Community Responsibilities
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The Malone Community
Malone is more than just an organization; it is a community
of scholars, which includes administrators, faculty, supportive staff and all
students enrolled in any of the classes offered by Malone on its campus.
We recognize that our students represent a wide range of
backgrounds, attitudes, needs, and goals. Therefore, as a liberal arts Malone
that is distinctively Christian, Malone views each person as an individual with
certain responsibilities to the Malone community. These responsibilities are based upon three assumptions to
which we are firmly committed. First, individuals are Christian by virtue of the grace of
God (Ephesians 2:8,9) and their commitment to Jesus Christ as Lord. Second, while Christians have a sincere desire to mature
both in insight and behavior, we recognize that there exist levels of maturity
in a Christian academic community such as Malone.
Third, some students who choose Malone may not agree with
some of these stated community responsibilities. However, since all students
are part of the community, all are expected to act responsibly toward the
community. If the conduct of any member of the Malone community is
found to be detrimental either to his/her own personal development or to that
of other members of the community, we will seek to aid that member. However, if
that member shows serious or continued violation of responsibility, Malone will
take disciplinary action against that member, up to and including dismissal
from the community. Malone strives to help its students develop into mature Christian men and women who are equipped to meet all of life head-on. While we seek to strengthen each member of the community, we realize that not all, whether Christian or not, can fit into the Malone community. For those who cannot, there are educational opportunities elsewhere. For those who can, the opportunity here can be of unlimited value.
General Principles
While we realize that it is impossible to create an academic
community whose behavioral norms will be acceptable to every person, we believe
that it is important to formulate certain behavioral expectations so that the
objectives of Malone can be met. It is therefore assumed that an individual who has
voluntarily chosen to join the Malone community will strive to exhibit the
following modes of behavior characteristic of a mature person.
Malone students will:
1. seek to develop as whole persons by
growing academically, physically, socially and spiritually.
3. continually assess their growth and will strive for positive change within the community. 4. be free to consider the broad range of human opinion and ideas without engaging in the whole range of human behavior. 5. assume responsibility for their
behavior and its effect on other
persons.
6. be concerned about the welfare of other
persons within the community and the welfare of the community as a whole.
7. realize they are part of a community
with a strong Christian tradition and they must respect that tradition while
exercising freedom to review and evaluate it.
Biblical Principles
Malone recognizes that Biblical principles are the standard for individual behavior and community life.
1. We are commanded to love God with all
our heart, soul and mind (Matthew
a. A person enters into relationship with God
through a personal commitment to His Son Jesus Christ (John 14:6, I Timothy
2:5). b. Life within a Christian community must be
lived to the glory of God in all things (I Corinthians
c. Love for and accountability to God is the
primary motivation for Christian conduct. The forgiving character of His love
and grace provides the model for forgiveness in the growth process (John 14:15,
I Peter 2:24).
a. Consistent with the example and command of
Jesus Christ, love must be the determining factor in a Christian’s
relationships with others. This love will vary in its expression–compassion,
service, rebuke, discipline, etc.– with a view to the recipient’s ultimate
welfare (Romans 12, Galatians 6:1-10).
b. While Christians must ultimately decide what
behavior is appropriate for them individually, the limiting of some individual
liberties is necessary to attain common goals and ensure harmonious community
life (Romans 14:1-13, Matthew
Student Code of Conduct
In addition to the preceding principles, all members of the
Malone community are expected to live up to the following: 1. Scripture commends certain qualities as
good and right and are therefore to be encouraged. These include love, joy,
peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control,
honesty, forgiveness, humility, service to others, nondiscrimination, fairness,
and studiousness.
The following, while
not exhaustive, provide guidelines for other behaviors which are prohibited:
6. Conduct which substantially infringes
on or invades the rights of others.
7. Intentionally or recklessly endangering
or threatening the life or physical safety of others or self. 8. Refusal to provide proper
identification upon request by a Malone official or staff in the performance of
their duties. Students are expected to carry their ID cards at all times and to
present them upon request by Malone officials.
9. Theft,
willful damage, or vandalism of Malone or personal property.
10. Guns, knives, explosives, dangerous
chemicals or noxious devices, and other dangerous weapons or ordnances are
prohibited on all premises owned or controlled by Malone, including, without
limitation, motor vehicles owned or provided by Malone, parking areas, campus
and work sites, or while on Malone academic, business, or recreational activity
or event. This prohibition supersedes any and all permits obtained, or which
may be obtained, from any issuing authority that allows private citizens to
possess, carry, or conceal guns or other weapons.
11. Threat of violence or harm to any person
or property located on premises owned or controlled by Malone, or while on Malone
business, activity, or event.
12. Unauthorized entry or use of Malone
facilities or property. 13. Possession or use of alcoholic beverages,
or any unauthorized, controlled or intoxicating substance (or empty alcoholic
containers or drug-related paraphernalia), or the misuse of prescription medications,
while on Malone property, or while engaged in any Malone business or activity,
or while operating or riding in any Malone-supplied vehicle. For further
details, refer to the Malone “Substance Use and Abuse Policy for Employees and
Students” brochure. The underage possession or use of alcohol off campus is
prohibited. 15. Disruptive misconduct which impedes the development of a safe, healthy environment including, but not limited to, intimidation, use of obscenities and profanities, open defiance of Malone officials or policies or noncompliance with Malone traffic regulations.
