Welcome Wildcats 4
Foreword 5
Disclaimer 6
Mission and Vision 6
Core Values: B-CU F.I.R.S.T 7
Brief History of Bethune-Cookman University 8
University Motto 9
University Colors and Seal 9
University Mascot 9
University Customs 10
University Statement on Ethics and Values 10
Human Worth and Dignity 10
Inclusion Statement 11
Spiritual Growth and Development 11
Alma Mater 12
University Shibboleth 13
Last Will and Testament 14
Annual Events 15
Fall 2024 Semester Calendar 16
Spring 2025 Semester Calendar 18
Campus Support Services 20
Department of Campus Safety 20
Emergencies On-Campus (Campus Safety) 21
Chaplaincy Department 22
Dining: Sodexo Dining Services at B-CU 22
Financial Aid 22
Health Services 23
Office of Behavioral Health Services and Student Resources 23
Student Resources 23
Housing and Residence Life 23
Intercollegiate Athletics 23
International Student Services 23
Michael and Libby Johnson Center for Civic Engagement 24
Military Services 24
Performing Arts Center 24
Registrar 24
Student Account Services 24
Tuition and Fees for 2023-2024 25
The Division of Innovation and Leadership Development/Student Affairs 30
Division of Student Affairs 31
Student Life 31
Greek Life 32
Student Government Association 35
Event Planning and Facility Use 38
Starting & Maintaining Student Organization Registration 39
Complaints and Grievances 41
General and Academic Appeals 43
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Title IX 48
Florida' Safety in Private Spaces Act………………….………………………………………………………………………….49
Student Resource Services Assistance Animal
Policy………………………………………………………………………...51
Policy on Infant and Children 52
Student Dress Standard 52
Student Code of Conduct 54
Student Code of Conduct Mission and Philosophy 54
I Values 54
II. Learning Outcomes 55
A. Intellectual Diversity 55
III. Jurisdiction 56
IV. Amnesty 58
IV. Communication 59
Media Contact 59
Website/Internet/Email Usage 59
V. Student Rights and Responsibilities 61
A. Rights 61
B. Responsibilities 61
VI. Student Club and Organization Rights and Responsibilities 62
A. Rights 62
B. Responsibilities 62
VII. Student Due Process Rights 63
VIII. Parental/Guardian Notification Policy 64
IX. Appropriate Use and Information Security/Confidentiality Policy 64
X. Smoking and Use of Tobacco Policy 66
XI. Violations of the Law 67
XII. Standards of Conduct 68
A. Offenses against Persons 68
B. Offenses against Property 69
C. Offenses against the Orderly Process of the University 70
D. Offenses by a Student Organization or Campus Organization 70
XIII. Zero Tolerance Policy 70
A. Illegal Drugs 71
B. Sexual Misconduct 71
C. Alcohol Policy 72
D. Weapons 73
E. Fighting 74
F. Gang Activity/Affiliation 75
G. Tampering with Life Safety Equipment 75
H. Hazing 76
I. Threats 78
I. Bullying/Cyberbullying 80
E. Charges 82
XIV. Academic Dishonesty and Misconduct 84
A. Cheating 84
B. Plagiarism 84
C. Course Material Tampering 84
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D. False Information and Representation, Fabrication or Alteration of Information 85
E. Theft or Damage of Intellectual Property 85
F. Alteration of University Documents 85
G. Disturbances in the Classroom 85
XV. Sanctions 87
A. Formal Warning 87
B. Residential Probation 87
C. Disciplinary Probation 87
D. Suspension 87
E. Expulsion 87
F. Educational Sanctions 88
G. Behavioral Contract 88
H. Community Service 88
I. Restitution 88
J. Fines 88
K. Removal from a Living Unit 88
L. Revocation of Admission and/or Degree 88
M. Withholding Degree 89
N. Interim Suspension 89
XVI. University Judicial Board 89
A. University Judicial Panel 89
B. Academic Review Panel 89
C. Housing Review Panel 89
XVII. Disciplinary Process 90
A. Filing a Report 90
B. Charges 91
C. Notice of Charges 92
D. Pre-hearing Conferences 92
E. Formal Hearing 93
i. Formal Hearing Procedure: 94
F. Administrative Hearings 98
G. Retaliation 98
H. Rendering a Decision 99
I. Appeal Procedures 99
J. Student Disciplinary Records 100
K. Withdrawal (Suspension or Expulsion) 100
L. Interim Suspension 100
Appendix A 104
Definitions of Misconduct 104
The online version of the student handbook shall be the official current version of applicable rules, regulations, and
procedures and can be found on the Bethune-Cookman University website.
4
Welcome Wildcats
Wildcat Proud! Our goal for this year is a Wildcat Nation emanating with pride for our historical
institution as we stand united behind the values, core principles, and mission that originated from its
founder who proclaimed: "We have a powerful potential in our youth, and we must have the courage
to change old ideas and practices so that we may direct their power toward good ends." Dr. Mary
McLeod Bethune
Welcome to Bethune-Cookman University!
As you embark on your academic and personal growth journey at Bethune-Cookman
University, we want you to know that you have our full support. Our faculty, staff,
administrators, advocates, mentors, coaches, and peers are all ready to guide you every
step of the way. The campus and local community offer numerous opportunities for you
to engage in organizations, charitable events, causes, and volunteer work, which can
unlock your true potential. If you ever feel unsure or lost, don't hesitate to ask
questions and seek guidance. We can make your time at B-CU an enriching and
transformative experience.
Set yourself up for success through proactive measures including the use of the Wildcat Safe App.
Keep your records up-to-date with personal contact information, and stay current on critical factors
impacting your academic, personal, and professional growth.
Finally, this is your experience and we encourage you to make the most of it. You are your best
agent in developing and marketing your potential and seeking out the tools needed for your ultimate
success. Set realistic and smart goals and be sure to protect your image.
Seek out a strong network and surround yourself with positive role models who are engaging and
provide a challenging environment to help you become your best self - then pass on those lessons to
help others become equally successful.
Let's go Wildcats!
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Foreword
Welcome to Bethune-Cookman University (B-CU). This Student Handbook serves as a guide to
assist students in adjusting to university life.
Student happiness and success are directly influenced by the student's awareness of the University
and its expectations.
Each student is responsible for reading and following regulations outlined in the Student Handbook
and other university publications. University email is the official vehicle used to communicate with
students, so each student should develop a habit of checking their official B-CU email account daily.
The administration reserves the right, at any time, to require students to withdraw if their conduct is
harmful to the best interest of Bethune-Cookman University.
640 Dr. Mary Bethune McLeod Bethune Boulevard
Daytona Beach, Florida 32114-3099
Telephone: (386) 481-2000
www.cookman.edu
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Disclaimer
This handbook accurately reflects the programs, policies, and requirements at the time it is
published; however, the University reserves the right to unilaterally change or amend this handbook
at any time deemed necessary.
This handbook is not a contract and is not intended to form a contractual agreement between
students and the University.
Familiarization with this handbook will support the academic success and holistic development of
students matriculating at B-CU.
Bethune-Cookman University shall continue the present policy of admitting students of any race,
color, gender or national and ethnic origin to all rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally
afforded students at the University.
B-CU is an Equal Opportunity Institution.
Mission and Vision
University Mission Statement:
The mission of Bethune-Cookman University is to educate a diverse community of learners to
become responsible, productive citizens and solution seekers through the promotion of faith,
scholarship, creative endeavors, leadership, and service.
University Vision Statement:
Bethune-Cookman University will define new standards for academic excellence and student
success by educating and empowering learners who will seek their own solutions; advocate
opportunities for all citizens to improve their quality of life; and inculcate global perspectives and
realities to people worldwide.
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Core Values: B-CU F.I.R.S.T
F - Faith: We recognize and uphold the Christian tradition while welcoming the diversity of faiths.
I - Integrity: We live in a way that reflects our deepest convictions.
R - Respect: We recognize the inherent dignity and worth of each person.
S - Service: We seek social justice through civic engagement.
T- Thirst for Knowledge: We are engaged in the continuous pursuit of learning that transforms us
and the world
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Brief History of Bethune-Cookman University
In 1904, with faith in God, $1.50, and five little girls, Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune embarked on a
journey to transform lives and opened the Daytona Literary and Industrial School for Training Negro
Girls. The name later was changed to the Daytona Educational and Industrial Institute. In 1919, the
curriculum expanded and the name was changed to the Daytona Normal and Industrial Institute. In
1923, the institution became a co-ed college as a result of a merger with the Cookman Institute of
Jacksonville, Florida, (founded in 1872) and was named the Daytona Cookman Collegiate Institute.
The institution evolved into a junior college and was subsequently renamed Bethune-Cookman
College in 1931. In 2007, the institution achieved university status with the offering of graduate
programs and became Bethune-Cookman University.
Throughout its existence and evolution, Bethune-Cookman University established a stellar
reputation for preparing women and men for leadership and service. Bethune-Cookman University’s
academic reputation, dynamic faculty, and 82-acre campus attracts more than 2,400 students from
across the United States and around the world. At B-CU, students receive a liberal arts education in
diverse academic programs, including business, education, humanities, the sciences, and nursing.
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University Motto
Enter to Learn. Depart to Serve.
University Colors
Maroon and Gold
University Seal
University Mascot
Wildcat
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University Customs
In addition to annual programs and events, the Bethune-Cookman University Community observes
the following customs:
● All meetings open with prayer.
● Grace is said at the beginning of each meal.
● The campus community attends Chapel each Wednesday. *Mandatory for Freshmen students*
● The audience stands and remains in place when the Alma Mater is played and / or sung.
● The audience remains seated during programs until after the benediction.
University Statement on Ethics and Values
Bethune-Cookman University graduates students who are honorable, democratic citizens capable of
making worthwhile contributions to society. The University expects its students to uphold the
highest moral and ethical standards by practicing self-discipline. Students are held accountable for
their behavior. The University believes that commitment, perseverance, and high regard for the value
and quality of work should be demonstrated with pride as tasks are completed with accuracy and
timeliness. Bethune-Cookman University further affirms that students should respect the
environment including the University's property, grounds, and buildings.
Bethune-Cookman University seeks to develop graduates who demonstrate academic excellence.
Graduates are expected to show competence in their academic careers and vocations through
mastery of verbal and written communication skills, research, the scholarly pursuit of knowledge,
and major areas of study. Bethune-Cookman University believes that competent individuals will
enter the future with confidence and self-esteem.
Human Worth and Dignity
Based on the premise that all human beings are worthy of respect, honor, and dignity, Bethune-
Cookman University embraces the concept of human worth that is deeply embodied in its founding
and purpose. In communicating this fundamental belief, the University seeks to define those
characteristics that reflect honesty, tolerance, and genuine sincerity in all phases of human relations.
The University strives to instill within each student the value of human worth and to show justice,
compassion, and equality toward all.
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Inclusion Statement
To value inclusion means providing all who live, learn and work at B-CU the opportunity to actively
participate in a holistic community that offers a vast range of ideas and perspectives. We strive to
embrace all opportunities to learn from each other's differences while wholeheartedly recognizing
that different doesn't mean deficient.
We seek to offer a nurturing and challenging intellectual climate, a respect for the spectrum of
human diversity, and a genuine appreciation for differences including race, ethnicity, socioeconomic
status, sexual orientation, disability, and religion as these differences enrich the culture of
Bethune-Cookman University. It is incumbent that each student share responsibility for the creation
and maintenance of an environment of mutual respect and support.
Spiritual Growth and Development
Bethune-Cookman University, founded in the Christian tradition, strives to instill spiritual growth by
nurturing a continuous understanding and appreciation of the ecumenical tradition and heritage of
our school and its students. The study and acceptance of other religious cultures are shown with
tolerance, understanding, acceptance, and love toward others. Students will be able to make
wholesome decisions and contributions to their communities.
(Approved by Bethune-Cookman University Board of Trustees, October 16, 1992)
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Alma Mater
Dear Alma Mater, thou beloved,
We pledge our lives to thee,
Thou art results of toil and pain
And tears come in a stream;
Dear Alma Mater, thou art all
And all the world to me –
Thou’rt the answered prayer of a dream.
Oh, God, protect dear B-CC*
Crown her with love and cheer;
We’ll ever sing thy praise to Thee,
It makes us strong and bold.
All hail to thee dear B-CC*
All hail to thee, all hail!
Hail thee, Maroon and Gold.
Amen
The Alma Mater is observed by standing in place and singing along.
(Most times the words are displayed.)
*Some alumni may sing B-CU instead of B-CC. This is acceptable.
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University Shibboleth
"Leaning on the Everlasting Arms"
(Lyrics by: Elisha A. Hoffman and
Melody by: Anthony J. Showalter)
What a fellowship, what a joy divine;
Leaning on the everlasting arms;
What a blessedness, what a peace is mine.
Leaning on the everlasting arms.
Leaning, leaning;
Safe and secure from all alarms;
Leaning, leaning;
Leaning on the everlasting arms.
Oh, how sweet to walk in this pilgrim way;
Leaning on the everlasting arms;
Oh, how bright the path grows from day to day.
Leaning on the everlasting arms.
What have I to dread, what have I to fear?
Leaning on the everlasting arms.
I have blessed peace with my Lord so near;
Leaning on the everlasting arms.
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Last Will and Testament
Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune 1875-1955
Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune founded Bethune-Cookman in 1904 and was president from 1904 -1942
and from 1946-1947. She left a heritage in the college she founded. She also left her Last Will and
Testament, an everlasting and priceless document of challenge, hope, and responsibility for
African-Americans and other people, which states the following:
"I leave you love. Love builds. It is positive and helpful. It is more beneficial than hate.
I leave you hope. The Negroes' growth will be great in the years to come. Theirs will be a
better world. This I believe with all my heart.
I leave you the challenge of developing confidence in one another. As long as Negroes are
hemmed into racial blocks by prejudice and pressure, it will be necessary for them to band
together for economic betterment.
I leave you a thirst for education. Knowledge is the prime need of the Hour. If we continue
in
this trend, we will be able to rear increasing numbers of strong, purposeful men and
women, equipped with vision, mental clarity, health and education.
I leave you a respect for the uses of power. We live in a world, which respects power above
all things. Power, intelligently directed, can lead to more freedom.
I leave you faith. Faith is the first factor in a life devoted to service. Without faith, nothing
is possible. With it, nothing is impossible.
I leave you racial dignity. I want Negroes to maintain their human dignity at all costs. We,
as Negroes, must recognize that we are the custodians as well as the heirs of a great
civilization.
I leave you a desire to live harmoniously with our fellow men. The problem of color is
world-
wide. It is found in Africa, Asia, Europe and South America. I appeal to American Negroes
- North, South, East and West - to recognize their common problems and unite to solve
them.
I leave you finally a responsibility to our young people. The world around us really belongs
to
youth, for youth will take over its future management. Our children must never lose their
zeal for building a better world.
If I have a legacy to leave my people, it is my philosophy of living and serving. As I face
tomorrow, I am content, for I think I have spent my life well. I pray now that my
philosophy may be helpful to those who share my vision of a world of Peace, Progress,
Brotherhood and Love."
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Annual Events
Freshman Induction Ceremony (August): At the opening of each semester, freshmen are invited
to participate in a ceremony during which they are inducted into the Wildcat family.
Orientation (August): At the opening of each semester, freshmen and transfer students are
officially introduced to the University’s heritage, customs, values, policies and procedures.
President's Assembly (August): The President's Assembly is a mandatory event held in the Mary
McLeod Bethune Performing Arts Center (PAC). The President of the University invites a notable
public figure to address the B-CU community. Customarily, faculty, staff and students wear
professional dress.
Founder's Day (October): On October 3rd of each year, the University community commemorates
Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune as the institution’s founder.
The Coronation of Miss and Mister B-CU (September/October): Each year a young lady and
gentleman are chosen by the student body to represent the institution as Miss and Mister B-CU.
Their court consists of Misses and Misters that represent their freshmen, sophomore, junior and
senior classes. Other organizations also participate in the coronation ceremony.
Homecoming Pageant (October): The Student Government Association (SGA) hosts the
Homecoming Pageant every year during the Fall semester. During the Homecoming Pageant,
students compete for six (6) positions that make up the Homecoming Royal Court. Members of the
Homecoming Royal Court are elected by the student body and serve throughout Homecoming Week.
The positions are Mister/Miss Homecoming, Mister/Miss Maroon, and Mister/Miss Gold.
As the season of Homecoming approaches, we eagerly anticipate the arrival of our alumni to the
campus. The vibrant decorations of residence halls and other campus buildings, the exciting parade,
and the electrifying football game are all highlights of this joyous occasion. Prior to the game, we
come together to celebrate the spirit of our school and the enduring bonds that unite us all.
Annual Thanksgiving Basket Blessing Assembly: Community residents come to receive baskets
that departments and organizations have prepared or give money to the organizers for their purchase.
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr's Birthday (January): On the third Monday in January, the University
family community honors Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Students are encouraged to honor Dr. King’s
service to others by participating in a Day of Service activities and programs.
Senior Consecration (May): During Commencement Week, the University conducts a religious
service for its graduates followed by a candlelight processional and wreath laying at Dr. Bethune’s
gravesite.
The President's Celebration for Graduating Seniors and their Families (May): The President's
Celebration for Graduating Seniors is held during commencement week prior to commencement. It
gives the graduating seniors and their families an opportunity to celebrate and share their plans for
the future with B-CU faculty, staff and administration and share their plans post B-CU.
Commencement (May): Commencement is held in May of each year. Locations may vary.
Birthday of Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune (July): On July 10th of each year, the University observes
the birthday of Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune.
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Note: Calendar dates are subject to change
Sources: Office of Academic Affairs
Office of the Registrar
Office of Institutional Effectiveness
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Campus Support Services
Department of Campus Safety
Location: 353 N. Martin Luther King Blvd.
Contact: (386) 481-2900
Hours of Operation: 24 Hours Daily
Website Address:
https://www.cookman.edu/campussafety/index.html
The Department of Campus Safety (DCS) is available 24 hours a day to serve students, faculty, and
staff with high quality levels of safety and security for all concerns. DCS strives to be highly
proactive in maintaining a safe and secure academic environment to support student success.
As part of this comprehensive effort, DCS works with members of the B-CU community to
strengthen investigative processes to solve crimes and prevent criminal offenses. The Department
also works with various university departments to issue campus safety alerts, lost and found storage
and safety escorts.
The following are available within the Department of Campus Safety:
● Emergency Management Information
● Engraving Marking Machine
● Security Marking Pen
● Personal Property and Book Inventory Log
● Parking Decals
● Safe Driving Tips
For any form of assistance, the Department of Campus Safety may be contacted from any university
phone, or by calling (386) 481-2900. The Department of Campus Safety dispatch center is staffed
24-hours per day, 7 days per week to provide information or render aid or assistance. Phone numbers
within the Department of Campus Safety are:
Dispatch (386) 481-2900
Crime Prevention (386) 481-2466
Operations (386) 481-2904
Parking Services Coordinator (386) 481-2903
Investigations (386) 481-2467
Parking
Location: 353 N. Martin Luther King Blvd
Contact: (386) 481-2903
Hours of Operation: Monday-Friday from 9:00 a.m.- 4:00 p.m.
Annual valid parking permits are required for all operating vehicles on the
Bethune-Cookman University campus
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To pick up a decal from the Parking Office:
● Bring a valid driver's license and University ID
● Bring your payment confirmation form sent to your email from the University Cashier's office
located in White Hall.
● Reserved spaces are for Faculty/Staff ONLY.
● Freshman students may not purchase parking permits or park on university property.
● Please address all parking related inquiries to [email protected] or call (386) 481-2903.
Lost and Found
Contact: (386) 481-2900
Hours of Operation: 24 hours.
Campus Safety is the office to turn in or claim lost items. They are open 24 hours a day.
Emergencies On-Campus (Campus Safety)
Report emergencies to Campus Safety by calling (386) 481-2900.
Wildcat Safe App is the official mobile safety app of the Bethune- Cookman University and an
essential tool to enhance safety at Bethune- Cookman University. The app sends
important safety alerts and provides instant access to campus safety resources.
Wildcat Safe benefits include safety notifications, instant notifications and
instructions from campus safety when on-campus emergencies occur; Emergency
help, and campus safety resources. Students and their families, faculty, and staff
at the Bethune-Cookman University are already using the Wildcat Safe App.
The Wildcat Safe App can be downloaded from the Google Play Store for all Android users and
from the App Store for all iPhone users.
E2 Campus Notification only sends information regarding emergency conditions, including
weather cancellations and delays. While strongly encouraged, it is optional for students and/or
employees to sign up online by clicking the link. E2 Campus Notification is a secure system and will
not send advertising or spam to personal phones.
E2 Campus messages will be sent through the system only in an emergency and for periodic testing.
For other questions related to the e2Campus Notification, contact the Department of Campus Safety
at (386)-481-2900.
Personal Safety
The Department of Campus Safety (DCS) exists to protect life and property, to prevent crime, and to
be of general service to the university community. DCS is available around the clock to meet the
many diverse needs of faculty, staff, and students. Patrol and dispatch services are provided 24 hours
a day with access to local emergency services. DCS works in conjunction with other local,
municipal, county, state, and federal law enforcement agencies in the exercise of its responsibilities.
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Emergency Notification
It is the policy of the University to notify the campus community in a timely manner of any
significant emergency or dangerous situation occurring on the campus which involves an immediate
threat to the health or safety of students or employees. Campus Safety or first- responders can
identify certain threats that allow for the immediate activation of the notification system. However,
other threats that would allow for the activation need to be assessed and, in consultation with other
experts, may be required.
Utilizing the Wildcat Safe App and the E2 Campus Notification System, the timely warning of an
emergency event will be issued without delay. However, Wildcat Safe and E2 Campus Notification
will not be used if doing so would compromise efforts to assist a victim or to contain, respond to or
otherwise mitigate the emergency.
Chaplaincy Department
Location: Charles C. Parlin Student Center
Contact: (386) 481-2443
Email: [email protected]
Hours of Operation: Monday-Friday 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Dining: Sodexo Dining Services at B-CU
Location: B-CU Dining Hall
Contact: (386) 481-2155, https://bcudining.sodexomyway.com/
Hours of Operation:
Dining Hall: Monday-Friday: Breakfast: 7:00 am - 9:30 am; Continental Breakfast- 9:30
am-10:30 am; Lunch: 11:00 am - 2:30 pm; Dinner: 4:30 pm - 8:00 pm;
Weekends: Brunch: 10:00 am-1:30 pm - Dinner 4:00 pm-7:30 pm
Starbucks: Monday -Thursday: 8:00 am - 9:00 pm and Fridays: 8:00 am - 2:00 pm;
Weekends: Closed
Email: [email protected]
Financial Aid
Location: Dr. Ernest C. Cook Financial Aid
Building 601 Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune Blvd. Contact: (386) 481-2620
Hours of Operation: Monday - Friday from 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Email: [email protected]
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Health Services
Location: Texas A. Adams Infirmary
633 State Street
Contact: (386) 481-2920
Hours of Operation: Monday - Friday from 8:30 am - 5:00 pm
Email: [email protected]
Office of Behavioral Health Services
Location: Odessa Chambliss Center
113 Lockhart Street
Contact: (386) 481-2157, (386) 481-2983 2920
Hours of Operation: Monday-Friday from 8:00 am -5:00 pm.
Email: [email protected]
Student Resources
Location: Odessa Chambliss Center
113 Lockhart Street
Contact: (386) 481-2172
Hours of Operation: Monday-Friday from 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Email: [email protected]
Housing and Residence Life
Location: Lee Rhyant Residential Life Center
Contact: (386) 481-2424
Hours of Operation: Monday-Friday from 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Intercollegiate Athletics
Location: Center for Civic Engagement
Contact: (386) 481-2172
Hours of Operation: Monday-Friday from 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
International Student Services
Location: International Student Services Wildcat 360 Student Center
Contact: (386) 481-2611
Hours of Operation: Monday-Friday from 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
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Michael and Libby Johnson Center for Civic Engagement
Location: Michael and Libby Johnson Center for Civic Engagement
740 W International Speedway Blvd.
Hours of Operation: Monday-Friday from 8:00 am - 9:00 pm
Contact: (386) 481-2899
Email: [email protected]
Military Services
Location: Michael and Libby Johnson Center for Civic Engagement
740 W. International Speedway
Contact: (386) 481-2545
Hours of Operation: Monday-Friday from 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Performing Arts Center
Location: 640 West International Speedway Blvd.
