SCAMPUS

The USC Student Handbook

2016-17
 SCampus: The USC Student Handbook
2016-17

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PART A. GENERAL POLICY STATEMENTS ....................................................................................... 7

SECTION 1 UNIVERSITY GOVERNANCE........................................................................................................ 7

SECTION 2 POWER OF THE BOARD ............................................................................................................... 7

SECTION 3 STATEMENT OF STUDENT RIGHTS & RESPONSIBILITIES ............................................................. 8

Subsection I Relationship to the Institution ............................................................................................ 9
Subsection II Student/Faculty Relations ................................................................................................. 9
Subsection III Student Affairs ................................................................................................................11

SECTION 4 EQUAL OPPORTUNITY ...............................................................................................................13

Subsection I Policy ................................................................................................................................13
Subsection II Equal Access for Students with Disabilities.....................................................................14
Subsection III Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action ................................................14
Subsection IV Sources of Information ...................................................................................................15

SECTION 5 PRINCIPLES OF COMMUNITY .....................................................................................................15

SECTION 6 CODE OF ETHICS .......................................................................................................................15

SECTION 7 DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION COMPLIANCE .............................................................................16

PART B. UNIVERSITY STUDENT CONDUCT CODE ........................................................................17

SECTION 10 GENERAL DISCIPLINARY PRINCIPLES ......................................................................................17
Subsection 10.05 Disciplinary Authority ...............................................................................................17
Subsection 10.10 Basic Principles.........................................................................................................17
Subsection 10.20 Summary of Student Conduct Code Review Process .................................................20
Subsection 10.30 Student Procedural Protections ................................................................................20

SECTION 11 BEHAVIOR VIOLATING UNIVERSITY STANDARDS AND APPROPRIATE SANCTIONS..................29

SECTION 12 STUDENT CONDUCT REVIEW ..................................................................................................33

Subsection 12.01 Complaints ................................................................................................................33
Subsection 12.02 Complaint through Other Channels ..........................................................................33
Subsection 12.03 Contents of a Complaint ............................................................................................33
Subsection 12.04 Timing of Complaints ................................................................................................33
Subsection 12.05 Intake and Initial Fact-Finding .................................................................................34
Subsection 12.06 Overview of Student Conduct Reviews ......................................................................34
Subsection 12.10 Administrative Reviews .............................................................................................34
Subsection 12.11 Peer Review Panels ...................................................................................................35
Subsection 12.12 University Review Panels ..........................................................................................35
Subsection 12.13 Residential Education Review ...................................................................................36
Subsection 12.14 Other Review Systems ...............................................................................................36
Subsection 12.40 Adjudicatory Procedures ...........................................................................................36
Subsection 12.50 Reviews by Panels .....................................................................................................38
Subsection 12.60 Disciplinary Records ................................................................................................41

SECTION 13 ACADEMIC INTEGRITY REVIEW ..............................................................................................41

Subsection 13.10 Initiating a Complaint ...............................................................................................41
Subsection 13.11 Sanction and Consequences ......................................................................................42

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Subsection 13.12 Reporting Violations of Academic Integrity ..............................................................42

Subsection 13.13 Response to Report ....................................................................................................43

SECTION 14 ADMISSIONS VIOLATION REVIEW ...........................................................................................43

SECTION 15 APPEALS PROCESS ..................................................................................................................44

SECTION 16 STUDENT CONDUCT RECORDS ................................................................................................46

APPENDIX A ACADEMIC DISHONESTY SANCTION GUIDELINES ..................................................................47

APPENDIX B REPORT OF ACADEMIC INTEGRITY VIOLATION ......................................................................47

PART C. ACADEMIC POLICIES ............................................................................................................48

SECTION 1 CLASS NOTES POLICY ...............................................................................................................48

SECTION 2 DISPUTED ACADEMIC EVALUATION PROCEDURES ...................................................................48

Subsection I Schools Organized by Departments ..................................................................................48
Subsection II Schools Not Organized by Departments ..........................................................................49
Subsection III Schools with Certain Professional Degrees ...................................................................49
Subsection IV Graduate Students Who Have Been Dismissed from an Academic Program ................50

SECTION 3 GENERAL ACADEMIC PETITIONS ..............................................................................................50

Subsection I Registration-related Exceptions ........................................................................................51
Subsection II Degree Requirement-related Exceptions .........................................................................52
Subsection III Exceptions to the Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences Limits on Units in the
Major or Limits on the College Basic Requirement ..............................................................................53
Subsection IV Grading Issues ...............................................................................................................54

SECTION 4 TIMELINE FOR DEGREE PROGRESS ............................................................................................54

SECTION 5 STUDENT EDUCATION RECORDS ...............................................................................................55

SECTION 6 FALSIFICATION OF FINANCIAL AID INFORMATION ....................................................................57

PART D. FREE EXPRESSION AND DISSENT ......................................................................................59

SECTION 1 POLICY......................................................................................................................................59

SECTION 2 REASONABLE TIME, PLACE, AND MANNER ...............................................................................59

SECTION 3 GUIDELINES FOR CAMPUS DEMONSTRATIONS ..........................................................................61

SECTION 4 ADVERTISING, PROMOTION, AND LITERATURE DISTRIBUTION .................................................62

Subsection I Advertising ........................................................................................................................62
Subsection II General Regulations ........................................................................................................62
Subsection III Publicity .........................................................................................................................63

SECTION 5 LITERATURE AND PUBLICATION DISTRIBUTION ........................................................................64

Subsection I General Regulations .........................................................................................................64
Subsection II Banners ............................................................................................................................65
Subsection III Trousdale Light Post Banners ........................................................................................65
Subsection IV Ronald Tutor Campus Center International Plaza Light Post Banners .........................66

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Subsection V Violations .........................................................................................................................67

Subsection VI Responsibility for Content ..............................................................................................67
Subsection VII Helpful Hints .................................................................................................................68

SECTION 6 SOLICITATIONS BY OFF-CAMPUS PERSONS ...............................................................................68

Subsection I General Regulation ...........................................................................................................68
Subsection II Considerations in Issuing Permits ...................................................................................69
Subsection III Displaying Permits .........................................................................................................69
Subsection IV Code of Conduct .............................................................................................................70
Subsection V Sanctions ..........................................................................................................................70

SECTION 7 STUDENT ORGANIZATION LOGOS POLICY ................................................................................71

PART E. SEXUAL, INTERPERSONAL, AND PROTECTED CLASS MISCONDUCT ..................72

PART F. OTHER UNIVERSITY POLICIES ..........................................................................................73

SECTION 1 COMPUTING ..............................................................................................................................73

SECTION 2 UNIVERSITY EMAIL NOTIFICATIONS TO STUDENTS ..................................................................73

SECTION 3 STUDENT WEBSITE DISCLAIMER ..............................................................................................73

SECTION 4 STUDENT GRIEVANCE PROCEDURES .........................................................................................74

Subsection I Definitions .........................................................................................................................74
Subsection II Grievances Covered by This Policy .................................................................................74
Subsection III Grievances Not Covered by This Policy .........................................................................74
Subsection IV Informal Grievance Resolution.......................................................................................74
Subsection V Formal Grievance Resolution ..........................................................................................74

SECTION 5 ALCOHOL AND OTHER DRUGS ..................................................................................................75

Subsection I Alcohol Policy ...................................................................................................................76
Subsection II Alcohol and Event Planning ............................................................................................76
Subsection III Drug Policy ....................................................................................................................77
Subsection IV Violation of Alcohol and Drug Policy ............................................................................77
Subsection V Assistance.........................................................................................................................77

SECTION 6 SMOKE-FREE CAMPUS ..............................................................................................................78

SECTION 7 STUDENT HEALTH INSURANCE REQUIREMENT .........................................................................79

SECTION 8 STUDENT RELEASES..................................................................................................................79

SECTION 9 TROJAN SPIRIT CODE GUIDELINES ............................................................................................79

SECTION 10 BICYCLES................................................................................................................................80

SECTION 11 MOTORSCOOTERS/MOTORCYCLES..........................................................................................83

SECTION 12 COASTING DEVICES ................................................................................................................84

SECTION 13 MISSING STUDENT NOTIFICATION ..........................................................................................85

SECTION 14 MANDATORY ONLINE TRAINING COURSES .............................................................................85

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PART G. STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS ................................................................................................86

SECTION 1 RECOGNITION OF STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS ...........................................................................86
Subsection I Privileges ..........................................................................................................................86
Subsection II Responsibilities ................................................................................................................87
Subsection III Recognition Process .......................................................................................................87
Subsection IV Unrecognized Organizations ..........................................................................................88

SECTION 2 GROUP RESPONSIBILITY FOR STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS .........................................................89

SECTION 3 STUDENT-LED INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL ..................................................................................90

Subsection I Overseas Roster ................................................................................................................90
Subsection II Coordinators and Advisers ..............................................................................................90
Subsection III Required Forms ..............................................................................................................93
Subsection IV Travel Insurance .............................................................................................................93
Subsection V Restrictions on Destinations ............................................................................................94
Subsection VI Overseas Emergency Response Plans ............................................................................94
Subsection VII Student Behavior ...........................................................................................................94
Subsection VIII Contractual Agreements ..............................................................................................94

SECTION 4 FACILITIES ................................................................................................................................94

Subsection I General Policies................................................................................................................94
Subsection II Reserving Venues .............................................................................................................95
Subsection III Programming Venues .....................................................................................................95
Subsection IV Sound Amplification Policy ............................................................................................96
Subsection V Reservation Procedures ...................................................................................................96
Subsection VI Classrooms .....................................................................................................................97
Subsection VII Filming ..........................................................................................................................97
Subsection VIII Cancellation of Scheduled Events ................................................................................98
Subsection IX Violations........................................................................................................................99

SECTION 5 CAMPING ..................................................................................................................................99

SECTION 6 SOCIAL EVENTS ........................................................................................................................99

SECTION 7 SALES & FUNDRAISING ...........................................................................................................101

Subsection I Prohibited Activities ........................................................................................................101
Subsection II Process ..........................................................................................................................101
Subsection III Non-Profit Collections .................................................................................................102
Subsection IV Raffles or Lotteries .......................................................................................................102
Subsection V Free Drawings ...............................................................................................................102
Subsection VI Silent Auction................................................................................................................102
Subsection VII Student Organization Co-Sponsorship ........................................................................103
Subsection VIII Misrepresentation (Fronting) ....................................................................................104
Subsection IX Vendors .........................................................................................................................104
Subsection X USC Emblem Products ..................................................................................................105
Subsection XI Conflict of Interest ........................................................................................................105
Subsection XII Campus Tour Policies .................................................................................................105

SECTION 8 HAZING ...................................................................................................................................106

Subsection I Compliance with Applicable Rules .................................................................................106
Subsection II Policy Statement ............................................................................................................106
Subsection III Prohibition of Hazing ...................................................................................................106
Subsection IV Reporting Hazing..........................................................................................................107
Subsection V Loss of Recognition and Probation for Student Organizations .....................................107

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PART H. SAFETY ....................................................................................................................................109

SECTION 1 DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY ...........................................................................................109

SECTION 2 MANDATORY FEDERAL REPORTING & CAMPUS CRIME STATISTICS .......................................109

Subsection I Clery Act .........................................................................................................................109
Subsection II Campus Security Authorities .........................................................................................109
Subsection III Housing and Residential Education .............................................................................110
Subsection IV More Information .........................................................................................................110

SECTION 3 PREPAREDNESS .......................................................................................................................110

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A. General Policy Statements

1. University Governance

As a private corporation, USC is governed by a Board of Trustees. The Board is a self-

perpetuating body, electing one-fifth of its members each year for a five-year term of office. The
trustees delegate certain powers to the administration of the university and serve as the ultimate
decision-making body.

