct Review. All information and documentation associated should be submitted prior to the close of a review. Designees may include University Housing and Residence Life Conduct Officer (where the report alleges violations of only the Residence Life Handbook)
  2. Student Conduct Committee (Committee)
    1. If the Committee hears the case, the Senior Conduct Officer will conduct an initial review to gather information and prepare a case file for the Committee and serve as an ex-officio consultant during the Committee Review to ensure administrative support of the process. The Committee will identify a Chairperson who will facilitate the Committee Conduct Review procedures. All Committee Reviews are closed, and the information and supporting documents presented are confidential except as required by law. The Committee Conduct Review is informal and does not follow administrative contested case or courtroom procedures, including formal rules of evidence. It will be at the discretion of the Chairperson to review information brought forward by any party involved and determine if it will be considered as a part of the Committee Review. All information and documentation associated should be submitted prior to the close of a review. Supplemental information submitted after review of the case should be submitted at least 24 hours in advance of a Committee Review Meeting. Information that was available to a Student Party during the review period but not submitted by the Student Party will not be considered grounds for appeal. The Committee will deliberate and determine an outcome by process of a vote. In the case of a tie, the Committee Chairperson will act as a tie-breaker vote.
6. The Senior Conduct Officer may place a transcript hold pending the completion of a Conduct Review Process.
Notice to Student Parties
After determining purview, the Senior Conduct Officer will initiate a Conduct Review. The Conduct Officer will send written notice to the Respondent(s) that includes:
1. information regarding the alleged behavior, including any known or approximate date and/or time, location, and summary of the alleged behavior,
2. a list of the specific section(s) of this Code allegedly violated,
3. the assigned Adjudicating Body,
4. summary of Student rights, and
5. information on the policy and procedures,
6. a scheduled Conduct Review Meeting.
Process Advising
1. Any Student who receives notice of a conduct violation, may request process advising.
Conduct Review Meeting
1. The Conduct Review Meeting will be scheduled by the Adjudicating Body. In order to allow for ample preparation, the Conduct Review Meeting will take place no sooner than 3 business days from the date of the provided notice, unless the Respondent has requested a more expeditious review. It is the responsibility of the Respondent to notify the adjudicating body if they have a conflict with the scheduled Conduct Review Meeting, they choose to provide a written statement in lieu of attending the scheduled Conduct Review, or if they choose not to participate in the process. If the Respondent fails to communicate said concerns prior to a scheduled Conduct Review Meeting, and does not attend the meeting, the Conduct Officer may determine that the Respondent has opted not to participate and may proceed to issue a Conduct Review Outcome without the student’s participation. A Respondent’s failure to cooperate in the conduct process or to appear at the Conduct Review Meeting will not delay the disposition of the matter.