Contact: (386) 481-2774
Hours of Operation: Monday-Friday from 8:30 am - 5:00 pm
Email: [email protected]
Registrar
Location: 589 Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune Blvd.
Contact: (386) 481-2525
Hours of Operation: Monday-Friday from 8:00 am- 5:00 pm
Email: [email protected]
Student Account Services
Location: 585 Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune Blvd Daytona Beach FL, 32114
Contact: (386) 481-2507
Hours of Operation: Monday-Friday 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
Email: [email protected]
Website Address: https://www.cookman.edu/osas/index.html
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Tuition and Fees for 2024-2025
The Cost of Attendance (COA) is the average cost to attend Bethune-Cookman University for one
academic year (fall through spring). It includes Direct Cost and the Estimated Indirect Costs. The
University adjusts the COA yearly to reflect changes to these costs.
The Direct Cost to attend Bethune-Cookman University consists of your tuition, fees, and room and
board.
The Estimated Indirect Costs to attend B-CU includes allowances for books, supplies, transportation,
loan fees, and, if applicable, dependent care. It can also include other expenses like an allowance for
such as the rental or purchase of a personal computer, costs related to a disability, or costs for
eligible study-abroad programs.
All first-time undergraduate students are required to pay a non-refundable and non- transferable
$300 Enrollment Fee the first semester of attendance.
Please see the tables below for complete cost breakdown: Undergraduate
DIRECT COSTS
Fall 2024
Spring 2025
Total
Tuition (12 - 18 hours)*
$6,922.00
$6,922.00
$13,844.00
Room
$3,688.00
$3,688.00
$7,376.00
Board (Gold Plus)
$1,510.00
$1,510.00
$3,020.00
Fees
$475.00
$475.00
$950.00
Total
$12,595.00
$12,595.00
$25,190.00
ESTIMATED INDIRECT COSTS
Books and Supplies
$725.00
$725.00
$1,450.00
Personal Expenses
$1,650.00
$1,650.00
$3,300.00
Transportation
$550.00
$550.00
$1,100.00
Total
$2,925.00
$2,925.00
$5,850.00
COST OF ATTENDANCE (COA)
Direct Costs + Estimated Indirect Costs
$15,520.00
$15,520.00
$31,040.00
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Undergraduate Off-Campus Commuter
DIRECT COSTS
Fall 2024
Spring 2025
Total
Tuition (12 - 18 hours)*
$6,922.00
$6,922.00
$13,844.00
Fees
$475.00
$475.00
$950.00
Total
$7,397.00
$7,397.00
$14,794.00
ESTIMATED INDIRECT COSTS
Room and Board
$750.00
$750.00
$1,500.00
Books and Supplies
$725.00
$725.00
$1,450.00
Personal Expenses
$750.00
$750.00
$1,500.00
Transportation
$800.00
$800.00
$1,600.00
Total
$3,025.00
$3,025.00
$6,050.00
Cost of Attendance (COA)
Direct Costs + Estimated Indirect Costs
$10,422.00
$10,422.00
$20,844.00
Off-Campus Resident (Single or Married)
DIRECT COSTS
Fall 2024
Spring 2025
Total
Tuition (12 - 18 hours)*
$6,922.00
$6,922.00
$13,844.00
Fees
$475.00
$475.00
$950.00
Total
$7,397.00
$7,397.00
$14,794.00
ESTIMATED INDIRECT COSTS
Room and Board
$5,198.00
$5,198.00
$10,396.00
Books and Supplies
$725.00
$725.00
$1,450.00
Personal Expenses
$2,800.00
$2,800.00
$5,600.00
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Transportation
$800.00
$800.00
$1,600.00
Total
$9,523.00
$9,523.00
$19,046.00
Cost of Attendance (COA)
Direct Costs + Estimated Indirect Costs
$16,920.00
$16,920.00
$33,840.00
Direct Cost
Professional Studies and
Global Online Programs
Tuition per
term*
$6,922.00
Fees per term
$300.00
Total per term
$7,222.00
Undergraduate Program Tuition Cost per Credit Hour: $576.80
The cost per term for students enrolled in an 8-week Sub-Term B-CU Global Direct Online
Interdisciplinary Studies, Criminal Justice, or Psychology Program is $250 per credit hour. This cost
pertains only to students who have been grandfathered into a Direct Online program.
The cost for students who are active duty military is $250 per credit hour.
*Students who enroll in less than 12 credit hours will be charged $50 per credit hour for fees.
B-CU Global Online Program students are assessed only a $500 technology fee per term.
Active duty military students are not assessed fees.
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Licensed Practical Nursing Program
Note: Textbooks are not factored in the cost of tuition. However, the majority
of General Education Courses are textbook free or access code free.
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Refund Policy
Refunds are processed by the Office of Student Accounts Services when a student has resolved all
financial obligations against their University debts, and their student account reflects a credit
balance. Refunds are processed after the student’s account reflects a credit balance. It is the
student’s responsibility to inform the Office of Student Accounts Services of any changes to
their address.
Our school delivers your refund with BankMobile Disbursements, a technology solution, powered
by BMTX, Inc. Visit this link for more information: Refund Choices. To view our contract,
click here
Through the Wildcat Web located on the University’s website, students have access to review their
charges, financial aid, payments, credit balances, refunds issued, and/or any balances that may be
due. If a student visits the Office of Student Accounts Services and requests information about their
student account, the student must present their student identification or another form of picture
identification.
With the exception of federal Parent Plus loans where the parent has not provided written
authorization to refund the loan to the student, to the extent that funds paid to Bethune-Cookman
University on behalf of the student exceed the total amount of tuition, fees and other expenses due
from the student, Bethune-Cookman University will refund such excess payments (excluding any
non-refundable financial aid) directly to the student, regardless of whether any funds were paid by
the student, the student’s parents or any other third party.; Bethune-Cookman University assumes no
responsibility for remitting such excess payments to any person other than the student.
Funds received on behalf of a student that exceed the total cost of tuition, fees, and other expenses
due, will be returned to the student in the form of a refund. Regardless of the source of payments
made on behalf of the student, refunds are paid directly to the student. The University assumes no
responsibility for opposing views regarding the remittance of refunds to the enrolled student.
Under no circumstances or conditions can nonrefundable dollars be included in student refunds.
Refunds associated with Parent Plus loans are made directly to the parent unless the parent has
provided written authorization for the Parent Plus loan refund to go directly to the student.
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The Division of Innovation and Leadership
Development/Student Affairs
The Division of Innovation and Leadership Development is the liaison between students, parents,
faculty, staff, the general public, and campus administration.
The Division of Innovation and Leadership Development provides a comprehensive approach to
student-centered advocacy for both undergraduate and graduate students. This approach focuses on
education, social and personal development, as well as civic engagement. By connecting students to
university resources that promote academic success, retention, and graduation, the Division of
Innovation and Leadership Development ensures that students have access to the tools they need to
succeed. The division partners with other university offices to cultivate a community of students that
embodies the University's Student Code of Conduct and Core Values. The goal is to create a vibrant
and inclusive campus community. Additionally, the Division of Innovation and Leadership
Development serves as a confidential resource for students who need assistance in resolving issues
when normal processes and procedures have not been effective.
In the event that students encounter certain challenges, they may opt to solicit the services of The
Division of Innovation and Leadership Development. Such challenges may include but are not
limited to:
● seeking counsel on how to manage an uncomfortable living situation,
● securing suitable resources to address a health ailment,
● identifying resources to cater to learning differences or disabilities,
● navigating personal issues, resolving conflicts with fellow students, and
● exploring opportunities relating to student life and religious life.
The Division of Innovation and Leadership Development is also responsible for the administration
of the Student Code of Conduct If students find themselves in a compromising situation or have
witnessed unacceptable behaviors, the Division of Innovation and Leadership Development hears all
concerns and works with the B-CU community to develop appropriate responses.
To report an incident, please click the following link:
https://www.cookman.edu/provost/reporting-incident.html
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Division of Student Affairs
Location: Center for Civic Engagement
Contact: (386) 481-2396
Hours of Operation: Monday-Friday from 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Student Affairs at Bethune-Cookman University is the centralized hub for student resources and activities. It
encompasses the following offices:
● Greek Life / Recreational Services
● Leadership Development & Student Engagement
● Male / Female Initiatives
● Judicial Affairs / Community Standards
● Community and Civic Engagement
● Government Relations
● Religious Life
● Student Organizations and Clubs
Each of these offices supports the student experience by providing unique programs, and services and
facilities designed to foster student development and help students find their purpose. Student Life encourages
students to get involved in all aspects of college life, from upholding the University Core Values to creating
service opportunities to give back, joining a Fraternity or Sorority to connecting with campus resources.
Whether students want to run for a position within the Student Government Association, unite their class by
serving on the Class Board, or join a student organization, Student Life supports everyone.
Student Life
Student Organizations
Co-curricular participation creates many learning opportunities during the college experience. A
great way to get involved is to join a student organization. There are a number of campus
organizations/clubs. This includes Greek fraternities and sororities, Greek-letter professional and
service organizations, community service groups, leadership organizations, academic and honor
societies, performance groups, and international and religious-based organizations.
Student organizations at Bethune-Cookman University are defined as those student-run
organizations that have received university recognition. All student organizations must follow
policies in the student handbook. All recognized student organizations have the following:
● Permission to post flyers on campus with approval from Student Life.
● Reserve/utilize rooms/university facilities
● Apply for funding through SGA
● Access to Student Life staff and resources.
The University reserves the right to recognize all student organizations. The purpose of recognition
is for B-CU to acknowledge an organization's presence on campus and assist in student
organizations' formation and overall operation. Student Life maintains all the current information
about each organization, including officers, email and website addresses, mission/purpose,
constitution, and advisor information.
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Student Life is responsible for establishing and enforcing policies concerning student organization
and activities. All student organizations are subject to the rules and regulations governing the
University found in the Student Handbook. It is vital that all student leaders and student
organizations are familiar with the policies within the handbook.
Active Student organizations are allowed to practice no more than two hours per day unless
approved by the Office of Student Life. In order to provide a safe and secure environment, the
University will provide designated practice spaces to be utilized.
Student organizations that violate University guidelines will be held responsible and subject to the
appropriate sanctions:
a. Written Warning
b. Cease and Desist
c. Suspension
Minimum Required GPA
SGA E-Board/Class Board/SAB
3.0
Fraternity/Sorority E-Board
3.0
Student Organization E-Board
3.0
General Member
2.8
All contact information for student organizations is housed in the Office of Student Life located in
the Michael & Libby Johnson Center for Civic Engagement (CCE). Anyone wishing to obtain
information may stop by the office of Student Life.
Greek Life
Greek Life plays an integral part in the campus community. At B-CU, two governing councils exist:
The National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) and the Service and Professional Organizations
Advisory Council (SPOAC). These governing councils contribute significantly to the quality of
student life in a number of ways:
A. Providing opportunities for students to develop leadership skills through involvement in a
variety of programs and activities,
B. Encouraging and fostering team building and group cohesion,
C. Striving for academic excellence, and,
D. Performing volunteer service on campus and in the larger Daytona Beach community
These outcomes are parallel to several university objectives and Bethune-Cookman University
welcomes the presence of these groups on campus with the clear expectation they will abide by all
university policies and regulations governing their behavior.
To the extent that the activities of fraternities and sororities conform to university expectations and
fulfill the University mission, they will continue to enjoy all privileges and courtesies extended to
them as registered student organizations. Each organization’s chapter exists on campus as a
courtesy to their respective national organizations. At all times, it is expected that the chapters
conform to and assist with upholding of all university policies and protocols. Regarding campus
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suspensions of fraternities, sororities, and social fellowships, the University makes no distinction
between the chapter of a fraternity, sorority, or social fellowship and the fraternity, sorority, or
social fellowship as an entity. The University further recognizes that chapters are not, in fact,
independent organizations in their own right, and each chapter represents its national fraternity,
sorority, or social fellowship.
The University reserves the right to take actions against individual members as well as the entire
membership of the organization (fraternities, sororities, and social fellowships) chapter when
administrative action is deemed appropriate (see Membership Intake below).
General membership in a registered student organization (including fraternities, sororities, and social
organizations) is limited to students enrolled for at least twelve (12) semester credit hours at B-CU.
Standards Governing Fraternities and Sororities
National Fraternities and Sororities
The Registrar and Office of Greek Life must certify academic eligibility and attendance for
membership.
National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC)
The National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) is a collaborative organization of nine historically
African-American, international Greek-lettered fraternities and sororities. Of the nine member
organizations of the NPHC, the following organizations have established chapters at
Bethune-Cookman University:
• Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.- Delta Beta Chapter
• Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.- Gamma Tau Chapter
• Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.- Delta Alpha Chapter
• Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.- Gamma Theta Chapter
• Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.- Omicron Epsilon Chapter
• Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc.- Beta Upsilon Chapter
• Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.- Mu Beta Chapter
• Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.- Beta Eta Chapter
• Iota Phi Theta Fraternity Inc.- Beta Chi Chapter
Purpose:
NPHC promotes interaction through forums, meetings, and other mediums for the exchange of
information and engages in cooperative programming initiatives through various activities and
functions. It is the mission of the NPHC to promote “unanimity of thought and action as far as
possible in the conduct of Greek letter collegiate fraternities and sororities and to consider problems
of mutual interest to its member organizations.”
A. The purpose of the NPHC on the campus of Bethune-Cookman University is as follows:
maintain a high level of Greek life and inter-fraternal relationships within the University.
B. Encourage student leadership and personal development.
C. Cooperate with University officials in the effort to maintain high social and scholastic
standards throughout the University.
D. Serve as a forum for the discussion of questions of Mutual interest and concern to the
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University, fraternities, and sororities. The NPHC has its adopted by-laws.
Auxiliary Organizations:
Bethune-Cookman University does not authorize, recognize, or approve the existence of any
chapter-affiliated Auxiliary organization (sweethearts, diamonds, pearls, doves, angels, little
sister/brothers, courts, kittens, etc.). Students are encouraged to report any solicitation of any
fraternity or sorority to join an auxiliary organization to the Office of Student Life.
Auxiliary Organizations are not the same as fraternities and sororities and should not be considered
and/or treated as such. Any student claiming to be a member of such a group will be sanctioned
accordingly along with the affiliated fraternity or sorority.
Service and Professional Organization Advisory Council (SPOAC)
The following national fraternities and sororities have active chapters at B-CU:
• Gamma Sigma Sigma Service Sorority, Inc.- Epsilon Nu Chapter
• Tau Beta Sigma Music Sorority, Inc.- Theta Rho Chapter
• Sigma Alpha Iota Sorority, Inc.- Theta Chi Chapter
• Gamma Beta Chi Fraternity Inc.- Alpha Chapter (INACTIVE)
• Sigma Alpha Iota Fraternity Inc.- Theta Xi Chapter (INACTIVE)
Purpose:
SPOAC serves as the governing body of Non-Pan-Hellenic fraternities/sororities/social fellowship
organizations. The purpose of the SPOAC Council is to
A. Act as the governing body of all recognized Non-Pan-Hellenic fraternities/sororities/social
fellowship organizations.
B. Organize, standardize, and regulate recruitment of new member activities;
C. Promote positive inter-fraternity/sorority competition in scholarship, service, athletics and any
other events that may be deemed advisable to better participants, sororities, fraternities, the
University and the community;
D. Encourage cooperation and harmony among member organizations;
E. Provide education programs and services for member fraternities/sororities; and
F. Serve as the liaison between University authorities and member fraternities in matters of
common interest.
Membership Intake Regulations
Greek organization's recruitment activities can only be scheduled during the period designated by the
University and only by those active organizations that are approved members of Greek Life as
stipulated in this document. No student may be in a group or organized interest club, pay fees or
perform duties or assignments before the new membership intake program and schedule are
approved by the University and officially begin.
It is required that all new membership intake activities be coordinated through the Office of Greek
Life. The annual schedule and procedures for new membership intake are determined by the Office
of Greek Life and are provided to the appropriate persons at the designated time or upon request.
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Only one list of names will be accepted and any organization that processes ineligible persons will
be penalized. No organization may proceed with membership intake before written approval on
individual candidates' academic and judicial status has been received by the Office of Greek Life. If
grade reports appear to be inaccurate, individual candidates should contact the Registrar's Office;
however, candidates must be eligible at the time of clearance (including the resolution removal
of ALL holds on a student's account).
Compliance with university minimum university requirements for application eligibility does not
guarantee that a student will be selected or voted on for membership into an organization
Membership Intake Restrictions
Prospective Members: To be eligible or considered for membership into any Greek organization,
the University requires that a student meet the following criteria:
A. Completed a total of 12 credit hours during the academic semester prior to the intake semester.
B. Received a cumulative grade point average of 2.8 during the academic semester prior to the
intake semester.
C. Be currently enrolled in a total of 12 credit hours during the academic semester in which intake
is being held.
D. Be in good judicial standing (meaning clear judicial record defined as not currently on
probation, suspended or expelled, with no case pending, opened or closed within one year of
intent to participate in membership intake. No history of major violations (i.e. drugs, assault,
harassment, or possession/use of a weapon) with the University per the university policies and
procedures and student code of conduct.
E. Must have successfully completed Greek Life Bootcamp.
Compliance with university minimum requirements for application eligibility does not guarantee
that a student will be selected or voted on for membership in an organization.
Some organizations require a higher cumulative average, giving the option to a chapter to use the
University’s minimum requirement. Beyond minimum requirements, organizations have the right to
select their members by criteria approved by the national governing body of the organization and
accepted by the University as a fair policy. These criteria must be documented in the Office of Greek
Life.
New Member Presentations
A. All new member presentations must be approved by the Office of Greek Life and must take
place in the predetermined location and scheduled timeframe established by the Office of
Greek Life
B. All new member presentations must receive written approval from the organization’s chapter
advisor and be submitted to the Office of Greek Life within the university’s official intake
schedule.
C. There will be NO EXCEPTIONS to any other time periods or forms of expression (before,
during, or after the intake period).
D. No on or off-campus pre or post-new membership presentation shows will be authorized. Any
organization that intentionally disregards this clause will be placed on Cease and Desist while
pending an investigation for the judicial process.
E. Once initiated, members are allowed to wear their paraphernalia immediately.
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Student Government Association
The Student Government Association is the highest-ranking student organization at
Bethune-Cookman University and is officially chartered to be the governing agency within the
student body of the University and shall assume the responsibility of supporting, coordinating, and
expediting programs, projects, and policies necessary and proper for the welfare of the student body
of the university as so designated by the Constitution. To qualify for a position in SGA (including
Royal Court), it is mandatory to attend and successfully complete the B-CU Leadership Institute and
Bootcamp. The SGA at Bethune-Cookman University is the student governing body in matters
pertaining to the student body's interest. The purpose of SGA is:
● To foster scholarship in an atmosphere of free and objective inquiry
● To insist upon academic freedom and flexibility within their program of study, responsibility,
and excellence
● To assume responsibility for exercising and preserving student rights
● To promote cohesion within the student body
● To maintain a forum for expressing students’ diverse views and interests
● To initiate, coordinate, and guide student efforts aimed at improving student life
● To seek and obtain effective communication and relations within the University and external
communities
● To insist upon quality education at an affordable cost, thereby providing educational
opportunities for persons of all economic strata
● To provide opportunities to develop student leadership qualities
● To facilitate the individual and collective welfare of the undergraduate student body
● To uphold, in highest regard, the Student Government Association
● To provide educated and interactive entertainment for the Bethune-Cookman University
students and alumni community
● To give students a voice to shape their extracurricular college experiences
● To expand the cultural and global awareness of Bethune-Cookman University through diverse
programming
● To provide events at an affordable cost and/or free to the campus
● To create a more positive campus environment through event programming
● To provide vehicle for organizations to co-sponsor and collaborate on events
● To balance the quantity and quality of events in such a way that enhances the student
experience
● To promote vibrant student life for the Bethune-Cookman University students in hopes of
increasing the university’s retention rates
● To be a programming resource for organizations, faculty, staff, and students through the
provisions of programming assistance, guidance, collaboration, co-sponsorship opportunities,
and/or advice.
The SGA works to empower students to become better leaders by giving students an opportunity
to join and work with the organization. The SGA strives to create a vibrant campus environment
through continuous event production, gauging student interests, and planning events that cater to
all students on and off campus events for B-CU students. Because the organization is for the
students, the SGA attempts to encompass a wide range of social and academic programming,
including, but not limited to, political forums, community and civic engagements, large concerts,
small concerts, parties, game nights, movie nights, sporting events, pep rallies, tailgates, health
fairs, carnivals, and homecoming.
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SGA Framework
The Student Government Association serves as the umbrella organization for the Bethune-Cookman
University Community. The following groups fall under SGA:
● Executive Board- serves as the organization’s leadership team
● Royal Court: serves as the official student ambassadors for the University and their respective
classes
● Class Boards: serves as representatives for their respective classes
● Electoral Commission: responsible for organizing Student Government Association elections
● Judicial Branch: shall provide fair and just treatment relating to cases involving either violation
of university regulations or infringements upon students’ rights over which it has authority
from the university; to recommend appropriate measures for those found guilty.
● Student Activities Board Committee (SAC): serves as the planning committee under SGA to
promote academic, social, and political events.
● Student Organizations: Active student-run organizations that are recognized through the
Division of Student Affairs/ Student Life.
SGA Eligibility
At the time of elections:
● All candidates must adhere to the General Qualifications for Student Government Officials
outlined in (Article V, A-P) of the SGA Constitution and the Elections Act.
● Within the Executive Branch, the Executive Board is made up of the following positions:
● SGA President
● SGA Vice President
● SAC Chair
● Mister B-CU
● Miss B-CU
● Class Presidents
● Chief Justice
● The Chief Justice is appointed by the SGA President. Appointments will be chosen through an
interview process.
● The duties and responsibilities of each member of Student Government is outlined in the
Student Government Constitution.
Intramural and Recreational Programs
The Office of Recreational Student Services offers a variety of programs and services for faculty,
staff and students that promote a healthy and active lifestyle. Participation allows for personal
growth and development. Students must have a 2.50 GPA or better in order to participate. GPAs will
be verified.
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Event Planning and Facility Use
In order to have your events placed on the new Calendar, you must submit your request at least 48
hours (2 days) before the date of the event to the CIT Help Desk at [email protected]. In
addition, all room requests should be submitted through the room scheduling portal, Ad Astra, or
university university-designated platform.
1. Name and contact information of the person(s) who would approve your sector’s
buildings/rooms requests.
2. Name and contact information of the person(s) responsible for submitting requests for events
to be placed on the University Web Calendar.
Should you have any questions, please contact Mrs. Kathy Reeves at (386) 481-2899/
[email protected] or Mrs. Grace Kouadjo, at (386) 481-231/[email protected].
Organization Events
An organization event is defined as any activity or gathering that can be reasonably associated with
an organization by one or more of the following:
● A significant number of attendees are members of an organization;
● The event, activity, or gathering is held at a location reserved for, owned by, rented by, or
otherwise associated with a registered student organization;
● Promotional material associates the event, activity, or gathering with a specific registered
student organization;
● The activities can be reasonably associated with a particular registered student organization.
All registered student organization events using the Center for Civic Engagement may be reserved
through the Event Service Office. All registered student organizations must first register their events
by completing the Event Request Form through the B-CU room scheduling portal, Ad Astra, or
university-designated platform Groups failing to do so will not be processed until Event Services
receives the electronic request. Recognized student organizations and University departments may
not serve as fronts (sponsoring a Non-affiliated organization and failing to inform at the time of the
reservation) to circumvent policies for off-campus organizations. If fronting is discovered,
Non-affiliated rental rates will apply and reservation privileges will be impacted.
Persons who use these facilities are expected to abide by the Michael and Libby Johnson Center
general policies and other university regulations. The Student Life department reserves the right to
add or change these policies. Please refer to our website for complete information on the Michael
and Libby Johnson Center facilities including policies, procedures, fees, and services.
Reserving Campus Facilities and Equipment
Event Services reserves space for meetings and programs along with equipment within the Michael
and Libby Johnson Center for Civic Engagement for registered student organizations and/or
University Departments. Event Services is located in Suite 6. Per the Equipment Rental Policy,
Event Services does not permit recognized Student Organizations and/or University Departments to
rent items for use at events outside of the building. ALL equipment housed within the facility is
strictly for use within the facility. A list of those items is outlined within the policy.
38
Starting & Maintaining Student Organization Registration
Student Organization Recognition Process
Registration is an annual process. Once an organization is registered, renewals must be completed
every year that permits the organization to operate during the two semesters comprising the
academic year. Recognition status runs for one academic year. Recognized student organizations are
all student organizations that are formed by currently enrolled students sharing a common goal or
interest and have properly completed the necessary forms on time and agree to adhere to guidelines
established by the University.