16. Wearing inappropriate dress or articles of clothing on campus.
17. Intentionally or recklessly misusing or damaging fire or other safety equipment.
18. Misrepresenting information or furnishing false information to Malone.
19. Forgery, alteration, misrepresentation,
counterfeiting, or misuse of any Malone document including Malone ID cards or
unauthorized possession or duplication of Malone keys.
21. Intentional or reckless interference with
or disruption of Malone technology services or resources (e.g. computer disk
storage, data, software, voice communications), or unauthorized use, misuse,
abuse, alteration, disclosure or destruction of Malone technology
services/resources, or any misuse of or tampering with Malone telephones.
22. Possession, participation in or viewing of pornography in any form.
23.
24. In addition to the explicit teaching of
the Scripture and the laws of the land, the members of the Malone community
freely and willingly choose to impose upon themselves the following rules of
behavior. Although these rules are not viewed as absolute standards by all
Christians, they are held out of the belief that they serve both the good of the individual and
institution. Every person who joins this community is required to acknowledge
that he/she is subject to these rules. Serious or repeated violations will
result in disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal from the
community. a. Malone recognizes the danger to one’s physical and/or psychological well-being in the use of certain products or substances. The use of tobacco, alcoholic beverages, hallucinogenic drugs (including marijuana) or narcotics or other unauthorized, controlled or intoxicating substances (including prescription drugs not used as properly prescribed by a duly authorized medical practitioner) is therefore vigorously discouraged for members of the Malone community. Under no circumstances are the above to be used, possessed or distributed on Malone property, or in any vehicle owned or provided by Malone, or while on Malone business, or attending or participating in any Malone-related activity. For further details, refer to the Malone “Substance Use and Abuse Policy for Employees and Students” brochure.
Community Agreement
The faculty and staff of Malone are dedicated to the person
of Jesus Christ and to the belief that the principles and practices set forth
in the Holy Scriptures will enhance and be evident in the life of every person
who seriously embraces the Christian philosophy. Malone is committed to the total development of each student
and seeks to provide a nurturing environment for spiritual, academic, and
social growth. Enrollment privileges are extended to any person who
academically qualifies and is willing to accept Malone's lifestyle expectations
regardless of race, creed, color, or denominational preference. In order for any community to function effectively, it is
necessary for that community to establish behavior expectations that govern its
members. Therefore, in addition to the biblical principles that provide
essential guidelines for effective living, Malone vigorously discourages the
use of tobacco, alcoholic beverages (including non-alcoholic beer),
hallucinogenic drugs (including, but not limited to marijuana) or narcotics or
other controlled substances (not properly prescribed and used) for all members
of the Malone Community. Malone
prohibits the possession, use, distribution, purchase or sale (or solicitation
of purchase or sale) of illegal or unauthorized drugs, controlled substances,
drug-related paraphernalia or alcohol, or being under the influence of any such
substance, while on Malone property, while conducting Malone business, while
engaging in Malone-related activities, or while operating or riding in any
vehicle owned or supplied by Malone. Malone also prohibits any other violation of
the Malone Substance Use and Abuse Policy for Employees and Students or any
related rules or regulations. Students are required to abstain from sexual
misconduct, from any violent behavior or threats of violence (to self or others),
and from gambling, profanity, vulgar behavior, unlawful harassment, or any
other improper conduct. Malone acknowledges that every adult has the right and
responsibility to establish his or her personal lifestyle, but that lifestyle must
not conflict with the standards established by the Malone community. Campus
lifestyle expectations are not an attempt to legislate Christianity and are not
to be considered moral absolutes, but it is the conviction of Malone that they
are valid expressions of a Christian community. Chapel is an integral part of the Malone experience, and every student is required to attend chapel services. Each student is encouraged to also become involved in the services of one or more of the local churches.
Conclusion
As an educational institution, Malone seeks to fulfill its
mission of developing the whole person. In so doing: 1. We affirm
our dignity and worth as creatures of God.
2. We accept
the Lordship of Jesus Christ as ultimate authority.
3. We value the
uniqueness and benefits of the Christian
academic community.