2. The Respondent may bring up to two (2) support people of their choice and those support persons may be a family member, friend, advisor, attorney, or other trusted individual. A support person may not be an individual who was involved in, or witness to, the alleged violation. Conduct Review Meetings will typically not be delayed because of a scheduling conflict of a support person. The Respondent will be expected to speak for themselves. . Support people are not generally permitted to speak or participate directly in the Committee Review Meeting. Should a Respondent elect to have an attorney serve as a support person, the Respondent must notify the Senior Conduct Officer at least 24 hours prior to the scheduled meeting. The University assumes no responsibility for any costs associated with such representation.
3. The only persons permitted to be present during the Committee Review meeting are:
  1. The Respondent,
  2. The Respondent’s support people,
  3. Witnesses invited by the Senior Conduct Officer, for the portions in which they are providing relevant information,
  4. The Adjudicating Body,
  5. The Senior Conduct Officer, when not acting as the Adjudicating Body, and
  6. Campus Legal Counsel, where determined appropriate by the Senior Conduct Officer.
4. The Respondent will have the opportunity to offer information on their behalf and to review and respond to all information presented.
5. The Adjudicating Body may ask questions of any person present during the Conduct Review Meeting. If the Adjudicating Body decides an essential person or piece of information is missing, the Senior Conduct Officer may decide to continue the Conduct Review Meeting to another time to provide for the consideration of the additional information.
Conduct Review Outcome
1. Reports will be reviewed and resolved, and Respondents will be notified of the outcome promptly. The Adjudicating Body will determine, based upon a preponderance of the evidence (which means whether something is “more likely than not”), whether the Respondent is responsible for a Code violation and, if so, what sanctions are to be imposed.
2. Once a determination is made, the Adjudicating Body will send written notice of the Conduct Review Outcome to the Respondent articulating the determination of the outcome (substantiated or unsubstantiated) for all alleged violations, and, if applicable, assigned sanctions, deadlines, and information on the appeal process.
Appeals
Where an allegation(s) is substantiated, a Student Party or Recognized Student Organization may file an appeal of the outcome of the Adjudicating Body based on the following grounds:
1. new information that was not available at the time of the original Conduct Review Meeting;
2. a demonstration that the sanction(s) imposed were outside of the University’s authority; or
3. demonstrated errors in the conduct process.
Justifications described in (a) or (c) will not be a basis for sustaining an appeal unless the deviation would have materially affected the decision of the Adjudicating body. Dissatisfaction with a decision is not grounds for appeal.
Appeal Officers are appointed by the Vice Provost over Student Conduct or designee, with approval from the individual’s supervisor for additional work outside of typical assigned duties.
Appeal requests must be made in writing and received within ten (10) Days following the date of the letter notifying the Respondent of the outcome of the Conduct Review. All appeals should be submitted to conduct@pdx.edu.
The request for an appeal must state specific grounds for an appeal from the list above and provide an explanation and/or evidence to support the assertion and how it may change the outcome of the Conduct Review.
The Appeal Officer will review the appeal to determine if the appeal states grounds for appeal as outlined in this policy which are supported by information or evidence submitted by the Student.
Appeals will be returned with a decision from the Appeal Officer within sixty (60) Days of the appeal being received. The Appeal Officer’s decision is final.
Sanctions imposed by the adjudicating body remain in effect throughout the appeal review. If the Appeals Officer decides to change a sanction issued by the Adjudicating Body, this will be articulated in the decision on appeal.