Returning Organizations who apply for recognition renewal in the fall must be recognized by
Tuesday following the Labor Day in September. Applications can be submitted at the conclusion of
the prior Spring Semester. A representative of the student organization must attend one registration
meeting, hosted by the Office of Student Life. A meeting for fall registration will take place between
April and August. Organizations will be notified of the meeting times via email. Only after an
organization’s representative has attended this meeting can the organization receive full university
recognition. If the Tuesday following the Labor Day deadline is missed, organizations can apply for
renewal from the first day of classes after the winter break through the first Tuesday after the Martin
Luther King Jr. Holiday; student organization privileges, however, including access to student
organization platform, funding, and scheduling will be lost for the fall semester. Returning
organizations are defined as any organization that has received university recognition within the past
five academic years.
New Student Organizations can apply for recognition at any time during the school year.
Generally, a new organization: a) comprises a group of at least five (5) full-time students b)
advances the mission of B-CU, and c) provides an environment that facilitates individual growth and
autonomy, while also fostering social responsibility within a larger community and d) contributes to
the intellectual, spiritual, social, emotional and physical development of students, and e) serves as a
vehicle for service to programs g) enhance the overall quality of student life at Bethune-Cookman
University.
Organizations without recognition will not have any privileges including access to the student
organization platform, scheduling, and funding.
The entire recognition process will consist of a face-to-face meeting and an online registration via
the student organization platform.
Student Organization Transportation to Off-Campus Events
Students organizations, faculty, and staff sponsoring student travel and trips off-campus are required
to complete a “travel Authorization/Waiver of Liability” form and file the completed form and roster
in the Office of Student Life at least 7 business days prior to departure. The form must include the
names of the advisor and/ or sponsor, as well as the name(s) and driver’s license number for all
drivers.
In case of a personal accident occurring during a sponsored activity off campus, the injured student
should report the incident immediately to the present advisor. The incident should also be reported to
Campus Safety as quickly as possible.
39
Each faculty and staff member is required to travel with chaperones to assist in the safety of our
students. There must be at least 1 chaperone for every 25 students. In addition, if male and female
students are traveling, a chaperone of each sex must accompany the group.
Student Organizations Advisors
Each organization must have two advisors who are chosen by the group and approved by the Office
of Student Life. At least one of the advisors to the organization must be a full-time B-CU faculty or
staff member. The Advisor must have been removed from being a student of the University for at
least five years. Faculty and staff members are not obligated to serve as advisors; it is a voluntary
service. Those who willingly give the time necessary to guide the organizations as well as attend
meetings and events. All advisors must attend meetings held by the Office of Student Life.
If at any time during the year, an advisor finds that she/he cannot continue to serve as an advisor to
an organization, the advisor must notify the Office of Student Life immediately with written
confirmation. All advisors must agree to the terms of the Campus Safety Clery Act, serving as a
reporter if any person reveals to them they have been a victim, witness, and/or perpetrator of any
incident that might involve a crime. Advisors must be present at all times including events,
meetings, practice, etc.
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Complaints and Grievances
A student may pursue a grievance if he or she believes that a member of the University community
has violated his or her rights by following the Student Complaint and Grievance Procedure. The
primary objectives of the Student Complaint and Grievance Procedure are:
● To ensure students have the opportunity to present grievances to the University regarding an
action or inaction by a member of the University community
● To make certain the University has a consistent strategy for resolving grievances in a fair and
just manner.
The Student Complaint and Grievance Procedure applies to alleged discrimination on the basis of
race, color religion, sex (including sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression), age,
national origin, or disability as well as problems arising in the relationship between a student and the
University that are not governed by other specific grievance procedures (such as Student Code of
Conduct, Harassment, Discrimination, Sexual Misconduct, and Retaliation Complaint Procedures,
University Policy, and Procedures). Upon request from a student, The Division of Innovation and
Leadership Development will provide guidance about the appropriate system protocol and procedure
for redress of the student’s specific complaint.
Essential Elements of Grievance Procedures
All grievance procedures within the University structure must provide for,
A. A time limit, not to exceed thirty calendar days from the written submission of a complaint to
its hearing, with provisions for extensions for good cause
B. The opportunity for each side to submit supporting materials and introduce supporting
witnesses
C. The opportunity for each side to be informed of material supporting the action or position of the
other side
D. The exclusion of any party involved in the complaint from the rendering of any
decision-making
E. The creation of a record of the proceeding, including an audio tape recording of the hearing and
a written decision of the hearing body.
Filing the Initial Grievance
Prior to escalating grievance procedures described below, the student and the responding party are
required to:
1. Present his or her complaint, in writing, with the immediate supervisor of the person alleged to
have caused the complaint within 15 business days of the student first becoming aware of the
act or condition that is the basis of the complaint.
2. The immediate supervisor must speak with the person alleged to have caused the complaint
and provide a written response within five (5) business days. A written response does not
supplant a verbal discussion of the complaint.
The required writing does not prohibit verbal discussion.
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Grievance Escalation and Review
If a student is not satisfied with the response, he or she and the responding party must:
1. Escalate the complaint, in writing, within business 10 days of the first received response, to the
chair, director, or next level supervisor (hereinafter “administrator”) of the department or area
where the person is alleged to have caused the complaint is employed.
2. If the complaint is against the administrator chair or director of a department or area, or if the
original complaint was responded to by the administrator chair or director of the department or
area, the student should address his or her complaint to the appropriate dean or vice president.
3. If the complaint is against anyone other than the administrator, the administrator should
conduct an informal investigation as warranted to resolve any factual disputes.
4. Upon the student’s request, the administrator shall appoint an impartial fact-finding panel of no
more than three persons to conduct an investigation.
5. When appointing the fact-finding panel, the administrator must state the terms and conditions
of the panel’s work investigation in a memorandum appointing the fact-finding panel. The
fact-finding panel appointed hereunder shall have no authority to make recommendations or
impose final action.
6. The panel’s conclusions shall be limited to determining and presenting facts to the
administrator in a written report.
7. Based upon the report of the fact-finding panel, if any, the administrator shall make a
determination and submit his or her decision, in writing, to the student and to the person
alleged to have caused the complaint within 10 calendar days of receipt of the panel’s report.
The written determination shall include the reasons for the decision, shall indicate the remedial
action to be taken, if any, and shall inform the student of the right to seek review by the appropriate
vice president (or provost if the administrator is a vice president).
Grievance Final Appeal
Within ten calendar days of receipt of the administrator’s decision, a student who is not satisfied
with the response of the administrator may then:
1. Seek further review by submitting a grievance, using the online Student Grievance Form. At the
time of filing the grievance online, the student must submit all required written communications
information regarding the complaint.
2. If the administrator is a vice president or associate provost, the student’s grievance will be
forwarded to the University Provost for further review. The Provost may delegate another
administrator to act on his/her behalf.
3. In situations that are non-academic in nature, the Dean of Students or his/her designated
representative will undertake a review of the basis for the administrator's decision. This review
is intended to determine the basis and necessity of the decision and does not involve a de novo
factual investigation. However, the Dean of Students or their representative may, at their
discretion, require additional facts to be gathered or further remedial action to be taken.
4. In the event that the complaint raised by the affected student is deemed to warrant redress, the
Dean of Students or their designate shall provide a written decision within 15 calendar days
from the date of receipt of the review request. The written disposition shall be addressed to both
the aggrieved student and the individual accused of causing the grievance. The communication
shall contain an explanation for the decision, along with specific measures to be taken as a
reparative action for the affected student.
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Absences/Family Emergencies
Students leaving the University temporarily because of illness, emergency, etc., must bring
documentation of such to Enrollment Services & Solutions during regular office hours of 8:00 a.m. –
5:00 p.m., call (386) 481-2130 or email [email protected]. Reports of personal or
family emergencies must be made in person. Depending on the type of issue reported, Enrollment
Services & Solutions may coordinate with Student Health Services to support the student fully. Please
note, that Enrollment Services & Solutions cannot excuse students from class. However, if proper
documentation is provided, verification of the reason for the absence will be emailed to the student’s
faculty professors. Most faculty require verification of emergencies when students are absent from
class, especially when a test has been missed, or an assignment has not been turned in. Ultimately, it
is the student's responsibility to make arrangements with instructors for completing assignments,
quizzes, exams, etc.
General and Academic Appeals
The purpose of this section is to outline all procedures related to the student appeals process. The
following information included in the following procedure are sections on: (1) definitions and
explanations and (2) Academic or Non-Academic Appeals.
Definition and Explanation of Student Appeals:
A student appeal is defined as a formal request by an enrolled or former student for reconsideration
of a University rule or regulation, including the assignment recording of a final grade.
Academic Appeals
Student Academic Complaint and Grade Appeal Processes
Bethune-Cookman University is committed to supporting the student matriculation process. It is our
intent to positively resolve issues, complaints, and concerns that may impact the success of students
in meeting student learning outcomes. Complaint and grade appeal procedures provide students with
an opportunity to express their perceptions of conditions within the course that may be viewed as an
impediment to successful progression in the curriculum, as well as to have grades reviewed by an
impartial body, and, if warranted, to receive relief.
Student Complaint Procedure:
1. The student should discuss the matter (issue, concern, complaint, condition, etc.) with the
instructor directly involved or with whom the complaint is being lodged. If there is no relief or
satisfaction, the student may seek assistance for relief from the Department Chair
2. If there is no relief or satisfaction from those interactions, the student may submit written
documentation of the complaint to the Dean of the Unit, using the Student Academic
Complaint and Grade Appeal Form.
3. The Dean will convene the unit’s Academic and Professional Standards Committee. The
Committee will review and discuss the details of the complaint matter and make a
recommendation to the Dean of the Unit.
4. The decision or determination will be final and binding within the Unit.
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Student Grade Appeal Procedure:
In line with academic regulations, it is within the purview of students to appeal the grades awarded
in their courses. It should be noted that such appeals may encompass a broad spectrum of concerns,
including but not limited to grading errors, procedural irregularities, and disputes over the
interpretation of course material. To initiate an appeal, students are required to follow the established
procedures set forth by the institution and furnish relevant documentation to support their claims. We
strongly encourage all students to exercise their rights with respect to this matter, and we pledge to
offer guidance and support throughout the appeal process.
Students will have 10 business days from the day that grades are posted or otherwise given before
initiating the appeal. The student should submit a written statement to the academic dean within ten
days setting forth the complaint. Efforts to resolve it, and supporting evidence or justification for the
complaint. The period in which a grade may be contested will end at 5:00 pm on the 10th business
day after the grade is posted.
1. The student should discuss the contested grade with the faculty person of the course; the
department Chairperson may also be consulted in an effort to receive a resolution.
2. If there is no relief or satisfaction, the student may submit written documentation and the
rationale for the contested grade to the Dean of the Unit. The written statement should set forth
the complaint, efforts to resolve it, and supporting evidence or justification for the complaint.
The academic dean, on receipt of this petition, should provide a copy of the complaint to the
faculty.
3. The Dean will convene the committee charged with reviewing matters of concern. The
Committee will review the written statement from the student, secure additional information
that the student may have, and hear and examine evidence and information that the professor
may have in support of her/his decision. Both the student and the faculty shall each receive
reasonable notice of the hearing before the faculty committee and be permitted to be present at
the hearing. In addition, the parties shall have the right to present evidence and to examine any
witnesses who should testify. Students enrolled in online degree programs will be granted the
option of attending the hearing via Skype or Zoom. The committee then makes a
recommendation to the Dean, along with all of the supporting data, and the dean renders a
decision in the case, which is immediately communicated in writing to the student, the faculty
concerned, and the committee.
4. The decision or determination will be final and binding within the Dean’s unit. However, if the
student or the faculty concerned is dissatisfied with the decision of the academic dean, either
may appeal to the Office of the Provost. If this is done, the Provost will review all of the
information and the Provost may convene a committee to investigate the situation further and
recommend action. The Provost will render a decision in the case which is to be communicated
to the student, the faculty concerned, the academic dean, and the members of the committee
participating in the case. The decision of the Provost is final.
Non-Academic Appeals
FERPA Appeal
The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords students certain rights with respect
to their education records. These rights include:
● The right to inspect and review the student’s educational records within 45 days of the day the
University receives a request for access.
● Students should submit to the Dean of Students written requests that identify the record(s) they
wish to inspect. The Dean of Students will make arrangements for access and notify the
student of the time and place where the records may be inspected. If the records are not
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maintained by the Dean of Students, he/she shall advise the student of the correct official to
whom the request should be addressed.
Students have several rights related to their education records.
● Students may ask the University to amend a record that they believe is inaccurate. They should
write the University official responsible for the record, clearly identify the part of the record
they want changed, and specify why they believe the record is inaccurate.
o If the University decides not to amend the record as requested by the student, the
University will notify the student in writing of the decision and advise the student of his or
her right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment in writing. Additional
information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the student when notified
of the right to a hearing.
The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s
education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent.
● One exception, which permits disclosure without consent, is disclosure to school officials with
legitimate educational interests. A school official is a person employed by the University in an
administrative, supervisory, academic, research, or support staff position (including law
enforcement unit personnel and health staff); a person or company with whom the University
has contracted (such as an attorney, auditor, or collection agent); or a student serving on an
official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school
official in performing his or her tasks.
● A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an
education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibility.
● Upon request, the University discloses education records without consent to officials of
another school in which a student seeks or intends to enroll.
● The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged
failures by Bethune-Cookman University to comply with the requirements of FERPA.
The name and address of the office that administers FERPA is:
Family Policy Compliance Office
U.S. Department of Education 400 Maryland Avenue, SW
Washington, DC 20202-5901
Financial Aid Appeals
Loss of Financial Aid Eligibility
In the event that a student fails to meet the satisfactory academic progress (SAP) requirements,
whether, in quantitative or qualitative terms, their aid eligibility may be suspended. However, the
affected student has the right to appeal the decision. To do so, the student must demonstrate, through
evidence, that there were extenuating circumstances that had a negative impact on their academic
performance during the review period. It is important to note that the SAP requirements are a critical
component of the eligibility criteria for aid, and as such, students should take them seriously.
Nonetheless, in cases where circumstances beyond the student's control have had a negative impact
on their academic performance, the option to appeal is available.
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The following extenuating circumstances are considered legitimate reason(s) for appealing the loss
of financial aid eligibility:
● Death of an immediate family member.
● Serious illness or injury to yourself or immediate family member (if you are the primary
caregiver).
● Emergency non-voluntary military activation.
● Credit hours exceed 150% of degree program
● Other circumstances considered to be extenuating that occurred during the specified review
period.
● A lack of focus, difficulty with transitioning into college life, or difficulties with
school-work-life balance issues are not considered extenuating circumstances eligibility
circumstances for purposes of appeal and will be denied.
Appeals to Regain Financial Aid Eligibility
There are two types of appeals:
1. GPA and/or Pace of Progression Appeal
2. Maximum Time Frame Appeal (See “Defining/Calculating Satisfactory Academic Progress”
(SAP) for a detailed definition. The Maximum Time Frame Appeal may only be made only
once and only classes required to complete the degree program will be eligible.
Students are entitled to a maximum of two consecutive appeals when not meeting financial aid
eligibility. Second appeals must be based on a reason different from the first appeal in order to be
considered. The appeal, submitted through Wildcat Web, must contain the following documents:
1. A typed statement that has been proofread and is free of grammatical errors, signed and dated, from the
student, explaining in detail the reason for not meeting the minimum standards for Satisfactory
Academic Progress (SAP), the changes that have occurred, and what specific
measures/behaviors/practices are being taken in order to improve academic performance and meet the
minimum standards moving forward by the end of the review period.
2. Documentation of the extenuating circumstance(s) that occurred during the review period under review.
(Financial Aid/SAP Appeals with no documentation submitted will be considered incomplete and will
NOT be reviewed).
3. A revised academic plan submitted with the assistance of your success coach / academic advisor, or
your graduate advisor that specifically indicates what courses (and the necessary grade(s)), and
interventions the student is required to perform to be considered making progress toward regaining
eligibility for financial aid.
4. Appeals that are incomplete, have missing signatures, and/or lack proper documentation will not be
considered and will be automatically denied. Students may resubmit by the appeal submission deadline
or the next semester’s deadline. Financial Aid awards cannot be paid retroactively for the semester(s)
during which eligibility was lost.
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Housing and Residence Life Appeals
Housing Appeal Process: Community Damage Billing
Prior to posting community damage charges to your student account, you have an opportunity to assist us in
identifying those responsible for vandalism. An email will be sent to your B-CU email account reporting the
damage and associated billing charges. You have until a predetermined date to either accept responsibility for
all or part of the damage or provide information leading to the adjudication of the person(s) responsible for
the damage. If no community member accepts responsibility for the damages and steps forward, the charges
will be distributed among all members of the community. Fees will not be placed on your student accounts
until a minimum of $5.00 has been reached. This may occur immediately, at the end of the semester or even at
the end of the academic year, depending on the amount of unidentified damages within your area. Please
contact a member of the Residence Life staff or the Director for Housing and Residence Life if you have any
pertinent information related to identifying the responsible person(s).
Housing Appeal Process: Individual Damage Billing
To appeal an individually billed damage charge, you must submit a written explanation to the Vice President
for Enrollment Management within 5 working business days of receiving notification of the damage charge. If
the appeal is granted, any interest charge related to the damage fee will be waived as well. If the appeal is
denied, your student account will be billed. During the semester in progress, The individual damage billing
appeals process for that semester is ongoing throughout each semester. For charges assessed after the close of
a semester, students have two weeks after receiving the damage billing to appeal. All appeals will be accepted
for the prior semester until the posted deadline. If the appeal is granted, any interest charge related to the
damage fee will be waived. If there are any questions, please contact the B-CU Housing and Residential Life
or the Dean of Students.
Traffic/Parking Appeals
Kindly be advised that all parking citations must be appealed in writing, through electronic mail, within seven
(7) business days to the Parking Services Coordinator. In your appeal, you must provide a clear and concise
reason for requesting a hearing, outlining the grounds for your appeal. Please note that the following defenses
are not admissible at an appeal hearing:
1. Denying responsibility for improperly parking the vehicle.
2. Claiming that you did not receive a copy of the ticket.
3. Stating that you parked for only a brief period.
4. Asserting that there were no other parking spaces available.
5. Arguing that you were late for a class.
6. Maintaining that you were unwell.
7. Alleging that you lacked the financial means to purchase a decal.
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Reporting an Incident
We encourage faculty, staff, and students to report matters regarding sexual misconduct, student
misconduct, student grievances and complaints as well as concerns about student well-being.
concerning student behavior, concerns about a student's well-being, and student grievances and
complaints. Please use the appropriate links below to submit a report:
● Student Concern & Incident Form Student Concern & Incident Form
(Use this form if you suspect or have observed violations of the Student Code of Conduct. The
incident report will automatically route to the appropriate office for action.)
● Academic Dishonesty and Misconduct Form Academic Dishonesty and Misconduct Form
(Use this form if you suspect or have observed violations of the Academic Honor Code.
Violations include, but are not limited to: Cheating, Plagiarism, Course Material, Dishonesty,
Theft or Damage of Intellectual Property, Alteration of University Documents, and
Disturbances in the Classroom.)
● Student Grievance & Complaint Form Student Grievance & Complaint Form
(Use this form if you believe that you have been subjected to an alleged inequality in violation
of the University's Policies and Procedures. We kindly request that you comply with the
guidelines set forth herein, to ensure a fair and efficient appeals process/complaint procedure is
intended to allow students an opportunity to present an issue that they feel warrants action,
including the right to secure educational benefits and services.)
● Title IX Reporting Form Title IX Reporting Form
(Use this form if you have been unlawfully violated, harassed, discriminated against, retaliated
against, or otherwise harmed on the basis of sex. You are encouraged to fill out this form;
however, you should also contact the Office of Judicial Affairs (if you are a student) by phone
of the Bethune-Cookman University community, you may call Human Resources at
386-481-2049. If you are in danger or feel threatened, please call 386-481-2900. All reports are
kept confidential according to FERPA law.)
Title IX
Nondiscrimination Statement
Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 and other laws
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prohibit discrimination on the basis
of sex in employment and education programs and activities. Title IX protects all persons from sex
discrimination, including sexual harassment and sexual violence. A school must respond when: (1)
the school has actual knowledge of sexual harassment; (2) that occurred within the school’s
education program or activity; (3) against a person in the United States. Bethune-Cookman
University (B-CU) prohibits discrimination based on sex in employment and education programs
and activities. This policy applies to all students, employees, and volunteers and to conduct
occurring in locations, events, or circumstances over which B-CU exercises substantial control over
both (1) the respondent, and (2) the context in which the sexual harassment occurs, including on
school grounds, any building owned or controlled by a student organization officially recognized by
B-CU; and through technology resources provided by or used at B-CU or impacting a student or
employee at a location owned, leased or controlled by B-CU or a recognized student organization.
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B-CU will process all sex discrimination complaints it receives, including complaints of sexual
harassment and sexual violence, to determine whether the conduct alleged in the complaint, if
proven, would constitute sexual harassment as defined in applicable regulations.
3
This includes
complaints of sexual assault or harassment made by students and employees, and against students,
employees, and volunteers. B-CU reserves the right to address potential disciplinary infractions that
fall outside of Title IX’s scope under its student, employee, and faculty codes of conduct and
handbooks.
B-CU will take appropriate action should it receive a formal complaint and has actual knowledge
that any contractor, vendor, partner, or other affiliate has engaged in sex-based misconduct, up to and
including termination of the business relationship.
A. Title IX Coordinators and Other Roles
Complaints of sexual assault, sexual harassment and other conduct prohibited under this policy and
inquiries concerning the application of Title IX and its regulations should be directed to the B-CU
Title IX Coordinator or Deputy Coordinators. To obtain the contact information for the Title IX
Coordinator or Deputy Coordinators, you may contact Human Resource at 386-481-2049 or visit
their website at https://www.cookman.edu/hr/_files/title-ix-policy.pdf.
The Title IX Coordinators and Deputy Coordinators’ responsibilities include receipt and review of
complaints, investigating or overseeing the investigation of complaints of alleged sexual misconduct or
harassment; ensuring that consistent standards and practices apply to all investigations; being available to
meet with students and employees who believe a violation of this policy has occurred; and assisting campus
security or law enforcement as needed. Students and employees may also contact the U.S. Department of
Education, Office for Civil Rights at: (800) 421-3481 or [email protected].
Florida’s Safety in Private Spaces Act
Bethune-Cookman University, in compliance with Florida’s Safety in Private Spaces Act, provides
students, faculty, and staff members designated restrooms (toilet or urinal) and changing facilities
(dressing room, fitting room, locker room, changing room, or shower room) for their exclusive use,
respective to their biological sex at birth, in order to maintain public safety, decency, decorum, and
privacy. This policy applies to students, faculty, staff and third parties while present on University
Property. Individuals or groups using University Property must follow all federal, state, and local
laws, as well as University policies, procedures, and practices.
DEFINITIONS:
Changing Facility – A room in which two or more persons may be in a state of undress in the
presence of others, including, but not limited to, a dressing room, locker room, or shower room.
Female – A person belonging, at birth, to the biological sex which has the specific reproductive role
of producing eggs.
Male – A person belonging, at birth, to the biological sex which has the specific reproductive role of
producing sperm.
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Restroom – A room that includes one or more toilets or urinals and is sex-specific. This term does
not include a unisex restroom.
Sex – A the classification of a person as either female or male based on the organization of the body
of such person for a specific reproductive role, as indicated by the person’s sex chromosomes,
naturally occurring sex hormones, and internal and external genitalia present at birth.
Third Party – Any individual that is not a student, faculty or staff member of B-CU.
Unisex Changing Facility – A room intended for a single occupant or a family in which one or more
persons may be in a state of undress, including, but not limited to, a dressing room, fitting room,
locker room, changing room, or shower room that is enclosed by floor-to-ceiling walls and accessed
by a full door with a secure lock that prevents another individual from entering while the changing
facility is in use.
Unisex Restroom – A room that includes one or more water closets and that is intended for a single
occupant or a family, is enclosed by floor-to-ceiling walls, and is accessed by a full door with a
secure lock that prevents another individual from entering while the room is in use.
University Property – Any B-CU building, including but not limited to athletic and campus facilities.
APPLICABILITY:
This policy applies to all students, faculty, staff and third parties who are present on University
Property, as defined above.
