The Office of Student Conduct & Off-Campus Services works to address a wide range of reports involving individual students and Recognized Student Organizations in ways that are fair, transparent, and educational. Based on the nature of the report and the information available, our office determines which resolution options are available. These options may include a investigative student conduct process, alternative resolution, and/or educational and supportive options, all of which are designed to promote learning, accountability, and community well-being.
Investigative Student Conduct Process
If information presented in an Incident Report suggests a possible violation of the Student Code of Conduct and/or Recognized Student Organization Privileges & Responsibilities occurred, Student Conduct staff will determine if an investigation needs to take place OR what charges or Violations of Expectations of Student Conduct, are most appropriate. Outreach for appropriate parties outlining next steps will be emailed from the TCNJ Advocate System. Primary communication for RSOs occur with the designated President, Director, or Captain of the organization.
More Information about Student Conduct Process – For Individuals More Information About RSO Conduct Processes
Alternative Resolution
To adequately address reports of behavior that may violate 03. Personal Abuse under the Student Conduct Code, an alternative process may be utilized. Rooted in Restorative Justice practices, alternative resolution is a voluntary process that allows a Respondent in a student conduct matter to accept responsibility for the behavior they engaged in that may have caused Harm to the Reporter. By fully participating in this process the Respondent will not be charged with a violation of College policy.
More Information About Alternative Resolution
Educational and Supportive Options
Educational and Supportive Options are used when the College has determined that education, guidance, and support are the most appropriate way to address the concern. These options focus on learning, reflection, and connection to campus resources rather than disciplinary action. Depending on the situation, students or student organizations may be asked to participate in conversations, complete educational requirements, or receive guidance from the College. In many cases, these options do not result in formal conduct charges. However, repeated behavior or failure to complete assigned requirements may result in further action through the Student Conduct Process.
Admonishment
Students or Student Organizations are issued a warning letter that advises the College was notified of behavior, but is not taking action at that time. Repetition of the behavior may result in charges. Some examples of when an Admonishment is appropriate would be for minor off-campus noise concerns, off-campus trash accumulation, or prohibited items.
Amnesty for Alcohol or Drugs
If an incident qualifies for Amnesty, students or RSO leadership will meet with an administrator and receive educational requirements for themselves or their organization These incidents do not result in disciplinary history if all educational requirements are fulfilled.
More Information About Amnesty
Educational Conversation or Residential Educational Conversation
Educational Conversations (EC) are utilized to have conversations with students who may have been in violation of Behavioral Expectations & Regulations or demonstrate concerning behavior that may arise to a policy violation in the future. Residential Educational Conversations (RECs) are utilized by professional Residential Education staff to address behavior occurring in the residence halls including those not in alignment with the Guide to Residence Living. While students may not be charged with violations of expectations of student conduct, failing to attend EC/REC meetings and/or fulfill educational requirements may result in 05. Compliance with Directives charges.
Reporter Follow Up and Resources
There may be times where a formal conduct process is not possible or appropriate, in which the Office of Student Conduct will share resources with a Reporter who was impacted for further support. If additional information is discovered or shared, the case can be reopened for further action. Some reasons where a Reporter follow-up may occur are:
-
- There is limited information allowing for a thorough investigation such as unknown Respondent, unknown location, etc.
- The reported information does not arise to a policy violation, but the Reporter was impacted.
- The Respondent is a non-TCNJ student who is not subject to TCNJ’s Student Conduct Code.
- The Reporter does not wish to pursue a conduct process at this time and there is limited information for follow-up.
Partnership Process
The Partnership Process is a voluntary, alternative resolution method for organizational misconduct, available only to referred Recognized Student Organizations at the discretion of the Office of Student Conduct in consultation with Student Life. It emphasizes collaborative dialogue on leadership, group dynamics, and decision-making to identify systemic issues and develop a formal action plan for improvement. Eligibility is limited to organizations not facing serious violations or recent sanctions. If the organization fulfills all expectations outlined in the agreement, no formal conduct charges or sanctions are issued. Failure to meet expectations will result in the case reverting to the formal conduct process.
More Information About Policies and Procedures
Student Code of Conduct RSO Privileges & Responsibilities Guide to Residence Living