Topics

More

Penn State Updates Student Code Of Conduct Bias, Harassment Language

Penn State’s Student Code of Conduct has now been updated to reflect the task force recommendations, the university announced Wednesday.

The task force shared preliminary recommendations in mid-September that aim to create a more equitable and inclusive Student Code of Conduct.

“Acts of bias” language is now included in the code, meaning any discriminatory bias or behavior is prohibited by the university and does not align with its values. “Discriminatory harassment” is also now its own separate, categorical conduct violation.

One major change to the Code of Conduct is it now includes off-campus matters that may harm or impact students under Penn State’s jurisdiction. This means that any instances that affect a student’s physical or mental health that take place off-campus are now subject to review by the Office of Student Conduct.

Additionally, the code will now require the Office of Student Conduct to be more transparent in its reporting process, meaning the office needs to publish the number of conduct violations, conduct case outcomes, and incidents that resulted in the use of restorative justice practices.

The first annual report on these matters is expected to be released in Summer 2021.

Penn State will also create new Code of Conduct curriculum materials for students to complete upon arriving at the university.

Danny Shaha, assistant vice president for Student Affairs, discussed the progress the office has made over the past few months as changes have already been made.

Shaha said the majority of staff in the Student Conduct and Sexual Misconduct Prevention & Response offices received training in restorative justice processes this summer. He saaid the training is still underway for students, faculty, and staff.

“Student Affairs has started the process of implementing these critical changes and will continue to build on the task force’s important work over the spring semester,” Shaha said. “The University is committed to fostering an environment where all students are heard and can thrive.”

Your ad blocker is on.

Please choose an option below.

Sign up for our e-mail newsletter:
OR
Support quality journalism:
Purchase a Subscription!

About the Author

Ryen Gailey

Ryen is a senior early childhood education major from "right outside of Philly" - or in exact words, from 23.0 miles outside of Philly. She loves all things Penn State and has been a huge Penn State gal since before she could walk. Send her pictures of puppies, or hate mail at [email protected]

Gameday Coverage: No. 3 Penn State vs. No. 4 Ohio State

The biggest game of the season is finally here.

Four-Star Guard Kayden Mingo Commits To Penn State Hoops

Mingo is the third commit in the class of 2025 for the Nittany Lions.

Penn State Football Secondary Preparing For Talented Ohio State Receivers

“We’ve got to step up to the challenge. That’s what we’re here for, and that’s what we’re going to do.”

113kFollowers
164kFollowers
61.3kFollowers
4,570Subscribers
Sign up for our Newsletter
Other posts by Ryen

A Letter To Your Teacher On The Last Day Of School: Ryen Gailey’s Senior Column

“Whatever comes next, I just hope it brings me a fraction of the joy I’ve experienced in the last four years. After all, life is better off with a smile when you’re dancing like nobody’s watching.”

Trustee Candidate Barbara Doran Seeks To Help Penn State ‘Soar To New Heights’

Penn State To Host Class Of 2020 Commencement Weekend Events Starting April 29