● Students, Faculty and Staff: A person who willfully enters a restroom or changing facility designed
for the “opposite sex” and refuses to depart when asked to do so by any B-CU administrative
personnel, faculty member, Campus Safety or law enforcement personnel will be subject to the
University’s disciplinary procedures.
● Third Party: A person who willfully enters a restroom or changing facility designed for the
“opposite sex” and refuses to depart when asked to do so will have committed the criminal offense
of trespass.
● Individuals may submit a complaint to the Attorney General alleging that a covered entity failed to
meet the minimum requirements for restrooms and changing facilities required by law.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
● The Office of Human Resources: Responsible for sanctions regarding staff and faculty violations
of this policy.
● Office of Innovation and Leadership Development: Responsible for sanctions regarding student
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violations of this policy.
● Department of Campus Safety: Responsible for assisting in enforcement of this policy.
EXCEPTIONS:
Under limited and specific instances, there are exceptions policy. A person may only enter a
restroom or changing facility designed for the opposite sex:
● for the purpose of assisting or chaperoning a child under the age of 12, an elderly person, or a
person with a disability;
● for law enforcement or governmental regulatory purposes;
● to render emergency medical assistance or to intervene in any other emergency situation;
● for custodial, maintenance, or inspection when the restroom or changing facility is not in use; or
● when the appropriate designated restroom or changing facility is out of order or under repair, and
the restroom or changing facility is not occupied by a person of the opposite sex.
This Act does not apply to persons born with a medically verifiable genetic disorder of sexual
development under treatment by a physician, with specified conditions.
PROCEDURES:
1. Violations of this policy must be reported to_________________________________.
2. Disciplinary Procedures set forth and accessible for students at _________________.
3. Workplace Disciplinary polices established and accessible for faculty and staff members at
________________.
5. Documentation of compliance submitted to the Florida Department of Education Commission for
Independent Education by April 1, 2024.
Student Resource Services Assistance Animal Policy
Bethune-Cookman University (“B-CU”, “University”) recognizes the importance of
Service Animals and Emotional Support Animals ("ESA") to individuals with disabilities
and have implemented a policy regarding Service Animals and Emotional Support
Animals, collectively Assistance Animals, in order to accommodate individuals with
disabilities. The policy ensures that individuals with disabilities who require the use of
Service Animals and/or ESA as a reasonable accommodation benefit from the work or
tasks conducted by such animals or the therapeutic support they provide. B-CU reserves
the right to modify the policy as the need arises.
The University's campuses, vehicles, events, and programs are generally subject to a "no
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pets" restriction, with the exceptions outlined in the policy. The University is committed
to creating and maintaining a welcoming and inclusive educational, working, and living
environment that allows individuals to have animals defined below as "Service Animals,"
and "Emotional Support Animals," which under the Policy are not considered "Pets," on
University Property in accordance with federal and state laws and subject to the
conditions and rules set forth in the Policy.
To review the policy, please visit
https://www.cookman.edu/studentexperience/_files/housing-residence-life-forms/seaap.pdf.
Policy on Infants and Children
Bethune-Cookman University does not allow enrolled students to bring infants or children into
buildings, classrooms, libraries, or residence halls. This policy is in place to prevent any disruption
to the learning environment and ensure the safety of all individuals on campus.
Student Dress Standard
The Bethune-Cookman University (B-CU) Student Dress Standard is intended to ensure that
students have a basic understanding of socially acceptable appearances for the B-CU educational
teaching-learning environment process and to prepare them for professional settings. Additionally,
B-CU has an obligation to create a living and learning environment where all members of its
community are comfortable and not offended or distracted by inappropriate dress. The B-CU
Student Dress Standard is designed to provide a basic guideline for students and is not intended to
infringe upon a student's right to self-expression.
While these are general standards for the University, each College, Department, and Office is
afforded the discretion to develop and enforce stricter guidelines based on unique academic and
career expectations. Classroom instructors, University administrators, and staff have the right to
address policy violators and/or deny admission to students dressed in any of the prohibited attire.
Students are also expected to adhere to the B-CU Dress Standard at University-sponsored events
off-campus. Students who fail to abide by the dress standard, when advised by a University official,
shall be considered in violation of the dress standard and will be subject to disciplinary action per
the Student Code of Conduct.
General Dress Standard Expectations
The University expects that students exhibit attire that is respectful of themselves and the core values
of the institution while present in classrooms and offices. Clothing, grooming, and overall personal
appearance should be appropriate for academic and/or professional settings. Examples of suitable
attire include but are not limited to, neat, modest, casual, or professional clothing in classrooms, the
Student Activity Center, the Chapel, University offices, and the Dining Hall. For formal
university-sponsored programs on or off-campus, business or professional attire is expected.
Social/extracurricular activities that occur campus-wide require neat, modest, or professional
clothing, depending on the occasion. For balls and galas, semi-formal, formal, or professional attire
is expected.
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Students are expected to dress appropriately for Professional Dress day every Wednesday!
Dress Standard Expectations for Events Requiring Business Casual Attire
● Hats are acceptable for ladies and gentlemen, provided they are not wide-brimmed or are sports
caps designed or intended for outside use. Head covering that is illustrative of a religious
conviction or preference is welcomed and acceptable. Students are required to seek approval
from the Chaplaincy Department for religious-affiliated attire and must take their Student ID
wearing such attire.
● Men should remove any hat when entering a building, during prayer, or during the
playing/singing of the national anthem or University Alma Mater.
● Business Casual Attire for Females: Casual blouse, pants, capri/cropped pants, jeans,
sweaters, jackets or blazers, and dresses and skirts (must be no more than three inches above
the knee when standing).
● Business Casual Attire for Males: Collared or polo shirts, sweaters, casual shoes or sneakers,
and khaki pants or jeans (with no graphics or writing on them).
● Students in professional programs with standard uniforms (nursing, ROTC, e.g.) are permitted
to wear this in lieu of standard professional dress.
The following examples of inappropriate attire include, but are not limited to, the following:
● Du-rags, stocking caps, hats, sun-visors, bandannas, wrap-caps, and hoods in any University
building or any formal University-sponsored event (e.g., Convocation, Honors Day, or Founder's
Day, President's Assembly). Head covering that is illustrative of a religious conviction or
preference is welcomed and acceptable.
● Clothing with derogatory, offensive, and/or lewd messages either in words or pictures;
● Bare feet, house shoes, or sleepwear in public or common area spaces (including residence halls);
● Sagging pants or sagging shorts;
● Hair rollers, bonnets, or wrap-caps designed for sleep.
● Midriffs, cat-suits (fitted full body suits), low-cut tops, revealing mesh, netted shirts,
see-through garments, cut-off t-shirts, undershirts (slang: wife beaters) (male or female);
● Sheer or provocative garment without proper undergarments;
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STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT
Mission and Philosophy
The Bethune-Cookman University community is committed to fostering a campus environment that
represents our Christian tradition, is conducive to academic inquiry, productive campus life and thoughtful
study and discourse. The student conduct program within the Dean of Students Office is committed to an
educational and developmental process that balances the interests and safety of individual students with
the interests and safety of the Bethune-Cookman University community.
A community exists on the basis of shared values and principles. At Bethune-Cookman University, student
members of the community are expected to uphold and abide by certain standards of conduct that form the
basis of the Student Code of Conduct. These standards are embodied within a set of core values that
include integrity, social justice, respect, community, and responsibility. A Bethune-Cookman University
student represents the university at all times. Therefore, the university maintains high standards of
behavior on and off campus, during the semester, and in between terms.
Each member of the Bethune-Cookman University community bears responsibility for their conduct and
assumes reasonable responsibility for the behavior of others. When members of the community fail to
exemplify these five values by engaging in a violation of the rules and standards below, campus conduct
proceedings are used to assert and uphold the Student Code of Conduct.
The student conduct process at Bethune-Cookman University is not intended to punish students; rather, it
exists to protect the interests of the community and to challenge those whose behavior is not in accordance
with our policies. Sanctions are intended to challenge students’ moral and ethical decision-making and to
help them bring their behavior into accord with our community expectations and develop an
understanding of the impact of their behavior. When a student is unable to conform their behavior to
community expectations and/or their behavior is a danger to themselves or others, the student conduct
process may determine that the student should no longer share in the privilege of participating in this
community.
Students should be aware that the student conduct process is quite different from criminal and civil court
proceedings. Procedures and rights in student conduct procedures are conducted with fundamental
fairness but do not include the same protections of due process afforded by the courts. Due process, as
defined within these procedures, assures a written notice and a hearing before an objective adjudicating
officer or board. No student will be found in violation of Bethune-Cookman University policy without
information showing that it is more likely than not that a policy violation occurred (standard of proof).
Sanctions will be proportional to the severity of the violation, its impact on the community and its
members, and the cumulative conduct history of the student.
I. Values
Bethune-Cookman University is guided by its core values: F.I.R.S.T.
The foundation of any organization is reflected by its values. In support of the Core Values of
Bethune-Cookman University, the Division of Student Affairs has also adopted the following values
statements for the Student Code of Conduct. The Student Code of Conduct exists to ensure that all students
have the opportunity to pursue their education in a safe, respectful environment.
Community: Bethune-Cookman University students build and enhance the campus community and the
greater Daytona Beach Community.
Social Justice: Bethune-Cookman University students are just and equitable in their treatment of all members
of the community and act to discourage unjust and inequitable behaviors.
Responsibility: Bethune-Cookman University students are held to a high level of responsibility to
themselves, others, the community, and to the degrees conferred, all of which represent the University.
II. Learning Outcomes
A. To teach students to hold themselves accountable for reflecting and defining healthy
personal core values. To examine their behavior in the light of those values and hold fast to
the mission of being the best version of themselves even in the midst of mistakes and
related consequences.
B. To assist students in the learning process of transforming adversity into opportunities for
growth by moving through adversity, building new skills to overcome adversity, and
establishing higher functioning norms after adversity.
C. To behave in ways that reflect the interdependence of all members and aspects of a
community.
Intellectual Diversity
Bethune-Cookman University respects the views and perspectives of all participants in the learning
environment. As such, the University welcomes intellectual diversity and the free exchange of ideas in a
non-confrontational environment. If you feel that you have been treated unfairly on the basis of your personal
beliefs or affiliations, please contact the Dean of Students.
III. Jurisdiction
The Dean of Students has authority over the administration of the Student Code of Conduct. Students at
Bethune-Cookman University are provided a copy of the Student Code of Conduct annually in the form of a
link on the Bethune-Cookman University website. Students are responsible for reading and for abiding by the
provisions of the Student Code of Conduct Student Handbook.
The Student Code of Conduct and the student judicial process apply to the conduct of individual students,
both undergraduate and graduate, and all Bethune-Cookman University-recognized student organizations. For
the purposes of student conduct, Bethune-Cookman University considers an individual to be a student when
an offer of admission has been extended and thereafter as long as the student is continuously enrolled. In the
event that serious misconduct occurs after a student has been admitted but prior to matriculation,
Bethune-Cookman University may invoke these procedures and require documentation regarding the
misconduct. Should a pre-matriculated student be found responsible for the misconduct, Bethune-Cookman
University may rescind an offer of admission.
Bethune-Cookman University retains conduct jurisdiction over students officially enrolled who choose to take
a leave of absence, withdraw, or have graduated for any misconduct that occurred prior to the leave,
withdrawal or graduation. If sanctioned, a hold may be placed on the student’s ability to re-enroll, obtain
official transcripts, and/or graduate until the sanctions are satisfied. In the event of serious misconduct
committed while still enrolled but reported after the accused student has graduated, Bethune-Cookman
University may invoke these procedures. Should the former student be found responsible, Bethune-Cookman
University reserves the right to revoke that student's degree.
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The Student Code of Conduct applies to behaviors that take place on the campus, at university-sponsored
events, or on university property. The Code may also apply off-campus when the Dean of Students or their
designee determines that the off-campus conduct affects a substantial Bethune-Cookman University interest.
1
A substantial Bethune-Cookman University interest includes:
● Any situation where it appears that the student’s conduct may present a danger or threat to
the health or safety of him/herself or others; and/or
● Any situation that significantly impinges upon the rights, property or achievements of self
or others or significantly breaches the peace and/or causes social disorder; and/or
● Any situation that is detrimental to the educational mission and/or interests of
Bethune-Cookman University.
The Student Code of Conduct may be applied to behavior conducted online, via email, or other electronic
mediums. Students should also be aware that online postings such as blogs, web postings, chats, and social
networking sites are in the public sphere and are not private. These postings can subject a student to
allegations of misconduct if evidence of policy violations is posted online. Bethune-Cookman University does
not regularly search for this information but may take action if and when such information is brought to the
attention of Bethune-Cookman University officials. Most online speech by students not involving
Bethune-Cookman University networks or technology will be protected as free expression and not subject
to this Code, with two notable exceptions:
● A threat is defined as "a threat a reasonable person would interpret as a serious expression of
intent to inflict bodily harm upon specific individuals";
● Speech posted online about Bethune-Cookman University or its community members that
cause significant disruption on campus or to campus operation.
The Student Code of Conduct also applies to guests of community members whose hosts may be
held accountable for the misconduct of their guests. Visitors and guests of Bethune-Cookman
University may seek resolution of violations of the Student Code of Conduct committed against them
by members of the Bethune-Cookman University community. The Code may also be applied to
resident non-students, campers, and high school bridge/extension/partner/dual-credit and continuing
education programs by contractual agreements.
There is a six-week time limit on reporting violations of The Student Code of Conduct however, the
longer someone waits to report an offense, the harder it becomes for Bethune-Cookman University
officials to obtain information and witness statements and to make determinations regarding alleged
violations.
Though anonymous complaints are permitted, doing so may limit Bethune-Cookman University's
ability to investigate and respond to a complaint. Those who are aware of misconduct are
encouraged to report it as quickly as possible to Campus Safety and or the Judicial Affairs office.
In light of an accusation of misconduct, it is imperative that a procedural framework be in place to
govern the process of withdrawal for the concerned student. It is pertinent that any request for
official withdrawal, for any reason, be subject to administrative review and approval. In instances
where a complaint of misconduct is pending at the time of the withdrawal request, it is
recommended that the request be held in abeyance until the resolution of the said complaint. While it
is acknowledged that a student may effectively withdraw by dropping out, it is incumbent upon them
to follow the official process for changing their status. This approach is aimed at addressing the
challenge of conducting the misconduct process after a student has withdrawn, as a non-student
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cannot be sanctioned by an institution. In the event that the student is found guilty of misconduct,
they must complete the sanctions before becoming eligible to re-enroll, if at all. It is recommended
that a hold be placed on the withdrawal process until the completion of the misconduct process.
Withdrawal from Bethune-Cookman University to avoid judicial proceedings for violating the
Student Code of Conduct is strictly prohibited. All allegations must be resolved to maintain
institutional integrity. Any attempt to evade accountability is not tolerated, and the University
reserves the right to take necessary action.
IV. AMNESTY
1. Medical Amnesty for Alcohol or Drug Use: The University encourages students to seek medical
assistance, but it recognizes that students may be hesitant to make a call or report when they:
i. Need immediate medical assistance due to their own use of alcohol/drugs; or,
ii. Witness another Student who needs immediate medical assistance due to alcohol/drugs.
2. Thus, students involved in an incident involving alcohol/drugs will not be charged under the
Student Code of Conduct with consumption if:
i. they render or call for immediate medical assistance for themselves and/or others who
have participated in or witnessed the incident;
ii. the Student calling for immediate medical assistance remains at the scene with the person
in need of immediate medical assistance until such assistance arrives and then cooperates
with such personnel on the scene; and,
iii. the student timely completes the appropriate educational intervention for the incident as
determined by the Office of Judicial Affairs and Community Standards (JACS). Other
charges related to the incident (e.g., alcohol distribution, drug distribution, or other
non-alcohol/drug charges) may be determined at the discretion of the JACS Director.
While student organizations are not eligible for amnesty, calling for medical
assistance will be a mitigating factor while failing to call or remove a person in need of
medical assistance will be an aggravating factor at any sanctioning stage.
3. Reporting Amnesty: The University encourages Students to report allegations of the Student
Code of Conduct, including allegations of B-CU drug/alcohol policy but recognizes that
students may be hesitant to make a report when they were using drugs/alcohol. Thus, students
involved in an incident involving drugs/ alcohol will not be charged under the Student Code of
Conduct with consumption if they are reporting a violation of the Student Code of Conduct or
B-CU handbook policy. Any other charge(s) related to the incident may be determined at the
discretion of the JACS Director, but the reporting will be a mitigating factor at any sanctioning
stage. While student organizations are not eligible for reporting amnesty, reporting and
self-reporting will be a mitigating factor, while failing to report will be an aggravating factor at
any sanctioning stage.
4. Investigatory Amnesty: As part of an investigatory process, and conditioned on being truthful
and providing complete information, a witness or party may be asked to provide information
which would self-disclose a Student Code of Conduct violation. Without abridging the right of
any member of the University community of rights granted under the United States or Florida
Constitution and/or any other applicable law including, but not limited to the Fifth Amendment,
disclosing a Student Code of Conduct violation such as drugs/alcohol use related to an incident
being investigated and outlined in the investigation will not be charged under the Student Code
of Conduct. All other charges related to the incident may be determined at the discretion of the JACS
Director, but additional amnesty may be provided under this provision.
5. Hazing Amnesty: A Student may not be charged under the Student Code of Conduct if the Student
establishes that, before medical assistance or law enforcement arrived on the scene of a hazing event, the
Student rendered aid to the hazing victim and establishes all of the following:
i. The Student was present at an event where, as a result of hazing, a person appeared to be in need of
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immediate medical assistance; and
ii. The Student was the first person to call 911 or B-CU Campus Safety to report the need for
immediate medical assistance; and
iii. The Student provided their own name, the address where immediate medical assistance was
needed, and a description of the medical issue to the 911 operator or B-CU Campus Safety at the
time of the call; and,
iv. The Student remained at the scene with the person in need of immediate medical assistance until
such medical assistance or law enforcement arrived and the Student cooperated with such
personnel on the scene.
6. Recording Amnesty in compliance with section 1004.097 and 1001.03, Florida Statutes: A student may
video or audio record a class lecture for their own personal educational use, in connection with a
complaint to the University, or as evidence in, or in preparation for a criminal or civil proceeding. A
recorded lecture may not be recorded or published without the consent of the lecturer or according to the
lecturer's syllabus.
7. Amnesty at the JACS Director’s Discretion: The JACS Director may grant amnesty from proceedings
within the conduct system, contingent on a student providing complete and accurate information during an
investigation or conduct proceeding.
V. Communication
Bethune-Cookman University email is the University's primary means of communication with
students. Students are responsible for all communication delivered to their Bethune-Cookman
University email address. Students should check their Bethune-Cookman University email address
daily. Notices of an investigations, meetings, and hearings are sent to university email addresses.
Media Contact
Students are prohibited from speaking on behalf of Bethune-Cookman University with any media
organization or publication, or from inviting the media to any B-CU property or campus event
without the permission of the President of the University or Department of Communications.
Violation of the policy may lead to dismissal.
Website/Internet/Email Usage
Bethune-Cookman University reserves the right to review any information, pictures, or
advertisements, on any public website such as Facebook, Myspace, Instagram, Snapchat, X
(formerly known as X (formerly known as Twitter)), Vine, or any social media, university email, etc.
that breaches the safety, integrity, and university Code of Conduct. Improper use of the website or
email can lead to disciplinary action.
Social Media Policies & Guidelines
The below policies and guidelines apply to all staff, faculty, students and vendors who manage social
media accounts on behalf of Bethune-Cookman University. The University will monitor and conduct
a periodic review of official social media accounts to ensure compliance with these policies and
guidelines and to facilitate the ongoing success of social media marketing activities.
VI. Account Management
Creating and Maintaining Official University Accounts
A University group (e.g., a college, school, department, program, student club, or other organization)
that wants to either start a new social media account or have an existing one recognized as an official
account by the University (i.e., start or maintain an officially recognized B-CU account) must
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complete a Bethune-Cookman University Social Media Account Registration Form. Official
University social media accounts must implement appropriate levels of password and other security
measures to protect the integrity and security of such accounts. Official accounts are also encouraged
to complete the process for Facebook and X (formerly known as Twitter) account verification.
Any social media account that will not be an official University account must be clearly identified as
an “unofficial” or “fan” account consistent with applicable laws and the guidelines and best practices
for the particular social media platform.
Unless otherwise approved in advance in writing by University Communication & Marketing, any
social media accounts that will be created or maintained by a vendor on behalf of the University or
any University group must be owned by the University, and at least one University employee must
have the highest level of administrative access to such accounts at all times.
Violations of this policy will result in disciplinary action by the University.
VII. Brand & Logo
Adhering to B-CU Brand/Logo Guidelines
Official social media accounts must adhere to the Bethune-Cookman University Brand/Logo
Guidelines to maintain official status. Unofficial accounts, on the other hand, will not be allowed to
use Bethune-Cookman University’s intellectual property (logos, wordmarks, badges, symbols, and
the like that are protected by trademark or copyright) in a manner that identifies them, or hold
themselves out, or is reasonably likely to be confused, as accounts officially recognized and
supported by the University. Unofficial accounts reasonably believed to be violating this policy or
guidelines may be notified of the violation, asked or directed to cease the violation or appropriately
modify the account and/or reported to the applicable social media platform or other parties (which
potentially could result in a suspension or deletion of the account).
For brand or logo-related inquiries or requests, please contact the University Communications
Department.
The University expects that all social media account use and administration will be conducted in
compliance with all applicable laws, rules and regulations, and University policies.
Implications of Posting Material on Social Media
When you post content to social media sites such as Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly known as
Twitter), LinkedIn, Snapchat, Thread or YouTube, under the terms of their respective service
agreements, you are automatically granting them a license— commonly known as an intellectual
property (or IP) license—to use this content. Social media platforms also facilitate the sharing by
other social media users of content posted by you to audiences far beyond those of the original social
media account. Your digital footprint is the record of all your online interactions. In essence, once
you share on social media, it can be there permanently.
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VIII.Student Rights and Responsibilities
A. Rights
1. Free inquiry, expression, and assembly are guaranteed to all students. This includes the
right of the student press to be free of censorship.
2. Students are free to pursue their educational goals; appropriate opportunities for learning in
the classroom and on the campus shall be provided by the University.
3. The right of students to be free from harassment or discrimination based on race, color,
ethnicity, religion, sex, national origin, age, ancestry, disability, status as a veteran, sexual
orientation, marital status, parental status, gender identity, gender expression, and genetic
information.
4. The right of students to privacy and to be secure in their persons, living quarters, papers,
and effects against unreasonable searches and seizures is guaranteed. This right is extended
to electronic communications. See B-CU Appropriate Use and Information
Security/Confidentiality Policy (page #64).
5. Students will be exempt from disciplinary action that affects their status as students except
for academic failure, violation of a published University rule or regulation, and incidents
posing a threat or harm to life or University property. Rules and regulations shall be fully
and clearly disclosed in advance of the alleged violations.
6. No disciplinary sanctions (with the exception of incidents posing a threat or harm to life or
University property) resulting from a violation of rules and regulations may be imposed
upon any student without prior written notice of the nature and cause of the charges.
7. A student or student organization charged with violating University regulations is entitled
to a hearing.
B. Responsibilities
1. To complete all of the university-established requirements to earn a degree
2. To exercise sound judgment in their choices and assume the consequences of their own
actions at all times
3. To respect the rights and property of others
4. To learn and seek an understanding of their rights
5. To conduct their academic affairs in a forthright and honest manner
6. To carry their University ID card at all times
7. To know, understand, and comply with all University regulations and policies, as well as
federal, state, and local laws
8. To maintain high academic, social, moral, and civic character
9. To protect and guard the resources, facilities, and brand of the University at all times.
IX. Student Club and Organization Rights and Responsibilities
A. Rights
1. Use of the University name in association with the student organization in the manner
designated by the institution
2. Use of University facilities at no charge or at reduced charge
3. Ability to solicit membership on campus
4. Opportunity to sponsor events, programs, fundraising, and guest speakers in accordance
with the University guidelines
5. Eligibility for the right to request student activity funding through the Student Government
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Association appropriations process
6. Access to campus services, leadership programs, expertise of a faculty/staff advisor,
representation by student government, and advice and counsel from appropriate
administrative offices
7. Opportunity to participate in annual leadership training
8. Opportunity to apply for and be nominated for various student organization recognition
awards
9. Access to student organization management tools provided by Student Activities and
Involvement
10. Use of campus bulletin boards and other designated posting areas as well as additional
communication resources on campus.
