The high quality of education at Kennesaw State University is reflected in the credits and degrees its students earn. The protection of these high standards is crucial since the validity and equity of the University's grades and degrees depend upon it. Any student found to have violated any KSU academic honesty regulation after a hearing before a University court panel or before the Vice President for Student Success and Enrollment Services (or his/her designee) shall be suspended for at least one semester, unless the student persuades the deciding body that the circumstances of his or her behavior substantially mitigate the gravity of the violation. These regulations are designed to assist students in (1) developing appropriate attitudes about, and (2) understanding and following the university’s standards relating to academic honesty. The regulations protect students by helping them avoid committing infractions that may compromise the completion of their KSU degrees or damage their reputations.

A. Plagiarism and Cheating

No student shall receive, attempt to receive, knowingly give or attempt to give unauthorized assistance in the preparation of any work required to be submitted for credit as part of a course (including examinations, laboratory reports, essays, themes, term papers, etc.). When direct quotations are used, they should be indicated, and when the ideas, theories, data, figures, graphs, programs, electronic based information or illustrations of someone other than the student are incorporated into a paper or used in a project, they should be duly acknowledged.

B. Unauthorized Access to Official University Materials

No student shall take or attempt to take, steal or in any unauthorized manner otherwise procure, gain access to, alter or destroy any material pertaining to the conduct of a class (including tests, examinations, grade change forms, grade rolls, roll books, laboratory equipment, University grade records in written or computerized form, etc.).

C. Misrepresentation, Falsification of University Records or Academic Work
 
No student shall knowingly provide false information in completing University forms or applications (including admissions forms, scholarship applications, time sheets, use of false or counterfeit transcripts, etc.) or in any work submitted for credit as part of a course.

D. Malicious Removal, Retention, or Destruction of Library Materials
 
No student shall misplace, take, destroy or attempt to misplace, take or destroy any item or part of an item belonging to or in the protection of the University library with the intention of bringing about an undue disadvantage in the classroom work of other Kennesaw State University students.

E. Malicious/Intentional Misuse of Computer Facilities and/or Services
 
The malicious or intentional misuse of computer facilities and services is prohibited. Violation of state and federal laws (including copyright violations, unauthorized access to systems, alteration/damage/destruction, or attempted alteration/damage/destruction, use for profit, etc.) or a department's rules for computer usage (including account violations, damage, or destruction of the system and/or its performance, unauthorized copying of electronic information, use of threatening or obscene language, etc.) is prohibited.
 
F. Student Identification Cards

(1) Lending, selling, or otherwise transferring a student identification card is prohibited, as is the use of an identification card by anyone other than its original owner.
(2) No student shall obtain under false pretenses any additional student identification cards.
(3) A student must present proper credentials to properly identified University faculty and staff upon their request while these persons are in the performance of their duties.

G. Revisions of Academic Honesty Regulations

Any student, faculty member or administrator can initiate any revision of, additions to and deletions from these Academic Honesty Conduct Regulations. Recommendations shall be submitted to the Vice President for Student Success and Enrollment Services. The Vice President, in consultation with appropriate parties, shall ensure discussion on the proposed change. When all parties have had an opportunity to comment on the proposal, the Vice President shall forward all recommendations to the University Senate. The Senate, in turn, shall send its recommendations with comments to the Kennesaw State University President and cabinet.

It is the purpose of the institution to provide a campus environment which encourages academic accomplishment, personal growth, and a spirit of understanding and cooperation. An important part of maintaining such an environment is the commitment to protect the health and safety of every member of the campus community. Belligerent, abusive, profane, threatening and/or inappropriate behavior on the part of students is a violation of the Kennesaw State University Student Conduct Regulations. Students who are found responsible for such misconduct may be subject to immediate dismissal from the institution. In addition, university disciplinary proceedings may be instituted against a student charged with a violation of a law which is also a violation of this student code without regard to the pendency of civil litigation in court or criminal arrest and prosecution. Proceedings under this student code of conduct may be carried out prior to, simultaneously with, or following civil or criminal proceedings off-campus.

A. Disorderly Assembly

No students shall assemble on the campus for the purpose of creating a riot, or destructive or disorderly diversion, or obstructing or disrupting the normal operation of the university, including any teaching, administrative, disciplinary or public service activity, or any other activity authorized to take place on the campus.
 

B. Disruptive and Dangerous Conduct
No student shall act in a manner that can reasonably be expected to disturb the academic pursuits of others or infringe upon the privacy, rights, or privileges of others, or the health or safety of him/herself or other persons.

C. Disruptive Speech

That speech is prohibited which: a) presents an immediate or imminent clear and present danger, b) is disruptive to the academic functioning of the institution, or c) constitutes a threat against an individual(s) such that it would provoke that individual(s) to imminent violent reaction.

