This page is designed to answer commonly asked questions that students referred to or engaged in the university conduct process may have. The most complete information will best be obtained by reviewing and familiarizing yourself with the Code of Conduct.
I received a letter accusing me of violating a university policy. Who can I speak to about this?
The letter you received is referred to as a notice of charges, meaning that a university official was assigned to determine if you are responsible for the allegations brought against you. Their name and contact information are contained within the letter. This letter is likely inviting you to meet and discuss the matter at hand. Your meeting's date, time and location will be your chance to speak with them directly. We strongly recommend that you read (and reread) all written correspondence. If after reading the notice you still have questions, contact the university official who notified you in advance of your meeting.
I received an email from something called "Maxient". Is this legitimate?
Yes. The email from your Conduct Officer will appear on the "From" line as "Conduct Officer Name (via Maxient) <notifications@maxient.com>" stating it is official correspondence from the University of New Hampshire. if you have questions about the legitimacy of the letter, contact the home office directly.
You will be prompted to click a red “Pick up your letter” button at the bottom of the email. You will be asked to input your name and student ID number to retrieve your correspondence.
What happens when I am referred to the conduct process?
Students are referred to the conduct process when our office receives information alleging their involvement in behavior that may have violated one or more of our campus policies. Typically, a written notice is sent to the student’s UNH email outlining the alleged violations. This notice will explain your rights and options on how you wish to participate in the process, including the date, time, and location of your conduct meeting.
Am I required to go to my meeting?
The conduct process is student-led, meaning that you have agency and choice in how you wish to participate.Because the most accurate and fair review and understanding of the facts of the incident at issue can best be accomplished through dialogue, students who refuse to participate deny the decision-maker from learning important information that could influence the outcome. If you do not attend your meeting, the process will proceed in your absence and a decision will be made without the benefit of hearing your perspective.
I was referred to a University Hearing. What does this mean?
A student is referred to a University Hearing when the outcome of the violation of policy could reasonably result in University Housing Removal (for a period time or indefinitely), University Suspension, or University Expulsion. Review the Code of Conduct for a more complete explanation of the University Hearing process.
I was found responsible for violating policy. Can I appeal the decision?
If the results of the conduct process resulted in a sanction of University Disciplinary Probation or higher, students may challenge the decision. Appeals are not guaranteed and are based on specific criteria. Merely disagreeing with the outcome or the sanctions issued is not grounds for an appeal.
Will my parents/guardians be notified that I’ve been found responsible for violating policy?
In most cases, no. Student education records are protected by a law called FERPA or the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act. When a student turns 18 and currently is or has been in attendance at a post-secondary institution, they obtain rights to know how information contained in their education records is safeguarded and where their information is going, including information about their disciplinary history. Students must provide explicit consent in writing giving our office permission to release or disclose their information or return a signed Release of Information form to our office.
However, there are exceptions under the law. A common exception is when a student under 21 years of age has been found responsible for violating the University’s policies that govern the use of alcohol or drugs. In this case, a letter will be sent to the permanent home address of their parent or legal guardian outlining the violation found to have occurred and encouraging them to have a conversation with their student.
How long will disciplinary records stay on file with Community Standards?
It depends. Most records will be expunged when a student graduates or after three years from the date of the incident. If University Suspension was a sanction issued, our office retains that record for seven years. Education records that include a University Expulsion are retained permanently. For more information, please review the Schedule for Record Retention and Disposal.
I am stressed out about this process. Where can I get support?
First and foremost, breathe.
The University understands the strain a conduct process can place on students’ academic and social lives and wants you to feel confident and prepared to meaningfully participate. If you find that you are having difficulty focusing on your daily activities or that stress resulting from your current disciplinary status is manifesting itself in other negative ways in your life, rely on your friend network for support or contact Psychological and Counseling Services or Health and Wellness to access services. If you are involved in the University Hearing process and working with an advisor, express your concerns to them and inform them how they can best support you during this time.