B. Responsibilities
1. The student organization shall agree to institutional policies and procedures appropriate to
the organization’s activities and conduct both on and off campus.
2. The student organization shall ensure that all leaders and officers meet the “Eligibility
Policy for Participation in Student Activities.
3. The student organization shall agree that the exercise of freedom of expression will be
peaceful and non-disruptive, with appropriate consideration of and respect for differing
points of view.
4. The student organization shall seek the advice and counsel of its advisor.
5. The student organization shall ensure that activities and programming are consistent with
the organization’s constitution and bylaws or similar documents as well as adhere to the
Student Honor Code, University policies, and local, state, and federal laws.
6. Student organizations recognized by the University have a responsibility to conduct their
activities and programs in a manner that is consistent with the goals, purposes, and values
of Bethune-Cookman University and abide by University policies and procedures.
7. The life of an organization is reflected in its membership, acting collectively and/or
individually in fostering the goals, purposes, activities, and identity of the group. Members
have responsibilities to their organization to conduct their personal behavior in a manner
that does not negatively reflect on the organization, particularly in matters that can be
related to the functions and activities of the organization.
8. The organization is expected to educate its members on the appropriate and legitimate
ways in which the individual member is to foster the organization’s existence at the
university and to take organizational action when the individual fails to adhere to the
standards of the organization or the university.
9. Consequently, an organization may be held responsible for a member’s behavior when that
member’s behavior is demonstrably related to the organization’s life and draws attention
to the organization rather than to the member as an individual student.
10. Such behavior includes, but is not limited to, actions of the organization’s officers,
discussions, and announcements at organization meetings or via organization social
media/email list serves, or when it has been alleged or determined the member was
engaged in the active promotion.
11. In such instances, alleged violations may be brought against the organization as a whole
and the student organization President, or the equivalent thereof shall serve as the
organization’s representative in a hearing.
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C. Student Due Process Rights
A student and/or organization who has been charged with a violation and thus alleged to be involved
in misconduct or inappropriate behavior will be granted the following in order to ensure fundamental
fairness in the university student conduct process:
A. Notice of Charges- to be informed in writing of the specific violation and inappropriate
behavior in which the student or organization is suspected of involvement.
B. Procedures- To be informed in writing of the student conduct process.
C. Hearing- To have an opportunity to be heard in person before a decision is made.
D. Evidence- To know the nature of the evidence and to be able to question witnesses except
in extenuating circumstances.
E. Witness- To be able to offer a defense by having a material and/or character witness speak
on his/her behalf.
F. Advisor- To have a Bethune-Cookman University faculty, staff, or student attend the
hearing in the role of a friend, advisor, or counselor. If an accused student desires to have
an advisor/attorney of their choice present at the hearing, that advisor may not speak or
represent the student. They are present for consultation purposes only. In addition,
students who would like to have an advisor/attorney present will need to notify the Judicial
Affairs' office of the person's name and contact information at least two business days after
receipt of the notice. This prior notification will provide an opportunity for the Judicial
Affairs’ office to request the University Counsel's presence at the hearing.
G. Written Decision- To have a written response reporting the results of the hearing.
H. Appeal- To appeal a decision of a hearing officer or Judicial Board except when admitting
guilt and minimum sanction is given.
The Dean of Students has the right to overturn a decision of the Director of Judicial Affairs, the
University Disciplinary Committee, the Housing Review Board, and/or the Sexual Misconduct
Committee if he/she determines that a decision undermined the integrity of the student conduct
process. The Provost reserves the right to overturn any decision rendered by the Academic Review
Panel if he/she determines that a decision undermined the integrity of the student conduct process.
All appeals end with the Dean of Students or the Provost.
D. Parental/Guardian Notification Policy
Student conduct records are considered confidential under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of
1974 (FERPA). This legislation, better known as the Buckley Amendment, protects student records, which
include conduct files. All rights regarding a student file pass from the parent to the student when the student
turns 18, or when the student attends an institution of higher education. At the University level, college
officials must have a “need to know” compelling the release of a student record. Since the enactment of
FERPA, Congress has made several amendments to the law. One of which allows an institution of higher
education to notify parents of alcohol and other drug violations if the student is less than 21 years of age at the
time of notification.
The Office of the Dean of Students or his/her Designee reserves the right to notify the parents of students
under the age of 21 who violate alcohol and other drug provisions of the Student Code of Conduct, or who in
our professional judgment are considered to be a danger to themselves or others.
Upon receipt of an alcohol or other drug violation by a student under the age of 21, the Dean of Students or
their designee will staff the case and make a decision regarding parental notification based on the particular
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circumstances of the offense and the student’s history. Parents will be notified by letter or phone,
depending on the circumstances of the case.
In all other cases, B-CU will not release information regarding a student’s conduct case or even that a
conduct case exists, without a signed release of information from the student unless we are complying with
a court order or following VPSA policies regarding notification. When the student’s actions put his/her
health and/or academic future in imminent jeopardy, then we believe that by bringing parents/guardians
into the loop we will be able to assist the student in getting back on track.
E. Appropriate Use and Information Security/Confidentiality Policy
To provide Bethune-Cookman University (B-CU) faculty, staff, and students with accessible and
professional computing facilities and establish appropriate terms, conditions, and restrictions on the
use of said facilities. This appropriate use policy covers all computing assets of Bethune-Cookman
University. "Computing assets" include but are not limited to all networks, desktop computers,
servers, printers, email services, web services, and any computer access. By using any University
computing facility or service or any other University computing asset, the user agrees to all the
following policies outlined in this policy.
To protect the integrity, security, and confidentiality of data and/or information stored on
Bethune-Cookman University computing systems.
Appropriate use of information technology resources at Bethune-Cookman University includes
instruction, independent study, research, and official work of the offices, sectors, recognized student
and campus organizations, and agencies of the University.
Although not exhaustive, the following list emphasizes activities that are NOT allowed on
Bethune-Cookman University, networks or computer systems. No University computing facility or
service or any other University computing asset will be used in any illegal activity, including but not
limited to:
1. conduct or behavior that is prohibited by University policies including harassment or hate
crimes as defined in these policies and state and federal laws and regulations;
2. commercial activity not authorized in writing by an Officer of the University;
3. accessing or distributing any type of illegal pornography;
4. the "hacking" of any computer system;
5. distributing or making unauthorized use of any data, or information stored in the computing
systems;
6. knowingly recording any inaccurate or false data in University records;
7. using or having others use University technology for personal business;
8. giving their passwords or access to any other person (University or outside personnel);
9. making, distributing, or using unauthorized or illegal copies of licensed and/or copyrighted
software, media, or material;
10. obstructing others’ work or access by consuming large amounts of system resources such as
disk space, CPU time, and network bandwidth;
11. knowingly introducing destructive software such as programming loops or “viruses” into the
system, or running Internet file-sharing applications (such as Napster, Lime Wire, KaZaA, etc.)
that provide “stealth” sharing services;
12. attempting to circumvent or subvert any system’s security measures or resource allocations;
13. disrupting service, detrimentally impacting bandwidth, or intentionally damaging files,
hardware, or software belonging to Bethune-Cookman University;
14. installing a router, wireless router, or wireless access point on any University network
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(including the Residence Halls) without written approval from CIT; and
15. creating a hostile or intimidating work or academic environment through the personal viewing
of sexually explicit or offensive materials in the workplace or computer labs.
In cases of doubt, it is the user's responsibility to inquire with the Chief Information Officer in the
Center for Information Technology concerning the permissibility of technology use.
With reference to discovery or access by the University, there shall be no user confidentiality as to
any information contained or transmitted by any University computing facility or service or any
other University computing asset.
Proprietary information is stored on or transmitted using any University computing asset at the risk
of the user; the University cannot assure that such proprietary information will remain private or
confidential.
See full policy at Appropriate Use and Information Security/Confidentiality Policy
F. Smoking and Use of Tobacco Policy
Bethune-Cookman University is a smoke and tobacco-free campus and strives to maintain a healthy
workplace and campus environment for all staff, students, faculty, and visitors. For that reason,
smoking and the use of tobacco is prohibited on all grounds and facilities of, or under the
jurisdiction of, Bethune-Cookman University, regardless of campus or location, including indoor and
outdoor locations, including playing fields, parking lots, entrances, and exits and to all persons,
including but not limited to faculty, staff, contract personnel, vendors, students and visitors of B-CU.
In concurrence with this policy, the following is also prohibited by this policy:
● the sale and use of all tobacco products including but not limited to cigarettes, cigars, pipes,
water pipes, hookahs, smokeless tobacco, snuff, chewing tobacco, smokeless pouches and any
other form of loose-leaf tobacco, electronic cigarettes, as well as any product intended to
mimic tobacco products, contain tobacco flavoring or deliver nicotine other than for the
purpose of cessation, on all grounds, facilities, and vehicles under B-CU jurisdiction,
● smoking or the use of smoking devices, as outlined in this policy, including indoor and outdoor
locations such as playing fields, entrances, and exits to buildings, parking lots, and vehicles;
● tobacco industry promotions, advertising, marketing, and distribution of marketing materials
on campus properties; and tobacco industry sponsorship of athletic events and athletes.
G. Violations of the Law
Violations of federal, state, or local laws are violations of the Student Code of Conduct. Alleged
violations of federal, state, and local laws may be investigated and addressed under the Student Code
of Conduct. When an offense occurs over which Bethune-Cookman University has jurisdiction, the
University conduct process will usually go forward notwithstanding any criminal complaint that may
arise from the same incident. The criminal process and the Student Code of Conduct process are two
independent processes.
Bethune-Cookman University reserves the right to exercise its authority of interim suspension upon
notification that a student has been arrested, or is facing a criminal investigation and/or complaint.
Interim suspensions are temporary suspensions imposed until a hearing can be held, typically within
two weeks. Students who are placed on a vehicle suspension may not be on university property,
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attend events, or attend classes. Within that time, the suspended student may request an immediate
hearing from the Dean of Students or their Designee to show cause of why the interim suspension
should be lifted. This hearing may resolve the allegation or may be held to determine if the interim
suspension should be continued.
The interim suspension may be continued if the student is considered a danger to the community
and/or if Bethune-Cookman University may be delayed or prevented from conducting its own
investigation and resolving the allegation by the pendency of the criminal process. In such cases,
Bethune-Cookman University will only delay its hearing until such time as it can conduct an internal
investigation or obtain sufficient information independently or from law enforcement upon which to
proceed. This delay will be no longer than two weeks from notice of the incident unless a longer
delay is requested in writing by the complaining party to allow the criminal investigation to proceed
before the University process. Students accused of crimes may request to take a leave from
Bethune-Cookman University until the criminal charges are resolved, or within a reasonable
timeframe as determined by the Office of Judicial Affairs. In such situations, the Bethune-Cookman
University procedure for voluntary leaves of absence is subject to the following conditions:
● The responding student must comply with all campus investigative efforts that will not prejudice their
defense in the criminal trial, and
● The responding student must comply with all interim actions and/or restrictions imposed during the
leave of absence; and
● The responding student must agree that, in order to be reinstated to active student status, they must
first be subject to, and fully cooperate with, the campus conduct process and must comply with all
sanctions that are imposed.
H. Standards of Conduct
Bethune-Cookman University considers the behavior described in the following subsections as
inappropriate for the Bethune-Cookman University community and in opposition to the core values
of the university and the core values set forth in this document. These expectations and Standards of
Conduct apply to all students and student organizations, whether undergraduate, graduate, or
professional.
Bethune-Cookman University encourages community members to report to Bethune-Cookman
University officials all incidents that involve the following actions. Any student or organization
found to have committed or to have attempted to commit any of the following misconduct is subject
to the sanctions outlined in this manual.
A. Offenses against Persons
An offense against a person is committed when a student:
1. Threatens the physical health, welfare, or safety of another person, places another person
in serious bodily harm, or uses physical force in a manner that endangers the health,
welfare or safety of another person; or repeatedly follows or attempts to make unwanted
contact, including but not limited to physical or electronic contact, with another person.
2. Engages in sexual misconduct that includes sexual harassment and sexual violence.
3. Engages in retaliation as defined as any behavior, direct or indirect, taken to or attempt
to harass, intimidate, or improperly influence any individual associated with the student
conduct process.
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4. Engages in discrimination.
5. Engages in intimidation is defined as implied threats or acts that cause a reasonable
person fear of harming another.
6. Engages in bullying and cyberbullying are defined as repeated and/or severe aggressive
behaviors that intimidate harm or control another person physically or emotionally, and
are not protected by freedom of expression.
7. Engages in stalking defined as a course of conduct directed at a specific person that is
unwelcome and would cause a reasonable person to feel fear.
8. Engages in Intimate Partner/Relationship Violence: violence or abuse by a person in an
intimate relationship with another. The term “intimate partner violence” is defined to mean
any physical, sexual, or psychological harm against an individual by a current or former
partner or spouse of the individual. It would include stalking, dating violence, sexual
violence, or domestic violence.
9. Engages in hazing of another person for the purpose of initiation or admission into,
affiliation with, or continuation of membership in any organization operating under the
sanction of the University. Hazing includes but is not limited to, any action, activity, or
situation which recklessly, negligently, or intentionally endangers the mental or physical
health, welfare, or safety of a person, creates excessive fatigue, sleep deprivation, mental
or physical discomfort, exposes a person to extreme embarrassment or ridicule, involves
personal servitude, destroys or removes public or private property, or implicitly or
explicitly interferes with the academic requirements or responsibilities of a student. It is
presumed that hazing is a forced activity regardless of the apparent willingness of an
individual to participate in the activity. Apathy acquiescence in the presence of hazing is
not neutral; both are violations of this rule.
10. Demonstrates or indicates to another individual his or her possession or immediate control
over a firearm, explosive, or weapon; or proclaims to another individual his or her
possession or control over a firearm, explosive, or weapon as a method of intimidation,
coercion, threat, distress, or extortion.
11. Uses electronic or other devices to make an audio or video record of any person while
on university premises where there is a reasonable expectation of privacy without the
person's prior knowledge or express consent when such a recording is likely to cause
injury, distress, or damage to reputation. Such University premises include, but are not
limited to showers, locker rooms, or restrooms.
12. Falsely reports a bomb, fire, or other emergency.
B. Offenses against Property
An offense against property is committed when a student:
1. Knowingly and without proper consent or authorization has in his or her possession the
property of another person or the University.
2. Knowingly and without proper consent or authorization removes, uses, misappropriates,
or sells the property of another person or the University.
3. Willfully or maliciously damages or destroys property owned or in the possession of
another person or the University.
4. Obtains the property of another person by misrepresentation or fraudulent means.
5. Misuses, damages, and tampering with life safety equipment and devices.
6. Enters the facilities or uses the property of another person or the University without
proper consent or authorization.
7. Knowingly, and without proper payment, utilizes the services of the University which
require payment.
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8. Commits a theft of electronic information, or gains or attempts to gain unauthorized
access to computer and other electronic resources.
C. Offenses against the Orderly Process of the University
An offense against the orderly process of the University is committed when:
1. A student intentionally causes or attempts to cause disruption or obstruction of teaching,
research, administration, disciplinary proceedings, University activities, or other
authorized, permitted, or constitutionally protected activities on University premises,
including employment, recruitment, and public service functions.
2. A student or applicant knowingly furnishes false or misleading information to the
University.
3. A student, applicant, or former student forges, alters, misrepresents, or misuses
documents, records, or instruments of identification.
4. A student interferes with, attempts to, or improperly influences the established student
discipline procedures of the University.
5. A student has possession or immediate control over a firearm, explosive, or weapon, in
violation of the University’s weapons policy.
D. Offenses by a Student Organization or Campus Organization
Organizations through their officers, and/or individual members may be held responsible for the
conduct in accordance with guidelines established for individual students regardless of location
(on or off University premises), University supervision or sponsorship, officer knowledge, or
official membership approval. Organizations, their officers, and/or individual members may be
sanctioned in a manner suitable to circumstances similar to those outlined for individual students.
All members of any B-CU-associated organization are responsible for reading and
understanding the Student Organization Handbook, as well as the Student Code of Conduct.
I. Zero Tolerance Policy
A zero tolerance policy is one which requires a severe penalty to be imposed which is unbending in
its imposition and often does not give allowance for extenuating circumstances. B-CU will also take
disciplinary action for many of the violations reported off campus, provided these violations have a
connection to the campus. This would include violations that endanger students or may cause harm
to the campus community. The Zero Tolerance Policy includes the following policies:
1. Illegal Drugs
2. Sexual Misconduct
3. Alcohol
4. Weapons
5. Fighting
6. Gang Activity/Affiliation
7. Tampering with Life Safety Equipment
8. Bullying/Cyberbullying
9. Hazing
10. Threats.
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A. Illegal Drugs
Bethune-Cookman University prohibits the unlawful possession, use, or distribution on its
campus by students, employees, and visitors of prohibited products which include but are not
limited to illicit drugs or drug paraphernalia, marijuana (even for medicinal purposes), edibles,
use prescription drugs without a prescription, and electronic delivery devices such as vape pens.
Further, any possession or consumption of prohibited products of any kind in plain view shall
be considered in violation of campus policy. The privacy rights of students in their residential
space will be respected, but any public nuisance coming from private space related to the
consumption of prohibited products shall bring the full force of this policy and applicable state
and federal law into play. The concealment of prohibited products and their consumption from
plain view does not preclude the enforcement of state laws or this policy for other just causes.
Campus Safety Officers and authorized staff may search beyond plain view with explicit
approval from the Chief of Campus Safety, Dean of Students, or his/her designee. Students who
violate this policy may be criminally prosecuted and be subjected to disciplinary actions
ranging from residential suspension or probation with educational sanctions and university
suspension or expulsion. Students accused of violating these policies are afforded full due
process under the university Student Code of Conduct. The university may also refer cases for
criminal prosecution. Other sanctions may include
1. Prohibited participation in campus activities, student government, and the
representation of the university or its organizations in any capacity.
2. The student may be suspended or required to seek mandatory counseling services that
may or may not duplicate those required for earlier violations. The student may also
be required to register for the drug education program. Parental involvement in the
form of a parent-student meeting with the Judicial Affairs office may also be required.
B. Sexual Misconduct
Bethune-Cookman University is committed to providing a safe and non-discriminatory learning,
living, and working environment for all members of the University community. The University
does not discriminate on the basis of sex or gender in any of its education or employment
programs and activities.
The University prohibits sexual assault, sexual and gender-based harassment, intimate partner
violence, stalking, retaliation, and violation of interim measures. Zero Tolerance conduct is
expressly forbidden and will not be tolerated at Bethune-Cookman University. It may also
violate federal and state law.
The University adopts the Sexual Harassment, Sexual Assault, Sexual Misconduct, Relationship
(Dating) Violence and Stalking Policy and Procedures with a commitment to (1) eliminating,
preventing, and addressing the effects of sexual misconduct; (2) fostering an environment where
all individuals are well-informed and supported in reporting sexual misconduct; (3) providing a
fair and impartial process for all parties; and (4) identifying the standards by which violations of
this Policy will be evaluated and disciplinary action may be imposed. University students who
violate this Policy may face disciplinary actions up to expulsion.
The Policy and Procedures set forth how the University will proceed once it is made aware of
possible Prohibited Conduct in keeping with our institutional values and to meet our legal
obligations under Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 (Title IX); the Jeanne Clery
Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act (Clery Act), as
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amended by the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act of 2013 (VAWA); and other
applicable law.
See the full policy by visiting: Title IX Policy.
REMEMBER:
1. “It is a violation of university policy and state law to force sexual activity on another person.
This includes anything from forced kissing or touching to forced intercourse. Force includes
more than the use of weapons. It also includes physical force and physical or mental
intimidation or pressure.
2. Consent means that your partner has freely agreed to sexual activity. The best way to know
if your partner consents is to ASK and be sure your partner gives a clearly expressed YES.
3. Intoxication does not excuse poor conduct. It is a violation of university policy and state law
to have any sexual activity with someone who is unable to give consent because of alcohol
drugs or other impairments. If your partner is very intoxicated, you may be guilty of sexual
misconduct EVEN IF YOUR PARTNER SAID YES.
4. Denying someone access, benefits, or opportunities based on willingness to engage in verbal
or physical sexual interaction is sexual harassment. Do not use sex as a bargaining tool. It is
illegal.
5. When someone makes it clear to you that they do not want sex, that they want to stop or that
they do not want to go past a certain point of sexual interaction, STOP! Pressure for sexual
activity is called coercion.
6. If you intentionally make contact with another person’s breasts, buttocks, groin or genitals
with any part of your body without explicit and clear-minded consent, even when hugging,
you have violated that person’s rights.
7. The unwanted pursuit of another person is stalking. Stalking may also involve the use of
electronic media, social networks, blogs, text messaging, voice mail messages, letters or
notes, etc.
C. Alcohol Policy
As a “dry” campus, B-CU prohibits the unlawful possession, use or distribution of alcoholic
beverages by students and employees on its campus. Further, any possession or consumption of
alcoholic beverages (including alcoholic beverage containers, i.e. bottles, flasks, etc.) of any
kind in plain view shall be considered in violation of campus policy. The privacy rights of
students in their residential space will be respected, but any public nuisance coming from
private space related to the consumption of alcohol shall bring the full force of this policy and
applicable state law into play. Alcohol (including paraphernalia) found during health and safety
inspections may result in suspension from residential living.
Students who choose to drink will be held fully responsible for their behavior while under the
influence of alcohol. Loss of control due to intoxication does not excuse or justify a violation of
the state law, campus policy, or the rights of others.
1. It is illegal for anyone to have alcohol/drugs on campus;
2. It is illegal for anyone under the age of 21 to drink;
3. It is illegal for anyone to buy or provide alcohol to someone under 21;
4. It is illegal for anyone to be intoxicated in public or to drive while intoxicated, on- or
off-campus;
5. It is illegal for anyone to sell alcoholic beverages without a license. By law, the sale of
alcoholic beverages including any situation in which there is a charge for entertainment or
service and alcohol is freely available (including through common source or selling a cup);
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6. It is a violation of university policy for a student, or faculty/staff member, to hurt or endanger
another student through drinking.
7. Violating any other University Policy while under the influence of alcohol.
Students found with an empty alcohol bottle, where there is reasonable evidence of alcohol
consumption within a relative time period, can be accused of possession.
D. Weapons
Bethune-Cookman University seeks to maintain a welcoming and safe educational environment
for students, employees, and visitors and adopts this policy for the possession of dangerous
weapons and firearms on campus and at events.
Except as otherwise allowed by law, the University prohibits the possession, transportation, and
use of firearms and other dangerous weapons on campus. University students may not possess
firearms at any time on campus and may be confiscated.
Such action will not be condoned by the university and may be addressed in accordance
with the Student Code of Conduct and will be subject to immediate suspension or dismissal
of the individual(s) or the groups involved.
REMEMBER:
A weapon is:
1. any object or device which will, is designed to, or may be readily be converted to
conduct harm upon oneself or another person;
2. possession of a concealed weapon or firearm on University Premises or On-Campus
Housing even if the Student possesses a concealed weapon license;
3. a Taser is a weapon and possession of a Taser is considered a violation of the Student
Code of Conduct;
4. any object or device which will expel shocks, bullets, shot, or shell by the action of an
explosive or another propellant;
5. any handgun, pistol, revolver, rifle, shotgun or another firearm of any nature, including
concealed weapons licensed pursuant to the Personal and Family Protection Act, and
amendments thereto;
6. any BB gun, pellet gun, air/C'O2 gun, stun gun or blow gun;
7. any explosive, incendiary or poison gas (A) bomb, (B) mine, (C) grenade, (D) rocket
having a propellant charge of more than four ounces, or (E) missile having an explosive
or incendiary charge;
8. any incendiary or explosive material, liquid, solid or mixture equipped with a fuse, wick
or detonating device;
9. any tear gas bomb or smoke bomb; however, personal self-defense items containing
mace or pepper spray shall not be deemed to be a weapon for the purposes of this policy;
10. any knife, commonly referred to as a switch-blade, which has a blade that opens
automatically by hand pressure applied to a button, spring or device in the handle of the
knife, or any knife having a blade that opens or falls or is ejected into position by the
force of gravity or by an outward, downward or centrifugal thrust or movement;
11. any straight-blade knife of four inches or more such as a dagger, dirk, dangerous knife
or stiletto; except that an ordinary pocket knife or culinary knife designed for and used
solely in the preparation or service of food shall not be construed to be a weapon for the
purposes of this policy;
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12. any martial arts weapon such as nun chucks or throwing stars; or
13. any longbow, crossbow arrow, or other projectile that could cause serious harm to any
person.