VII. Other Considerations

Student Standing: Except as limited by the Dean of Student Life pursuant to the Code (Section VIII), the Respondent is entitled to all rights and privileges of a student in good standing pending the Adjudicating Body’s resolution of the matter. If the Adjudicating Body decides to impose sanctions, those sanctions shall be effective immediately upon notice to the Respondent and shall remain in effect pending resolution of any appeal unless the Appeals Officer decides to stay the imposition of those sanctions pending any appeal.
Amnesty Policy: Amnesty from disciplinary sanctions for violating designated alcohol or drug policies may be given where a person in good faith seeks medical assistance or help from University officials or law enforcement for a medical emergency or condition that is occurring during or near the time assistance or help is sought. The amnesty will apply to students seeking assistance, to a student who is the subject of the medical emergency or condition, and to Recognized Student Organizations. The purpose of amnesty is to encourage Students to immediately seek help for an alcohol or drug-related emergency or for help in addressing matters of sexual assault. The Senior Conduct Officer has discretion to determine if a case meets the requirements for amnesty, any exceptions from amnesty, and educational measures that may be required in lieu of disciplinary sanctions.
Procedures for Reports against a Recognized Student Organization and other Student Groups:
1. The Recognized Student Organization or group shall designate the president, principal officer, or other Student member to act on behalf of the organization. This designee shall be afforded all procedural rights and responsibilities in accordance with the provisions of this Code and shall be required to represent the organization at all applicable stages of the judicial program.
2. Where allegations against a Recognized Student Organization may also constitute allegations of misconduct by individuals who are part of that organization, the Senior Conduct Officer may, at their sole discretion, apply these procedures to allegations against individuals prior to, concurrently with, or following a conduct review of the allegations against the organization. Reports against unrecognized student groups will follow the procedures as outlined for Recognized Student Organizations.
Procedures for Allegations of Sexual Misconduct and Prohibited Discrimination
Upon receipt of a report against a student alleging Sexual Misconduct or regarding any conduct that violates the University’s Prohibited Discrimination and Harassment Policy, the Senior Conduct Officer will refer the matter to the University’s Title IX Coordinator. The Title IX Coordinator will review the report to determine if the alleged conduct falls within the University’s Title IX Sexual Harassment Policy. If the alleged conduct does not fall within that policy, the Senior Conduct Officer may address the matter under this Code.
If the Title IX Coordinator determines that the alleged conduct is conduct prohibited by the University’s Title IX Sexual Harassment Policy, then those procedures, not the procedures of the Student Code of Conduct, will apply. Where a report of alleged Sexual Misconduct is determined to be outside of the purview of the Title IX Coordinator it shall be handled under the Student Code of Conduct using following procedure:
1. The Title IX Coordinator determines the case does not fall under Title IX jurisdiction.
2. The Senior Conduct Officer receives the case from the Title IX Coordinator for evaluation.
3. The Senior Conduct Officer determines if the allegations are sufficient to open a Conduct Review.
  When the Senior Conduct Officer, through this process, opens a Conduct Review, the following procedure applies:
  1. If a report alleges facts that would constitute a sex violation, including stalking, dating or domestic violence, sexual harassment, sexual exploitation, non-consensual sexual contact, and non-consensual sexual intercourse, or violate the University’s Prohibited Discrimination and Harassment Policy, the Complainant and Respondent will be provided with equivalent opportunities to present relevant witnesses, documents and information during the review and, to participate during any Conduct Review meetings or other proceedings. This includes an opportunity to participate in any granted Conduct Review meeting and request an appeal to the decision thereafter.
    1. If in the course of a report of Sexual Misconduct, a violation of the Alcohol and Other Drugs section of the code (such as underage drinking) was reported, the University will not pursue formal adjudication of said violation if the Senior Conduct Officer determines that the Report related to sexual misconduct is brought forward in good faith.
  2. Pursuant to the code, the Dean of Student Life may impose interim measures and/or issue No Contact Orders to preserve the status quo and the educational opportunities of persons involved.
  3. The Senior Conduct Officer will contact the Complainant and Respondent to gather statements, documents, digital records, and other information related to the report. The Senior Conduct Officer has sole discretion to determine relevancy of any proposed witnesses, documentation, and other information. The Complainant and Respondent will be kept informed of the status of the review, as appropriate.
  4. Reports will be reviewed and resolved, and Student Parties will be notified of the outcome promptly, but in most cases, not later than 90 Days from the date of the report. This timeline may be extended in extenuating circumstances and at the discretion of the Senior Conduct Officer.
  5. Conduct Review meeting result notifications will be provided to Complainants and Respondents consistent with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act and other applicable laws.
