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Student Organization Code of Conduct

Policy Statement

Student organizations, their leaders, and members are expected to adhere to all College policies, including the Student Code of Conduct. They are also responsible for abiding by federal, state, and local laws. If, at any time, an organization, their leaders and/or individual members are found to be in violation of any of these policies, expectations, or laws, their organization may be subject to disciplinary action.

Removal of Members

Membership in student organizations is rarely repealed, and may only take place with the explicit authorization of CSLE. Student organization members with concerns must schedule an advising appointment with a CSLE staff to determine appropriate measures they can take.

The following code of conduct outlines the steps and procedures for the removal of a member. The purpose of this code is to ensure fairness, transparency, and adherence to the Macalester’s principles and policies while handling member removal cases.

If a violation occurs or a complaint is filed against a student organization, its leaders, and/or its individual members, the Center for Student Leadership and Engagement (CSLE) staff and/or their advisor will initiate an investigation into those allegations. If found responsible for the violation, CSLE will determine, what, if any, disciplinary action should be taken to hold the organization and/or its members accountable. Depending on the type and severity of the violation, individuals involved may also be subject to additional sanctions through the general student conduct process.

  1. Grounds for Removal: A member may be subject to removal from the Organization for the following reasons: 
    • Violation of the student organizations code of conduct, or general student code of conduct. 
    • Engaging in activities that are detrimental to the reputation or mission of the college.  
    • Engaging in behaviors that compromise the safety or well-being of other members or the Macalester community.
    • Failure to fulfill responsibilities and commitments as outlined in the Org charter.
  2. Informal Resolution: Before initiating a formal removal complaint, CSLE encourages communication and informal resolution of conflicts whenever possible. The concerned parties should/may attempt to resolve the issue through discussion and mediation.
  3. Written Complaint: If informal resolution attempts are unsuccessful, any member or officer may file a written complaint with the Center for Student Leadership and Engagement. The complaint should include specific details of the alleged violation and any relevant evidence.
  4. Investigation: Upon receiving a written complaint, the CSLE Staff will review the allegations objectively. 
  5. Confidentiality: All matters related to member removal, including complaints, investigations, and appeal hearings, should/will be treated with utmost confidentiality to protect the privacy of all parties involved.

Possible Sanctions

  1. No Action: There is no evidence to support the charges and/or the organization is found not responsible for the violation.
  2. Written Warning: The student organization may be given a written warning regarding the behavior/activity and additional sanctions may be imposed if the organization engages in the same conduct again or commits any other violations.
  3. Restitution: If the violation resulted in monetary damages or there was a misuse of College funds, a student organization may be required to reimburse any funds spent or pay the cost for replacement or repair of any property damaged. If the organization fails to make payment, they may be subjected to additional sanctions, including termination or suspension of organization registration, restriction of privileges, and/or the loss of funding.
  4. Restriction of Organization Privileges: Restrictions are conditions imposed on an organization that would specifically dictate and limit future presence on campus and participation in Macalester College activities. The restrictions involved will be clearly identified and may include but not limited to restrictions on use of funding, use of College facilities, sponsoring events, and recruiting new members.
  5. Suspension: An organization may be prohibited from participating in all aspects of College life for a specified period of time. When an organization is suspended they forfeit all rights given to an organization and must cease all functions of an organization in good standing with the college.
  6. Removal of Leaders: If the leader of an organization is found responsible for committing a violation, they can be removed from their position if:
    • Their continued involvement presents a conflict of interest
    • The violation was an abuse of their privileges and power as a leader and they are no longer allowed to manage those functions (ex. If a treasurer is found accountable for misuse of funds)
    • Their student conduct sanctions prohibit them for continuing their leadership role
  7. Additional Sanctions: In addition to the above, the Conduct Officer and/or CSLE staff member may apply or recommend additional sanctions, to the group as a whole or an individual member, as well as refer the case to the organization’s governing bodies for consideration of other sanctions.

Note

By abiding by this Student Organization Code of Conduct, we aim to maintain a positive and inclusive environment for all members, promoting mutual respect, and upholding the values and mission of the Organization.