4. We express a deep concern for individual growth and view discipleship as the highest calling.
Violations of Malone Policy While Participating in Malone-Related
Events
Violation of any Malone policy while on a Malone-related or
sanctioned trip or activity will be viewed as though that violation occurred on
Malone property. Students who travel
with any Malone organization, club, or team will be held to the same standard
as if that violation occurred in their room or other on-campus location. Under
no circumstances will permission be granted by staff, faculty, coaches, parents
or other leaders for the trip that would allow students to engage in any
behavior found to violate this policy. Guidelines for
Student Dress
Paul instructs the Thessalonians to walk in a manner worthy
of the God who calls you into His own kingdom and glory. Each area of life is
to reflect this issue of being worthy of one's position with God. The manner in
which a student dresses will also communicate his or her view of God and
respect for other students. Malone has set a standard of respect that should be
shown one another with regard to dress that may differ significantly from
society in general. Men and women should dress modestly, wearing shirts that are
long enough to extend to the waistband. Appropriate shorts/skirts (that extend
at least halfway to the knee) or slacks/pants must be worn at all times. Shirts
should not be torn or revealing (or expose the back or sides) and pants must be
pulled up to the waist with no undergarments exposed. Clothing in extreme
disrepair should not be worn on campus. Shoes must be worn at all times while
in campus buildings. In the residence halls, students are also subject to a high
standard of modesty. At no time should
students be seen in residence hall common areas (hallways, lounges, laundry
rooms, computer labs, kitchen areas, stairways, the areas in the bathrooms
outside the showering areas, etc.) unclothed (a towel is not adequate). Thus, when students in the residence halls
are going from their rooms to the showers and back to their rooms, they should
be covered (a towel is not adequate). When students are changing in their
rooms, their door and window blinds should be closed as well. All clothing worn for athletic competition, exercising, and working out must be in line with the policy outlined for the fitness room and the principles listed above. At no time should clothing with messages which are sexually oriented, profane or alcohol/drug related be worn on campus or at Malone-sponsored events. Residents who choose to shower during visitation hours in the residence halls must wear adequate apparel when in the halls (towels only are not adequate). Good taste and respect for each other should prevail.
Cardiovascular
Fitness Room Dress Guidelines
Modest dress is required. Workout clothing and tennis shoes are required–no “street clothes or shoes” are permitted. T-shirts or tank tops are required for men and women (midriff tops or sports bras are not allowed). Spandex leggings or leotards must be covered with a long T-shirt or gym shorts.
Other Cases of
Misconduct
Students may be subject to the rules of Malone for their conduct on or off Malone campus, whether or not classes are in session. Any student charged with and found responsible for any act of misconduct is subject to disciplinary action through Malone Judicial Process. No rules of conduct can cover all possible behaviors or circumstances, and Malone reserves the right to take appropriate disciplinary action for misconduct not covered in these rules, and to revise or add rules of conduct as conditions warrant.
Statement on Student Sexual Conduct
Malone recognizes that all of us are impacted by the
cultural standards and philosophy of our society. Many times the policies of
Malone run counter to personal or community cultural standards or philosophies
and especially in the area of sexual relationships. Therefore, Malone has
adopted a Statement on Student Sexual Conduct, including the following
guidelines and principles: A. Sex should be
exclusively reserved for the marriage relationship. B. Sexual
relationships on campus can be disruptive to Malone community and can cause
difficulties in one’s relationships with fellow students, especially with roommates
or suitemates. C. Inappropriate
sexual relationships leave emotional scars on each individual that often
hinders future healthy relationships. D. There are certain health risks associated with sex outside a committed marriage relationship. Engaging in sexual contact or behavior with another person (defined as sexual intercourse, touching sexually intimate parts of another person, inappropriate disrobing, or any other physical contact or touching of a sexual nature) with or without the consent of that person, or by compulsion through physical or emotional force or fear, is prohibited on all Malone property, while engaged in Malone business or activity, or while operating or driving in any Malone-supplied vehicle. Students found in violation of this policy will face disciplinary sanctions, up to and including dismissal from Malone for a specified amount of time.
Policy Regarding Internal Campus Communications
Malone seeks to effectively facilitate a campus community
where members communicate with one another with integrity, professionalism and
love. Malone has developed the following guidelines to assist all members of
the community in effectively communicating important information, news and
information related to campus events. Malone provides and expects that all members of the
community (students, faculty, and staff) be aware of, and use, the following
primary means of campus communication (in addition to personal and telephone
communication): 1. Malone web site 2. Electronic mail 3. Campus mail 4. Voice mail Official Malone communications may be sent by any or all of
these methods. Students, faculty and staff are required to accept their mail on
a regular basis and within a reasonable time period from the date of
transmission. During the semester a “reasonable time period” will be defined as
two-three working days and “accept” will be defined as picking up and reading
mail from campus mailboxes, accessing campus accounts for reading e-mails, and
listening to voice mail messages. Many students will already have an e-mail account (through
Hotmail, Yahoo or AOL for example) and will not have need for their Malone
e-mail account. It is each student’s responsibility to obtain the appropriate
procedure to automatically forward their mail from the Malone account to their
regular account. This information is available through the Information
Technologies Office. Occasionally, information relevant to all students will be
sent via a mass distribution process. This process will be protected through
the Office of Student Development so that students are not inundated with
e-mails. Information will be distributed to campus offices describing what
information is appropriate for the mass distribution process. If a member of the Malone community will be away from campus
for an extended period of time it is expected that they will leave an automatic
response on their e-mail and voice message on their voice mail. It is the
responsibility of all members of the Malone community to be aware of and abide
by these policies and any additional policies outlined in the Malone Computer Resource
Usage Policy
Policy on Computer Software, Games, Internet, and
Network Usage
Software purchased by Malone remains the property of Malone or of the vendor as agreed by license. Such software, whether in source or object form, including its design, file structures and any other tangible or intangible value may not be accessed, copied or removed from the system, nor disclosed to any third party without prior consent of the owner. Duplicating copyrighted software violates the U.S. Copyright Law. It is a federal offense. Criminal penalties include fines and imprisonment. Illegal copying is not permitted at Malone. Members of the Malone community should view violations of the above as violations of the Community Responsibilities, Attitudinal and Behavioral Expectations.