B-CU also prohibits weapons at all off-campus University sponsored or supervised activities.
Persons with knowledge or information of conduct that may constitute a violation of this policy are
urged to contact the B-CU Campus Safety.
E. Fighting
Fighting can lead to death, significant injury, and possible criminal charges. Initiating a fight is
one of the fastest ways to criminal prosecution or civil action. Such action will not be condoned
by the university and will be subject to immediate suspension or dismissal of the individual(s) or
the groups involved.
Any fight that involves individual students or multiple students from an organization, on or off
campus, will be considered a violation of the B-CU Student Code of Conduct. All individuals may
be subject to the Student Code of Conduct hearings.
REMEMBER:
1. Fighting can easily lead to injury or death;
2. Fighting can often be avoided by walking away and reporting your incident to a proper
authority;
3. Anger is an emotion that can be controlled;
4. You can control the impulse to fight by taking a deep breath, convincing yourself to stay calm,
and walking away;
5. It takes more strength to avoid a fight than to engage in one;
6. If someone is attempting to invoke a fight, a great tactic is to change your focus to ease your
tension;
When you are mature and confident it becomes easier to handle conflict in a mature manner.
Think about how you would handle a possible fight before you are confronted with one: this will
help.
F. Gang Activity/Affiliation
A “gang” is defined as a group that initiates, advocates, or promotes illegal activities, activities that
threaten the safety or well-being of persons or property on university grounds, or at
university-sponsored functions or activities, on or off campus, or activities that are harmful to the
education process. Prohibited “gang activity” includes, but is not limited to:
1. Soliciting students to become gang members;
2. participating in gang initiation or other gang ceremonies;
3. deliberately wearing, displaying, or possessing prohibited gang symbols;
4. engaging in gang-related violence or threats of violence;
5. threatening others, including threats by brandishing a weapon or a replica of a weapon on
school campuses, or at supervised school functions; or
6. engaging in any behavior undertaken in such a manner as to be reasonably likely to incite
violence or endanger persons or property.
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Prohibited "gang symbols" may include any type of clothing decoration, jewelry, patches,
bandanas, gang names, the depiction of gang signs or symbols, and/or body signal/movement that
is recognized as denoting a gang or is a sign, signal or movement utilized in connection with gang
communications.
Student violations may be addressed in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct as
well as other applicable policies and may include sanctions, up to and including expulsion.
G. Tampering with Life Safety Equipment
Life safety equipment and devices, such as smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, exit signs,
sprinkler heads, and fire alarm pull stations are placed throughout campus facilities for safety.
Students should use fire alarms, fire extinguishers, fire exits, fire sprinklers, and related
equipment only for their intended purposes. Do not obstruct or tamper with fire detection and
suppression equipment. Maintain storage at least 18" below the plane of sprinkler head
installations and never hang items from sprinkler heads or throw items at or near sprinkler heads
and smoke detectors. Any misuse, tampering, or destruction of building safety equipment
jeopardizes student safety and should be reported immediately to Campus Safety.
● Students caught tampering with fire safety equipment or life safety systems will
immediately be placed on interim suspension from university housing and/or the
university depending on the severity of the incident.
● Any student found responsible for tampering with such equipment in any way will be
subject to a minimum $100.00 fine in addition to paying restitution for the cost of any
necessary repairs or replacement of equipment and payment of damages or loss of
property not covered by insurance as a result of tampering with the equipment.
● Any student causing damage to fire and life safety equipment that results in damage to
university or personal property and/or which results in personal injury to a member of the
community, as a result of violating university policies or procedures will be immediately
placed on interim suspension from university housing and/or the university depending on
the severity of the incident.
● Students found responsible for violating university or housing policies that result in
damage to personal or university property will pay restitution for damages not recovered
by insurance, will be permanently dismissed from university housing without refund of
housing fees, will be trespassed from all university housing properties and programs, and
will be subject to additional sanctions up to and including dismissal from the
university.
There are many states and laws and regulations regarding fire safety and life safety equipment in
University facilities. The university will cooperate with law enforcement agencies and will
pursue prosecution of any persons who maliciously tamper with fire safety equipment and
suppression systems which result in loss of person or property or personal injury.
REMEMBER:
1. Hanging items on sprinkler heads is a violation and a risk to the safety of yourself and others;
2. Removing smoke detectors for any reason is a violation and a risk to the safety of yourself and others;
3. Using an extinguisher for anything other than a fire is a violation and a risk to the safety of yourself and
others;
4. Horse-playing often leads to damage to life safety systems and bodily harm;
5. Propping doors can be considered tampering with life safety systems. Locked doors are intended to
protect residents;
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6. Covering smoke detectors and ventilation systems is a violation and a risk to the safety of yourself and
others;
7. Knocking down exit signs is a violation and a risk to the safety of yourself and others;
8. Moving or covering cameras is a violation and a risk to the safety of yourself and others;
9. There are no reasons why you should come into contact with life safety systems unless for a
true and relevant emergency in which the system is intended to assist in the emergency’s
resolve
H. Hazing
Bethune-Cookman University has a strict policy against any form of hazing. This applies to
individual students, groups of students, or any student organization affiliated with or associated
with the university. Hazing activities are not allowed in any form. In the context of this policy,
hazing is defined as any conduct that involves pressurizing or coercing a student to violate
federal, state, and/or local laws or the University's Student Code of Conduct. It is the act of
intentionally or recklessly endangering an individual, both physically and mentally, through any
method of initiation into or affiliation with a University, a student organization, a sports team, an
academic association, or another group. This act may occur in various settings, including
initiation rites into student organizations or groups. The intentional, negligent, or reckless
activity or situation that causes another person pain, embarrassment, harassment, ridicule, or
physical, mental, or emotional strain is considered hazing. Hazing is any activity that could
potentially put an individual's physical, moral, or academic well-being in danger, even if the
person is a willing participant.
It is important to note that any form of physical brutality is strictly prohibited. This includes
paddling, whipping, beating, pushing, shoving, tackling, branding, and prolonged exposure to the
elements. It also includes forced calisthenics or the consumption of any substance, whether it is
legal or illegal, that may negatively impact an individual's physical or mental well-being. Any
other forced physical activity that may have adverse effects on health is also not allowed. The
following statement is regarding unacceptable behavior towards students: Any action that could
potentially harm a student's mental well-being or dignity is strictly prohibited. Examples of such
behavior include but are not limited to, depriving students of sleep, isolating them from social
interactions, forcing them into servitude, and any conduct that is demeaning, degrading, or
causes extreme embarrassment.
It is strictly prohibited to engage in such activities, and the willingness of a Bethune-Cookman
University student to participate in them will not exempt them from the consequences of
violating the hazing policy. This policy will be enforced with zero tolerance, and any individual
or group found guilty of violating it will be held accountable to the fullest extent of the law.
Bethune-Cookman University will not tolerate any individual or student organization found in
violation of this policy due to on-campus or off-campus conduct. Such individuals or
organizations will be subject to strict sanctions imposed by the university. Moreover,
Bethune-Cookman University will hold any student organization accountable for any activity or
conduct that violates this policy by any individual or group associated with such organizations.
Every Bethune-Cookman University student organization is required to include in its bylaws an
anti-hazing section fully incorporating this policy. A copy of such bylaws will be submitted to
the Department of Student Life at the beginning of each academic year. Every Bethune-Cookman
University Student Organization shall have its members sign an acknowledgment of this Policy
at the beginning of each fall and spring semester. All membership intake participants shall be
required to sign an acknowledgment of this Policy prior to the commencement of each
membership intake period. Every Bethune-Cookman University Student Organization will also
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submit a Hazing Compliance Agreement to the Department of Student Life within thirty days of
the election of any new organizational serving officers certifying their personal acknowledgment
of this Policy. Any person, including Bethune-Cookman University trustees, administrators,
faculty, staff, and students, having knowledge of or receiving information regarding any activity
that may constitute hazing, must report to the Dean of Students.
REMEMBER:
Hazing includes:
1. Any physical activity, such as whipping, beating, branding, forced calisthenics, exposure
to the elements, forced consumption of food, liquid, drugs, or other substances, or any
other brutal treatment or other forced physical activity that is likely to adversely affect
the physical health of the person.
2. Any mentally embarrassing, harassing, or ridiculing behaviors that create psychological
shocks, including but not limited to such activities as engaging in public stunts,
buffoonery, moral degradation, and/or humiliating games and activities.
3. Any situation that subjects the individual to extreme stress, such as sleep deprivation,
forced exclusion from social contact, required participation in public stunts, or forced
conduct that produces pain, physical discomfort, or adversely affects the mental health or
dignity of an individual.
4. Any expectations or commands that force individuals to engage in an illegal act and/or
willful destruction or removal of public or private property.
Some examples of hazing include, but are not limited to:
● Abuse because of one’s race, sex, religion, nationality, or mental/physical condition;
● Encouraging or requiring someone to drink excessively (i.e. alcohol, concoctions, water,
other beverages);
● Striking, shoving, pushing, kicking, slapping, or otherwise forcefully touching a person
or engaging in reckless behavior that causes physical injury to another;
● Submitting to physical acts;
● Going without sleep;
● Engaging in unreasonable activities
The following shall not constitute a defense to Hazing:
1. The consent of the victim was obtained;
2. The conduct or activities that resulted in death or injury to the victim was not part of any
official organizational event or otherwise sanctioned or approved by a Student
Organization or group; or
3. The conduct of an activity that resulted in death or injury to the victim was not done as a
condition of membership into a Student Organization or group.
I. Threats/ Threatening Behavior
Bethune-Cookman University is committed to a safe and health-conscious campus for faculty,
students, staff, and visitors. B-CU is also committed to creating and maintaining a working,
learning, and social environment that is free from violence. As a result, the university has a
“zero tolerance policy” with respect to threatening statements and behavior or acts of violence
against members of the campus community. The university prohibits and will take decisive
action to eliminate:
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● verbal or written harassment
● acts which can be interpreted as physical assault
● hazing
● threats to harm someone or endanger the safety of others
● behaviors or actions interpreted by a reasonable person as carrying the potential for
violence and/or acts of aggression
● threats to destroy or the actual destruction of property
● possession of a firearm, knife or any dangerous weapon
As a community, it is our collective responsibility to report all threatening statements and
actions immediately. To fulfill this policy, the university will work to prevent violence from
occurring and will ensure that federal and state laws, as well as university regulations
prohibiting violence, are enforced. All threatening comments and behavior will be taken
seriously and investigated. All threats must be reported to the appropriate authority. Failure to
report any threat is subject to disciplinary action. A team of campus professionals will assist in
determining the proper University response for each incident. Therefore, if you experience a
threatening situation or know of any instance involving threats of physical violence toward any
B-CU student or employee from inside or outside the University community, please report it
immediately to:
● B-CU Campus Safety Department (386)-481-2900 or
● Director of Judicial Affairs (386)-481-2451
Violence, whether actual or threatened, undermines our personal well-being and naturally
affects our ability to conduct our responsibilities. Please assist us in ensuring that the B-CU
campus is a safe environment for all faculty, staff, students, and visitors of the University
community. Counseling and Treatment Services Therapy is a collaborative process that
involves the development of a unique helping relationship. As therapists, the staff serves as
facilitators in assisting the client in clarifying their sense of direction, setting realistic goals,
and better understanding their personal concerns. Individuals, groups, and couples are given
assistance in understanding their feelings and behaviors, their relationships with others, their
particular situation, choices, and decisions. Discussion of whatever is important and relevant
enables individuals to grow towards greater freedom in making mature choices and taking
responsible action with themselves, relationships, family, and studies.
Students may obtain professional counseling services on a confidential basis by either calling
Counseling Services at 386-481-2157 or by arranging an appointment with one of the
professional counselors. The following services are available: Assessment, Referral, Individual
therapy, Group therapy, Support groups, and Psycho-Educational Group Counseling.
ALL SERVICES ARE FREE AND STRICTLY CONFIDENTIAL.
J. Bullying/Cyberbullying
Students have the right to attend College in an environment that is safe and secure. Bullying is
detrimental to the university's environment and promotion of higher education and learning.
Bullying interferes with the university's ability to educate its students and disrupts operations.
It is not the university's intent to inhibit students from expressing their ideas or engaging in
lawful, civil debate. However, the university does not condone and will take action in response
to conduct that inhibits a student’s opportunity to learn or the operation of the university.
Prohibited behavior includes, but is not limited to the following:
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1. Bullying;
2. Cyberbullying;
3. Harassment and Sexual Harassment;
4. Retaliation against those reporting these prohibited behaviors; and
5. Knowing and false accusations of bullying.
Any student that engages in any of the above-noted prohibited behaviors that constitute
bullying/cyberbullying shall be subject to discipline including, but not limited to suspension or
expulsion. To assist in better understanding the constraints of the bullying and harassment
policy, the following definitions are accepted by the University in the implementation of
sanctions:
“Bullying” includes, but is not limited to written, verbal, or electronic expression by physical
act or gesture, or any combination thereof directed at a student or students that:
1. Has, or a reasonable person would expect it to have, the effect of:
a. Physically harming a student or damaging a student’s property; or
b. Placing a student in reasonable fear of physical harm or damage to the student’s
property;
2. Interferes with the rights of a student by
a. Creating an intimidating or hostile educational environment for the student; or
b. Interfering with the student's academic performance or ability to participate in or
benefit from the services, activities, or privileges provided by the University; or
3. Is based on a student’s actual or perceived race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion,
physical mental disability, gender, sexual orientation, or any other distinguishing
characteristic or a Protected Class, or is based on a student’s association with a person
with one or more of these actual or perceived characteristics, and that has the effect
described in subparagraph (1) or (2) above. (These behaviors might also meet the criteria
for harassment as otherwise set forth in this Student Code of Conduct).
REMEMBER
Bullying includes:
1. Repeated or pervasive taunting, name-calling, belittling, mocking, put-downs, or
demeaning humor;
2. Behavior that is intended to harm someone by damaging or manipulating his or her
relationships with others, including but not limited to gossip, spreading rumors, and
social exclusion;
3. Non-verbal threats and/or intimidations such as the use of aggressive, menacing,
disrespectful gestures;
4. Threats of harm to a student, to his/her possessions, or to other individuals, whether
transmitted verbally or in writing;
5. Blackmail, extortion, demands for protection money, or involuntary loans or donations;
6. Blocking access to College property or facilities;
7. Stealing or hiding books, backpacks, or other possessions;
8. Stalking; and
9. Physical contact or injury to another person or his/her property.
“Cyberbullying” means bullying through the use of technology or any electronic
communication, including, but not limited to, a transfer of signs, signals, writing, images,
sounds, data, or intelligence of any nature transmitted by the use of any electronic device,
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including, but not limited to, a computer, telephone, cellular telephone, text messaging device,
and personal digital assistant.
REMEMBER
Cyberbullying includes:
1. Posting slurs or rumors or displaying any defamatory, inaccurate, disparaging, violent,
abusive, profane, or sexually oriented material about a student on a website or other
online application;
2. Posting misleading or fake photographs or digital video footage of a student on websites
or creating fake websites or social networking profiles in the guise of posing as the
target;
3. Impersonating or representing another student through the use of that other student’s
electronic device or account to send email, text messages, instant messages (IM), or
phone calls;
4. Sending email, text messages, IM, or leaving voicemail messages that are mean or
threatening, or so numerous as to bombard the target’s email account, IM account, or
cellphone; and
5. Using a camera phone or digital video camera to take and/or send embarrassing or
“sexting” photographs of other students.
“Retaliation” means an act against a student for reporting or alleging an act of bullying has
occurred. Retaliation also includes reporting or alleging an act of bullying when it is made
knowing the allegation or report is false or making a report or allegation of bullying not in
good faith.
The university Bullying and Cyberbullying Policy applies to any university student, employee,
faculty, staff member, contractor, visitor, or volunteer who engages in conduct that constitutes
bullying and retaliation. All of the foregoing are expected to abide by the university's Bullying
and Cyberbullying Policy. This Bullying and Cyberbullying Policy applies to bullying that:
1. Takes place at the College or on College grounds, meaning: a College building;
property on which a College building or facility is located; and property that is owned,
leased, or used by College for a College-sponsored activity, function, program,
instruction, or training. “College grounds” also includes college-related transportation
vehicles;
2. Takes place while students are being transported to or from College grounds or
College-sponsored events;
3. Takes place at any College-sponsored event, activity, function, program, instruction, or
training; or
4. Takes place elsewhere or through the use of technology, including the use of College IT
Systems.
Incidents of bullying shall be reported to the Department of Campus Safety, who shall be
responsible for promptly investigating any complaints of bullying. Bullying reports may be
made verbally or in writing and may be anonymous. Complaints of bullying should include a
description of the incident, the date and time of the incident, person(s) involved, and witnesses.
Any student who violates this policy will be disciplined up to and including suspension or
expulsion.
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Charges
CATEGORY 1
Immediate Disciplinary Action
VIOLATIONS
RECOMMENDED SANCTIONS
Arrest of Felonious Nature
Interim suspension until cleared by civil authorities or
discretion of the University, Suspension / Expulsion
Intrusive Contact: Assault,
Battery, Sexual Assault Rape or
attempted Rape) or Stalking
(includes Cyberstalking)
Interim suspension until cleared by civil authorities or
at the discretion of the University, Suspension /
Expulsion
Weapons (Possession of Use)
Interim Suspension until cleared by civil authorities or at
the discretion of the University, Suspension / Expulsion
Felony Probation
Interim Suspension until cleared by civil authorities or at
the discretion of the University, Suspension / Expulsion
Robbery
Interim Suspension until cleared by civil authorities or at
the discretion of the University, Suspension / Expulsion
Sexual Misconduct
Interim suspension until cleared by civil authorities or
discretion of the University, Suspension/ Expulsion
Hazing
Interim suspension until cleared by civil authorities or
discretion of the University, Suspension/ Expulsion
CATEGORY 2
Routine- Disciplinary Action
VIOLATIONS
RECOMMENDED SANCTIONS
Illegal Drugs/Controlled
Substances
Zero Tolerance Policy (Pending Investigation)
Manufacturing of sales: Suspension/Expulsion
$500-$1000 fine and/or up-to Suspension/Expulsion,
Residential Suspension
Drug Paraphernalia
1st offense: $500-$1000 fine and or Residential
suspension
2nd offense: Suspension for at least one semester
Alcohol
Zero Tolerance Policy (Pending Investigation)
$500-$1000 fine and/or up-to Suspension/Expulsion,
Residential Suspension
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Fighting
Zero Tolerance Policy (Pending Investigation)
$500-$1000 fine and/or up-to Suspension/Expulsion,
Residential Suspension
Gang Activity/Affiliation
Zero Tolerance Policy (Pending Investigation)
$500-$1000 fine and/or up-to Suspension/Expulsion,
Residential Suspension
Tampering of Safety Controls, Devices,
Processes, and Equipment
Zero Tolerance Policy (Pending Investigation:
Fine, Suspension or Expulsion)
Minimum of $1000 fine, and/or up to
suspension/ Expulsion.
Bullying/cyberbullying
Zero Tolerance Policy (Pending Investigation:
Fine, Suspension or Expulsion)
Minimum of $1000 fine, and/or up to
suspension/ Expulsion.
Academic Dishonesty
Reduction of grades, loss of grades, removal
from class or suspension
Campus Theft
1st Offense: $500 fine. 2nd Offense: $1,000
fine.
3rd Offense: Suspension for one-two
semesters.
Disorderly/Disruptive Conduct, failure to
cooperate or interface with University
investigation
1st offense: $250 fine. 2nd offense $500 fine.
3rd offense: Suspension for one – two
semesters.
Failure to Comply
1st Offense: $250 fine. 2nd Offense: $500
fine. 3rd Offense: Suspension
Passive Participation
Fine/Suspension
Illegal Unauthorized Entry
Fine, Suspension or Expulsion
Threats
Zero Tolerance” Policy (Pending
Investigation)
$500-$1000 fine and/or up-to
suspension/expulsion, Residential Suspension
Property Damage
Restitution, suspension or expulsion where
appropriate
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Shoplifting
Restitution, suspension or expulsion where
appropriate
Vandalism/Criminal Mischief
Restitution, suspension or expulsion where
appropriate
Aiding and/or Inciting
Fine/Suspension
Harboring
Suspension or expulsion
Perjury
Fine or Suspension for at least one semester
Smoking
1st offense: $500-$1000 fine, Residential
Suspension 2nd offense: Suspension
Public Intoxication
Fine $250-$500
*Please refer to Appendix A for other violations and Definition
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L. Academic Dishonesty and Misconduct
Academic dishonesty or misconduct is any action or an attempted action that may result in
creating an unfair academic advantage for oneself or an unfair academic advantage or
disadvantage for any other member or members of the academic community. This includes a
wide variety of behaviors such as cheating, plagiarism, altering academic documents or
transcripts, gaining access to materials before they are intended to be available, and helping a
fellow student gain an unfair academic advantage. In the absence of clarity, students are
responsible for seeking out information when unsure of what is expected. Below are some
basic definitions and examples of academic dishonesty and misconduct. Please note that this
list is not exhaustive.
a. Cheating
Cheating is defined as fraud, deceit, or dishonesty in an academic assignment, or using or
attempting to use materials, or assisting others in using materials that are prohibited or
inappropriate in the context of the academic assignment in question, such as
● Copying or attempting to copy from others during an exam or on an assignment.
● Communicating answers by any means with another person during an exam.
● Preprogramming a calculator to contain answers or other unauthorized information
for exams.
● Using unauthorized materials, prepared answers, written notes, or concealed
information during an exam.
● Allowing others to do an assignment or portion of an assignment for you, including
the use of a commercial term paper service.
● Submission of the same assignment for more than one course without prior
approval of all the instructors involved.
● Collaborating on an exam or assignment with any other person without prior
approval from the instructor.
● Taking an exam for another person or having someone take an exam for you.
b. Plagiarism
Plagiarism is defined as the use of intellectual material produced by another person without
acknowledging its source, for example:
● Wholesale copying of passages from works of others into your homework, essay,
term paper, or thesis, or any other assignment without acknowledgment.
● Use of the views, opinions, or insights of another without acknowledgment.
● Paraphrasing of another person's characteristic or original phraseology, metaphor, or
other literary devices without acknowledgment.
c. Course Material Tampering
● Removing, defacing, or deliberately keeping from other students library materials
that are on
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● reserve for specific courses.
● Contaminating laboratory samples or altering indicators during a practical exam,
such as moving a pin in a dissection specimen for an anatomy course.
● Selling, distributing, website posting, or publishing course lecture notes, handouts,
readers, recordings, or other information provided by an instructor, or using them
for any commercial purpose without the express permission of the instructor.
d. False Information and Representation, Fabrication or Alteration of Information
● Furnishing false information in the context of an academic assignment.
● Failing to identify yourself honestly in the context of an academic obligation.
● Fabricating or altering information or data and presenting it as legitimate.
● Providing false or misleading information to an instructor or any other University
official.
e. Theft or Damage of Intellectual Property
● Sabotaging or stealing another person’s assignment, book, paper, notes, experiment,
project, electronic hardware, or software.
● Improper access to, or electronically interfering with, the property of another person or
the University via computer or other means.
● Obtaining a copy of an exam or assignment prior to its approved release by the
instructor.
f. Alteration of University Documents
● Forgery of an instructor’s signature on a letter of recommendation or any
Bethune-Cookman University Acceptable Use and Computing Policy, or any other
official university document.
● Submitting an altered transcript of grades to or from another institution or employer.
● Putting your name on another person’s exam or assignment or otherwise
misrepresenting yourself on any assignment.
● Altering a previously graded exam or assignment for purposes of a grade appeal to gain
points in a regrading process, and/or any deceptive means with the intent to gain
academic advantage.
g. Disturbances in the Classroom
Disturbances in the classroom can also serve to create an unfair academic advantage for
oneself or a disadvantage for another member of the academic community. Below are some
examples of events that may violate the Student Code of Conduct. Note that this list is not
exhaustive. If a disturbance arises to the instructor asking the student to leave class (for the
day), the instructor and student are expected to remedy the situation in a follow-up meeting
(before the next class session). The Department Chairperson may also become involved to
mediate and develop a plan for both parties moving forward, which may include a contract
outlining the expectations for future success in the classroom.
