This overview gives a general idea of how SCC conduct proceedings work, but it should be noted that not all situations are of the same severity or complexity. Thus, these procedures are flexible, and are not exactly the same in every situation, though consistency in similar situations is a priority. The Student Code of Conduct process and all applicable timelines commence with notice to an administrator of a potential violation of College conduct expectations.
NOTICE. Once notice is received from any source (victim, Resident Assistant, 3rd party, Responsible Authority, online, etc.), SCC will proceed with a preliminary inquiry and/or may schedule an initial educational conference with the responding student(s) to explain the conduct process and gather information.
Preliminary Inquiry and/or Educational Conference
SCC conducts a preliminary inquiry into the nature of the incident, complaint or notice, the evidence available, and the parties involved. The preliminary inquiry may lead to:
- A determination that there is insufficient evidence to pursue the investigation, because the behavior alleged, even if proven, would not violate the Student Code of Conduct, (e.g.: for reasons such as mistaken identity or allegations of behavior that falls outside the code);
- A more comprehensive investigation, when it is clear more information must be gathered; or
- An educational conference facilitated by the Dean of Students or designee with the responding student.
When an initial educational conference is held, the possible outcomes include:
- A decision not to pursue the allegation based on a lack of or insufficient evidence. The matter should be closed and records should so indicate;
- An administrative resolution to an uncontested allegation (see immediately below);
- A decision to proceed with additional investigation and/or referral for a formal Conduct Committee Hearing for resolution.
If a decision on the allegation is made and the finding is that the responding student is not responsible for violating the Code, the process will end. The party bringing the complaint may request that the Dean of Students and/or, if allegation involves a Title IX violation, the Title IX Coordinator reopen the investigation and/or grant a Conduct Committee Hearing. This decision shall be at the discretion of the Dean of Students or designee and/or the Title IX Coordinator, if applicable, in consultation with each other and will only be granted for extraordinary cause.