Furthermore, Malone expects students and employees to utilize various computer games, the Internet and other computer-related information in a manner consistent with its mission and purpose. Those in violation are subject to the normal judicial procedures specified for violations of the Malone Community Responsibilities.
Advisory about
on-line postings:
Students are reminded that pictures and information posted on the internet via programs such as MySpace and Facebook are public information. Pictures or information from these sources that describe or document behavior that are brought to the attention of Malone and which reasonably suggest behavior violating Malone policy has taken place, is subject to further investigation and verification by Malone. Any Malone policy violations that are determined as a result of such an investigation will result in appropriate disciplinary action by Malone.
For further details, please refer to the “Malone Computer Resource Usage Policy.”
Policy on Dancing
Social dancing is permitted on the Malone campus under the guidelines listed below. Dances will be presented as campus programs only under the auspices of the Office of Student Development and the Student Activities Committee.
Attendance. Dances are open to persons who are directly associated with Malone (i.e. students or employees). Dates or friends of students are welcome by written invitation (i.e. ticket, sign-up) only. No non-Malone or off-campus groups are to be invited (i.e. groups of friends, youth groups, prospective students) without prior approval by the Vice President for Student Development.
Behavioral Guidelines. Students, employees, and guests must comply with all behavioral guidelines outlined in the Abridged Student Handbook. Dress and style of dance must be in accordance with standards set forth in the Abridged Student Handbook. Sexually explicit or implicit dancing is not acceptable.
Themes. All dances are to have a theme. Suggested themes include, but are not limited to: swing/40s, sock hop/50s, retro/60s, disco/70s, 80s (or other decade), country line dancing, square dancing, Hawaiian, harvest, costume party, ballroom, or instructional.
Location. Dances are limited to approved on-campus facilities. Malone will sponsor no off-campus dances, nor will dances be scheduled in residence halls.
Planning.
1. The Vice President for Student Development must approve all dances.
2. The Student Activities Committee will
be responsible for the planning and organizing of all Malone-sponsored dances.
The themes of dances are at the discretion of the Student Activities Committee
but must be approved by the Vice President for Student Development.
3. Other campus organizations or groups
may propose dance ideas to the Student Activities Committee. 4. Co-sponsoring of dances by other
organizations will be at the discretion of the Student Activities Committee. 5. All dances must be publicized in
advance of the event.
6. All dances must have a form of admission (i.e. purchased or free ticket, student I.D.). 7. Members of the Student Activities
Committee will assist in maintaining appropriate behavior at all times during
the dance.
8. Student Activities Committee representatives and the Vice President for Student Development must meet subsequent to the event for evaluation.
9. Dances held on Friday or Saturday must
end by
Policy Regarding the Distribution of Student Phone
Numbers
Because of Malone's desire to help to protect students from unwanted (harassing, obnoxious, obscene, annoying) phone calls, there is a policy in effect regarding the distribution of student telephone numbers. The policy is for any receptionist (front desk, residence hall desk, or various campus offices) to only take messages or to transfer the call directly to a student's room. Phone numbers (extensions) will not be made available over the phone. If they are on-campus, they may be referred to look in the Phiz. Although we can never completely avoid these types of unwanted phone calls, it is our sincere hope that this will help to minimize them. In the event that students do receive these types of unwanted phone calls, please make sure that you inform your R.A., R.D. or Security.
Policy on Substances
Malone recognizes the danger to one's physical and/or
psychological well-being from the use of certain products and substances. Malone vigorously discourages the use of
tobacco, alcoholic beverages, (including non-alcoholic beer), hallucinogenic
drugs (including but not limited to marijuana), or narcotics or other
controlled substances (not properly prescribed and used). Malone prohibits the possession, use, distribution,
purchase, or sale (or solicitation of purchase or sale) of illegal or
unauthorized drugs, controlled substances, drug related paraphernalia or
alcohol, or being under the influence of any such substance while on Malone
property, while conducting Malone business, while engaged in Malone-related
activities or while operating or riding in any Malone-supplied vehicle. For further details please refer to the
“Malone Substance Use and Abuse Policy for Employees and Students” brochure. A student violating any provision of this policy will be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal.
Statement Pursuant to
Malone is committed to providing a healthy and safe
environment for its students, faculty and staff. Malone hereby defines below the standards of
conduct in relation to the unlawful possession, use, dispensation, or
distribution of alcohol or controlled, unauthorized or illegal drugs or
substances. Conduct which violates this standard poses unacceptable risks and
disregard for the health, safety, and welfare of members of Malone community
and shall result in disciplinary action, including compulsory rehabilitation,
suspension and/or termination. As a recipient of federal grants and funding,
Malone gives this notice to students, faculty and staff that it is in
compliance with and shall continue to be in compliance with the Drug-Free
Workplace Act of 1988 and the
1. Statement
Required of Recipients of Federal Grants. A signed, written statement is
required from all students and staff who are recipients of federal grants, including Pell Grants, certifying their
abstinence from unlawful distribution, dispensation, possession or use of a
controlled substance.