The President is the chief executive officer of USC. The President carries out policies established
by the trustees and, in doing so, has the power to delegate this authority to the officers of the
university.

The Academic Senate, Undergraduate Student Government, Graduate Student Government and
the Staff Assembly serve as consultative bodies for the President and the administration, preparing
studies and reports and making recommendations directly to the president on matters pertinent to
the functioning of the university.

Students, faculty, staff and administrators serve on university committees, which provide advice
and counsel to the President and administration on a broad variety of matters related to the
operation of the university.

Nominations for membership are made usually during the spring semester. Appointments are
made by the President of the university. Information and applications for committee membership
are available in the Undergraduate Student Government office, Ronald Tutor Campus Center 224,
(213) 740-5620, or the Graduate Student Government office, Ronald Tutor Campus Center 224,
(213) 740-5649.

Departmental and divisional committees and councils exist in many academic units. Information is
available through each particular office. In addition, many of the non-academic offices on campus,
such as the Engemann Student Health Center, have organized student advisory boards to voice
opinions and participate in program development. The appropriate office or department should be
contacted for this information.

2. Power of the Board

WHEREAS, the University of Southern California, like other independent and private universities,
is financed primarily by charitable contributions and grants as well as by tuition, fees and
contracts; and

WHEREAS, as a private institution, the university admits students selectively and students who
elect this university recognize that their admission and continuance is in the nature of a privilege
and not a right; and

WHEREAS, the powers of this corporation are exercised, its property controlled and its affairs
conducted by this Board of Trustees, pursuant to the laws of the State of California, the Articles of
Incorporation of the University and the by-laws of the university;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board of Trustees, acting through its officers,
has both the right and responsibility to and hereby does affirm its final authority over the on-going

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institution, and nothing in the Statement of Student Rights and Responsibilities or any other policy
pertaining to any subject promulgated by this board shall be construed as in any way abridging the
basic powers, rights and responsibilities of this board.

Adopted by the Board of Trustees

3. Statement of Student Rights and Responsibilities

Preamble
Students, faculty and administrative officials at the University of Southern California, as members
of the academic community, fulfill a purpose and a responsibility. The purpose is the humane and
critical examination of major issues of social, political, economic, ethical and aesthetic importance
which have in the past confronted, and which will in the coming years constantly confront, the
society as a whole.

The responsibility is to understand the spectrum of viewpoints on an issue, and, equally, to be

actively involved in the solution of the problems these issues delineate.

The university must, therefore, provide an optimal learning environment, and all members of the
university community have a responsibility to provide and maintain an atmosphere of free inquiry
and expression. The relationship of the individual to this community involves these principles:

1. The fundamental human rights of others;

2. The rights of others based upon the nature of the educational process;
3. The rights of the institution.

Each member of the campus has the right to organize and maintain their own personal life and
behavior, so long as it does not violate the law or agreements voluntarily entered into and does not
interfere with the rights of others or the educational process.

Each member has the right to identify themselves as a member of the campus but has a concurrent
obligation not to speak or act on behalf of the institution without authorization. Every member of
the academic community shall enjoy the rights of free speech, peaceful assembly and the right of
petition.

I. Relationship to the Institution

a. Non-Discrimination
See Section A.4. Equal Opportunity

b. Student Participation in the University Government

As members of the academic community, students are free, individually and
collectively, to express their views on issues of university policy and on matters
of interest to the student body. The student body shall have clearly defined
means to participate in the formation and application of university policy
affecting academic and student affairs. The actions of the student government
within the areas of its jurisdiction shall be reviewed only through orderly,
prescribed procedures. Students shall maintain professional standards of
discretion concerning information gained about other students and members of
the academic community in the course of active participation in university
affairs.

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c. Student Right To Be Informed

All students shall have the right of free access to statements of policy which
affect the student body. The university shall have the corresponding
responsibility to publish or in other ways make known, those policies which
vitally affect students.

d. Financial Matters
The student has a right to a full statement of tuition and fees for which he or she
is liable and to be informed, as extensively as possible, how such monies are
spent. Fees which students, through the student government, impose on
themselves, shall be allocated by students within governmental and university
policies and regulations.

e. Political Activity
Students have the same rights as any individual to engage in political activity
either individually or in groups. However, the university will not permit its name
or emblems to be used by any person in connection with a campaign, or its
campus, facilities or equipment to be used for campaign activities. Nothing in
this policy statement is intended to prohibit candidates or others from making
public addresses on campus pursuant to campus policies and procedures or the
traditional activities of recognized campus organizations.

f. Utilization of Campus Facilities

The university has the responsibility to provide students the use of campus
facilities according to campus regulations. The university reserves the right to
prohibit individuals and groups who are not members of the campus from using
its name, finances, or physical and operating facilities for commercial activities.
(See Section G.4 Facilities.)

g. Authorized Search of University Premises

In university-controlled housing and offices, the university reserves the right to
have its authorized agents or employees enter the premises to make necessary
inspection for services, maintenance and repairs. Authorized agents or
employees may enter the premises any time for the security of resident(s) or for
other emergency reasons.

II. Student/Faculty Relations

Because the university is essentially an academic community in which students and

faculty are co-participants, both must conduct themselves in a manner conducive to the
welfare of such a community and to the free interchange of information and ideas without
which that community cannot exist. The nourishment of that sense of community bestows
certain rights and responsibilities upon the members of that community.

(The latest editions of the USC Catalogue, catalogue.usc.edu, Schedule of Classes

classes.usc.edu, and the Faculty Handbook, policy.usc.edu/faculty, contain many current
academic policies and procedures.)

a. Rights

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i. Protection of Freedom of Expression Students shall be free to take

reasoned exception to the data or view offered in any course of study
and to reserve judgment about matters of opinion.

ii. The Importance of Teaching Teaching plays a primary role in the

advancement of learning. Therefore, students have a legitimate concern
about the nature and quality of instruction, and their evaluation of
teaching shall be a criterion considered in faculty promotion and tenure.
Students should know that faculty are required to meet with their
classes as part of their academic responsibility (see Faculty Handbook,
policy.usc.edu/faculty/ ). Freedom to teach and to learn implies that
faculty members have the right to determine the specific content of
their courses, within the established course definitions, and the
responsibility not to depart significantly from their areas of competence
or to divert significant time to material extraneous to the subject matter
of their courses.

iii. Protection Against Improper Evaluation Students shall have protection

through orderly procedures against prejudiced or capricious academic
evaluation. The method of grading by professors shall be made known
to students. Students can expect that faculty will be willing to explain
and discuss any grade, and students have the right to appeal any grade.
(See Section C.2. Disputed Academic Evaluation Procedures, and the
Faculty Handbook online at policy.usc.edu/faculty/ )

iv. Protection Against Improper Disclosure Information about students’

views, beliefs, political associations, performance and character, which
professors and administrators acquire in the course of their work as
instructors, advisers and counselors shall be held in confidence.

v. Assurance of Accessibility Because the interchange of ideas between

student and professor is of the utmost importance, and because such
interchanges are often most productive informally, the university shall
provide for student access to members of the faculty in appropriate
settings outside the classroom.

b. Responsibilities

i. Freedom of Expression As students are free to take reasoned exception

to the data or views offered in any course of study, so students are
expected to respect the intellectual views of faculty and the reasoned
process of academic debate.

ii. The Importance of Teaching As faculty are required to meet with their
classes, students are expected to attend classes and to observe courtesy
toward their instructors and their fellow students.

iii. Standard of Performance Students share responsibility for maintaining

standards of academic performance and classroom conduct conducive
to the learning process. It is the responsibility of the student to uphold
the academic integrity of the university. Cheating on examinations,
plagiarism, improper acknowledgment of sources in essays, and the use

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of a single essay in more than one course are considered very serious
offenses and shall be grounds for disciplinary action. (See Part B.
University Student Conduct Code)

iv. Student Participation in Faculty Evaluation In faculty evaluation,

students have the responsibility to perform such evaluation according to
academic criteria and not on the basis of opinions or conduct in matters
unrelated to academic performance.

III. Student Affairs

As members of the academic community, students bring to the campus a variety of

interests. They shall be free to organize and join campus associations to promote their
common interests.

a. Freedom of Inquiry and Expression

i. Students and student organizations shall be free to examine and discuss

all questions of interest to them and to express opinions publicly and
privately. They shall be free to support causes by all orderly means,
which do not disrupt the regular and essential operations and activities
of the university, since such disruption violates the responsible exercise
of free inquiry and expression. Students and student organizations shall
make it clear to the academic and larger communities that in their
public expressions they speak only for themselves.

ii. Students believing that their right to freedom of inquiry and expression
has been abridged may present the issue to the Office of the Vice
President for Student Affairs. (See Part D. Free Expression and
Dissent.)

iii. The distribution of literature is an integral part of expression and of

support for a cause. Rules governing such distribution shall ensure the
maximum degree of freedom, which is consistent with the regular and
orderly operations of the university and the rights of students. (See
Section D.5 Literature and Publications Distribution.)

b. Student Participation in Student Governments

The Undergraduate Student Government and the Graduate Student Government

are the official representative student governments of the University of Southern
California with power to make studies, reports and recommendations to the
President of the university in any and all matters pertaining to the well-being of
the student body. The role of the student government within the areas of its
jurisdiction shall be reviewed by the university administration only through
orderly procedures and channels.

c. Student Publications

The university shall provide editorial freedom for student publications to

maintain their integrity as vehicles for free inquiry and free expression in the
academic community. The editorial freedom of student editors and managers

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entails a responsibility to abide by the canons of responsible journalism. Libel,

indecency, undocumented allegations, attacks on personal integrity and the
techniques of harassment and innuendo shall be considered violation of those
canons. As safeguards for the editorial freedom of student publications, the
following provisions are guaranteed:

i. The student press shall be free of censorship and advance copy

approval, and its editors and managers shall be free to develop their
own editorial policies and patterns of news coverage.