Procedures for Reports of Academic Misconduct
1. Course Instructors have the primary responsibility and purview for responding to and reporting academic misconduct by Students enrolled in their courses.
2. Course Instructors may issue a zero or a failing grade for the assignment or examination for which the misconduct was found. Course Instructors may not issue a failing grade for the course unless a failing grade on the assignment or examination in question results in a failing grade for the course as established by the weight of the individual assignment or examination as stated in the course syllabus. Instructors may not administratively remove a Student from a course.
  1. Outcomes and findings in the conduct process are separate from grading. Grades are given at the discretion and review of the Course Instructor and are not dependent on the outcome of the Conduct Review.
  2. Course Instructors are not required to wait for the determination of a Conduct Review prior to assigning grades. In the case where the Course Instructor’s assessment differs from the outcome of the Conduct Review, a Course Instructor is not obligated to adjust the grade assigned to the academic assignment or examination, though they may choose to do so at their sole discretion.
3. Departments, programs, colleges, or schools may also address academic dishonesty in accordance with their respective policies and procedures in addition to any adjudication under this procedure. These entities are limited to the following academic sanctions: (a) Issuing a zero or a failing grade for the assignment or examination for which the misconduct was found; or (b) probation, suspension or expulsion from the department, program, college or school per the process outlined by the respective entity.
4. Any person may submit a report to the Senior Conduct Officer alleging that a Student Party has engaged in academic misconduct. Instructors are encouraged to submit reports for any academic misconduct alleged to have taken place in their courses. Reports should be submitted as soon as possible after the activity takes place and will be reviewed in accordance with the timelines outlined in this Code.
5. If the report is submitted by anyone other than the Course Instructor, the Course Instructor in which the alleged academic misconduct occurred will also be notified.
6. Course Instructors who submit a report alleging academic misconduct may also propose possible resolutions, including:
  1. Referral for the purpose of maintaining a record. Absent a prior conduct history, a Course Instructor may address the behavior via in-class instruction, counseling of the student, and grading adjustments. A record of such interventions would be maintained by the Senior Conduct Officer without adjudication under this Code.
  2. Review of the allegations and adjudication under this Code alongside any grading decision made by the Course Instructor.
No Contact Orders
1. A No Contact Order (NCO) may be placed by the Senior Conduct Officer when requested by a Student or University employee. An NCO prohibits all forms of contact, whether direct or indirect contact, including but not limited to: in-person interaction, telephone, email, text messaging, social media (tags, likes, comments, or direct messages), and third-party communication through proxies (friends, family, or acquaintances acting on the student's behalf).
2. A No Contact Order or NCO is an administrative directive, not a disciplinary sanction, and is intended to support Student success and maximize a Student's access to the University's educational programs and activities. NCOs are a mutual directive, meaning an NCO is issued to two or more people to direct them not to have contact with each other. It does not constitute a finding of responsibility for violating University policy, nor does it appear as a discipline in a student's record. However, failure to comply with the terms of an NCO is a violation of the Code and may result in a Conduct Review, and if found responsible for a Code violation, a sanction(s).
3. NCOs do not guarantee that Student Parties will not see one another or be in the same location. Incidental contact (e.g., passing in a hallway or being in a large lecture hall) is generally not considered a violation of an NCO. Where incidental contact occurs, Students who are subject to an NCO are expected to maintain a respectful distance from the other Student(s) and avoid direct contact with the other Student(s) identified in the NCO.
Graduate Students
1. Where a student enrolled in a graduate or post-baccalaureate program of study is found responsible for a Code violation, the Conduct Officer may consider their enrollment status when determining a sanction. Sanctions for these students may begin at a higher baseline than might apply to undergraduate students for similar violations. This higher standard reflects the expectation that graduate students, having typically completed a prior degree program, possess a mature understanding of institutional expectations and academic integrity. Furthermore, because graduate programs often involve smaller, highly collaborative cohorts, community disruptions can be particularly acute. The Conduct Officer will explicitly detail the rationale for any status-based sanctioning considerations in the written Conduct Review Outcome.
Administrative Educational Meeting
1. The Senior Conduct Officer (or designee) may require a student to attend an Educational Meeting in response to reports of behavior that may or may not rise to the level of a Code violation but warrants an educational intervention. The purpose of this meeting is to discuss community standards and provide resources. While attendance is mandatory, this meeting is non-adjudicatory, does not result in a disciplinary record, and does not constitute a finding of responsibility.