2. Standards of Conduct. Students, faculty and staff are prohibited from the UNLAWFUL possession, use, dispensation, distribution, or manufacture of illicit drugs whether on Malone property, on Malone business and/or elsewhere while attending Malone-sponsored activities. Further, students, faculty and staff are required to abide by state and local laws concerning alcoholic beverages. Basically, Ohio laws state that if one is under the age of 21, it is unlawful to: 1) possess or consume alcoholic beverages; 2) misrepresent one’s age for the purpose of purchasing alcoholic beverages; or 3) use a fake I.D. to purchase alcoholic beverages no matter what one’s age. Ohio law states that it is unlawful to: 1) procure any alcoholic beverages for anyone under 21 years of age; or 2) drink or be drunk in public places (Malone campuses and buildings are considered public places for purposes of these laws). Furthermore, it is a violation of state law to operate a motor vehicle while under the influence of any substance, which may impair one's driving ability (drugs or alcoholic beverages).
3. Education.
Malone will educate the faculty, staff, and students through use of an
educational video and written documentation concerning the dangers of drug and
alcohol use. Malone’s Human Resources Office will work closely with any
necessary outside agencies to provide information helpful in the prevention and
detection of drug use and to post notices and provide handouts when available
in the prevention and detection of these problems.
Malone will support and encourage
faculty in incorporating alcohol and drug education into the curriculum where
appropriate.
4. Health Risks. The scope and impact of health risks from alcohol and drug abuse are both alarming and well documented, ranging from mood altering to life-threatening, with consequences that extend beyond the individual to family, organizations, and society at large. Malone will attempt to educate its students, faculty and staff that the consumption of alcohol and the use of drugs may alter behavior, distort perception, impair thinking, impede judgment, and lead to physical and/or psychological dependence. Alcohol and/or drug abuse may lead to the deterioration of physical health by causing or contributing to various health conditions including but not limited to fatigue, nausea, personal injury, insomnia, pathological organ damage, certain forms of cancer, heart disease, liver disease, respiratory depression, birth defects, convulsions, coma, and even death. Alcohol and drug abuse may also result in deterioration of mental health by causing or contributing to various conditions such as increased aggression, hallucinations, depression, disorientation, and psychosis. Alcohol consumption causes a number of marked changes in behavior. Even low doses significantly impair the judgment and coordination required to drive a car safely, increasing the likelihood that the driver will be involved in an accident. Low to moderate doses of alcohol also increase the incidence of a variety of aggressive acts, including spouse and child abuse. Moderate to high doses of alcohol cause marked impairments in higher mental functions, severely altering a person’s ability to learn and remember information. Very high doses may cause respiratory depression and death. If combined with other depressants of the central nervous system, much lower doses of alcohol will produce the effects just described. Repeated use of alcohol can lead to dependence. Sudden cessation of alcohol intake is likely to produce withdrawal symptoms, including severe anxiety, tremors, hallucinations, convulsions, and can be life-threatening. Long-term consumption of large quantities of alcohol, particularly when combined with poor nutrition, can also lead to permanent dam age to vital organs such as the brain and the liver.
The aim of the Drug-Free Workplace
Policy is to provide a safe,
productive, congenial and scholarly setting in which all can perform their
responsibilities.
Poster and Advertising Policy
To insure quality advertisement of campus events, the
following guidelines have been approved for all campus postings at Malone,
effective
1. The appropriate Advisor or Departmental
Director must approve posters by signing the back side of the original poster
that a student brings to the Office of Student Development for stamped
approval.
2. Posters are to be posted on bulletin boards and approved posting areas only. Posters placed anywhere else will be removed. Absolutely no posters or announcements are to be placed in the Great Hall ( 3. All advertising must be approved by the
Office of Student Development. This includes sidewalk chalk, balloons, banners,
table tents, etc. Posters need to be approved and stamped by Office of Student
Development staff. 5. Posters must indicate the sponsoring
organization or publisher.
6. Posters must not be placed on top of
previously approved postings.
7. All postings must reflect the mission,
purpose, and standards of Malone.
8. The Office of Student Development
reserves the right to remove or reject postings not meeting the above stated
guidelines. 9. Postings will be limited to no more
than two (2) weeks unless prior arrangements are made with the Office for
Student Development.
Policy on Solicitation
Unless previously approved in writing by the Vice President for Student Development or another duly authorized Malone official, students of Malone shall not post or distribute handbills or other printed matter, or sell any article, or solicit, collect, or accept money, pledges, memberships, subscriptions, or admissions for any public or private organization or enterprise or for loans, gifts, or purchases of any nature, while on Malone property, business, or activity. Similarly, items to be placed on any bulletin board, or otherwise posted on Malone property, also must first be approved in writing by the Vice President for Student Development or another duly authorized Malone official.