ii. All university-published and/or -financed student publications shall

state explicitly on the editorial page that the opinions expressed are not
those of the university or its student body as a whole.

iii. Editors and managers of student publications shall be protected from

arbitrary suspension and removal because of student, faculty,
administrative or public disapproval of editorial policy or content. Only
for proper and stated causes can editors be subject to removal, and then
by orderly and prescribed procedures.

d. Freedom of Association

i. The university has the right to recognize student organizations and to

withdraw recognition for failure to abide by campus regulations and
federal, state and municipal laws and regulations.

ii. Student organizations shall be allowed to invite and to hear any person
of their choosing in accordance with recognized university speaker
procedures, required by the university before the guest speaker is
invited to appear on campus. Such procedures shall be designed only to
ensure that there is orderly scheduling of facilities and adequate
preparation for the event. Control of campus facilities shall not be used
as a device of censorship. Sponsoring organizations shall make clear to
the academic and larger communities that sponsorship of guest
speakers does not imply approval or endorsement of the views
presented, either by the sponsoring group or the university.

iii. The membership, policies and action of a student organization shall be

determined by a vote of only those persons who are bona fide members
of the university community and of that organization.

iv. Students shall have a voice in determining policy pertaining to the

recognition and discipline procedures, which affect student
organizations. Approval or disapproval of any application for
recognition of a student organization shall rest with a body, which has
adequate student representation.

v. Affiliation with an extramural organization shall not of itself disqualify

a student organization from university recognition.

vi. When student organizations are encouraged to have advisers, or when

campus advisers are required, each organization shall be free to choose

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its own adviser. Institutional recognition shall not be withheld or

withdrawn solely because of the inability of a student organization to
obtain an adviser. Campus advisers may advise organizations in
carrying out their responsibilities, but they shall not have the authority
to control the policies or finances of such organizations.

vii. Student organizations, including those affiliated with an extramural

organization, shall be open to all students without respect to race, color,
national origin, ancestry, religion (except for those religious
qualifications which may be specified by organizations whose aims are
primarily sectarian), sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression,
sexual orientation, age, physical disability, medical condition, mental
disability, marital status, pregnancy, veteran status, genetic
information, and any other characteristic which may be specified in
applicable laws and governmental regulations,. (Consult the Office of
the Vice President, Student Affairs, for the provisions of Title VI and
IX.)

viii. Student organizations capable of maintaining financial autonomy shall

be allowed to do so. Provision by the university for handling budgets
and accounts, banking and other financial services shall in no way
indicate a prerogative on the part of the university to control funds,
except through prescribed procedures designed to redress justified
grievances or uphold university regulations.

ix. Student organizations, in consultation and coordination with the

university, may publicize their events and solicit participation in them
from the university and outside community. (See Part G. Student
Organizations.)

(Portions of this section excerpted from Joint Statement on Rights and Freedoms of Students)

Adopted by the Board of Trustees, subject to the resolution on Power of the Board. It has been
updated to reflect current policies.

4. Equal Opportunity

I. Policy

The University of Southern California is an equal opportunity, affirmative action

educator and employer, proudly pluralistic and firmly committed to providing education
and employment opportunities to outstanding, qualified individuals with diverse
backgrounds and experience. The university strives to maintain a welcoming community
in which all its members may live, work and learn in peace and dignity, be proud of who
and what they are, and to have equal opportunity to realize their full potential as
individuals and members of society. To this end, the university places great emphasis on
those values and virtues that bind us together as human beings and members of the
Trojan Family. The university enthusiastically supports the principle of equal opportunity
in its entirety, and expects that every person associated with the university will give
continuing support to its implementation.

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The university is committed to complying with all applicable laws and regulations, from
all levels of government, that prohibit discrimination against, or mandate special
consideration be given to, applicants for admission or employment, or current faculty,
staff or student, on the basis of any protected characteristic. This commitment applies to
all of the university’s educational programs and activities, including admissions, as well
as all employment actions, including but not limited to recruiting, hiring, promotion,
demotion, compensation, benefits, transfers, layoffs, return from layoff, provision of
leaves, training, education, tuition assistance, and other programs.

The university prohibits discrimination and harassment based on individuals’ age,

ancestry, citizenship, color, physical or mental disability, gender expression, gender
identity, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, military status, national
origin, pregnancy, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, protected veteran status, or any
other basis protected by applicable laws or regulations. Additionally, retaliation,
including intimidation, threats, or coercion, because any students, employees, or
applicants for employment or academic admission have objected to discrimination,
engaged or may engage in filing a complaint, assisted in a review, investigation, or
hearing, or have otherwise sought to exercise their rights under any federal, state, or local
equal employment opportunity law is prohibited.

The university seeks compliance with all state and federal laws and regulations
prohibiting discrimination in education or employment. The university makes good faith
efforts towards compliance even when relevant laws and regulations conflict with each
other, or where obligations may be vague or otherwise unclear. Beyond mere compliance,
the university strives to develop and implement best practices with regard to non-
discrimination and equal opportunity and access in both education and employment.

All students, staff, and faculty are responsible to act in accordance with the USC’s Equal
Opportunity policy and are encouraged to assist the university’s efforts in support of non-
discrimination and equal opportunity and access. All members of the USC community
must be familiar with this policy, must fully support it, and are responsible to apply these
principles in good faith.

II. Equal Access for Students with Disabilities

In addition, an otherwise qualified individual must not be denied admissions,

participation in educational programs and activities, or employment solely due to his or
her disability. University policies and procedures will ensure that students and student
applicants with disabilities will be provided full and equal access to and enjoyment of
academic and co-curricular programs or activities, regardless of disability status, in an
environment free from discrimination or harassment. For more information on
accommodations for any student, or student applicant, with a disability, contact the
Office of Disability Services and Programs at (213) 740-0776 or [email protected].

III. Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action

It is the policy of The University of Southern California to provide employment equity

for all persons without regard to any characteristic protected by university policy, as
stated above. With the support and concurrence of top management, specifically
including our President, the Office of Equity and Diversity is responsible for
implementing institutional affirmative action efforts to ensure that the principle of equal
employment opportunity is understood, followed, and a reality for our university.

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The Affirmative Action Plan for Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities is available
for inspection in the Office of Equity and Diversity by any student, employee or applicant
upon request, during normal business hours. Interested persons may contact the
Affirmative Action & EEO Coordinator at (213) 740-5086 or [email protected] for
assistance.

IV. Sources of Information

Questions regarding the application of the various rules and regulations concerning equal
employment opportunity, affirmative action and non-discrimination, and Title IX should
be addressed to the Office of Equity and Diversity.

The Disabled/Veterans Affirmative Action Plan may be reviewed by students upon

request; for further information or to make an appointment during regular business hours,
contact the Office of Equity and Diversity.

University Park Campus:

3720 S. Flower Street 2nd floor
Credit Union Building, 200
Los Angeles, California 90089-0704
(213) 740-5086
[email protected]

Health Science Campus:

2001 N. Soto Street, Suite 203
Los Angeles, CA 90002-9236
(323) 442-2020
[email protected]

5. Principles of Community

The University of Southern California’s Division of Student Affairs bears a central responsibility
for providing students services and resources that will assist in all aspects of their development.
We further seek to foster a scholarly community in which an individual’s participation in
academic dialogue will be considered on its merits — and not denigrated or disregarded based on
personal characteristics or group identity. Consistent with this charge, the division has adopted the
following statement of guiding principles.

USC is a multicultural community of people from diverse racial, ethnic, and class backgrounds,
national origins, faith backgrounds, political beliefs, abilities, and sexual orientations. Our
activities, programs, classes, workshops, lectures, and everyday interactions are enriched by our
acceptance of one another, and we strive to learn from each other in an atmosphere of positive
engagement and mutual respect.

All who work, live, study and teach in the USC community are here by choice. As part of that
choice, we share a commitment to these principles as an integral part of USC’s mission.

6. Code of Ethics at the University of Southern California

See Code of Ethics of USC at policy.usc.edu/ethics

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7. Department of Education Compliance

The Department of Education requires each state to have an external agency responsible for
handling complaints related to the university’s compliance with applicable laws. In California,
this external agency is the Bureau for Private Post-Secondary Education. Complaints that suggest
the university may not be in compliance with applicable laws may be directed to:

Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education

2535 Capitol Oaks Drive, Suite 400
Sacramento, CA 95833
Telephone: (916) 431-6959
bppe.ca.gov/enforcement/complaint.shtml

Additionally, the university is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University
Commission. Complaints demonstrating a possible violation of the Commission’s Standards of
Accreditation and Commission policies and procedures should be directed to:

WASC Senior College and University Commission

985 Atlantic Avenue, Suite 100
Alameda, CA 94501
Phone: (510) 748-9001
wascsenior.org/comments

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B. Student Conduct Code

10. General Disciplinary Principles

Students are expected to make themselves aware of and abide by the University community’s
standards of behavior as articulated in the Student Conduct Code, University’s Policy and
Procedures on Student Sexual, Interpersonal, and Protect Class Misconduct, and in related policy
statements. Students accept the rights and responsibilities of membership in the USC community
when they are admitted to the university. In the university, as elsewhere, ignorance is not an
acceptable justification for violating community standards. Lack of intent or awareness of
university standards normally will not be accepted as excuses for violations and will normally
receive the same consequences as deliberate violations.

Because the functions of a university depend on honesty and integrity among its members, the
university expects from its students a higher standard of conduct than the minimum required to
avoid disciplinary action. Likewise, while many of the university’s standards of conduct parallel
the laws of society in general, university standards may exceed those found elsewhere in society.

Where there is a delay between the conduct and the reporting of the potential violation, the
applicable provisions regarding behavior violating university standards and appropriate sanctions
(as described in Section B.11) shall be those that were in effect at the time the behavior occurred.
Student conduct investigations will be conducted according to the most recent or current
procedures described in the most current version of this part as of the date of the notification letter
to the respondent.

Any reference to “days” in this part refers to calendar days, unless otherwise noted.

10.05 Disciplinary Authority

The powers of the university are exercised, its property controlled and its affairs
conducted by the Board of Trustees. Responsibility for the administration of these affairs
is delegated by the board to various officers of the university, as stipulated in the
corporate bylaws; the enforcement of all rules and regulations is the specific duty of the
university president. The President, in turn, delegates the authority to the Vice President
for Student Affairs to establish and hold student conduct review proceedings that will
ensure the proper administration of the university’s rules and regulations. The Vice
President for Student Affairs has delegated this responsibility to the Office of Student
Judicial Affairs and Community Standards. The delegation of responsibilities is different
for matters involving sexual, interpersonal, and protected class misconduct, which are
delegated to the university’s Title IX Coordinator and are governed by the University’s
Policy and Procedures on Student Sexual, Interpersonal, and Protected Class Misconduct.

