As a member of the Fairmont State University community, each student is expected to
act with integrity, respect, and responsibility. The following behaviors are considered
violations of the Student Code of Conduct. This list is intended to illustrate the
types of actions that are prohibited — it is not exhaustive. The University reserves
the right to address any behavior, whether listed here or not, that undermines the
safety, integrity, or functioning of the campus community.
Violations of the Student Code of Conduct may result in disciplinary action as outlined
in this document.
A. Personal Integrity and Honesty
[5.A.1] Providing False or Misleading Information
Knowingly furnishing false, incomplete, or misleading information to any University
official, faculty member, or office. This includes statements made during conduct
meetings, on official documents, or in interactions with staff.
[5.A.2] Forgery or Misuse of Documents
Forging, altering, or misusing any University document, record, key, or ID card. This
includes falsifying medical notes, academic documentation, or any official correspondence.
[5.A.3] Unauthorized Use of University Services or Property
Using University services or facilities without proper authorization, including using
another person’s ID or access credentials. This also includes unauthorized use of
rooms, equipment, or resources.
[5.A.4] Misrepresentation of Identity or Affiliation
Falsely representing oneself as a University official, student leader, or organizational
member. This includes impersonating others or providing false credentials for personal
gain.
B. Academic Integrity
Academic integrity is a foundational principle of learning at Fairmont State University.
All students are expected to uphold standards of honesty and scholarly ethics, as
outlined in both this Code of Conduct and the Academic Integrity section of the University’s
Course Catalog.
[5.B.1] Plagiarism
Using someone else’s words, ideas, or academic work without proper citation or permission.
This includes submitting work completed by another individual or AI tools without
attribution, or copying material from sources without proper acknowledgement.
[5.B.2] Cheating
Using or attempting to use unauthorized materials, information, or assistance during
exams or assignments. This may include looking at another student’s work, using cheat
sheets, or unauthorized collaboration during assessments.
[5.B.3] Unauthorized Collaboration
Working with others on assignments or projects that are intended to be completed individually.
This includes receiving help from another student or using shared work without instructor
approval.
[5.B.4] Falsification of Academic Records
Fabricating, altering, or misrepresenting data or information in academic work, research,
or official University records. Examples include making up research data, changing
grades on a returned assignment, or altering transcripts.
C. Respect for Persons
[5.C.1] Physical Harm or Threat
Engaging in or threatening physical violence against another person. This includes
actions such as hitting, pushing, fighting, or any conduct intended to cause fear
of imminent harm.
[5.C.2] Harassment, Bullying, or Intimidation
Severe, persistent, or pervasive conduct that causes fear, distress, or harm to another
person. This can include verbal abuse, online harassment, or targeted intimidation
through gestures, messages, or social exclusion.
[5.C.3] Discrimination
Unjust or prejudicial treatment based on protected characteristics such as race, color,
religion, sex, national origin, disability, age, gender identity, or sexual orientation.
Discrimination may involve exclusion, denial of opportunities, or offensive remarks
that interfere with educational access.
[5.C.4] Stalking
Repeated, unwanted attention or contact that causes a reasonable person to feel threatened,
harassed, or fearful. This includes following someone, sending excessive messages,
or tracking their whereabouts without consent.
[5.C.5] Sexual Misconduct
Engaging in sexual activity without clear, voluntary, and affirmative consent, or
engaging in conduct that violates the University's policies on sexual harassment,
assault, or exploitation. This includes unwanted touching, coercive behavior, or sharing
intimate materials without consent.
D. Community Safety and Wellbeing
[5.D.1] Possession or Use of Weapons
Possessing , explosives, knives, or any object that can be construed as a weapon on
University property without explicit permission. This includes both real and replica
items that may cause alarm or potential harm.
[5.D.2] Fire Safety Violations
Tampering with fire alarms, smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, or other safety equipment;
or initiating a false fire alarm. Such behavior endangers the community and disrupts
emergency preparedness protocols.