D. Physical Attack

Physical attack on or in University property or at functions sponsored by the University or any registered University organization is prohibited.

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E. Sexual Harassment/Assault

No student shall subject another person to unwelcome sexual overtures or conduct, either verbal or physical.

F.  Theft or Damage of Personal Property

No student shall take, sell or attempt to take or sell, damage or destroy any items belonging to students, faculty, staff, guests of the University, or student groups without proper authorization. Nor shall any student make or attempt to make unauthorized use of the property of any other person or organization while on the KSU campus.  Sale of a textbook or other item that is not one's own will be regarded as prima facie evidence of theft.  Items should be turned in to a Lost and Found area.

G. Theft or Damage to University Property

The taking of or malicious, unwarranted, or irresponsible destruction or damaging of  items of University property (including library items), items rented, leased, or placed on the campus at the request of the institution, or items belonging to the students, faculty, staff, guests of the University, or student groups or organizations is prohibited.

H. Possession of Weapons or Fireworks

Students are prohibited from possessing fireworks, firearms or other weapons on University property or at University sponsored events, except with the specific permission of the Department of Campus Safety and Security.  Peace officers recognized by the State of Georgia are exempt from this firearms regulation.

I. Unauthorized Entry or Use of University Facilities

No student shall make or attempt to make unauthorized entry or use of any University building or facility including electronic data processing systems or personal electronic accounts/files. Upon appropriate notice by University officials, authorization for the use of University facilities can be withdrawn or otherwise restricted. The malicious or intentional misuse of computer facilities and services is prohibited. Violations of state and federal laws (including copyright violations, unauthorized access or systems, alteration/damage/destruction, or attempted alteration/damage/destruction, use for profit, etc.) or a department's rules for computer usage (including account violations, damage or destruction of the system and/or its performance, unauthorized copying of electronic information, use of threatening of obscene language, etc.) are prohibited.

J. Fire Safety and False Alarms

1. No student shall tamper with fire safety equipment.
2. No student shall set or cause to be set any unauthorized fire in or on University property.
3. No student shall make, or cause to be made, a false fire alarm or a false notification of the presence of a bomb.
4. All occupants of a building must leave the building when the fire alarm sounds or when directed to leave by properly identified University faculty or staff while these persons are in the performance of their duties.

K. Littering and Sanitation

1. No student shall dispose of trash and refuse of any kind except in proper trash receptacles.
2. Food and drink are prohibited in designated areas of the University, including classrooms.
3. No student shall in any way dispose of tobacco products in trash receptacles in or on University property.

L. Kennesaw State University Is a Smoke-Free Environment.
Smoking is prohibited on the KSU campus except in areas specifically designated for smoking.

M. Gambling Is Strictly Prohibited.

N. Raffles

Raffles may be held by student organizations. Raffles will be treated as any other fund-raising activity and will be subject to fund-raising guidelines.

O. Advertising, Selling and Fundraising

No student or group of students acting in a representational capacity for Kennesaw State University shall carry out any form of sales (including bartering) or fundraising events, or advertise sales or fundraising events, without the authorization of the University President or a designated representative of the University President.

P. Campus Elections

No student shall carry out fraudulent and/or disruptive activity in connection with any election, referendum or poll conducted on the University campus.

Q. Shared Responsibility

Persons who knowingly act in concert to violate University regulations may be given joint responsibility for such violation.  Students are responsible for their conduct on or in University property or at functions sponsored by the University or any registered University organization.

R. Residential Code of Conduct

A violation of the residential code of conduct is also a violation of this student code of conduct.

As a resident at Kennesaw State University, you assume an obligation to conduct yourself in a manner compatible with the institute's function as an educational institution. This residential code of conduct defines the institution's expectations of all residents.  Any violations of these codes of conduct will be reported to the Coordinator of Residence Life (CRL) and the Director of Residence Life. Jurisdiction of these violations shall be held by the Judiciary Program's office and the Vice President for Student Success and Enrollment Services or his/her designated representative, and handled in the manner stipulated for non-academic grievances. All Kennesaw State University residents shall abide by the following rules and regulations:

1. Alcohol

Students who are of legal drinking age (21) may possess and consume alcoholic beverages in designated communities, but only as a private activity in private living areas (i.e., room and/or apartment). Students are legally responsible for their actions in all mental and physical conditions including those induced by alcoholic beverages. Kennesaw State University also prohibits:
a. The use or possession of alcohol by anyone under the legal drinking age of 21;
b. The transport and/or consumption of alcohol in open containers in any public area including any property that surrounds an apartment and is considered housing property;
c. The manufacture or selling of alcohol;
d. Failure to abide by the institution's policy on student organization use of alcohol;
e. Public intoxication;
f. Common containers of alcohol (kegs, party balls, trash cans, funnels, beer hats, etc.) are not permitted. Beverages must be used in individual containers;
g. Guests and/or visitors consuming or possessing alcohol in the room of a host (resident) under the age of 21;
h. Alcohol not being clearly consumed by those 21-years of age or older in a room shared by students over and under 21 years of age;
i. The use or possession of alcohol by any resident or guest, regardless of age, in a substance-free community.
j. Being present where an alcohol violation is occurring, regardless of whether the resident/guest is using or possessing alcohol.