In exceptional circumstances, where imminent harm may result to persons or property

within the university community, the Vice President for Student Affairs or designee may
modify procedures outlined under the Non-academic Conduct Review System (see
Section B.12).

Student procedural rights and review procedures are articulated in later sections of the
Student Conduct Code.

10.10 Basic Principles

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I. The Relationship of Discipline to the Purpose of the University.

The University of Southern California is primarily an academic community. As
such, the university seeks to maintain an optimal learning environment. To
achieve this objective, the university exercises certain disciplinary and
discretionary powers. It protects its educational environment by establishing and
maintaining standards of conduct for its students as individuals and as groups.
These standards reflect the very nature of an academic community and the need
to preserve an effective educational environment.

Activities of students may result in violation of law, and students who violate
the law may incur penalties prescribed by civil authorities. However, the
university reserves the right to review such incidents independent of action by
civil or criminal authorities, recognizing that the university’s authority and its
disciplinary process serve its educational mission and interest, a function
separate from action by civil or criminal authorities.

The university’s function with reference to student conduct differs from the
community’s function in method as well as scope. Recognizing its role in
developing a sense of responsibility in students, the university uses admonition,
example, counseling and guidance in addition to formal disciplinary
proceedings. Every USC student is presumed to have sufficient maturity,
intelligence and concern for the rights of others to help maintain the standards of
the academic community. When a student’s behavior demonstrates otherwise,
the university will consider disciplinary action as appropriate.

II. Conditions for Review

a. Definition of a Student:

For the purpose of university rules and regulations, a student is defined

as one who:

i. is currently enrolled in university classes or in one of the

university’s degree or non-degree programs,

ii. has completed the immediately preceding semester and/or is

enrolled for the next scheduled semester,

iii. is officially representing the university during a period

between regular academic semesters, or

iv. is not officially enrolled for a particular semester, but who has
a continuing relationship with the university.

An individual may be reviewed under this code if an allegation of

academic integrity violation is made after the student has left the
university and a degree has been granted.

b. Definition of a Student Organization:

A student organization is defined as one which has satisfied the

administrative procedures for recognition as prescribed in this

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guidebook (see Section G.1. Recognition of Student Organizations) or

which is functioning within the university community in the capacity of
a student organization.

c. Timeliness:

Generally, a matter will be reviewed only when a report has been filed
with the Office of Student Judicial Affairs and Community Standards
within one year of discovery of the alleged violation. There is no time
limit for cases involving academic, sexual, interpersonal, and protected
class misconduct, and those matters will be reviewed whenever they are
reported. Cases involving sexual, interpersonal, and protected class
misconduct should be filed with the Office of the Title IX Coordinator,
as explained in the University’s Policy and Procedures on Student
Sexual, Interpersonal, and Protect Class Misconduct.

d. Jurisdiction:

University jurisdiction and discipline shall be limited to conduct which

occurs on university premises or within the university community, is
associated with university sponsored or related activities, or which
adversely affects the university community and/or the pursuit of its
objectives, including student-to-student sexual misconduct.

e. Standard of Proof:

The standard of proof to find a violation of the Student Conduct Code

is a preponderance of the evidence.
Preponderance of the evidence means that based on the totality of
evidence and reasonable inferences drawn therefrom, it is more likely
than not that the Respondent committed the prohibited conduct
charged.
Put another way, the preponderance of the evidence means such
evidence that when weighed against that opposed to it, has the more
convincing force and the greater probability of truth.

f. Status of Students or Student Organizations Pending Student Conduct

Review.

The status of a student in most cases will not be altered and disciplinary
sanctions will not be implemented until completion of an initial review.

Interim Protective Measures may be authorized by the President of the

university, by the Vice President for Student Affairs, or the designee of
either, whenever there is evidence that a student or organization poses a
substantial threat to the safety or well-being of members of the
university community, to property within the university community or
poses a continuing threat of disruption or interference to normal
university life or functions. See Section B.11.83.

Administrative holds affecting registration transactions, posting of

degree and a student’s ability to acquire copies of their transcript may

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be placed when students fail to fulfill terms of their disciplinary

obligations. Such situations may include failure to respond to a written
notice indicating a required appointment with a designated university
disciplinary official and failure to complete disciplinary sanctions by an
established deadline.

This restriction normally will remain in effect until disciplinary

obligations are met or adjudication of the matter is complete. Students
placed on disciplinary probation or deferred suspension may continue
to participate in university activities unless specific sanctions or other
campus and organizational rules or regulations restrict such
participation.

When the outcome of a disciplinary action is suspension from the

university, a restriction will be placed prohibiting the student from
performing any registration transactions during the period of
suspension. The restriction will not be removed, and the student will
not be allowed to perform registration transactions, until the stated
period of suspension has expired and all disciplinary obligations are
met.

III. Expectations for Students’ Conduct

The general principles set forth here and behavioral standards, which are
described in Section B.11., are intended to provide clear guidelines for students
as to what is expected of them as members of the university community, and to
inform students of types of conduct that may result in university disciplinary
action.

10.20 Summary of Student Conduct Code Review Process

Generally, student misconduct cases will be divided into four categories:

• non-academic violations (see Section B.12)

• academic integrity violations (see Section B.13)
• admissions violations (see Section B.14)
• sexual, interpersonal, and protected class misconduct cases (see the
University’s Policy and Procedures on Student Sexual, Interpersonal, and
Protected Class Misconduct).

The Office of Student Judicial Affairs and Community Standards is responsible for the
integrity of the student conduct system. It gives advice and is responsible for procedural
questions and conduct reviews, except for reviews of Sexual, Interpersonal, and Protected
Class Misconduct. There are also separate review processes in certain schools (see
Section B.12.14).

10.30 Student Procedural Protections

The university is committed to the timely and fair resolution of disciplinary problems in
an adjudicatory process. Although the Student Conduct Code affords significant
procedural protections in the adjudicatory process, this does not include the right to
confront accusers or be represented by counsel.

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With the exception of cases addressed under Sections B.12.13, 12.14, , students accused
of violating the Student Conduct Code and reporting students are granted the following
procedural protections:

I. Written notice via email of the incident report that specifies the nature of the
alleged violation and the basis for the charge including the date or period of time
and location regarding the alleged incident.

II. Written notice of the location of copies of the Student Conduct Code and Conduct
Review System.

III. Written notice of the requirement that the accused student must meet with a
judicial officer in the Office of Student Judicial Affairs and Community
Standards. The university reserves the right to conduct reviews in absentia when
an accused student fails to respond after proper notice has been given or after the
university has exercised reasonable effort to notify the student of the allegations.

IV. A fair and impartial review of the incident.

V. Prior to a review, a summary of rights, review procedures and avenue of appeal.

VI. The right to inspect documents and/or relevant information on file during the
review.

VII. The opportunity to be present at the review; to inspect all evidence presented;
and to present witnesses and evidence.

VIII. If the accused student declines to present information on their own behalf, this
will not be construed as an admission of guilt.

IX. A written decision outlining the results of the review. In Summary

Administrative Reviews and panel reviews, this includes the factual basis for the
conclusions drawn.

Student conduct records are maintained as a confidential student disciplinary

file. As a primary document in such files, distribution of written decisions is
limited to accused students and to USC personnel charged with responsibility
for implementation of sanctions. Complainants will be notified by separate letter
of the outcome of the review. (For an explanation of university policy
concerning student records, see Section C.5 Student Education Records.)

X. The opportunity to appeal the initial review within 10 business days of receipt of
the written decision. Both the accused student and the complainant will be
notified in writing of the outcome of any appeal. Notice will be emailed to the
student’s email address of record in the Student Directory, unless the student
makes arrangements in advance with the investigator to have the decision
mailed to the student’s last known address or hand-delivered. If a notice is
mailed, it is deemed to be received three days after it is mailed.

XI. A timely initial review conducted as soon as possible after the Office of Student
Judicial Affairs and Community Standards has received all pertinent documents

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of the case. Due to the nature of the university’s academic calendar, the Office
of Student Judicial Affairs and Community Standards may not be able to
conduct a review at any specified date or time.

XII. At all steps of the initial review and in preparing an appeal, the accused student
and complainant may have an adviser of their choice present. The adviser may
be a practicing attorney only for cases in which criminal charges are pending or
the recommended sanctions include expulsion, suspension, revocation of degree
or revocation of admission. Advisers must request and review the guidelines of
advisers prior to the review. In all reviews, whether or not an adviser is present,
the primary conversation shall be with the student. (See Section B.12.50.VII.
Adviser).

11. Behavior Violating University Standards and Appropriate Sanctions

General principles of academic integrity include and incorporate the concept of respect for the
intellectual property of others, the expectation that individual work will be submitted unless
otherwise allowed by an instructor, and the obligations both to protect one’s own academic work
from misuse by others as well as to avoid using another’s work as one’s own. All students are
expected to understand and abide by these principles. Faculty members may include additional
classroom and assignment policies, as articulated on their syllabus.

The Student Conduct Code articulates violations that are most common and readily identifiable.
Conduct violating university community standards that is not specifically mentioned may still be
subject to disciplinary action.

Where conduct under any provision of this Code involves student sexual, interpersonal, or
protected class misconduct, a separate policy applies.

The following are examples of violations of these and other university standards.

11.11

A. The submission of material authored by another person but represented as the

student’s own work, whether that material is paraphrased or copied in verbatim
or near-verbatim form.

B. The submission of material subjected to editorial revision by another person that

results in substantive changes in content or major alteration of writing style.

C. Improper acknowledgment of sources in essays or papers.

Note: Culpability is not diminished when plagiarism occurs in drafts which are
not the final version. Also, if any material is prepared or submitted by another
person on the student’s behalf, the student is expected to proofread the results
and is responsible for all particulars of the final draft.

11.12

A. Acquisition of term papers or other assignments from any source and the
subsequent presentation of those materials as the student’s own work, or

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providing term papers or assignments that another student submits as their own
work.

B. Distribution or use of notes or recordings based on university classes or lectures

without the express permission of the instructor for purposes other than
individual or group study. This includes, but is not limited to, providing
materials for distribution by services publishing class notes. This restriction on
unauthorized use also applies to all information, which had been distributed to
students or in any way had been displayed for use in relationship to the class,
whether obtained in class, via email, on the Internet or via any other media. (See
Section C.1 Class Notes Policy).

C. Recording a university class without the express permission of the instructor and
announcement to the class. Recording can inhibit future free discussion and thus
infringe on the academic freedom of other students as well as the instructor.