VIII. Sanctions

Students whose behavior violates this Code may be subject to one or more sanctions, including, but not limited to:

Administrative Removal from a Course: in the case of administrative removal from a particular course, a Student will be allowed to continue in all other courses unless otherwise stated. After removal from a course, tuition and fees associated with the administrative withdrawal process are the responsibility of the Student. A petition for relief of this responsibility may be endorsed by the Dean of Student Life. This endorsement is at the Dean’s sole discretion.
Degree Revocation: a former Student may have their degree revoked if the Student is found to have engaged in conduct during their time as a Student seeking said degree that, if known at the time the degree was awarded, would have made the Student unqualified for the program or degree.
Disciplinary Probation: constitutes a period of time during which additional violations of the Code will result in sanctions of increased severity and, during which, a Student/organization may not be permitted to represent the University or participate in any University, extracurricular, athletic, or other activities. The specifics of the disciplinary probation will vary based upon the violation and the individual Student’s circumstances. For example, a student may be restricted and allowed to participate only in activities directly related to academic pursuits and only be permitted to enter buildings necessary for the completion of academic requirements. Students on probation may be restricted from attending or purchasing tickets for certain events sponsored by the University including, but not limited to, athletic events, concerts, SALP programs, intramurals, off-campus trips, etc. Upon expiration of the period of probation and fulfillment of other sanctions imposed, if any, the Student’s disciplinary probation will be lifted.
Educational Assignment(s): complete specific assignments or render a designated number of hours of specified service to the University or the community.
Exclusion from University Premises or any portion thereof: exclusion from the entirety of campus may also be accompanied by a registration hold.
Expulsion: permanent separation from the University: A permanent notation is entered on the transcript of an expelled Student.
1. If a Student is expelled, tuition and fees associated with the administrative withdrawal process are the responsibility of the Student.
2. If the pending Conduct Review outcome or appeal may result in expulsion, award of the academic degree sought and/or release of transcripts may be postponed using a Transcript Hold pending the outcome of the Conduct Review meeting.
Mandated Assessments: completion of evaluation(s) and following the recommendations of a qualified professional for treatment and/or education.
Mediation: participation in a facilitated discussion about the matter with an option to move forward with a discussion with the Complainant. Mediation involving a Complainant is not an appropriate sanction in a case involving a sex violation as described in the Code.
Registration and/or Transcript Hold: Students who are suspended, expelled, or have not completed assigned sanctions within the time provided may be prevented from registering for classes until completion of those sanctions
Restitution: monetary restitution, return any stolen or misappropriated property, or provide services to the University or a member of the University community in accordance with the nature of the violation and in an amount not to exceed the actual expenses, damages, or losses incurred.
Reprimand: A formal disciplinary action placing a Student on notice for violations of the Code, elevated from a Warning.
Social Probation: Establishes a fixed period of time, not less than one term, in which a student/organization may not be permitted to represent the University or participate in any University, extracurricular, athletic, or other activities. The specifics of the social probation will vary based upon the violation and the individual Student’s circumstances. For example, a Student may be restricted and allowed to participate only in activities directly related to academic pursuits and only be permitted to enter buildings necessary for the completion of academic requirements. Students on social probation may be restricted from attending or purchasing tickets for certain events sponsored by the University including, but not limited to, athletic events, concerts, SALP programs, intramurals, off-campus trips, etc.
Suspension: loss of the right to be an enrolled Student at the University for a specific period of time. Suspended Students are not eligible for the privileges and services provided to currently enrolled Students, including but not limited to residing in University-owned Student housing, registering, attending class, or using other University services or facilities. The suspension may be specified for any length of time.
1. If a Student is suspended, tuition and fees associated with the administrative withdrawal process are the responsibility of the Student.
2. If the pending Conduct Review outcome or appeal may result in suspension, award of the academic degree sought and/or release of transcripts may be postponed using a Transcript Hold pending the outcome of the Conduct Review meeting.
3. Upon expiration of the period of suspension, if the Senior Conduct Officer certifies that all the terms of the suspension have been met, the suspension will be lifted and the Student will be provided written notice of their eligibility to re-enroll. The Student may then register for courses through the regular process, contingent on the completion and/or satisfaction of all sanctions and satisfaction of general admission and registration requirements.
4. A notation of “Disciplinary Suspension” will be entered on the Student’s transcript for the duration of the suspension. After the suspension period is complete and all other sanctions associated with the conduct that led to the suspension, if any, have been satisfied, the Senior Conduct Officer will notify the Registrar’s Office to remove the transcript notation from the transcript and any Registration or other Holds placed by reason of the suspension.
Warning: Formal disciplinary action placing a Student on notice for violations of the Code.

IX. Records

All reports that result in adjudication, regardless of outcome, and any cases substantiated through adjudication involve the creation of a Conduct Record for the Student, the Recognized Student Organization, or group alleged to have violated the Code. These records are generally treated as confidential and accessible only to the Respondent, appropriate University Officials, and other entities as required by law.
A suspension of a student may be noted in a Student’s general academic record maintained by the Office of the Registrar by means of a student registration hold and transcript notation throughout the period of suspension. Expulsion of a Student will be permanently noted in a Student’s general academic record maintained by the Office of the Registrar by means of a notation, which indicates the reason for the action. In addition to a notation in the general academic record, the Office of the Dean of Student Life will place student registration and other holds on the account of a student who has been expelled from the University.