Policy on
Does Malone close for bad weather in the winter? The answer
is yes, BUT VERY INFREQUENTLY. The closing policy followed here is similar to
that of other colleges and universities, as well as business and industry. As a
result, various public school systems will be closed while Malone remains open.
If there is a heavy snowfall or other emergency which would necessitate the
canceling of classes or the closing of the campus, announcements will be made
over Radio Station WHBC 94.1 FM or WHBC 1480 AM. When day classes are to be
cancelled, the radio station will normally be prepared to announce the closing
by
Faculty members have agreed to give special consideration and help to commuters who, because of impassable roads, cannot get to class. We simply ask each commuter to evaluate honestly the road conditions in his/her area and to make every attempt to be present when Malone is open. However, we are not asking you to take undue risks.
Sunday Activities
Malone recognizes that God has appointed one day of the week as a day of worship and rest. As a result, with few exceptions, Malone will host no official activities on Sunday unless those activities are associated with the worship and praise of God and involve minimal staff preparation.
While Malone makes no specific requirements of individual students on this day, students are encouraged to celebrate Sunday through public and private worship of Jesus Christ and by resting from the routine labor of the other six days. The appropriate Academic Dean or Vice President for Student Development must grant permission well in advance for any proposed activities.
Institutional Response to Violations of Community
Standards
The following procedures are based on the philosophy of higher education at Malone. Since Malone strives to provide experiences for intellectual, social, emotional and spiritual development of students, these disciplinary procedures are to be considered a part of the educational program and are consequently kept in harmony with our mission and purpose. The philosophy, purpose, and procedures provide an educational experience for all students involved, and do not violate persons or their rights. As a Christian community, we affirm that there should be a direct connection between belief and behavior. Therefore, the theoretical basis for this judicial system is derived from the law of God as summarized in Matthew 22:37-40, to love God and to love one's neighbor. The judicial system is meant to serve the community by calling members to responsible behavior and challenging them to live in the spirit of this law of love.
The discipline system is structured in such a way as to deal fairly with students accused of violations of Malone standards.
A. The accused student shall have an appropriately fair and expedient disciplinary hearing.
B. The student shall be notified as to the nature of the charges, before the disciplinary hearing begins.
C. The student will receive notification of all decisions rendered.
D. Every reasonable attempt will be made to keep disciplinary hearing information confidential. Therefore all such hearings are closed except for persons immediately involved, or as otherwise determined by the Vice President for Student Development or his/her designate.
E. In student disciplinary proceedings, the burden of proof generally, but not necessarily, will be the preponderance of the evidence; that is, based upon a determination that it is more likely than not that the student in question engaged or participated in the alleged misconduct.
Judicial Staff and Function
The Vice President for Student Development is charged with the responsibility of administering Malone Judicial System. All disciplinary bodies within that system report to the Vice President for Student Development. The Vice President for Student Development reserves the right to administratively adjudicate any case if believed by him/her to be in the best interests of the student and Malone.
The Associate Dean is an experienced professional who meets with students in discipline cases and is empowered to determine first if the student is responsible and second what the appropriate disciplinary sanctions should be in a particular case. The Associate Dean will hear cases involving major offenses and those cases referred to him/her by the Resident Directors.
Resident Directors are experienced professionals who are involved in the process of confrontation, and adjudication, and who are empowered to determine first if the student is responsible and second what the appropriate disciplinary sanctions should be in a particular case.
The Student Appeals Committee is made up of three (3) faculty members appointed by the faculty Committee on Organization, three (3) students appointed by the Student Senate. This committee hears cases in which the Vice President for Student Development has already rendered an administrative disciplinary decision.
Judicial Process
Disciplinary action necessary as a result of violations of the standards of Malone will be taken by the appropriate Resident Director, Associate Dean, or the Vice President for Student Development, depending upon the nature and extent of the infraction. All such persons or bodies have the authority to impose disciplinary sanctions, which they deem to be in the best interests of the student and Malone. Every reasonable effort will be made to resolve violations at the lowest judicial level possible.
Typically, in the residence halls the judicial process is initiated by filing a Complaint/ Incident Report (see a Student Development staff member to file such a complaint/incident report), or by a Security Report. Based upon these reports, the applicable judicial person(s) will conduct a preliminary investigation to determine if there is sufficient evidence to proceed with a formal hearing. Such a review will typically involve questioning any witnesses and the accused. Both witnesses and the accused will be notified by appropriate Student Development staff. Any student receiving this notification is required to make contact with the identified Student Development staff member within a twenty-four (24) hour time period. Failure to make initial contact with this Student Development staff member may result in disciplinary action for impeding the judicial process. If there is sufficient evidence to warrant a judicial hearing and their complainant is willing to proceed with his/her complaint, the accused student will be referred to the appropriate judicial person(s) for a judicial hearing. The appropriate judicial officer(s) may choose whether or not to hear any case, based on the evidence and information received.
Deliberation,
Decision, and Sanction
Once the hearing has been completed, the judicial officer(s) will consider the evidence of the case to determine if a violation or violations of Malone policy has occurred and the degree to which the accused is responsible for such violation(s). If the judicial officer(s) has determined that a violation of Malone policy has occurred, appropriate disciplinary sanctions will be imposed.