2. Drugs

Kennesaw State University prohibits:
a. Selling, possessing or using any substance currently classified as a dangerous drug by the Georgia Controlled Substance Act or classified as illegal by state or federal law; and
b. Possession of drugs that may be used to incapacitate other individuals;
c. Possession and/or use of drug paraphernalia;
d. Being present where a drug-related violation is occurring, regardless of whether the resident/guest is using or possessing drugs.

3. Weapons

Kennesaw State University and Housing regulations prohibit the use of any weapon that can cause bodily harm either to the bearer or another individual. In unclear cases of definition, the context in which a particular object was used will determine whether it is a weapon.

4. Pets

The University does not permit students to have pets in the residential facilities. This includes pets belonging to outside guests. Animals trained to assist the disabled and/or handicapped shall be permitted.  (See Pets/Animals under KSU Rules and Regulations)

5. Smoking

Smoking is prohibited in all residents' rooms. A resident may smoke on the balcony if agreed upon by all residents of the room. Students may also smoke in designated smoking areas within the residential communities.

6. Cooperation

Residents and guests are expected to cooperate with all reasonable requests made by members of the community, both on-campus and in the surrounding neighborhood.  Likewise, residents must comply with all reasonable requests of any person acting in an official capacity as a representative of the university, including, but not limited to, Residence Life staff (including RAs), campus police, faculty, and property management staff.  Cooperation includes, but is not limited to, participating in required residential activities (i.e., mandatory meetings, judicial hearings, learning communities, rules, payment of rent/fees, etc.).

7. General Safety and Well-Being

Residents are expected to take responsibility for the overall general safety and well-being of themselves individually and the residential community as a collective.  Engaging in any behavior that impedes the general safety and/or well-being of self and/or others is prohibited.  This may include, but is not limited to; causing physical or psychological harm to oneself and/or others; creating an unsafe environment by leaving doors unsecured, particularly common use doors; failing to notify the appropriate authorities when knowledge exists of a situation that may impede the general safety and/or well-being of individuals and/or the community.

8. Fire Safety

Tampering with, vandalizing or misusing fire safety equipment is prohibited and constitutes reasons for eviction from the apartments and possible suspension or expulsion from the University. Fire safety equipment includes, but is not limited to, alarms, extinguishers, smoke detectors, door closures, alarmed doors, and sprinklers. Failure to evacuate during a safety drill will result in disciplinary action. Items that are flammable such as fuel, etc., may not be stored in a resident's room or apartment. Items that require an open flame to operate or which produce heat (i.e., Bunsen burners, lit candles, alcohol burners, grills) are not allowed in resident's rooms. Residents must further agree to abide by the safety regulations as stipulated in the Housing Safety Regulations (located in this handbook).

9. Noise

All students are expected to respect the rights of others by refraining from making loud noises or causing other disturbances that interfere with study or sleep.
a. All residents are expected to respect 24-hour courtesy hours. If a student makes a reasonable request of another student to be less noisy, that student should comply. No noise should be heard outside of a student room;
b. Quiet Hours will apply to noise regulation in the public areas of the residential communities. Quiet Hours will be voted on by the Residence Hall Councils. Until this occurs, residence-wide Quiet hours will be in effect. Quiet Hours are 10pm until 10am Sunday through Thursday and 12am to 10am Friday and Saturday;
c. During exam periods, quiet hours will be extended to 24 hours. This regulation also applies to areas surrounding the apartments, apartment communities, and public areas; and
d. In the event that a group makes a disturbance (e.g., game playing, watching TV or yelling loudly), staff may request violators to leave immediately.

10. Residential Guests and Visitation

Students may allow guests (those of the same or opposite sex) to visit their room/apartments with agreement from the other residents in their room/apartment. Students are expected to accompany their guests at all times and accept responsibility for their behavior. At no time should any resident provide entrance to their room to someone who is not their guest, or provide access to a guest who is unaccompanied by the resident (e.g., lending/copying a key or access card). Hall councils and roommates may develop rules that are supplementary to but not in conflict with the established guidelines. In order to facilitate safety and privacy, the following behaviors are prohibited:
a. Use of the bedroom or bathroom of another resident without his or her prior consent;
b. Guests (including other KSU students) staying in a resident's room more than three nights within a seven day period, staying in a resident’s room on a frequent basis, or cohabitating in any room/apartment; and
c. Proceeding or allowing guests to proceed through the residential facilities unescorted.
Visitation privileges may be revoked for individuals or groups who violate the visitation policies.