11.13

A. Any use or attempted use of external assistance in the completion of an

academic assignment and/or during an examination, or any behavior that defeats
the intent of an examination or other classwork or assignment, shall be
considered academically dishonest unless expressly permitted by the instructor.
The following are examples of unacceptable behaviors: communicating with
fellow students during an exam, copying or attempting to copy material from
another student’s exam; allowing another student to copy from an exam or
assignment; possession or use of unauthorized notes, calculator, or other
materials during exams and/or unauthorized removal of exam materials.

B. Submission of work altered after grading shall be considered academically

dishonest, including but not limited to changing answers after an exam or
assignment has been returned or submitting another’s exam as one’s own to gain
credit.

11.14

A. Obtaining for oneself or providing for another person a solution to homework, a

project or other assignment, or a copy of an exam or exam key without the
knowledge and expressed consent of the instructor.

B. Unauthorized collaboration on a project, homework or other assignment.

Collaboration will be considered unauthorized unless expressly part of the
assignment in question or expressly permitted by the instructor.

11.15

A. Attempting to benefit from the work of another.

B. Any attempt to hinder the work of another student or any act which may
jeopardize another student’s academic standing.

11.16

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Using any portion of an essay, term paper, project or other assignment more
than once, without permission of the instructor(s).

11.17

Falsification, alteration or misrepresentation of official or unofficial records or

documents including but not limited to academic transcripts, academic
documentation, letters of recommendation, and admissions applications or
related documents.

11.18

Taking a course, any course work or exam for another student or allowing
another individual to take a course, course work, a portion of a course or exam
in one’s stead.
11.19

A. Using university computer, network and word processing systems to gain

access, alter and/or use unauthorized information.

B. Misuse of university computer systems or access to those systems as articulated

by the university’s Computing Policies (including improper downloading of
material, see Section F.1. Computing)

11.20

Fabrication: Submitting material for lab assignments, class projects or other

assignments which is wholly or partially falsified, invented or otherwise does
not represent work accomplished or undertaken by the student.

11.21

Any act that gains or is intended to gain an unfair academic advantage may be
considered an act of academic dishonesty.

11.31

A. Dishonesty, such as furnishing false information to any university official,

faculty member or office. This includes, but is not limited to, furnishing false
information in academic petitions or requests, financial aid documents, student
employment documents, financial statements or other documents or
intentionally evading university officials and/or obligations to the university.

B. Failing to participate fully and truthfully in university investigations.

11.32

A. Conducting oneself in a manner that endangers the health or safety of oneself

within the university community or at university sponsored or related events.

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B. Conducting oneself in a manner that endangers the health or safety of other

members or visitors within the university community or at university sponsored
or related events.

11.33

A. Unauthorized entry, presence in or use of university premises, facilities or

property.

B. Unauthorized entry into, or presence in, the dwelling or property of another.

11.34

A. Forgery, unauthorized alteration or unauthorized use of any university

document, records, keys or instruments of identification, or of documents or
records related to functions of the university.

B. Unauthorized presentation of oneself as a representative of the university for the

purpose of gaining or attempting to gain privilege, convenience, goods or
services.

C. Possession, manufacture or distribution of false or altered instruments of

identification within the university community.

11.35

Theft (or attempted theft) of property or of services within the university

community; possession of stolen property regardless of origin; or
misappropriation of university resources.

11.36

A. Causing physical harm to any person in the university community or at

university-sponsored activities.

B. Causing reasonable apprehension of harm to any person in the university

community or at university-sponsored activities.

Note: Self-defense is that which reasonably appears necessary, in view of all the
circumstances of the case, to prevent injury and remove oneself from the
situation.

11.37

Destroying, damaging or defacing the property of others, whether in the

university community or at university-sponsored activities.

11.38

Behavior which disrupts or interferes with normal university or university-

sponsored activities, including, but not limited to, study, teaching, research,
officially invited speakers, university administration, public safety, or fire,

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police or emergency services or other authorized activity. (Also see Part D. Free
Expression and Dissent.)

11.39

Failure to comply with directions of university officials acting in the

performance of their duties while in the university community or at university-
sponsored activities, or resisting or obstructing such university officials in the
performance of their duties, including failure to carry and/or provide upon
request appropriate USC student identification.

11.40

Unauthorized use, possession or dissemination of alcohol or tobacco products in

the university community or at university-sponsored activities. (Also see Section
F.5. Alcohol and Other Drugs.)

11.41

Use, possession or dissemination of unauthorized or illegal drugs, or drug-

related paraphernalia in the university community or at university-sponsored
activities. (Also see Section F.5. Alcohol and Other Drugs.)

11.42

Behavior which disrupts or interferes with the freedom of expression of others in

the university community or at university-sponsored activities. (Also see Part D.
Free Expression and Dissent.)

11.43

Participation in or promotion of a disturbance of the peace or unlawful assembly

in the university community or at university-sponsored activities, which may
include violating published USC guidelines regarding amplification equipment
and noise. (Also see Part D. Free Expression and Dissent.)

11.44

A. Engaging in disruptive or disorderly conduct in the university community or at

university-sponsored activities.

B. Engaging in or encouraging lewd, indecent or obscene behavior in the university

community or at university-sponsored activities.

C. Encouraging or permitting others to engage in misconduct prohibited within the

university community, failing to confront and prevent the misconduct, notify an
appropriate university official of the misconduct, or remove oneself from the
situation.

11.45

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Initiating or causing to be initiated any false report, warning or threat, such as

that of fire, explosion or other emergency in the university community or at
university-sponsored activities.

11.46

A. Misusing or damaging fire safety equipment or other emergency equipment in

the university community or at university-sponsored activities.

B. Failure to evacuate during a fire alarm, whether the alarm is activated falsely, as
a drill, or in a genuine emergency.

C. Inappropriate use of flammable substances or equipment, or use of such items

without proper authorization.

11.47

A. Unauthorized use or possession of firearms or replicas, ammunition, explosives,

knives, flammable substances or other weapons, or parts thereof, in the
university community or at university-sponsored events.

B. Unauthorized use or possession of fireworks in the university community or at

university-sponsored events.

11.48

Violating rules and regulations pertaining to the operation of bicycles, mopeds

and/or vehicles, roller skates, rollerblades, scooters and skateboards in the
university community property. (Also see Sections F.10. Bicycles; F.11.
Coasting Devices.)

11.49

Knowingly violating the terms of any disciplinary sanction imposed in

accordance with the Student Conduct Code. This includes further violations
during a period of disciplinary probation.

11.50

A. Violating regulations or policies governing residence in university owned or

administered property (e.g., rules outlined in the USC Housing Contract and
Residential Education policies).

B. Violating standards or policies established for social greek letter organizations,

including but not limited to the Greek Recognition Standards.

C. Violating any policies, rules or regulations of the university including but not
limited to administrative rules of campus offices.

D. Violating Section G.2. Group Responsibility for Student Organizations

(including social greek letter organizations). This policy can also be found in the

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Office for Fraternity and Sorority Leadership Development and in the Office of
Campus Activities.

11.51

Engaging in harassing behavior.

11.52

Any act chargeable as a violation of local, state or federal law may be cited as a
violation of the Student Conduct Code, whether or not charges are brought by
civil authorities, when such act(s) occur on university premises, or at university
sponsored activities or events, or when such conduct adversely affects the
university community and/or the pursuit of its objectives.

11.54

Engaging in behavior prohibited by the policy against Hazing. (See Section G.8.
Hazing.)

Where conduct under section 11.54 involves student sexual, interpersonal, or

protected class misconduct, the conduct will be subject to review under
https://policy.usc.edu/student-misconduct/.

11.55

Threatening, attempting, or committing retaliation against anyone who, in good

faith, brings a complaint under the Student Handbook policy, university policy,
or applicable law; or participates in investigation of such a complaint; or protests
in good faith alleged discrimination, harassment or retaliation against another.
Such retaliation may include, but is not limited to:

• Coercion, intimidation, interference, harassment or vexatious behavior;

• Excluding or blocking someone from a team, activity, organization, or

course participation due to that person’s having filed a complaint or
been a witness as part of an investigation;

• Spreading negative information about the individual.

11.80

Sanctions for violations of the University Student Conduct Code are assessed
appropriately for the cited violation.

Sanctions will be considered in light of a student’s comprehensive conduct

record at the university. Sanctions will be designed to hold students accountable
for their actions; to promote their physical, intellectual, social and emotional
well-being; to protect the integrity of the educational environment of the
university; and to ensure the safety of every member of its community.

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All academic integrity violations will result in an academic consequence. Failure

to comply with the terms of any imposed sanctions may be considered an
additional violation.

When a student’s enrollment is cancelled as a result of disciplinary action

resulting in marks of “W” on the student’s academic transcript, the university’s
policy is not to refund tuition or fees for the cancelled enrollment.

One or more of the following sanctions may be imposed for violations of

university regulations.

11.81

Expulsion from the university: Permanent termination of student status. A

permanent notation will appear on the student’s transcript. The student will be
excluded from all classes, seminars and programs; will not be allowed to
participate in any university-sponsored activity; may not receive a USC degree;
and is barred from university premises. If the expulsion becomes effective
during a semester for which the student currently is enrolled, the student’s
enrollment will be cancelled by the university resulting in marks of “W” for the
enrolled courses on the student’s academic transcript.

11.82

Suspension from the university: Termination of student status for a specified but
limited period of time. During the period of suspension, the student will be
excluded from all classes, seminars and programs; will not be allowed to
participate in any university-sponsored activities; and is barred from university
premises. A restriction will be placed prohibiting the student from performing
any registration transactions during the period of suspension. The restriction will
not be removed, and the student will not be allowed to perform registration
transactions, until the stated period of suspension has expired and all
disciplinary obligations have been met. A notation will appear on the student’s
academic transcript indicating the dates of suspension. Upon earning a degree
from the university, the suspension notation may be omitted from the transcript
at the sole discretion of the university. In some cases, suspensions may be
permanently noted on the transcript. During the period of suspension, the
student may not complete academic work elsewhere that may be counted toward
the completion of a USC degree.

Violation of the conditions of suspension, university policies or regulations

during the period of suspension may be cause for further disciplinary action,
usually in the form of expulsion from the university. Normally after the
suspension, the student will be on disciplinary probation for a specified period
of time. If the suspension becomes effective during a semester for which the
student currently is enrolled, the student’s enrollment will be cancelled by the
university resulting in marks of “W” for the enrolled courses on the student’s
transcript.

11.83

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Interim Protective Measures: The Vice President for Student Affairs or designee
may authorize Interim Protective Measures, including suspension or other
action, against a student or organization pending disciplinary proceedings
whenever there is evidence that the student or organization poses a substantial
threat to the safety or well-being of members of the university community, to
property within the university community or when a student or organization
poses a continuing threat of disruption or interference to normal university life
or functions. A student or organization subject to Interim Protective Measures
will be given prompt written notice of the charges and the opportunity for a
review within 15 days of the notice, unless a later date shall be mutually agreed
upon by the accused student or organization and the Office of Student Judicial
Affairs and Community Standards or the Title IX Coordinator.