A student found to have violated Malone policy will receive appropriate disciplinary sanctions, up to and including dismissal. The Vice President for Student Development and Associate Dean of Student Development, and/or the Resident Director, as appropriate, may choose any one or a combination of the disciplinary sanctions listed below (and/or such other appropriate sanctions as the sanctioning authority may deem appropriate):
A. Verbal Warning
B. Written Warning
C. Counseling Referral
D. Restitution
E. Community Service
F. Room Transfer
G. Disciplinary Probation
H. Residence Hall Suspension
I. Revocation of Housing Privileges
J. Monetary Fine
K. Social Suspension
L. Suspension
M. Request for Withdrawal
N. Dismissal
NOTE: Malone reserves the right to deviate from the standard disciplinary procedure in the investigation and determination of certain cases of misconduct if deemed in the best interests of the Malone and affected individuals.
Disciplinary Sanctions Explained
Because Malone believes that disciplinary action is a necessary part of a Christian community, disciplinary sanctions are applied as a means of redemption. Sanctions are meant to hold community members accountable for their actions as well as to protect the community as a whole. While Malone seeks to remain consistent in terms of disciplinary sanctions, it is rare that individual situations or specific matters are identical. The range of sanctions is directly related to the nature and severity of the offense. The following sanctions are listed in order of severity and represent the general standards of Malone, subject to addition or change at the discretion of Malone. Please note: Students who do not fulfill their disciplinary sanctions will be subject to further discipline, with the increased possibility of suspension. Typically, one or more sanction(s) may be applied whenever violations occur, including, but not limited to, the following:
A. Verbal Warning - A verbal warning
issued, typically, by a residence hall staff member and documented in a staff
file. B. Written Warning - Written documentation
that provides official notification of a violation and informs the student that continued misconduct
will result in further disciplinary action. C. Counseling Referral - Encourages or
requires the student to engage him/herself in a constructive, therapeutic
relationship with a qualified counselor. D. Restitution - (1) Reimbursement for
damage to or destruction of Malone property or property of any person; (2)
restitution in the form of appropriate compensatory services to be performed. E. Community Service - Work or service
performed for the purpose of contributing something back to the community.
Students failing to complete a
community service sanction in the allotted time may face additional sanctions
as well, including but not limited to, disciplinary fines, temporary suspension
from Malone, or other disciplinary sanctions as deemed appropriate. In the case
that the student does not complete a community service sanction, The Vice
President for Student Development may convert that sanction to a monetary fine. In such cases the fine will be equal to
the number of community service hours assigned multiplied by the prevailing
minimum wage. No credit will be given for a partially completed sanction. F. Room Transfer - Mandatory relocation to
another room or Residence Hall.
G. Disciplinary Probation - An account of
the infraction with the date of the beginning and the end of the probation
period. The result of further violations or misconduct, while a student is
under probation, will result in more
severe disciplinary action.
H. Residence Hall Suspension - Removal
from Malone housing for a specified period of time.
J. Monetary Fine - A monetary fine of an appropriate amount for minor disciplinary violations. Fines are expected to be paid to the appropriate Student Development staff member, on or before specified date in the pertinent disciplinary letter to the student.
K.Social Suspension - The temporary restriction of a student from participating in any co-curricular activities including, but not limited to intercollegiate athletics, student clubs and organizations, student government, intramurals, or any activity associated with S.A.C.
L.Suspension - The severance of the student’s relationship with Malone for a specified period of time.
M. Request for Withdrawal - Formal request made to the student that he or she must withdraw from Malone or face more severe consequences.
N. Dismissal - The permanent severance of
the student’s relationship with Malone. Please Note:
Students found to be responsible for violating Malone policy are subject not only to the disciplinary decisions rendered by the appropriate judicial body, but may also face further ramifications relative to any co-curricular activities in which they may be involved (e.g. athletics, work-study positions, theater groups, choral groups, leadership positions, etc.) at the discretion of the coach, advisor, supervisor, etc.
Suspension
The Vice President for Student Development may suspend a
student for a period of up to two (2) years. A notation of suspension will be
placed on the student's academic transcript. During a disciplinary suspension,
a student is prohibited from entering Malone property or attending Malone-sponsored
events. Assignments and exams missed due to suspension are NOT subject for
make-up.
The Vice President for Student Development, or his/her designate, reserves the right to suspend a student, pending a hearing of charges, if believed to be in the best interests of the student and Malone.
Dismissal
The Vice President for Student Development may dismiss a student IMMEDIATELY, or at the end of the current semester. The student is notified that he/she is permanently separated from Malone and a notation is placed on the academic transcript - “Dismissed by Malone Action.”
Appeals
Students have the option of appealing a decision made by the
Vice President for Student Development to the Student Appeals Committee. The
decision of the appellate body will be to uphold, modify (reduce or increase),
or reverse (drop) the sanctions. All appeals must be in writing and submitted
to the Vice President for Student Development within forty-eight (48) hours of
receipt of the disciplinary decision. The Vice President for Student
Development will immediately notify the Chair of the Student Appeals Committee
of the appeal. Appeals must be based on at least one of the following:
1. Significant and relevant new evidence, which previously could not have been presented, has since been discovered, secured or made available. 2. The sanctions or decisions levied are
unduly arbitrary or unjustified and the student can provide reasonable evidence
or apparent cause to support this contention.