X. Definitions

Appeal Officer: university official appointed to review appeals of Conduct outcomes and sanctions.
Code: this Code of Student Conduct and Responsibility.
Conduct Record: records relating to reports of Code Violations, including, but not limited to, incident reports, final reports, notification of allegation, disciplinary reports, informal discussion notes, formal Conduct Review meeting records and recommendations, decision statements, appeal records and decision, and related documentation and correspondence.
Course Instructor: any person employed by the University to conduct classroom activities or who has an official instructional function with the University.
Day: any business day in which the University is open. It does not include weekends, federal and state holidays or days in which the University is not open for business.
Dean of Student Life: the University Official holding this title. Any action required to be performed by the Dean under this Code may be performed by their designee(s).
Conduct Officer: a University Official designated to adjudicate cases by the Senior Conduct Officer.
Effective Consent: voluntary, non-coerced and mutually understandable communication between adults, meeting the age requirements of the State of Oregon, indicating a willingness to participate in a particular act. Consent must be freely and actively given. Effective consent cannot be gained by actual or the threat of force, intimidation, or by taking advantage of incapacitation of another, where a person knows or reasonably should have known of such incapacitation. Silence, stillness, or the absence of “no” in and of itself is not an indication of consent. Consent can be withdrawn at any time. Past consent does not imply future consent.
Incapacitation: a state that renders a person incapable of determining their own conduct and/or lacking an understanding of the who, what, when, where, why, or how of their sexual interaction at the time of the incident. The causes of incapacitation may include but are not limited to a medical diagnosis, lack of sleep, blackouts, or influence of a controlled or other intoxicating substance that has rendered the individual physically or substantially incapable of making decisions or communicating unwillingness to engage in sexual activity.
Protected Class: a group of people who qualified for protection under PSU’s Prohibited Discrimination and Harassment policy based on particular identities. The protected classes covered include age, color, disability, gender, gender identity and expression, genetic information, marital status, national origin, pregnancy, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, veteran status, and any other basis protected by federal, state, or local law.
Rational Nexus: the standard used in adjudicating behavior that does not take place on University premises. Criminal, violent, or other behavior that has the potential to impact the campus community, or behavior that involves two or more students, may be subject to review and adjudication by the university.
Recognized Student Organization: a group of five (5) or more Students who have formed around a defined mission or purpose and who have been officially recognized by Student Activities and Leadership Programs or Campus Recreation.
Report: reported allegations of behavior that, if true, could be a violation of this Code, including allegations in a Dean of Student Life Conduct Report Form, Residence Life Incident Report, Campus Public Safety Office Incident Report, or Portland Police Bureau Report.
Reporter: any person submitting a report alleging that a Student, group of students, or Recognized Student Organization has engaged in conduct prohibited by this Code.
Respondent: a Student Party who is alleged to have engaged in conduct prohibited by the Code.
Senior Conduct Officer: the University Official charged with the responsibility of administering the Code. The Director of Student Conduct and Community Standards is the Senior Conduct Officer for PSU. Any action required to be performed under this Code by the Senior Conduct Officer may be performed by their designee.
Student Conduct Committee (Committee): a committee charged with reviewing and adjudicating allegations of Code Violations. The Committee is composed of faculty and staff recommended by the Faculty Senate of the University. Quorum for the committee will be three (3) members, including the Chair.
Student: a person who: (a) is enrolled and/or registered for one or more credit hours; (b) is enrolled in a special non-credit program approved by the University; or (c) was enrolled as a student the term prior to the incident, and is eligible to return or have a continuing relationship with the university, or (d) has applied for admission, financial aid or any other service provided by the University that requires student status in the same term as, or one term prior to, the incident.
Student Party: a Student, group of Students, or Recognized Student Organization to which this Code applies.
University: Portland State University, or any part, program, department, or division within Portland State University.
University Official: any person performing assigned administrative or professional responsibilities on behalf of the University, including but not limited to, University employees and employees of a contractor authorized to perform services on University Premises or during a University Sponsored Activity.
University Premises: all lands, buildings, facilities, and other property owned, in the possession of, used, or controlled by the University.
University Sponsored Activity: any program or event hosted by a department, program, organization, or individual representing the University. Such activities include, but are not limited to, field trips, athletic events, education abroad, University exchange programs, and student organization-hosted programs or events.

XI. Interpretation and Revision

Any question of interpretation regarding the Code must be referred to the Senior Conduct Officer.
The Code should be reviewed annually or at another interval determined appropriate by the Senior Conduct Officer. Revisions to the Code shall take effect after appropriate consultation and the posting and comment periods as described in the Student Conduct and Responsibility Policy.