I. Interim Suspension: Exclusion from all classes, seminars and programs;

prohibition of participation in university-sponsored activities; and exclusion
from university premises.

II. Interim Action: Includes, but is not limited to, exclusion from university housing
or a specified portion thereof, limitations on hours of attendance at certain
events or in certain university facilities, or exclusion from other specified
activities or areas of the campus as set forth in the written notice of Interim
Action.

11.84

Revocation of Admission: The student loses admitted status to the university.

The student may not continue enrollment or enroll for future semesters and may
not receive a USC degree. Normally, revocation of admission precludes the
student from the opportunity to apply to or be admitted to any program at the
university in the future. A permanent notation will be made on the student’s
transcript indicating that admission was revoked and the date of the action. If the
revocation of admission becomes effective during a semester for which the
student currently is enrolled, the student’s enrollment will be cancelled by the
university resulting in marks of “W” for the enrolled courses on the student’s
academic transcript.

11.85

Revocation of Degree: The student loses the right to claim the degree as earned.
Posting of the degree will be removed from the student’s transcript, and a
permanent notation will be made on the transcript indicating the revocation, the
degree involved and the date of the action.

11.86

Dismissal from an Academic Unit: Permanent termination of the student’s right

to enroll or participate in the classes, seminars and/or programs of a specific
academic unit, school or department.

I. Undergraduate Students: Dismissal from a specific undergraduate academic unit

shall not prevent undergraduate students from enrolling in other university

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academic units. Normally after dismissal from an academic unit, the student will
be on disciplinary probation for a specified period of time.

II. Graduate Students: Students who have been dismissed from a specific graduate
academic unit may not enroll in other graduate programs unless they have
gained formal admission to such programs.

11.87

Removal from an individual course or section of a course. Removal precludes

the student from participation in and attendance of the course or section, or any
of its sessions. In multiple section courses, the student will not necessarily be
allowed to transfer to another section.

11.88

Grade Sanctions: Any disciplinary grade reduction including, but not limited to,
grades of “F” for a course, a reduced grade for a course, grades of “F” or zero
credit for assignments, or reduced credit for assignments. In cases where a
student has registered for a course on a Pass/No Pass basis and the student is
found responsible for an academic violation, a letter grade may be assigned. See
Appendix A for university recommendations.

11.89

Disciplinary Probation: Indicates that the student has engaged in unacceptable

behavior and may be required to report to the Office of Student Judicial Affairs
and Community Standards or designee and meet specific conditions related to
the violation during the probationary period. Additionally, the student is given
written notice that any further violations of university policies may result in
more severe sanctions such as removal from university housing, suspension,
dismissal from an academic unit or expulsion from the university.

11.90

Warning: Written notice to the student that continued or repeated violations may
be cause for further disciplinary action, normally in the form of disciplinary
probation, suspension or expulsion.

11.91

Restitution: Reimbursement for damage to university property or for

misappropriation of university property or services may be imposed in
combination with other disciplinary action where appropriate. The student may
be required to make reimbursement to the university for property damages
incurred as a result of a violation of this code. Such reimbursement may take the
form of monetary payment or appropriate service to repair or otherwise
compensate for damages. Restitution may be assigned for minor damage to the
property of individuals or groups within the university community, but
adjudication of student discipline usually will defer determination of significant
restitution to other appropriate processes.

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11.92

Restriction or Loss of Computing Privileges: Consequences for violation of the

University Computing Policies or violations involving use of university
computing services may include:

I. Restrictions placed on the use of university computing resources that may

include prohibition of access to particular facilities or resources (e.g., Resnet), or
limits placed on the use of university computing resources (e.g., restriction to
use for specified academic work only).

II. Loss of privilege of using university computing resources for any purpose,
including academic work. Loss of privilege may be temporary or permanent.

11.93

Organizational Sanctions: All residential and non-residential organizations,

clubs and similar organized groups are responsible for compliance with
university rules and regulations. Upon a determination that the group has
engaged in violations, encouraged violations, or did not take reasonable steps as
a group to prevent violations of university rules and regulations, the group may
be subjected to permanent or temporary removal of recognition/registration,
social probation, denial of the use of university facilities or other appropriate
sanctions (see Section G.2. Group Responsibility for Student Organizations).

11.94

Other Sanctions: Other sanctions may be imposed instead of or in addition to

those specified in the above list. Examples include but are not limited to:
university housing reassignment or removal, restrictions upon or denial of
driving privileges on campus, prohibition of student leadership opportunities,
counseling, community service work, research projects, seminars, classes or
other educational experiences deemed appropriate. Certain sanctions also may
be assigned as “deferred” under appropriate circumstances (e.g., deferred
removal from housing, deferred suspension from the university, deferred loss of
organizational recognition).

11.95 Medical Amnesty/Good Samaritan Policy

Because USC places a high priority on student health and safety, the purpose of
this policy is to encourage students to take immediate action in the case of an
emergency. Some students may be hesitant to seek help or report sexual
misconduct or seek medical assistance because they fear possible disciplinary
consequences for consumption of drugs or alcohol. The university aims to
remove this fear by clarifying the policy so as to encourage students and
organizations to report sexual misconduct and to seek assistance for themselves
and others who are experiencing distress while under the influence.

Those who report sexual misconduct or participate as witnesses in sexual

misconduct investigations, or who seek medical assistance for themselves or
another, by contacting a Residential Assistant, calling a Department of Public

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Safety officer, or calling 911, will not be subject to disciplinary sanctions for
their consumption of alcohol and/or other substances. Instead, these students
will be directed to the appropriate services, and amnesty for alcohol or substance
consumption in violation of university policies will be granted to both the
reporting students and the intoxicated student in need of assistance.

This has long been our practice. The policy does not apply if a Department of
Public Safety officer or a Residential Assistant confronts the student first. The
policy also does not preclude disciplinary sanctions due to any other violations
of the Student Code of Conduct beyond alcohol or substance consumption.

12. Student Conduct Review

Note: This Section 12 does not apply to student sexual, interpersonal, or protected class
misconduct, which is subject to https://policy.usc.edu/student-misconduct/.

12.01 Complaints

Any member of the university community (faculty, staff and/or student) may
initiate a complaint against a student or student organization for an alleged non-
academic violation of the Student Conduct Code by submitting a report to the
Office of Student Judicial Affairs and Community Standards. Academic
integrity cases are initiated by a faculty or staff member.

12.02 Complaint through Other Channels

When an alleged violation is indicated in a USC Department of Public Safety or

police report, or a referral by the Relationship and Sexual Violence Prevention
and Services (RSVP), Student Judicial Affairs and Community Standards, or the
Office of Equity and Diversity, the Vice President for Student Affairs or
designee may initiate a review of the alleged violation on behalf of the
university. Such an action may be taken when the circumstances of the alleged
violation affect the well-being of the campus or the personal safety or well-being
of any member of the university community.

12.03 Contents of a Complaint

A report of an alleged violation should consist of a clear, concise written

statement that contains the following information:

I. A list of any and all parties against whom the complaint is being filed.

II. A description of the alleged misconduct, the date or period of time during
which it occurred and the location where the incident(s) allegedly occurred.

III. The name, address and phone number of the person making the report.

IV. All complaints are considered to have been made in good faith. Any
information to the contrary may be grounds for university action against the
initiating party.

12.04 Timing of Complaints

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Any report and request for a review must be made as soon as possible
(preferably within 15 days but not later than one year from the date of discovery
of the incident) (see Section 10.10.II.c ). Cases involving academic or sexual
misconduct or discrimination may be reported at any time.

12.05 Intake and Initial Fact-finding

Upon receiving a report that a student has allegedly violated university

standards, the director, Office of Student Judicial Affairs and Community
Standards, or designee will review the report to determine whether there is good
cause to proceed with the student conduct process. The director or designee may
conduct such fact-finding as they see fit in order to determine whether a
particular complaint has merit, and such fact-finding shall not disqualify them
from also conducting the Administrative Review with the student.

The Office of Student Judicial Affairs and Community Standards will send
written notification of the complaint to the accused student via USC email.

Students who fail to respond to initial notification from the Office of Student
Judicial Affairs and Community Standards within five business days of the
email notification or who cannot be contacted after reasonable attempts remain
subject to Summary Administrative Review and consequent sanctioning. If the
student fails to respond to the email notice to schedule an appointment with the
designated member of the Office of Student Judicial Affairs and Community
Standards, an administrative hold will be placed on the student’s record
prohibiting the student from performing registration transactions until an
appointment is scheduled and completed. In addition, a Summary
Administrative Review may be conducted in absentia when a student fails to
respond to initial notification.

12.06 Overview of Student Conduct Reviews

In complaints where there is good cause, the director or designee will meet with
the accused student to conduct an Administrative Review, either Voluntary or
Summary (unless the director or designee has determined there should be a Peer
Review, a University Review, or a Residential Education Review). At this
Administrative Review meeting with the Judicial Affairs officer the accused
student has the opportunity to present any information regarding the incident.
The decision as to whether the matter should be resolved by Administrative
Review is at the sole discretion of the director or designee.

For participation of advisers or attorneys, see Section B.12.50.VII.

12.10 Administrative Reviews

An Administrative Review consists of a meeting between the director or

designee (finder-of-fact) and the named student

I. In a Voluntary Administrative Review, the student does not dispute the

facts upon which the allegations are based, waives their right to further
review and accepts the decision by signing an Administrative Review form.

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Students accepting the Administrative Review form retain the right to

appeal to the appropriate appeal body only as to the appropriateness of the
sanction (see Section B.15.02.II).

II. In a Summary Administrative Review, the student may deny some or all of
the facts upon which the allegations are based, or the student may dispute
the appropriateness of the recommended sanction(s). The director, Office of
Student Judicial Affairs and Community Standards, or designated review
officer, may determine the student is responsible for the alleged violation(s)
or dismiss the case, based on the preponderance of the evidence. Students
found responsible for violations under the Summary Administrative Review
process retain the right to appeal to the appropriate appeal body on all
grounds (see Section 15.02). As an alternative to making a determination
on the case, the review officer may refer the case to an appropriate review
panel (Peer Review Section 12.11, University Review Section 12.12, or
Residential Education Review Section 12.13.)

12.11 Peer Review Panels

In the event that the director, Office of Student Judicial Affairs and Community
Standards, determines that a hearing before a review panel is warranted under
the circumstances of a particular allegation, the matter may be referred to a Peer
Review Panel. Peer Review Panels hear non-academic cases arising out of
university housing, the university fraternity and sorority system and the non-
residential student population, but do not hear sexual, interpersonal, or protected
class misconduct cases. Whether the facts of a particular incident warrant
referral to a Peer Review Panel is at the sole discretion of the director or
designee. Each of these panels is advised by the director, Office of Student
Judicial Affairs and Community Standards, or designee, who shall be a non-
voting member of every review panel.