3. There was a substantially prejudicial failure to follow fair and proper procedure, and the student has reasonable evidence to prove this.
The chair of the Student Appeals Committee, in consultation with the committee members, will determine if grounds to hear the appeal exist. If these grounds do not exist, the chair will notify the student in writing upholding the Vice President for Student Development’s decision. If these grounds exist, the Chair will convene the Committee to hear the appeal within seven (7) business days of receiving the written appeal, unless other wise determined by the Chair. Because a student does not agree with the disciplinary decision does not constitute grounds for an appeal.
Students appealing to a disciplinary sanction of suspension or expulsion may continue attending classes during the course of their appeal unless otherwise directed by the Vice President for Student Development. Students and the Vice President for Student Development will have the opportunity to speak to the Student Appeals Committee when it has convened to hear the appeal at the appropriate time determined by the Chair of the Committee. Other individuals (such as the student’s parents) may speak to the Student Appeals Committee at the discretion of the Chair of the Committee and with the permission of the student.
Judiciary Right To
Appeal
The individual or committee that made the original or subsequent sanction(s) has the right to appeal decisions that have been changed if it is believed that such decisions are not appropriate. Such appeals will be made to the President of Malone by the Vice President for Student Development, who will represent him/herself or any other individual or group which developed the sanction(s) which are being appealed. Such appeals shall be in writing, made within forty-eight (48) hours of the decision of the appeals committee, and shall present information, evidence and/or rationale, which explain why the original sanction(s) should be maintained.
Removal from Campus
in Extraordinary Circumstances
In extraordinary circumstances, it may be in the best interest of Malone and students to immediately remove a student from campus. This will generally occur if there is sufficient evidence to suspect that the student potentially could cause harm to him/herself, to others or to Malone property or facilities. In such cases, decisions regarding such matters will be made by all or a portion of the President's Leadership Team. The student will then be required to immediately leave the campus and not return for any reason until a final determination of the case is made. The student will retain all rights granted in the Appeals section of the Abridged Student Handbook, but will not be allowed back to campus until the final decision of the appeal is made.
Notification of
Parents/Guardians in Disciplinary Matters
In the Fall of 1998 the 1974 federal privacy act was amended by Congress. This law prohibited colleges and universities from releasing disciplinary records of students 18 years of age or older without their consent. As a result of the amending of this act, colleges and universities were given the option of informing parents/ guardians of alcohol and other drug offenses committed by their students who are under 21 years of age. Thus, Malone reserves the right to contract parents/guardians in the case of alcohol and drug offenses by students under 21.
Notification of
Suspension
Parents/Guardians are notified in the event that a student is suspended or dismissed. Furthermore, the Vice President for Student Development reserves the right to contact parents/guardians, or members of the Malone Community (e.g., coaches, advisers, supervisors, etc.) within the limits prescribed by law if it is believed to be in the best interests of the student and Malone.
Civil and Criminal Laws and Applicability to Campus
Students are expected to abide by the laws and ordinances
that govern the
The prosecution of a student by local, state, or federal authority does not create double jeopardy, or in any way preclude subsequent judicial action against a student for the same conduct by Malone. Similarly, any action by Malone does not preclude subsequent action by any local, state, or federal authority.
Growth Initiative
If your own behavior has been in violation of the policies
of Malone, and if you wish to change, you are encouraged to take the initiative
to discuss the behavior of concern with a residence life staff member, faculty
member, campus counselor, or Student Development staff member. Upon doing so,
you may be exempt from certain disciplinary actions for behavior up to the time
the Growth Initiative begins. The following requirements must be met in order
to take advantage of the Growth Initiative: 1. You must initiate the contact. Once you
have been confronted and/or formal discipline has begun, your situation can no longer be addressed within the
concept of the Growth Initiative.
2. You must sign a behavior contract with
a Student Development professional staff member. This contract will specify the
behavior changes you wish to make, the obligations you have to Malone and/or
selected mentors, and the type of assistance you will receive from Malone in
accomplishing your goals for change. Your ongoing behavior must not be in
violation of the aforementioned contract. If it is, you may be subject to
formal discipline, i.e., probation, suspension or dismissal.
It is Malone’s desire to respect the integrity of a student who has initiated a request for help. Therefore, the Growth Initiative is designed to provide such support as opposed to responding with punitive discipline. It should be noted that in cases where behavior is repetitive, self-destructive, hazardous to others, or of significant legal issue, Malone may respond accordingly. Depending upon the behavior in question, Malone reserves the right to require the person to enter a professional setting where adequate help is available. Also, it may be the case that, because of the nature of certain behaviors, specific consequences may be unavoidable even when a Growth Contract is initiated. A student leader, because of their community responsibilities, may be asked to take a leave from their leadership role while on a Growth Contract. |