[5.D.3] Dangerous Substances
Unauthorized possession, use, or disposal of hazardous materials or chemicals that
may pose a threat to others or the environment. This includes improper storage or
mishandling of cleaning agents, lab chemicals, or flammable items.
[5.D.4] Endangering Behavior
Engaging in behavior that puts others at risk of physical harm, illness, or significant
distress. This may include reckless driving on campus, failing to follow safety procedures,
or ignoring health guidelines during public health concerns.
E. Alcohol and Drug Violations
[5.E.1] Underage Possession or Use of Alcohol
Possessing or consuming alcoholic beverages while under the legal drinking age as
defined by state law. This includes being in the presence of underage drinking in
University housing or at student events.
[5.E.2] Public Intoxication or Disruptive Behavior
Being visibly intoxicated in a way that disturbs others, impairs functioning, or creates
a safety risk. This includes any behavior associated with alcohol or drug use that
results in University or emergency response involvement.
[5.E.3] Illegal Drug Activity
Possessing, using, distributing, manufacturing, or selling illegal substances or controlled
drugs without a valid prescription. This includes marijuana, even if legal off campus,
if prohibited under federal or University policy.
[5.E.4] Prescription Drug Misuse
Using prescription medications in a way not intended by the prescriber, or distributing
medications to others. Misuse includes taking someone else’s prescription or combining
prescriptions with other substances in unsafe ways.
[5.E.5] Driving Under the Influence
Operating a motor vehicle on or off campus while under the influence of alcohol, marijuana,
or any other substance that impairs the ability to drive safely. This behavior poses
serious risk to oneself and others.
F. Property and Facilities
[5.F.1] Theft
Taking property that does not belong to you without permission. This includes attempting
to take, possessing, or using lost, stolen, or mislaid property without making reasonable
efforts to return it.
[5.F.2] Vandalism
Damaging, defacing, or destroying University or personal property. This includes graffiti,
intentional breakage, or sabotage of equipment or spaces.
[5.F.3] Unauthorized Entry
Accessing restricted buildings, rooms, or areas without proper authorization. This
includes entering during closed hours, using another person’s access credentials,
or bypassing security measures.
[5.F.4] Misuse of University Resources
Using University equipment, services, or spaces for personal gain, unauthorized activities,
or in violation of policy. This may include unauthorized use of office supplies, copying
services, or technology assets.
G. Technology and Information
[5.G.1] Unauthorized Access
Gaining access to computer systems, networks, accounts, or data without appropriate
authorization. This includes using others' login credentials, bypassing security protocols,
accessing restricted systems, or engaging in unauthorized credential harvesting.
[5.G.2] Malicious Software
Creating, distributing, or using software designed to disrupt, damage, or gain unauthorized
access to systems. This includes viruses, malware, spyware, or hacking tools.
[5.G.3] Cyberbullying
Using electronic communication to harass, intimidate, or threaten another individual.
This includes sending harmful or unwanted messages, doxing, impersonation, or stalking
online.
[5.G.4] IT Policy Violations
Violating any part of the University’s Information Technology policies, including
acceptable use, email guidelines, and device management protocols. Misuse may include
excessive non-academic use of resources, data privacy breaches, or network abuse.
[5.G.5] Responsible Use of Emerging Technologies
Misusing artificial intelligence, deepfakes, or other emerging technologies in ways
that violate academic integrity, privacy, or ethical standards.
[5.G.6] Social Engineering and Phishing
Engaging in or facilitating deceptive practices to gain access to systems or information,
such as phishing emails, fake websites, or impersonation.
H. Disruption and Disorderly Conduct
[5.H.1] Interference with University Operations
Obstructing or disrupting teaching, learning, administration, disciplinary proceedings,
or other University functions. This includes protest behavior that prevents others
from participating in scheduled activities.
[5.H.2] Riotous Behavior
Participating in or inciting a riot, mass disturbance, or other unauthorized public
gathering that threatens health or safety. This includes failing to disperse when
directed by authorities.