These panels are composed of three to five students. Students are selected for
membership after an application and interview process. Members serve at the
discretion of the director, Office of Student Judicial Affairs and Community
Standards.

Both the accused student and the complainant may have an adviser of their
choice present at the Peer Review. The adviser cannot be a licensed or practicing
attorney. Advisers must request and review the guidelines for advisers prior to
the review. (See Section 12.50 G).

12.12 University Review Panels

University Review Panels are composed of three members including two faculty
or staff members and a student chairperson. Members are drawn from lists
supplied annually by the Vice President for Student Affairs (staff) and the
academic deans (faculty). Lists may be supplemented as necessary during the
year.

In the event that the Office of Student Judicial Affairs and Community
Standards determines that a University Review Panel is warranted, the
University Review Panels may review cases involving the following issues:

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I. Academic integrity violations.

II. Cases in which expulsion, suspension, revocation of degree or revocation of

admission are recommended for non-academic violations.

III. Cases occurring when the appropriate Peer Review Panel is unable to
convene in a reasonable time.

All University Review Panels are advised by the director, Office of Student
Judicial Affairs and Community Standards, or designee, who shall be a non-
voting member of every hearing panel.

Both the accused student and complainant may have an adviser of their choice
present at the review. The adviser may be a licensed or practicing attorney only
for cases in which criminal charges are pending and the recommended sanctions
include expulsion, suspension, revocation of degree or revocation of admission.
Advisers must request and review the guidelines for advisers prior to the review.
In all reviews, whether or not an adviser or attorney is present, the primary
conversation will be with the student. (See Section 12.50 G).

12.13 Residential Education Review

In specified cases involving violations of behavioral standards outlined in the

Student Conduct Code or the University Housing/Hospitality Service Contract
by student residents in university housing, a Residential Education Review may
be conducted by a Residential Education staff member. A Residential Education
Review is an informal process which utilizes procedures in lieu of the
procedures contained in this Student Handbook (documentation on the
Residential Education review process may be obtained from the Office for
Residential Education).

12.14 Other Review Systems

The Vice President for Student Affairs has granted to several graduate and
professional schools the authority to conduct independent reviews, render
decisions and recommend appropriate sanctions in cases of alleged violations.
Granting this authority does not preclude the university from adjudicating
matters concerning the behavior of students from these schools. These
graduate/professional school panels are subject to basic due process
requirements and general procedural fairness. Separate review bodies and/or
procedures for reviews exist in the following professional degree programs:
Keck School of Medicine, Gould School of Law, Ostrow School of Dentistry,
School of Pharmacy and the Leventhal School of Accounting. Sexual,
interpersonal, and protected class misconduct cases are handled separately rather
than through school processes, but the determinations of a completed sexual,
interpersonal, and protected class case may lead to additional sanctions imposed
by those schools as appropriate to the professional discipline.

12.40 Adjudicatory Procedures

All of the student procedural protections listed in Section 10.30 will be

observed. Complainants will be treated with the same procedural fairness

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afforded accused students. With the exception of cases managed under 12.13,
12.14, the following procedural guidelines apply to all reviews of Student
Conduct Code violations adjudicated by the Office of Student Judicial Affairs
and Community Standards:

I. Multiple Accused Students

In reviews of incidents involving more than one accused student, the director,
Office of Student Judicial Affairs and Community Standards, will determine
whether the reviews concerning each student be conducted separately.

II. Pending Criminal Charges

For cases in which criminal investigations and/or proceedings are concurrent or

pending, the university normally may proceed independent of such
investigations or proceedings. The accused student or the complainant may
request that the university delay its proceeding. Such requests should be
submitted in writing at least two business days prior to the scheduled review to
the director, Office of Student Judicial Affairs and Community Standards,
stating the requested action and the supporting rationale for the request. The
director or designee may grant the request but is not obligated to do so. The
mere fact that criminal investigation or proceedings exist will not ordinarily be
considered grounds for delay.

III. Relevant Information

It is the responsibility of the finder of fact to render determinations concerning

relevance of information to be presented as part of the review.

Rules of evidence and discovery used by federal and state judicial proceedings
shall not be applicable to reviews described in this code.

Affidavits or other written statements submitted in lieu of a witness’ presence at

a review shall not be admitted into evidence unless signed by the author.
Authorship and content of the document may be subject to verification at the
discretion of the finder of fact.

IV. Standard of Proof

The burden of proof shall at all times rest upon the complainant. The standard of
proof for deciding against the accused student shall be such evidence that, when
weighed against that opposed to it, has the more convincing force and the
greater probability of truth.

V. Decision

For cases in which it is determined that a student is not responsible for violating
the Student Conduct Code no sanctions will be assessed. For cases in which it is
determined the accused student is responsible for violating the Student Conduct
Code, the accused student’s conduct record (see Section 12.60) at the university
will be considered in determining appropriate sanctions. Except for cases in
which the accused student’s disciplinary history is a basis for the alleged

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violation(s) under review (e.g., reference to Section 11.49 or to a continuing

pattern of behavior), consideration of that history will occur subsequent to the
determination of responsibility.

Cases involving suspension, expulsion, revocation of degree and revocation of

admission are subject to review and possible modification by the Vice President
for Student Affairs or designee.

Included with the decision document will be a statement outlining the proper
course of appeal for the particular case. A notification of the outcome and of the
opportunity to appeal the decision shall be forwarded to involved parties.

12.50 Reviews by Panels

In addition to the above protections and procedures, the following apply to

initial reviews conducted by panels:

I. Involved parties will be provided written notice of the date, time and place
of any scheduled review. Both the reporting student and the accused student
must be notified at least three business days before the scheduled review.
Notice may be either emailed, mailed or hand delivered. If a notice is
mailed, it is deemed to be received three days after it is mailed to the
student’s last known address. The university reserves the right to conduct
reviews in absentia when proper notice has been given. Failure to attend the
review after proper notice does not necessarily constitute grounds for an
appeal hearing. Requests for rescheduling a review hearing must be
directed, in writing, to the director, Office of Student Judicial Affairs and
Community Standards, with a statement of grounds for the request, at least
two business days prior to the scheduled hearing. This request will be
considered, but rescheduling is not automatic.

The Office of Student Judicial Affairs and Community Standards, for good
cause, may postpone a review and notify the accused student and the
complainant of the new date.

II. A fully constituted review panel meeting the particular panel staffing
requirements. (See Section B.12. Non-academic Conduct Review System.)
Applicable requirements should be verified with the Office of Student
Judicial Affairs and Community Standards.

III. An opportunity to object to any member of the review panel as biased. The
panel will decide if that member should review the alleged violation. This
decision will be based on that member’s ability to be fair and objective in
the review.

IV. An adviser at the review who may assist the accused student (e.g.,
conferring together, document management) but who may not represent the
accused student by speaking exclusively on his or her behalf. At University
Review Panels, the adviser may be a licensed or practicing attorney only for
cases in which criminal charges are pending or the recommended sanctions
include expulsion, suspension, revocation of degree or revocation of

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admission. In all reviews, whether or not an adviser or attorney is present,

the primary conversation will be with the student. (See Section 12.50 G).

V. If the accused student declines to provide information, this will not be

construed as an admission of guilt. Declining testimony, the accused student
retains the right to question witnesses, present witnesses on their own behalf
and submit documentary evidence. If the accused student provides any
testimony, they will be subject to examination on credibility and on all
matters relevant to the charges and to other testimony presented.

VI. Panel reviews shall be private. The number of persons attending any review
may be limited by the panel conducting the review.

Due to the nature of the university’s academic calendar and to the

availability of appointed panel members, the Office of Student Judicial
Affairs and Community Standards may not be able to convene a University
Review Panel for any specified date or time.

Panel Members’ and Chairperson’s Roles

The chairperson of the review panel shall exercise control over the hearing
to avoid needless consumption of time and to prevent the harassment and/or
intimidation of witnesses. Any person, including an adviser, who disrupts a
hearing or who fails to adhere to the rulings of the chairperson of the review
panel may be excluded from the proceedings.

Panel members (including the Panel Adviser) have the authority to ask
questions of all parties.

All involved parties must be reminded of the student procedural protections

cited in 12.30 at the outset of the review.

VII. Adviser’s Role

The adviser’s role shall be to consult with the student and not to speak on
the student’s behalf; however, the adviser may be permitted to make brief
statements as stipulated in the guidelines for advisers. Advisers must
request and review a copy of guidelines for their role in the respective
review process from the Office of Student Judicial Affairs and Community
Standards prior to the hearing in question.

At University Review Panel hearings, the adviser may be a licensed or

practicing attorney only for cases in which criminal charges are pending or
the recommended sanctions include expulsion, suspension, revocation of
degree or revocation of admission. At all other hearings, the adviser may be
anyone but an attorney. If an adviser will be present, the review panel must
be informed of this fact at least three business days prior to the hearing date.
When an attorney is present as the student’s adviser, the university may also
have an attorney present. If the student designates an attorney as their
adviser, the attorney shall keep the following in mind: the review is not a
court of law but an educational process. It does not follow the formal rules
of evidence and procedure attorneys may encounter in other judicial forums.

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The hearing’s educational context and purpose require that the attorney play
a different and a more limited role than in the courtroom.

VIII. Hearing Format

Normally, the complainant presents evidence first, the accused student then
presents evidence and responds to the evidence presented by the
complainant and then the complainant may rebut. This procedure will be
followed unless the panel agrees to a different format.

IX. Testimony and Evidence

At least 3 business days before the review, the involved parties must furnish
the Office of Student Judicial Affairs and Community Standards with a list
of witnesses they may present and with copies of any documents and other
evidence they intend to present. This list may be supplemented with
additional witnesses and evidence for good cause as determined by the
review panel.

Only evidence and testimony presented during the hearing or officially

admitted into the record following the hearing with notice to all parties may
be used as the basis for the review panel’s decision.

Because review panels may limit the number of witnesses presented (see
Section 12.40 C), students should choose carefully those witnesses who can
provide direct information concerning the allegation under review. Written
statements from additional witnesses attesting to the same information is
admissible.

X. Witness Testimony

All witnesses may be questioned by the members of the review panel, by

the complainant and by the accused student.

Witnesses may be asked to affirm that their testimony is truthful and may be
subject to charges of dishonesty, pursuant to provisions of this code.

Prospective witnesses, other than the complainant and the accused student
will be excluded from the review during all testimony but their own. The
panel may also exclude “expert” witnesses (such as handwriting experts,
private investigators and others). Any witness may be excluded unless the
university has been notified in advance that the student intends to call them
on their behalf. In addition, the panel may exclude any witness it deems
inappropriate for an educational hearing. The panel may limit the number of
witnesses presented at a review for good cause (e.g., repetitive testimony,
character witness).

