Definitions

2. Definitions

2.1 Student

For purposes of this Code, a student is any person who is enrolled at Central Michigan University, either full-time or part-time, pursuing undergraduate, graduate, professional, certificate, or non-degree studies.

Individuals who have been admitted to the University and participate in University-sponsored activities or programs prior to enrollment and/or are intended only for prospective students, including orientation, leadership programs, athletic activities, band, camps, training, or practices, are also considered students under this Code.

A person who has been enrolled and has not officially withdrawn from the University may continue to be considered a student even if they are not enrolled during a particular academic term.

2.2 Student Organization

As defined by the Stop Campus Hazing Act of 2024, a student organization is any organization at the University, including but not limited to a club, society, association, fraternity, sorority, varsity or club sports team, band, student government organization, or other group, in which two or more members are students enrolled at Central Michigan University, whether or not the organization is formally recognized or registered by the University.

2.3 Advisor

An advisor is a person selected by a complainant or respondent to provide support, guidance, or assistance during the conduct process. An advisor may include, but is not limited to, a faculty member, staff member, student, family member, friend, advocate, support person, or attorney.

Advisors may assist and support the individual throughout the conduct process consistent with the procedures outlined in this Code.

2.4 Complainant

The university employee, faculty or staff member, student, student organization, law enforcement official, or community member who submits a report alleging behavior that may constitute a violation under this Code.

2.5 Interim Measures

Interim measures are temporary administrative actions implemented by the University to protect the health, safety, well-being, rights, or educational environment of individuals or the University community while a report, investigation, or conduct process is pending.

Interim measures are intended to mitigate the effects of alleged misconduct, be supportive, and/or preventative in nature. The University may implement interim measures when it determines such actions are reasonably necessary to:

• Protect the safety or well-being of individuals or the community
• Prevent disruption to the educational environment or University operations
• Maintain the integrity of the conduct process
• Prevent retaliation, intimidation, harassment, or further alleged misconduct
• Support the needs of involved individuals during the resolution process
  

2.6 Online Environment

Any digital platform, communication tool, or virtual environment used for academic, social, or University-related purposes, including, but not limited to, learning management systems, email, video conferencing platforms, messaging applications, and social media.

2.7 Respondent

A student and/or student organization that has been accused of violating University regulations, policies, and/or this Code.

2.8 Temporary Suspension

A temporary suspension temporarily removes a student from the University community if, in the judgment of the President of the University or the President's representative, a student's presence would constitute a continuing danger to the student, other persons or property, or that the operation of the University would be seriously impaired.

2.9 University Hearing Officer

A University Hearing Officer is a trained University faculty or staff member, designated by the University to hear conduct matters, review relevant information, determine whether a violation of University policy occurred, and assign outcomes when appropriate.

Hearing officers are appointed by the President or the President’s designee. The Hearing Officer operates in accordance with the procedures and standards outlined in this Code.

2.10 University Hearing Board

A University Hearing Board is a trained panel designated by the University to hear conduct matters, review relevant information, determine whether a violation of University policy occurred, and assign outcomes when appropriate.

The University Hearing Board consists of trained University faculty and/or staff members and trained student representatives selected by the University. The Hearing Board operates in accordance with the procedures and standards outlined in this Code.