11. Collective Liability

Residents are responsible for the condition of their rooms and any shared spaces. While the University will strive to attribute damage and vandalism charges to the individuals responsible, when it cannot do so, all members of an apartment or building may be charged equally for any damages. Affected residents should provide information to housing staff to assign these charges to the individual(s) responsible. There are no appeals of a Collective Liability charge.

12. Enforcement and Grievances

Any complaints or grievances should be directed to the respective residence hall staff member. If the staff member cannot rectify the situation, then the matter shall be referred to appropriate members of the Kennesaw State University Administration. Upon the recommendation and referral by the CRL or the Director of Residence Life, the Judiciary Committee shall handle all matters arising from this code as any non-academic violation.

13. Modifications and Revisions

Any modifications or revisions to these residential codes of conduct shall be submitted to the Kennesaw State University Residence Hall Association (KSURHA). After discussion and approval, the KSURHA shall forward its recommendations to the CRL, the Director of Residence Life, the Director of Judiciary Programs, President of the Student Government, and the Chair of the University Senate. Upon his/her approval, the Director of Residence Life shall forward the recommendation to the Vice President for Student Success and Enrollment Services. The Vice President, after deliberation, may forward the recommendation to the University President.

14. Warnings and Documented Incidents

As circumstances warrant, authorized Residence Life and/or Judiciary Programs staff may issue warnings to students for behaviors of concern, and violations of housing rules and regulations, even if such behaviors do not constitute a violation of this code. These warnings and/or documented incidents will be recorded within the student’s judiciary file.

A. Financial Responsibility

B. Use of Student Activities Funds

To use student activities funds, student organizations must follow guidelines set by the institution.

Use and/or possession of drugs (controlled substances) are prohibited.

A. Kennesaw State University expressly prohibits the use, possession, sale or distribution of alcoholic beverages on campus by any campus constituency. Alcoholic beverages may be served at off-campus activities to adults of legal drinking age for the state in which the activity is being held, providing that a responsible organization representative acknowledges responsibility for monitoring alcohol consumption. Student activity funds or institutional funds may not be used for the purchase of alcoholic beverages. Kennesaw State University is committed to recognizing, upholding and enforcing the laws of the State of Georgia. Violation of those state laws shall not be condoned on the campus or at any activity held off campus by any constituency. Exceptions to the policy of no alcohol on campus may from time to time be permitted at the discretion of the president, and there are other limited exceptions to this policy within the residence halls by those over the age of 21. See section I of the residential code of conduct.

B. All student organizations must submit an "Acknowledgment of Alcohol Policy" form to the Vice President for Student Success and Enrollment Services during the first week of classes each fall semester and each time there is a change in either the president or advisor of the organization. By their signatures, the president and advisor are assuring Kennesaw State University that they and the individuals responsible for the group's social events understand the Kennesaw State University Alcohol Policy and state laws regarding the service and consumption of alcoholic beverages.

C. Alcoholic beverages will be allowed only for functions at which alcohol is not the focal point, reason for, or the "drawing card" for the event. Organizations choosing to advertise the service of alcoholic beverages at functions will not make reference to the quantity of or overindulgence in alcoholic beverages. Reference will also be made to serving of food and alternative beverages, and the checking of driver's licenses.
 
D. Any activity (especially those competitive in nature) contributing to the overindulgence of alcohol is, by these guidelines, prohibited.

E.  Any violation of this policy at any organization activity shall be reported to the Vice President for Student Success and Enrollment Services by the designated monitor(s) verbally with 24 hours of returning to campus and followed by a written report within three working days. The Kennesaw State University Police shall report any violation of this policy, whether at an activity or on an individual basis, to the Vice President for Student Success and Enrollment Services, who shall then be responsible for disciplinary action according to established University non-academic disciplinary procedures. Possible sanctions shall be the same as those for other violations of nonacademic University rules and regulations as provided for in the University Student Code of Conduct.

A. Students involved in off-campus activities shall not act in a disorderly or disruptive fashion, nor shall they conduct any dangerous activity.

B. Students involved in off-campus activities shall not take, damage of destroy or attempt to take, damage or destroy property of another.

C. Use and possession of Drugs, including alcohol: Use and/or possession of drugs (controlled substances) is prohibited. Alcohol regulations appear in Section V of this code.