2.7.1.1 : Personal Growth Initiative

To encourage and promote personal responsibility for one’s behavior, the university will not seek formal institutional disciplinary action against a student who has violated community standards if they voluntarily seek assistance. Voluntarily means, that the student makes their desire for help known to a Community Life Officer (this includes RD’s), Dean of Students, or Director of Community Standards prior to the beginning of formal proceedings, (exceptions: when behavior is repetitive, self-destructive, hazardous to others, or is a significant civil or legal issue).

To initiate the Personal Growth Initiative, the student must approach a Community Life staff person expressing a desire to repent and change. The staff member, in cooperation with a student’s respective Coordinator for Residence Education or faculty advisor will develop a collaborative plan which establishes the student’s intent to change, including actions, steps and accountability procedures. Formal disciplinary procedures shall be suspended if the student adheres to the plan.

A Personal Growth Initiative Plan set up jointly by the student and a designated Community Life staff member, designed to restore desired behavior will be established. If, however, the student does not carry out the plan or no longer desires to change, the student shall be subject to formal disciplinary action through established institutional disciplinary procedures. The staff person who agrees to work with the student shall hold him/her accountable for adhering to the Personal Growth Initiative Plan.

A Personal Growth Initiative (PGI) will be established to help students respond in a way to promote maximum growth. It may include all or any of the following:

·      A mentor relationship with a faculty member

·      Community service

·      Counseling

·      Volunteer service

·      Accountability procedures

·      Contact with the Dean of Students, or senior Community Life Officer