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Sanctions
A sanction is an opportunity to educate students on the effects of their behavior and to attempt
to effect change in that student's behavior in the future. Any student found responsible for
violating any of the Codes of Conduct or University regulations or policies may be subject to
one or more sanctions. Failure to complete the conditions outlined in any sanction will result in
a HOLD being placed on the student's records and registration. A HOLD on student records
and registration will, for example, prevent the student from registering and from obtaining
transcripts, verifications, or a diploma from the University until the student satisfies the
conditions of the sanction.
Criteria for assigning sanctions are determined by several factors: the severity of the
misconduct, the nature of the incident, and the student's prior conduct record.
Listed below are some of the more common sanctions used at Bethune-Cookman University,
but if circumstances require it, alternative or additional sanctions may be put into place. The
Dean of Students office has no authority over citations given to students by Campus Safety
officers.
h. Formal Warning
In cases of minor violations, students will be placed on a formal warning status for up
to one (1) calendar year.
i. Residential Probation
A residential probation is a warning similar to, but more serious than, a formal warning.
A student may be placed on residential probation for a specified period not to exceed a
student’s graduation.
j. Disciplinary Probation
This sanction may prohibit the individual from representing the college in any official
capacity. Probation shall be for at least three months or could continue throughout the
student's enrollment at Bethune-Cookman University. Further violations of college
policies, including violation of probation terms, will probably result in removal from
the institution.
k. Suspension
Suspension involves the withdrawal of enrollment privileges for a specified period of
time and ordinarily carries with it conditions, which must be met for re-enrollment.
During the period of suspension, the student may not come onto campus, except when
specifically authorized in writing by the Dean of Students or designee. Failure to abide
by this condition may result in arrest for trespassing and/or further disciplinary
sanctions. Suspended students are not permitted to live or board in University facilities.
Re-enrollment after a suspension requires that the student applies to the Dean of
Students or designee at the close of the imposed period for a determination of whether
they have met the conditions of conduct-related sanctions. Students suspended may not
receive credit for college work completed by correspondence or enrollment at another
university without prior permission from the Provost or designee. Records of
suspension are maintained indefinitely.
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l. Expulsion
Expulsion is a permanent dismissal from the University. These records are
maintained indefinitely.
m. Educational Sanctions
All consequences of conduct hearings are intended to be educational. Educational
sanctions may be imposed in combination with or as a condition of any other
disciplinary sanction. Educational sanctions may, for example, require the respondent to
prepare letters of apology, research an issue related to the offense, attend a workshop,
lecture, or meeting, perform community service, or attend counseling.
n. Behavioral Contract
A contract is written by an administrator and student(s) for the purpose of improving
behavior/ attitude. The behavioral contract includes specific obligations or behaviors
that the student(s) must meet within a specified time period. The contract serves as the
working agreement between the student(s) and the administrator.
o. Community Service
For incidents where the student has engaged in behavior that has an impact on all or a
portion of the university community, students are required to give back to the
community. Students required to complete community service hours are given a form
(Community Service Agreement) to be completed under the direction of the Judicial
Panel.
p. Restitution
Restitution is compensation required of students who engage in theft, misuse, damage,
or destruction of institutional, group, or private property. The amount of restitution is
dependent upon the extent of damage as well as what is determined to be the most
appropriate way for a student to make amends for the damage caused. The amount,
form, and method of payment of restitution are determined by the hearing administrator
or the Judicial Panel.
q. Fines
For some violations, fines may be imposed. At the discretion of the hearing officer,
fines and/or work assignments may be imposed.
r. Removal from a Living Unit
In imposing this sanction, the hearing officer may require a student to vacate a
particular residence hall. Circumstances in the environment such as conflicts with
supervising personnel, peer pressure, or an unwillingness to recognize and respect the
rights of others may indicate a need for the use of this sanction.
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s. Revocation of Admission and/or Degree
Admission to a degree program or a degree awarded from the university may be
revoked for fraud, misrepresentation, or other violation of University standards in
obtaining the degree, or for other serious violations committed by a student prior to
graduation.
t. Withholding Degree
The University may withhold awarding a degree otherwise earned until the completion
of the process set forth in this Student Code of Conduct, including the completion of all
sanctions imposed.
u. Interim Suspension
The Dean of Students or designee may restrict access to University property/event or
suspend a student for an interim period prior to a resolution of a disciplinary proceeding.
An interim suspension is likely if reliable information that the student has engaged in
misconduct is present and it is determined that the continued presence of the student on
the University campus or at University events poses an immediate threat of harm to the
student or other individuals, loss of property, or may cause substantial disruption to the
educational mission of the University.
M. University Judicial Board
In establishing a responsible community, it is imperative that students, faculty, and staff assist
in the enforcement of university regulations. Bethune-Cookman University community
members are accountable to both civil authorities and to the University for acts, which
constitute violations of law and of the community. The University will refer matters to federal
and/or state authorities for prosecution when appropriate. Students accused of violating the
value standards of conduct of this code or the zero-tolerance policy shall be given prompt
written notice of the allegations and shall be entitled to an informal hearing before a student
judicial body or person. There are three hearing panels that make up the University Judicial
Board:
A. University Judicial Panel
The UJP is charged with hearing alleged violations of the Student Code of Conduct referred
to The Office of Judicial Affairs. The University Judicial Panel shall consist of members of
the faculty and/or staff appointed by the Dean of Students, or designee and regularly enrolled
students who serve on the Student Government Judicial Branch. Only five (5) UJP members
will be needed per hearing. The University Judicial Panel shall hear cases involving alleged
violations of the Student Code of Conduct.
B. Academic Review Panel
Charged with hearing alleged violations of the Academic Dishonesty and Misconduct Policy,
including but not limited to plagiarism, cheating, misrepresentation, and/or fabrication of
one’s work and all other forms of academic dishonesty shall be referred to the Academic
Review Panel by the University Provost, or designee. Cases involving academic dishonesty
may initially be heard by bodies established by the university or the faculty member who
may offer the student a grade sanction. The Academic Review Panel shall consist of
members of the faculty appointed by the Provost of the University or his/her designee and
regularly enrolled students who serve on the Student Government Judicial Branch.
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C. Housing Review Panel
The Housing Review Panel is charged with hearing alleged violations specific to the
Residence Hall policies, rules, and regulations, by residents and/or their guests. Incident
reports are submitted to the Director of Housing and Residence Life for review. The Housing
Review Panel of the University shall consist of members of the Residence Life staff or and
regularly enrolled students from the Residential Assistants. The Director of Housing and
Residential Life shall appoint a member of the Housing and Residence Life staff to act as
Chairperson of the Housing Review Panel. If a violation of the code is established, a
punishment imposed by the Panel may include but is not limited to, relocation, restitution,
fines, residence hall probation, suspension, or dismissal from the Residence Hall
N. Disciplinary Process
Please note: The disciplinary process pertains to both students and student organizations alike.
There is no distinction.
A. Filing a Report
1. Any person enrolled at the University, attending University programs, using
University facilities, working at or for the University, or participating in
University-sponsored events or activities may file a complaint involving a student. The
complaint should be filed using the online Student Incident or Concern Form found on
the University webpage, under Current Students.
2. Timeline for Complaints: Complaints of student non-academic conduct should be
made as soon as possible or at maximum within six weeks of the incident or event that
is the subject of the report. In exceptional circumstances, the Judicial Affairs office
may grant an extension to this time limit.
3. Dual Reporting: Non-academic conduct may be a violation of University policy and
law, and as such, the University encourages complainants to make reports to both local
law enforcement agencies and the University. Because the standard of proof required
in criminal law is different from the standard of proof required in University policy,
the result of criminal investigations is not conclusive of whether a violation of
University policy has occurred. In addition, the criminal investigation will not take the
place of a University investigation, although such a criminal investigation may
supplement a University investigation. The University will not wait for the conclusion
of a criminal investigation to begin conducting its own independent investigation, or to
take interim measures to protect the University or any member of the University
community, or when necessary, to initiate hearing procedures as outlined below.
4. Information requested: When filing a complaint, you should provide as much detail as
possible regarding the nature of the complaint and any witnesses. The more
information that you can provide, the better equipped the University will be to address
the complaint. The University suggests you provide the following information to the
extent possible:
• Name and contact information (address, telephone, email) for the complainant
• Name of person(s) directly responsible for the alleged violations of policy
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• Date(s), time(s), and place(s) of the alleged violation(s)
• Detailed description of the specific conduct that is the basis of the alleged
violation(s)
• Copies of any documents or other tangible items pertaining to the alleged
violation(s)
• Names and contact information for any witnesses to the alleged violation(s)
• Any other relevant information
All information is requested within the Student Concern and Incident Report.
B. Charges
1. Intake and Review: All concerns and complaints about a student’s or students’ conduct
shall be referred to the Office of Judicial Affairs via the online incident and concern
form. The Judicial Affairs office will review the allegations and select the appropriate
charges to be considered, if any.
a. When appropriate, the Director of Judicial Affairs will meet with the complainant
in order to provide the complainant with a general understanding of these
procedures and to identify forms of support or interim measures available to the
complainant.
b. If the complainant does not wish to pursue a resolution and/or requests that his or
her complaint remain anonymous, the University may still need to investigate and
take reasonable action in light of the complainant's request.
c. The complainant’s request will be balanced against the University’s need to
provide a learning and working environment for all members of the University
community that is reasonably safe and non-discriminatory.
d. Factors that will influence the University's action include: the seriousness of the
allegation; whether there are additional complaints involving the same alleged
student; and the University’s ability to bring the complaint forward absent the
involvement of the complainant.
2. Interim Measures: To ensure the health, welfare, and safety of the complainant,
respondent, third parties or the University community, or to uphold the integrity of the
process, the University may take interim action at any time and is not required to wait
to take such action until after the Intake and Review or a hearing. Depending on the
specific nature of the allegation, interim action may include but is not limited to the
following:
▪ Imposition of a No-contact order (a directive that the complainant and accused
student refrain from having contact with one another, their families, and/or their
personal possessions, directly or through proxies, whether in person or via
electronic means, pending the investigation and, if applicable, the hearing);
▪ Provision of counseling services
▪ Provision of medical services
▪ Provision of academic support services, like tutoring
▪ Provision of alterations to the student’s class schedule to ensure the complainant
and alleged student do not attend the same classes
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● Moving the complainant or alleged student to a different student housing facility
● Removing a student from residential facilities (See Residential Suspension)
● Provision of an escort to ensure the student can move safely between classes and
University activities.
3. Standard of Proof: Preponderance of the Evidence: When the information that is
presented supports a finding that it is more likely than not that a violation occurred
based on all of the information presented during the investigation and hearing process.
C. Notice of Charges
All reports of alleged violations by a student shall be made in writing to The Office of Judicial
Affairs. Each complaint shall contain a statement of facts outlining each alleged act of
misconduct and any witnesses to the alleged act. The Office of the Dean of Students shall
make preliminary investigations of charges against a student and send a notice of charges to the
student.
a. The Office of Judicial Affairs shall issue a notice of charges to the accused student. The
notice of charges shall contain at a minimum, the date of the alleged violation, evidence
to be used in support of the alleged violation, and the date and time of the pre-hearing
conference.
b. The student shall be notified of the date and time of the formal hearing or pre-hearing
conference via email at least three business days prior to the formal hearing or
pre-hearing date unless it is an emergency hearing. It is the student’s responsibility to
ensure that he or she has a working email. In addition, it is the student’s responsibility
to make sure that his or her local and home addresses are updated in Jenzabar. (Failure
of the student to have a valid email or mailing address on file with the University shall
not invalidate the notice).
D. Pre-hearing Conferences
Pre-hearing conferences are at the sole discretion of the Director of Judicial Affairs. The Office
of Judicial Affairs, or designee, holds pre-hearing conferences with the accused student or
refers cases to the appropriate disciplinary panel. The Office of Judicial Affairs or designee
shall set the time and place for a pre-hearing conference and shall notify other committee
members, the accused student, and any witnesses deemed necessary by the University to testify
at the hearing.
a. At the pre-hearing conference, the student will be given the opportunity to accept
responsibility for the violation, waive their rights to all hearings and appeals, and
accept a disciplinary sanction or request formal hearing procedures.
b. Students who fail to attend the pre-hearing conference will be found in violation and
have sanctions imposed. Students sanctioned in their absence will be notified in writing
and given five business days to request a formal hearing before the sanction is imposed
and the case considered closed.
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E. Formal Hearing
The Office of Judicial Affairs, or designee, shall at least three business days in advance of the
hearing, notify the student in writing. The notice shall be delivered by B-CU student email, by
hand if reasonably possible or otherwise by certified mail to the last local address of the
student registered with the University in Jenzabar. (Failure of the student to have a valid
mailing address on file with the University shall not invalidate the notice). The Office of
Judicial Affairs or designee may call an emergency hearing if deemed necessary.
The notice of charges shall contain at a minimum:
● The date, time, and place of the hearing.
● A statement of the specific charges, and
● Copies of all evidence and the names of witnesses that the University may call to testify
at the hearing.
If a student fails to appear at the hearing and the student has been properly notified, the
disciplinary committee may hold the hearing in the student’s absence. After a review of the
testimony and evidence the committee may dismiss the charges; find the student responsible
and impose a disciplinary penalty.
It is the student’s right not to be present for the hearing. The hearing may go forward without
the student and a decision may be made on the basis of the information available at the time of
the hearing. If a student fails to resolve his/her case, the Office of Judicial Affairs may place a
hold on a student’s enrollment and/or transcripts.
If the student’s schedule should change and he or she is unable to attend the hearing, requests
for continuance must be made by the student via email to [email protected] at least
three days prior to the scheduled hearing. The Office of Judicial Affairs may reschedule the
hearing if the request is timely and for good cause.
Note that approval for rescheduling hearing proceedings is at the discretion of the
University. Documentation will need to be presented to and verified by the Office of
Judicial Affairs before the continuance is granted (i.e. incarceration, death in the family,
hospitalization, deployment, etc.).
The Office of Judicial Affairs will be responsible for notifying all witnesses of the hearing and
for the creation of the Judicial Panel Hearing file.
Copies of the Judicial Panel Hearing file will be made available to the parties and Panel at least
three (3) working days prior to the hearing and will contain, at a minimum, a statement of
complaint, witness lists submitted by each party, and any related information collected through
the investigative process by the Hearing Officer.
Any member of the Judicial Panel shall disqualify himself or herself if their personal
involvement in the case does not allow them to be objective or is of such a nature as to be
detrimental to the interest of the accused or of the institution.
Deliberations are conducted in an executive session with a hearing panel only. The panel is
comprised of four (4) members. The decision reached after deliberations shall be made by
majority vote. A quorum shall be met at 60% of the membership. The Hearing Officer shall
have the deciding vote in case of a tie. A written summary, recommendations, and audio tape
shall be forwarded to The Office of Judicial Affairs, as deemed appropriate, who shall
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communicate the findings in writing to the student. The Hearing Decision Letter will notify the
student of their right to appeal. While an appeal is pending, any action assessed by the hearing
body shall be suspended, pending the outcome of the appeal. The Dean of Students decision is
final.
Due process shall be afforded the accused student at formal hearings and the student shall be
entitled:
● To be present at the hearing and hear all testimony presented.
● To examine prior to the hearing, evidence to be presented.
● To have an advisor of his/her choice.
● To question witnesses in accordance with the rules.
● To present evidence and/or witnesses in accordance with the rules.
● To remain silent and have no inference of guilt drawn from such silence.
● To appeal if the panel imposes suspension or expulsion.
● To attend classes and required college functions until a hearing is held and a decision is
rendered.
**(See exceptions below)
**Exceptions to this would be made when the student's presence would create a clear and
present danger to others, self, or of material interference with the normal operation and
processes or the requirements of appropriate discipline at the University. In such cases, the
Office of the Dean of Students may impose temporary protective measures, including
suspension, pending a hearing, which may be reasonably necessary. It is understood that such
temporary protective measures if applied, will be without avoidable prejudice to the student.
(Clear and present danger is anything that interrupts the normal operations of the university
community. This can include but is not limited to drugs, alcohol, weapons, sexual misconduct,
hazing, and related activity, damages in excess of $500.00, and tampering or destroying of
safety devices.
Formal Hearing Procedure:
i. In cases involving more than one student, the Office of Judicial Affairs may
consolidate the cases for hearing but shall make separate findings for each accused
student.
ii. If the student chooses to have an advisor/attorney present during the hearing, the
advisor/attorney shall be present for consultation purposes only and shall not be
permitted to speak on the student’s behalf. In addition, students who would like to
have an advisor/attorney present will need to notify the Office of Judicial Affairs of
the person’s name and contact information at least two days after receiving the hearing
notification. This prior notification will provide the opportunity for the Office of
Judicial Affairs to request the presence of the university counsel.
iii. Rules of common courtesy and decency shall be observed. Willful disrespect,
including, but not limited to the use of profanity, threatening behavior, derogatory
remarks, and or/gestures will not be tolerated.
iv. Any person may be dismissed from the hearing who interferes with or obstructs the
hearing or who fails to abide by the rules.
v. The questioning of any person appearing before the hearing panel shall not be in a
badgering, unduly repetitious, or irrelevant manner. It shall be at the discretion of the
Hearing Officer to curtail a participant’s further opportunity for questioning if such
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behavior occurs.
vi. The Hearing Officer shall have the right to call additional witnesses, require the
presentation of additional evidence, and/or require additional investigation.
vii. The Judicial Panel will determine the order of witnesses, and the Hearing Officer will
resolve any questions of procedure during the hearing. Each party will be allowed to
make a presentation, have witnesses called on his/her behalf, challenge any
information presented, and make a closing statement. Only the Hearing Officer and
Panel members are given absolute authority to directly question parties and witnesses.
At the discretion of the Hearing Officer, parties may directly question witnesses and
each other, but the Hearing Officer is empowered to have questions directed to the
Hearing Officer, disallow or reframe any questions.
viii. A recording of the hearing shall be maintained and filed with the Office of Judicial
Affairs. The record of the hearing shall be retained for seven years. In cases of
expulsion, the record should be retained permanently.
ix. All hearings will be closed to others not directly involved in the proceedings including
but not limited to parents, legal guardians, and non-students.
Additional Rules for Sexual Assault Cases
a. The accused shall not initiate any contact, directly or indirectly, with the complainant
or any witness.
b. During the hearing, no evidence may be presented which pertains to the past sexual
history of the complainant or of any witness.
c. During the hearing, the unrelated past sexual history of the accused may not be
entered as evidence or discussed in the hearing.
d. The accused and the accuser will be notified in writing of the outcome of the hearing,
any sanction imposed, and of the final action taken by the Judicial Panel.
e. The accuser shall have the right to have an advisor accompany them at the hearing.
f. The accuser shall be informed of all witnesses to be called, to the extent known,
during a hearing.
g. All proceedings in cases involving sexual assault will be treated confidentially, to the
extent provided by law and the identities of any involved party will not be disclosed
to anyone not directly involved with the University’s disciplinary process.
Campus Organizations and Clubs Adjudication
a. A student organization may be accused of a violation of the Student Code of Conduct
regardless of whether a member of the organization is individually accused of a
violation arising from the same incident(s).
b. A student organization and its officers, leaders, or any identifiable spokespersons may
be held collectively or individually responsible when conduct by those associated
with the organization has been found in violation of the Student Code of Conduct.
c. The officers, leaders, or any identifiable spokespersons for a student organization
may be directed by the Dean of Students, Judicial Affairs staff, Student Life staff,
Title IX staff, Campus Safety Officers, or other designated security or law
enforcement agents to take appropriate action designed to prevent or end prohibited
conduct by the organization or by any persons associated with the organization.
Failure to make reasonable efforts to comply with the directive shall be considered a
violation of the Student Code of Conduct.
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d. A student organization may be held accountable if any of the following situations
regarding an alleged violation(s) of the Student Code of Conduct apply:
1. It was committed by one or more members of the organization;
2. It was committed by one or more members of the organization and organization
funds were used to finance the function;
3. It occurred in the context of an organization-sponsored function or activity.
e. The president or equivalent officer of a student organization shall represent the
organization unless he/she petitions the Dean of Students or designee to substitute
another student to represent the organization.
f. The president and advisor will be further advised of the action of Judicial Affairs is
taking against the organization. The Office of Judicial Affairs may impose
disciplinary measures on the organization or may refer the charges to the appropriate
body.
g. In any hearing resulting from a violation by a student organization in which it is
determined that the violation was caused by the action of individuals rather than the
official action of the organization, the Judicial Panel hearing the matter reserves the
right to refer those individuals to the Office of Judicial Affairs. Officers of the
organization are not exempt.
h. The Bethune-Cookman University organization-issued email along with the advisor’s
email address is the University’s primary means of communication with student
organizations. Student organizations are responsible for all communication delivered
to their Bethune-Cookman University email address. Student organization leadership
should check their Bethune-Cookman University email address daily. Notices of an
investigations, meetings, and hearings are sent to university email addresses.
i. Any of the following disciplinary sanctions, or a combination thereof, may be placed
upon an organization found in violation of the Student Code of Conduct, student
organization handbook, or any other relevant university policy. The examples used
below do not represent the exhaustive list of possible sanctions.
Warning – A written, formal warning will be sent to the student organization leadership and
saved in the organization’s electronic file. Further violations may result in additional sanctions.
Probation Status – Any organization placed on probation will forfeit the right to participate in
formal or informal campus activities until the status has been officially lifted.
Loss of Privileges – A student organization may face a loss of privileges on campus.
Privileges may include, but not be limited to funding support, the ability to recruit new
members, eligibility for the Organizational Fair, use of the on-campus facilities, prohibition
from participating in University sponsored activity/events, suspension of banking and/or
financial advisement support, and/or public listing with Woke Wildcat portal.
Restitution – A student organization may be required to repay all monetary costs associated
with damages that occurred at an event hosted or attended by said organization. Additionally,
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restitution may take the form of work/service required to repair, replace, improve, or otherwise
restore or enhance property or persons impacted by the organization’s behavior. A student
organization is responsible for paying/performing any restitution in a timely manner. Failure to
do so will result in additional sanctions.
Educational Initiatives – Student organization leaders and its members may be required to
participate in educational initiatives that may include but not be limited to
workshops/seminars, community service projects, etc.
Suspension/Loss of Registration – A student organization may be subject to suspension/loss
of registration for a defined period. Suspended organizations are disallowed from any
affiliation with Bethune-Cookman University, direct or indirect, and are not allowed to
re-activate as an organization without prior written permission from the Office of Judicial
Affairs. A suspended organization must apply for reinstatement following the term of the
suspension by submitting a letter to the Office of Judicial Affairs.
The responsibility for interpretation and enforcement of university regulations rests with the
president and advisor of the organization sponsoring the event. Organizations' officers assume
full responsibility for the conduct of their members, guests, and entertainers.
The Office of Judicial Affairs in conjunction with the Department of Campus Safety,
responsible for the overall safety of the university community, may exercise the authority to
cancel an event when conditions arise that may not be in the best interest of the university.
Cancellation notification will be through the Office of Student Life. The sponsoring
organization and offices involved in the event planning of the event shall be notified
immediately upon the decision to cancel.
In the course of an approved activity/event, the Department of Campus Safety Office the
Office of Judicial Affairs, or any acting university official can discontinue a sanctioned
activity/event when conditions arise that may not be in the best interest of the university.
F. Administrative Hearings
a. In instances where the accused student is a resident of Student Housing, and the
behavior is a violation of the B-CU Residential Hall Guidelines, and the student is being
charged with violation of no other University Policy (e.g. trash, pets, amplified
instruments, candles, etc.), an accused student shall meet with a Hearing Officer in an
informal administrative hearing.
• If a violation of the B-CU Residential Hall Guidelines is found, the Hearing Officer
may assign a formal conduct sanction of university warning, and any other
educational sanction or restriction found in either the Student Code of Conduct or the
B-CU Residential Hall Guideline.
b. If the respondent fails to participate in the process by failing to attend a meeting or
providing information, the Hearing Officer may render a decision based on the available
information.
c. A student who fails to participate or disagrees with the finding of the administrative
hearing does not waive the right to appeal.
d. In situations where the behavior is a violation of university policy and the administrative
sanction is less than university suspension, or when the suspension is a likely sanction
and there is no disputation of facts by the student/student organization, a student/student
organization shall meet with a Hearing Officer in an informal administrative hearing.
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If a university policy violation is found, the Hearing Officer may assign any formal conduct
sanction, educational sanction, or restriction, with the exception of expulsion.
