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Disciplinary Process

Understanding the Disciplinary Process at WSSU

At Winston-Salem State University, the Office of Community Standards & Civility oversees the student disciplinary process with an emphasis on restorative justice, personal development, and accountability. When a violation of university policy is reported, the office imposes charges and determines appropriate sanctions based on the nature and severity of the infraction.

The disciplinary process is educational, designed to help students reflect on their actions, understand community expectations, and make more responsible choices moving forward. Infractions are categorized into three levels: 

  • Level 1 – Minor Infractions/First Offenses: Typically include low-level or housing-related violations (e.g., visitation, noise complaints, or unauthorized pets) and are often addressed by Housing and Residence Life. Sanctions may include warnings, educational conversations, or community service.
  • Level 2 – Moderate Infractions/Second Offenses: These cases often involve repeat behavior or more serious violations (e.g., drug or alcohol violations, property damage). Sanctions may include disciplinary probation, educational workshops, or restitution, and are usually managed by the Coordinator of Community Standards & Civility.
  • Level 3 – Severe Infractions/Ram Red Flags/Third Offenses: Serious or dangerous behaviors (e.g., physical altercations, drug distribution, weapons possession, or repeated policy violations) are addressed by the Director of Community Standards & Civility. These cases may result in suspension, expulsion, or permanent loss of housing privileges.

Each case is reviewed with fairness and care, with students being heard and engaged throughout the student conduct process. The goal is not only to uphold community standards but also to help students grow through their experiences.

For a complete listing of rights, responsibilities, and procedures related to student discipline, please refer to the Students’ Code of Conduct and the Student Conduct Process Flowchart.

Procedures Related to Non-Academic Misconduct
Non-academic misconduct refers to behavior that violates university standards but is not related to academic integrity. These behaviors may include, but are not limited to, alcohol or drug violations, vandalism, bodily harm or threats, and disruptive conduct. Such incidents are typically reported to the Office of Community Standards & Civility through Housing & Residence Life, Campus Police & Public Safety, or other campus officials.

When a report is received, the Office of Community Standards & Civility will notify the student of the alleged misconduct through official University communication via their WSSU Rams email with the time, date, and location of their mandatory hearing. During this hearing, the student will be informed of the specific allegations and granted access to review relevant materials in their conduct file. The student will also be allowed to respond to the allegations and share any additional information. In cases involving allegations of non-academic misconduct, students may be represented by an attorney or non-attorney advocate, consistent with UNC System Policy 700.4.1.

The resolution process will depend on the severity of the alleged behavior.

  • Minor violations, those not likely to result in suspension or expulsion, are typically resolved through an Administrative Hearing with a conduct officer.
  • Serious violations, which may warrant suspension or expulsion, are typically resolved through a Mutual Agreement or a Student Conduct Board Hearing.

In cases regarding serious violations, students will have the option to:

  1. Accept responsibility and resolve the matter through a Mutual Agreement, which includes appropriate sanctions or,
  2. Participate in a Student Conduct Council Hearing before a panel of trained students, faculty, and staff members.

Regardless of the hearing type, students will be allowed to present relevant information, ask questions, and respond to the charge(s) during the proceedings. 

After the case is adjudicated, either through a hearing or mutual agreement, the outcome will be communicated to the student via an official outcome letter sent electronically.

For more information, students are encouraged to review the full disciplinary procedures outlined in UNC Policy 700.4.1 and/or consult with the Office of Community Standards & Civility.

Procedures Related to Academic Misconduct
Academic misconduct refers to violations of the university’s Academic Integrity Policy, including—but not limited to—cheating, plagiarism, improper usage of AI, and assisting others in committing academic dishonesty.

Winston-Salem State University’s Academic Integrity Policy governs the process as it relates to allegations of academic misconduct. 

The faculty member can submit an Academic Integrity Reporting Form to the Office of Community Standards & Civility for tracking purposes within the student conduct database.