[5.H.3] Lewd or Obscene Conduct
Engaging in behavior that is offensive, sexually explicit, or inappropriate in public
or semi-public settings. This includes public nudity, indecent exposure, or exhibitionism.
[5.H.4] Noncompliance
Failing to comply with the directions of University officials or emergency personnel
acting in their official capacity. This includes refusing to present identification
or ignoring lawful instructions.
I. Residence Life Violations
[5.I.1] Housing Policy Violations
Violating any terms outlined in the Residence Life Handbook or Housing Agreement. This may include occupancy limits, prohibited appliances, or unapproved room modifications.
[5.I.2] Unauthorized Guests
Allowing guests into residence halls in violation of guest policies or without proper
registration. This includes hosting overnight guests beyond allowed timeframes or
failing to escort guests.
[5.I.3] Excessive Noise or Uncleanliness
Disrupting community quiet hours or maintaining living conditions that are unsanitary
or hazardous. Excessive accumulation of trash, odors, or unattended spills may also
fall under this violation.
[5.I.4] Safety Equipment Tampering
Disabling, covering, or misusing fire alarms, smoke detectors, exit signage, or other
safety infrastructure within residential spaces. This behavior places all residents
at risk.
J. Student Organizations
[5.J.1] Hazing
Any activity expected of someone joining a group that causes humiliation, harm, or
risk, regardless of consent. Hazing may include forced consumption of substances,
sleep deprivation, or physical and emotional strain. Organizations and individuals
are both subject to accountability.
[5.J.2] Financial Misconduct
Improper use of organizational funds or misrepresentation in financial records. This
includes failure to maintain accurate budgeting, falsification of receipts, or unauthorized
transactions.
[5.J.3] Unauthorized Events
Hosting events in violation of campus policy, without approval, or in unsafe conditions.
Events that involve alcohol, high-risk activities, or off-campus functions may also
fall under this category if not properly coordinated with University officials.
[5.J.4] Policy Violations by Organizations
Failure to uphold University expectations specific to registered student groups. This
includes violating the Student Organization Handbook or any agreements entered into
with University departments.
[5.J.5] Failure to Comply with Recognition Requirements
When an organization does not meet administrative obligations such as training, roster
updates, or risk management certifications required for recognized status. Lack of
compliance may affect event access or eligibility for funding.
[5.J.6] Failure to Supervise
When organization officers or leaders knowingly allow, fail to address, or ignore
conduct violations by members acting on behalf of the group. Executive board members
are expected to intervene or report misconduct when they are aware of it.
[5.J.7] Misuse of Organizational Status
Using the organization's name or branding to misrepresent affiliation, sponsor unauthorized
activity, or bypass University approval processes. This may include misuse on social
media, facility reservations, or financial partnerships.
[5.J.8] Violation of Sanctions or Interim Measures
Disregarding or failing to comply with disciplinary sanctions, cease-and-desist orders,
or interim restrictions imposed on the organization or its members. Continued operation
during a suspension or ignoring terms of probation may fall under this category.
K. Legal and Policy Compliance
[5.K.1] Violation of Law
Engaging in conduct that violates local, state, or federal law, especially if it also
negatively impacts the University community. Criminal charges may lead to both legal
and University consequences regardless of legal outcome.
[5.K.2] Policy Violations Not Elsewhere Specified
Failing to adhere to University rules, regulations, or procedures that are not explicitly
referenced in other sections of the Code. This includes departmental, programmatic,
or employment-related expectations.
[5.K.3] Retaliation
Taking adverse action against any individual for participating in or cooperating with
a conduct investigation or report. Retaliation includes threats, intimidation, coercion,
or other forms of interference.
[5.K.4] Abuse of Conduct Process
Interfering with the integrity of the conduct system by falsifying information, disrupting
proceedings, or attempting to influence officials or witnesses. This includes submitting
knowingly false reports or misusing the appeal process.