If the student/respondent fails to participate in the process by failing to attend a meeting or
providing information, the Hearing Officer may render a decision based on the available
information.
A student/student organization that fails to participate or disagrees with the finding of the
administrative hearing does not waive the right to appeal.
Administrative hearings for University Policy violations are the exception and not the norm
and are generally only held by the Housing Review Panel, the Office of Judicial Affairs, the
Dean of Students, the Provost, or the President of the University.
G. Retaliation
Retaliation is prohibited: University policy prohibits retaliation against a complainant or
individual cooperating in the investigation of an alleged violation of university policy.
Retaliation includes any harassment, intimidation, threats, or adverse action against any
complainant or individual as a result of participation in a complaint. Retaliatory behavior is not
limited to behavior by the accused student, and covers behavior by his or her associates, as
well as third parties. Retaliation should be reported to the Office of Judicial Affairs and/or
Department of Campus Safety and is considered an independent allegation that may lead to
additional interim measures or disciplinary action.
H. Rendering a Decision
Upon completion of the hearing, the Judicial Panel must within two (2) working days inform
the Office of Judicial Affairs of the decision and, if necessary, the sanctions that have been
recommended and/or imposed.
After a formal hearing before the Judicial Panel, The Office of Judicial Affairs will review the
report of the Panel and all hearing materials, determine whether to accept the recommendations
and provide written notification to the accused student and the complainant of the findings and
sanctions, if any. Sanctions imposed by the Office of Judicial Affairs are effective immediately
unless otherwise specified in the notification. If sanctions are imposed, notice of the appeal
procedure will be provided to both parties. Minor technical departures or errors in the
procedures established by this policy will not necessarily be grounds to withhold conduct
action.
The Office of Judicial Affairs, based on the totality of information and the Student Code of
Conduct, reserves the right to reasonably modify the charges included in the notification.
Additional Information
The University will strive to complete complaint investigations, including the issuance of a
report of findings to the complainant and accused student, in as timely and efficient a manner
as possible and typically within fifteen (15) business days of receipt of a complaint. However,
this timeframe may be extended based on factors such as, but not limited to, schedule and
availability of witnesses, holidays or semester breaks including summer break, and the
complexity of the complaint. If an investigation and a report of the findings cannot be
completed within fifteen (15) business days of receipt of the complaint, then the Hearing
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Officer will notify the complainant and accused student of that fact and provide a timeframe
for completion.
I. Appeal Procedures
An appeal is defined as a review of the original case. This may involve a review of the decision
as recorded on paper, or other procedures as described below. During an appeal, the burden is
placed on the appealing student or student organization representative to demonstrate why the
finding or sanction should be changed. The accused student shall appeal via an online
electronic submission within five business days after notification of the decision of the hearing
panel. A student may appeal on the following grounds:
a. A procedure was not followed.
b. A claim that the decision of the hearing panel was erroneous.
c. A claim that the sanction(s) imposed was (were) overly harsh or inappropriate (only
sanctions of suspension or expulsion may be appealed).
d. New evidence was presented, not available at a previous hearing that could exonerate
the student.
Appeal requests may be denied in cases not having sufficient grounds in one or more of these
areas. All appeals must be submitted via the online Student Appeals Form located on the
University webpage, under Current Students. The Dean of Students has the right to overturn a
decision of the Office of Judicial Affairs, the Judicial Panel, the Housing Review Board, and/or
the Sexual Misconduct Committee if he/she determines that a decision undermined the
integrity of the student conduct process. The Provost reserves the right to overturn any decision
rendered by the Academic Review Panel if he/she determines that a decision undermined the
integrity of the student conduct process. All appeals end with the Dean of Students or the
Provost. After reviewing the record, and depending upon the demonstrated grounds for appeal,
the Appellate Officer may take any of the following actions:
a. Affirm the charge(s);
b. Impose greater or lesser sanctions; or
c. Order a new conduct hearing.
The Dean of Students or Provost shall render his/her decision in writing within seven business
days from his/her receipt of an appeal.
J. Student Disciplinary Records
Student conduct case records are confidential and will not be released outside the University
without the student’s written permission or by order of a court of law. Exceptions are noted
below. A copy of conduct case materials will stay in the student’s file for seven years from the
date of the incident at which time it will be destroyed. All records involving suspension or
expulsion are maintained indefinitely. Student conduct records are maintained in the Office of
Judicial Affairs.
Notification to others within the University of conduct is made on a “need to know” basis and
includes but is not limited to the Athletic Department in cases involving athletes, Student Life
in cases involving fraternities or sororities, and Military Affairs in cases involving ROTC
students. The Chaplaincy and Health and Wellness areas will be informed of cases involving
circumstances where their services are needed.
In the case of suspension or expulsion, notification is sent to the offices of the Dean of
Students, University Registrar, Financial Aid, Academic Affairs, Campus Safety, University
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Bursar, and Housing and Residence Life. Lesser sanctions, such as a formal warning or
probation, do not affect a student’s academic standing. A conduct-suspended and/or expelled
student has suspension of all campus privileges.
Records on student organizations are not confidential and may be released.
K. Withdrawal (Suspension or Expulsion)
A decision of suspension or expulsion from the University will result in a student receiving a
WF for each course in which he or she is enrolled, regardless of when the infraction occurs that
semester. A student will not be allowed to withdraw from the University without penalty if a
decision of suspension or expulsion is rendered against the student. A student will also forfeit
the right to a refund of any fees (i.e. tuition, mandatory fees, housing, etc.)
L. Interim Suspension
The Office of Judicial Affairs, or designee, may restrict access to university property/event or
suspend a student for an interim period prior to a resolution determined by a disciplinary
proceeding if the Office of Judicial Affairs has reliable information that the student has
engaged in misconduct and the Office of Judicial Affairs determines that the continued
presence of the student on the University campus or at university-sponsored events poses an
immediate threat of harm to the student or other individuals, loss of property, or may cause
substantial disruption to the educational mission of the University.
A student who has been issued an interim suspension and excluded from the University shall
be required to leave the university campus immediately and shall be notified that he or she will
thereafter be treated as a trespasser if he or she returns to university property without proper
authorization. The interim suspension will take effect immediately as of the Office of Judicial
Affairs decision.
Written notice of the interim suspension will be communicated by the Office of Judicial Affairs
or designee, but no later than one (1) business day after the suspension takes effect (unless
additional time is needed or necessary). Notices are delivered to the B-CU email address. If
email notice cannot be delivered, written notice shall be delivered by the Office of Judicial
Affairs or designee. If such cannot be delivered, the student will receive notice via certified
mail, return receipt requested, at the student’s last official address on record.
The interim suspension letter will provide the following:
a. that the student has been issued an interim suspension from the University;
b. that the student is prohibited from entering university property or attending
university-sponsored events;
c. that the student will be considered a trespasser if he or she returns to the university
without proper authorization;
d. stated reasons for the interim suspension and exclusion from the university property;
e. that disciplinary action against the student will be initiated by the Office of Judicial
Affairs; and, that the student may request a formal hearing within (5) business days
after a student has been notified of the interim suspension and exclusion from
University property.
f. A student placed on interim suspension means that the student cannot attend classes
(including online learning) must leave university property and cannot return to the
university without proper authorization, i.e. except for the limited purposes of
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participating in an interim suspension review hearing and/or disciplinary hearing. The
Office of Judicial Affairs may require that the student is escorted to and from the
disciplinary proceedings by members of Campus Safety. If the student lives in
university-owned/operated housing, he or she must vacate his/her room turn in the
room or apartment key, and also check-out properly according to the Housing and
Residence Life contract.
Within five (5) business days after a student has been notified of the interim suspension and
exclusion from university property, the student may request an interim suspension review
hearing to determine whether the interim suspension should continue or whether the student
should be reinstated and allowed to return to University property until a final disposition is
made at the student disciplinary hearing.
● The request must be submitted in writing to the Office of Judicial Affairs or designee,
who shall convene an interim suspension committee of no less than three members. .
● The hearing panel shall hold a review hearing within five (5) business days after
committee selection.
● The student has the right to be present and to have an advisor of his or her choice at his
own expense, but such a person may only advise the student and may not actively
participate in the hearing.
● The student shall be permitted to enter the university campus for the limited purpose of
this hearing in accordance with the provisions stated herein.
● The panel will review the information provided by the student, the information upon
which the interim suspension was initially based, and any new information that may
justify the lifting or the continuation of the interim suspension.
● At the end of the hearing, the committee will make a decision and notify the Office of
Judicial Affairs or designee of the committee’s recommendation.
● The committee may affirm the original decision, maintaining the interim suspension
and temporary exclusion until full disciplinary proceedings are held, or the committee
may recommend that the interim suspension be lifted. The Office of Judicial Affairs or
designee will consider the recommendation of the committee but is not bound by the
recommendation.
● The Office of Judicial Affairs or designee shall thereafter notify the student that he or
she is reinstated pending the outcome of the full disciplinary hearing or the interim
suspension and temporary exclusion are to be continued subject to the outcome of the
disciplinary proceedings. The notice will be provided within one business day of the
decision unless additional time is needed or necessary.
● No interim suspension hearing shall take the place of the full disciplinary proceedings
which will determine whether the student shall be sanctioned for the misconduct
charged.
● Failure to respond to the disciplinary action for the misconduct charge shall result in a
finding against the student and result in permanent suspension for the academic
semester and/or academic year. As a result, the student must apply for readmission
before he or she can return to active matriculation at the University.
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Appendix A
Definitions of Misconduct
Abduction/Kidnapping
The abduction or stealing away of a person without lawful authority or warrant to hold a person
against his will. Enticing, persuading or forcible seizing and/or carrying of any person from one place
to another without that person's explicit consent.
Abuse of Conduct Process
Abuse or interference with, or failure to comply in, Bethune-Cookman University processes including
conduct and academic integrity hearings.
Academic Dishonesty/Misconduct
Academic dishonesty or misconduct is any action or an attempted action that may result in creating an
unfair academic advantage for oneself or an unfair academic advantage or disadvantage for any other
member or members of the academic community. This includes a wide variety of behaviors such as
cheating, plagiarism, altering academic documents or transcripts, gaining access to materials before
they are intended to be available, and helping a friend to gain an unfair academic advantage.
Advisor
To have a Bethune-Cookman University faculty, staff, or student attend the hearing in the role of a
friend, advisor, or counselor. If an accused student desires to have an advisor/attorney of their choice
present at the hearing, that advisor may not speak or represent the student. They are present for
consultation purposes only. In addition, students who would like to have an advisor/attorney present
will need to notify the Judicial Affairs' office of the person's name and contact information at least two
business days prior to the scheduled hearing. This prior notification will provide an opportunity for the
Judicial Affairs’ office to request University Counsel's presence at the hearing. Proceedings may not
be unreasonably delayed due to the selection of schedule of an advisor, and it is the responsibility of
the Respondent to communicate relevant information to their advisor and to ensure that their advisor
comports themselves in a manner which respects the educational-administrative conduct process.
After an appropriate warning, the University reserves the right to stop a proceeding and remove an
advisor whose presence disrupts the conduct proceedings.
Aiding and/or Inciting
Aiding, abetting, persuading, supporting, condoning, and/or procuring another person or persons to
commit any act of misconduct; the persuading or aiding of another person to breach the peace on
University owned, University-controlled property, or at any University sponsored or supervised events
or activities. Gathering or groups of students on or off campus in such a manner, which causes damage
to public or private property, causes injury to persons or interferes with the orderly functioning of the
University, its' reputation, the normal flow of traffic, or ordinary procedures.
Alcohol
The use, consumption, possession, purchase, sale, and/or distribution of alcoholic beverages on
university-owned or controlled property, or at any university sponsored or supervised events or
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activities. Students found with a empty alcohol bottle(s), where there is reasonable evidence of alcohol
consumption within a relative time period, can be accused of possession.
Animals (Pets)
Having unapproved pets or other animals on University-owned or controlled premises.
Arson
The malicious fraudulent, and/or intentional burning, or attempt to burn, of property on
University-owned or University- controlled premises.
Bullying
Unwanted aggressive behavior toward another person or group of people that leads to the belief that
there is an actual imbalance of power and is often repetitive in nature.
Burglary
Breaking into and entering a facility, or space, owned and operated by Bethune-Cookman University
(including residence halls) as a trespasser with the intent of committing a crime.
Cohabitation
Providing housing or storage for persons who do not have a legal contract with Housing and
Residence Life for a specified space.
Contracts, Entering Into
The entering into verbal or written agreements or contracts on behalf of Bethune-Cookman University
that binds, obligates, or creates liability for the University by Individual students and/or
representatives of organizations.
Criminal Violations
Any violation of local, state, or federal laws resulting in an arrest.
Cyberbullying
Cyberbullying is when someone purposely embarrasses, harasses, or torments another using digital
media. Such behavior on the World Wide Web, including but not limited to social media networks,
constitutes violation of University policy and will be sanctioned accordingly.
Damage to Property
Damage, vandalism, or destruction of property owned or leased by the University or personal
property belonging to another individual.
Discrimination
Any act or failure to act that is based upon an individual's or group's actual or perceived status (sex,
gender, race, color, age, creed, national or ethnic origin, physical or mental disability, veteran status,
pregnancy status, religion, or sexual orientation, or other protected status) that is sufficiently severe
that it limits or denies the ability to participate in or benefit from Bethune-Cookman University's
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educational program, residential life program or other activities.
Disorderly Conduct
Acts in a violent or tumultuous manner toward another person which can cause fear or damage to a
person's mental state, life, limb, health or personal property. Playing in a manner that can reasonably
be determined as a threat to a person or property (Horseplay).
Domestic Dating Violence
Violence committed by a person who is or has been in a social relationship of a romantic or intimate
nature with a complainant.
Drug Paraphernalia
The sale, distribution, manufacturing, purchase, passing off, carrying, holding, or possession of any
kind of equipment, products, or material used to facilitate the handling or intake of a controlled
substance.
Drugs
The consumption, sale, distribution, manufacturing, purchase, passing off, carrying, or being in the
presence or vicinity of illegal drugs, narcotics; to include being reasonably aware of, accessory to,
aiding and abetting of any controlled substance.
Election Tampering
Tampering with the election of any Bethune-Cookman University recognized student organization
Embezzlement
Unauthorized acquisition and/or use of funds belonging to or under the stewardship of any University
unit, organization, or individual.
Failure to Comply
Failure to comply with the directions of University officials (including Resident Assistants) acting in
the performance of their duties; failure to comply with disciplinary sanctions, emergency procedures,
and or, but not limited to, identification of oneself to University officials.
False Testimony (See Perjury)
Knowingly making false statements regarding a judicial matter in the course of the judicial process.
Falsification/Identity Fraud
Falsifying one's identity or that of another by misrepresentation, forgery of names, signatures,
documents or dishonest acts, or refusing to show student identification upon request to any properly
identified official of Bethune-Cookman University.
Fighting
A physical conflict between two or more individuals.
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Fire Safety
Violation of campus fire policies including, but not limited to: a) failure to evacuate a
Bethune-Cookman University controlled building or area during a fire or fire alarm, b) improper use
of fire safety equipment, intentionally or carelessly causing a sprinkler system to engage when no
threat of fire exists; or c) tampering with or improperly engaging a fire alarm or fire detection/control
equipment while on Bethune-Cookman University-controlled property.
Gambling
Making a bet upon a partial or final result of any game or contest, or upon the performance of any
individual in such a game.
Guest Behavior
Guest or guests who are invited to the campus or permitted onto the campus or within facilities by a
student are the responsibility of that student. Actions of guests that are found to be in violation of the
Student Code of Conduct while in the company of a student host or with the student host's knowledge
are applicable to student hosts or the host student organization.
Harassment
Excessive physical annoyance of or the use of verbally abusive language by any person on
University-owned or controlled property or while on the premises of University-owned or controlled
property. Acts of insult, degradation, taunting, or challenging of another person while on campus
property, enrolled in classes, or attending
University-sponsored or supervised events.
Harboring
Anyone who has been trespassed or has an outstanding arrest warrant is strictly prohibited from
campus grounds, campus events or off-campus University sponsored events. Knowingly allowing any
prohibited person on campus is strictly prohibited.
Hazing
Any form of planned, or unplanned events, on or off campus that include any act or activities for the
purpose of initiation, admission into, affiliation with, or as a condition for continued membership or
acceptance into a group or organization.
Health and Safety
Behavior that creates risk or danger to others of the University community, including but not limited to
propping doors, throwing objects from windows or balconies, failure to keep one's room in a condition
which is safe and sanitary, or failure to maintain reasonable standards of cleanliness and safety as
defined by the University.
Identification
Failure to carry or present a valid University student identification card (when possession is in reason)
while on the University property to a requesting University official.
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Illegal Book Sales
Sale or return of books that do not belong to the student.
Illegal/Unauthorized Entry
Entering or using University facilities or property owned by or in the custody or control of the
University, for an improper purpose, or without proper authorization, or assisting others in doing so.
Indecent and Unbecoming Behavior
Conduct which is disorderly, lewd, indecent and/or portrayed negatively on University-owned or
controlled property, while present at a University sponsored or a supervised event, or while
representing the University. Any act that reflects negatively or tarnishes the brand of
Bethune-Cookman University.
Ineligible Pledging or Association
Pledging or associating with a student organization without having met eligibility requirements
established by Bethune-Cookman University.
Intimate Partner/Relationship Violence
Violence or abuse by a person in an intimate or romantic relationship with another.
Intoxication
Appearing publicly, on University-owned or controlled property, or at any University sponsored or
supervised event or activity while intoxicated, or under the influence of alcohol or illicit drugs.
Intrusive Contact:
1. Assault
Assault may be committed without actually touching or striking, or doing bodily harm to
another person. Rather, an assault is any intentional, unlawful threat by word or act to do
violence to another person, coupled with an apparent ability to do so, and doing some act which
creates a well-founded fear in such other person that violence is imminent.
2. Battery
Battery occurs when a person actually and intentionally touches or strikes another person
against the will of that other person, or when a person intentionally causes bodily harm to
another person.
IT and Acceptable Use
Violating the Bethune-Cookman University Acceptable Use and Computing Policy
Misconduct
Any conduct, on or off campus, of such a nature as to be detrimental to the university. Causing any
condition that jeopardizes the safety and security of property, individuals or groups of individuals.
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Misuse of Electronic or Social Media
Engaging in inappropriate or irresponsible conduct using any B-CU affiliated web page, email, or any
social media resource, including personal accounts. This includes bullying, harassing, taunting or
using derogatory language to and/or from any enrolled student at B-CU through any social media site,
whether B-CU affiliated or not.
Motor Vehicle, Traffic, Parking
Violations of properly constituted rules and regulations governing the use of motor vehicles
(automobiles, motorcycles, etc.) on University-owned or University-controlled property or at
University-sponsored or supervised activities.
Nuisance with Noise
Making a controllable noise of any kind that is loud enough to disturb members of the University
community.
Passive Participation
The silent agreement, active support and/or consent to perform an act that is against Federal, State, or
Local Laws, the Student Honor Code, Campus Safety Rules, or any rules or regulations of the
University.
Perjury/Lying/Impeding the Student Disciplinary Process
The willful giving of false testimony or misrepresenting statements during the student disciplinary
process (including the investigation (not unless they are sworn and hearing). Failure to cooperate
during the investigation and hearing.
Progressive Discipline
When a student is already on disciplinary probation or suspension for violation of policy and he/she
commits another violation of the Student Code of Conduct, federal, state or local law, he/she may be
fined, suspended or expelled without an administrative hearing.
Public Exposure/Lewd or Lascivious Behavior
Includes deliberately and publicly exposing ones, or someone else's, intimate body parts, public
urination, defecation, and public sex acts.
Rape
Having carnal knowledge of forced sex against the will of another; sex with an underage individual(s);
fondling or penetration of sexual organs.
Repeat Violations
Repeated violations of published rules and regulations of the University, which cumulatively indicate
an unwillingness or inability to conform to the standards of the University.
Representation without Consent
The representing of University or any University organization or chartered group without the prior and
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explicit consent of the officials of that group. This includes joining a suspended organization or
attempting to join an organization through improper membership procedures.
Retaliation
Actions intended as retaliation, reprisal, or intimidation against an individual for making a complaint
or participating in any way a report or investigation.
Sanction Violation
Failure to comply with disciplinary sanctions imposed by a sanctioned judicial body or judicial
administrator of the University.
Sexual Assault
The forcing of, or attempt to force another person, regardless of sexual gender or preference, to
participate in sexual intercourse and/or sexual activities, to include verbal coercion, threats, bullying,
and physical restraint. This term encompasses sexual assault and all other incidents of “criminal sexual
conduct” as defined by the Florida Statutes.
Sexual Battery
Making physical contact with the intimate parts of another person's body without the explicit and clear
consent of that person.
Sexual Exploitation
Non-consensual, unjust or abusive sexual exploitation or advantage of another person.
Sexual Harassment
Unwelcomed sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal, non-verbal or physical
conduct of a sexual nature.
Sexual Violence
Physical sexual acts perpetrated against a person's will or where a person is incapable of giving
consent because of drug or alcohol use or intellectual capacity, or other disability.
Smoking
The inhalation of smoke or vapors within university owned or University-controlled property.
Solicitation
Unauthorized selling, the collection of monies, and promotion on campus or within university
buildings. Students may not solicit on behalf of the University without explicit permission from the
Dean of Students.
Stalking/Cyberstalking
Stalking is defined as willfully, maliciously and repeatedly following or harassing or cyber-stalking
another person. “Cyberstalking” means engaging in a course of conduct to communicate or to cause to
be communicated, words, images, or language by or through the use of social networking sites,
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electronic mail, or electronic communication, directed at a specific person, causing substantial
emotional distress to that person and serving no legitimate purpose.
Tampering of Safety Controls, Devices, Processes, and Equipment
Removal, tampering, extinguishing, covering, or insensible adjustment of any safety device or control
on
University-owned or University- controlled property. This includes calling false alarms of fire, bomb
threats, improper purposing of fire extinguishers, sprinkler heads, hoses, systems, safety apps, exit
signs, smoke alarms and detectors, strobe lights, or any other measure placed to protect life and
property. Impeding with safety drills, actual safety procedures, or failure to comply with safety
instructions is also prohibited.
Terroristic Threats/Acts
Threatening to commit any crime of violence or the release of hazardous substances.
Theft
Theft or attempted theft of the property or services of the University, any organization, or any
individual by means of taking, selling, deceiving, misappropriating, misusing, as well as receiving and
or possessing stolen property, or property that does not belong to the possessor of such property or
service.
Threats/Threatening Behavior
Any direct or implied physical, written, or verbal conduct that causes a reasonable fear of physical
harm to any person or damage to any property or that was intended to cause such fear, regardless of
whether the student has the actual intention or ability to carry out any threatened action(s), or whether
the threat is made on a present, conditional, or future basis.
Trademark
Unauthorized use (including misuse) of Bethune- Cookman University or organization names and
images.
Trespass
Unauthorized presence on or within any University- owned or University-controlled property,
sponsored or supervised events of the University, or the unauthorized entry into or remaining within a
facility, private room or office under the control of another, after having been asked to leave.
Intentionally damaging any property of another without the consent of the owner, or maliciously
interfering with the possession or use of the property of another person without the consent of that
person.
Trust
Violations of positions of trust within the community (both elected positions and those established
through employment).
Unauthorized Entry or Use of University Facilities
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Unauthorized use of equipment, occupancy of, or unauthorized entry into University facilities.
Unlawful Conduct
Conduct deemed are by the criminal statutes of the State of Florida or the United States of America
and/or conduct that endangers or threatens the security of the University community.
Visitation
Failure to comply with published and stated visitation policies for campus residential facilities.
Weapons
Possessing, using, storing, transporting, passing or aiding in the use of firearms, knives, explosives,
fireworks, chemicals, ammunition or any item that anyone of reasonable sensibilities would consider
to have the possibility of doing bodily harm.
Wheeled Devices
Skateboards, roller blades, roller skates, bicycles and similar wheeled/personal transportation devices
are not permitted to be used/worn/ridden inside university buildings, residence halls or on other
applicable surfaces that present damage or danger. Additionally, skateboards and other wheeled items
may not be ridden on railings, curbs, benches, or any such fixtures that may be damaged by these
activities, and individuals may be liable for damage to Bethune-Cookman University property caused
by these activities. Hoverboards are not permitted on campus. Individuals navigating campus through
these or similar devices must yield to pedestrian traffic and follow all traffic rules.
Let's Go Wildcats!
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