Rights of a Student Accused of Policy Violations

In keeping with the mission and values of Keene State College, all hearings shall be fair and reasonable and afford students the important rights identified below in addition to the right of privacy and the right to protection from discrimination.

Right to adequate and timely notice of charges. A student or student organization is entitled to prompt notification of the charges. This notification will take place via an e-mail being sent to the student’s College-issued e-mail account. Other than at the beginning of, the end of, and during summer sessions, or as deemed necessary by the Dispute Resolution Coordinator, students will be notified of this information at least two days before the hearing is to occur.

Right to be presumed not responsible. A student or student organization facing charges is presumed not responsible until found responsible by a preponderance of evidence. Charges filed against a student or a student organization are based on the information contain in the complaint. The Hearing Officer or College Hearing Board is required to hear all the available information before rendering a decision.

Right to present and examine evidence or witnesses. A student or student organization shall be given the opportunity to appear, provide information, and present evidence and witnesses at the hearing. A student or student organization has the right to hear all evidence presented against them, whether it comes in the form of a direct testimony or as written or recorded statements.

Right to remain silent. A student or student organization against facing charges may choose not to testify in their own behalf. A decision will still be rendered based on the information that is presented at the hearing. Right to an advisor. A student or student organization facing charges has the right to have an advisor of his or her own choosing at his or her own expense. This may be any person, whether or not they are associated with the College.

Right to timely notice of findings. A student or student organization has the right to receive prompt notification of the results. Within 15 business days, an outcome letter will be sent to the student’s College-issued e-mail account.

Right to appeal. A student or student organization found responsible can choose to appeal the decision. While an appeal is pending, the sanctions issued shall not be imposed except in extraordinary circumstances. Please refer to the Appeals section of the Student Code of Conduct and College Discipline System for a complete explanation of the appeal process.