XI. Hearing Record

An audiotape recording will be made by the university, with the knowledge

of all parties, as the single verbatim record of the hearing. This record shall
be the sole property of the university. The complainant or accused student

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may request permission to review this record for appeal only. This tape will
be erased after the appeal deadline has expired or after an appellate decision
has been released.

XII. Panel Decision

Following the conclusion of testimony in a review, the panel will meet in a

closed session (including the panel adviser) to deliberate and make a
decision concerning the alleged violation(s). For cases in which the panel
determines a student is not responsible for violating the Student Conduct
Code no sanctions will be assessed. For cases in which it is determined the
accused student is responsible for violating the Student Conduct Code, the
panel will include consideration of the accused student’s disciplinary record
(see Section 12.50) at the university in determining appropriate sanctions.
Except for cases in which the accused student’s disciplinary history is a
basis for the alleged violation(s) under review (e.g., reference to Section
11.49 or to a continuing pattern of behavior), consideration of that history
will occur subsequent to the panel’s determination of responsibility.

The review panel will provide a written opinion outlining the results of the
review to the Office of Student Judicial Affairs and Community Standards.
This written opinion should be released to both the accused student and the
complaining student within 15 business days of the review. This time may
be extended if necessary. The accused student and complainant should be
informed if the decision will be delayed.

12.60 Disciplinary Records

For certain cases or when a student is determined to be responsible for a

violation of university standards by any student conduct process, a disciplinary
record of the matter will be maintained in a confidential student file by the
Office of Student Judicial Affairs and Community Standards for up to seven
years. Expulsion, suspension, revocation of degree and revocation of admission
will result in permanent student conduct files.

13. Academic Integrity Review

In cases involving alleged academic integrity violations, the appropriate action is initiated by the
course instructor, academic unit or appropriate university official.

13.10 Initiating a Complaint

If the instructor, academic unit or appropriate university official has reason to

believe, based on observation or other evidence, that a student has violated the
university academic integrity standards, he or she is encouraged to make
reasonable attempts to meet with the student and discuss the alleged violation
and the evidence which supports the charge. When necessary, such discussions
may be conducted by telephone or electronic mail. In this meeting every effort
should be made to preserve the basic teacher/student relationship. The student
should be given the opportunity to respond to the complaint.

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The instructor should assign a mark of “MG” until notification is received from
the Office of Student Judicial Affairs and Community Standards that a final
decision has been made.

Also, because the student may contest the allegation, he or she must be allowed
to attend all classes and complete all assignments until the complaint is resolved.

13.11 Sanction and Consequences

Unless the reporting party withdraws the allegation, the instructor, academic unit
or appropriate university official may recommend an appropriate sanction for
the violation.

I. Sanctions include but are not limited to: grade sanctions (e.g., “F” in
course) and dismissal from the academic department. In addition, sanctions
of suspension or expulsion from the university may be assessed through a
review process when requested by the instructor, by the academic or
administrative unit in which the violation occurred, or when indicated by
university standards (such as the seriousness of the misconduct or the
existence of previous academic violations by the student) Refer to
Appendix A: Academic Dishonesty Sanction Guidelines, when determining
which sanction is most appropriate for the violation.

II. Students may not withdraw from a course in which they have committed or
have been accused of committing an academic integrity violation. Students
found to have withdrawn from a course in which an academic integrity
violation is alleged or determined will be reenrolled in the course upon
receipt of a violation report by the Office of Student Judicial Affairs and
Community Standards.

III. Students found responsible for an act of academic dishonesty in a course in

which they have participated but have not enrolled (auditing), will be
retroactively enrolled and assigned an appropriate sanction.

IV. Graduate students who are found responsible for academic integrity
violations may be sanctioned more severely than Appendix A suggests.

V. Sanctions for second offenses by graduate or undergraduate students will be

more severe and generally will include suspension or expulsion.

13.12 Reporting Violations of Academic Integrity

As soon as possible, the instructor, academic unit or appropriate university

official will provide the Office of Student Judicial Affairs and Community
Standards with a completed Academic Integrity Violation Form. The reporting
party likewise will make a reasonable attempt to provide a copy of the report to
the accused student.

Students having specific information regarding academic violation(s) of a

classmate and wishing to report this academic misconduct are encouraged to
contact the faculty member of the course.

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13.13 Response to Report

Once a report of an Academic Integrity Violation has been submitted, the Office
of Student Judicial Affairs and Community Standards will evaluate the report,
confirm whether or not the accused student has a previous disciplinary record at
the university, and notify the student of the allegation in writing. A copy of the
notification will be sent to the individual submitting the report and to their
academic dean, if appropriate.

I. If further review is not required, the student will be notified of report

received, alleged violations and recommended sanctions. The student will
also be given the opportunity to meet with a review officer from the Office
of Student Judicial Affairs and Community Standards. During that meeting,
the student has the opportunity to request further review of the matter, thus
initiating the Administrative Review process. If no meeting or further
review is requested, the matter will be considered complete and sanctions
initiated.

II. If the incident requires further review (such as when an instructor or

academic unit has requested additional sanctions, when a student has
previously been found responsible for an academic integrity violation or
when university standards indicate suspension, expulsion, revocation of
degree or revocation of admission), the student is notified in writing and
must meet with a review officer from the Office of Student Judicial Affairs
and Community Standards as part of the Administrative Review process. At
or following that meeting the director or designee will determine whether
the matter may be appropriately resolved by Administrative Review, either
Voluntary or Summary. The Administrative Review meeting with the
Student Judicial Affairs review officer is the student’s opportunity to
present any information regarding the incident. If the student fails to
respond to the written notice and instruction to schedule an appointment
with the designated review officer of the Office of Student Judicial Affairs
and Community Standards, an administrative hold will be placed on the
student’s record prohibiting the student from performing registration
transactions until an appointment is scheduled and completed (see Section
B.10.10). In addition, a Summary Administrative Review may be conducted
in absentia when a student fails to respond to initial notification (see Section
12.05).

III. As indicated, reviews may be requested by the accused student, by the

instructor reporting the alleged violation, by the academic or administrative
unit in which the alleged violation occurred or by the university in cases
where the alleged behavior indicates expulsion, suspension, revocation of
degree or revocation of admission. Appropriate review processes are
Administrative Review or University Review (see Section 12).

14. Admissions Violations Review

In cases where false and/or inaccurate information is believed to have been submitted by, or on
behalf of, a prospective student prior to enrollment, if academic or behavioral violations occur, or
if there is a failure to provide all requested information/documents, the director of admission will
conduct a special admissions review.

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This ad hoc review of the case may result in action(s) including a delay of enrollment or
revocation of admission from the university. All pertinent documents will be reviewed and the
prospective student may be asked to provide additional information regarding his or her
application to the university.

A decision will be reached by the director and communicated in writing to the prospective student.
Formal hearing procedures and protections cited in the Student Conduct Code, Section 12.30 and
12.40, do not apply to this review process. There is no appeal of a special admissions review.

If the student is enrolled at the university when concerns about admissions violations arise, the
case will be referred to the Office of Student Judicial Affairs and Community Standards for
review.

15. Appeals Process

Following an initial review, a student found responsible for a violation of the Student Conduct
Code may file a written appeal within 10 business days from receipt of the written decision.
Receipt is deemed accomplished by personal delivery or three days after the date of mailing.

In most cases, the status of a student will not be altered and disciplinary sanctions will not be
implemented until completion of the appeal. Written appeals should be submitted to the Office of
Student Judicial Affairs and Community Standards.

Should a party intending to appeal believe they have been given inadequate time to prepare their
written documents, a written request for extension of time may be submitted to the Office of
Student Judicial Affairs and Community Standards. The request must be submitted in writing
within the 10 business-day appeal period, and should include the rationale for requesting the
extension along with a proposed date by which all appeal documents will be submitted.

Requests for extension of time will be considered on their merits and will not be granted
automatically. When an extension is granted, opposing parties to the initial review may be
notified.

15.01

The written appeal must include the Appeal Request Cover Sheet indicating the
specific grounds for the appeal, supporting arguments and documentation, and
any other relevant information the accused student wishes to include. Appellants
should refer to Guidelines for Writing Appeals, a document available from the
Office of Student Judicial Affairs and Community Standards.

The appellant should be aware that all appeals are documentary reviews in
which no oral testimony is taken. Generally, appeals are determined solely on
the merits of the documents submitted and do not proceed to oral hearing.
Appellate documents therefore should be as complete as possible.

15.02

Appeals must state one or more of the following criteria as the reason for the
appeal:

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I. That new evidence has become available which is sufficient to alter the
decision and which the appellant was not aware of or could not have
been reasonably obtained at the time of the original review.

II. That the sanction imposed is excessive, insufficient or inappropriate.

III. That the review panel or review officer failed to follow university rules
or regulations while reviewing the cited behavior.

15.03

Upon receipt of the written appeal, the complainant is notified and provided
reasonable opportunity to respond in writing to the appeal. When a student
appeals on 15.02.I or 15.02.III grounds, the Office of Student Judicial Affairs
and Community Standards may submit a response relevant to those grounds.

After receiving all appellate documents, the appropriate appeals panel will
convene and review the submitted appellate documents, the written decision
from the initial review and supporting documents relevant to the initial review
decision. In addition, the appeals panel may request additional statements from
the review officer of an administrative review or the chairperson or adviser from
a panel review, and may refer to the audio recording of an initial panel review, if
such was conducted. The appeals panel will issue a written decision through the
Office of Student Judicial Affairs and Community Standards to all principal
parties to the initial review.

15.04

Upon review of the appellate documents, the appeals panel may uphold the
initial decision in its entirety, increase sanctions of the initial decision, decrease
sanctions of the initial decision, remand the case back to the Office of Student
Judicial Affairs and Community Standards for further review or dismiss the
case. The appellate panel applies a preponderance of the evidence standard.

All decisions of appellate bodies, as left in effect or modified by the Vice

President for Student Affairs, are final and binding upon all parties. There is no
further appeal in any of these cases. (See Sections 12.40 E and 15.10).

15.05

Upon written request to the Office of Student Judicial Affairs, the university will
provide an alleged victim of a crime of violence the final results of the
disciplinary proceeding. Final results are available only after the appeal process
has been exhausted and the university has made a final determination in the
matter. Final results are limited to information related to the sanctions imposed
by the university that affect the victim.

15.10 Appropriate Appeals Panel

I. Peer Review Appeals Panel

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The Peer Review Appeals Panel reviews all nonacademic appeals except those
resulting in sanctions of expulsion, suspension, revocation of degree or
revocation of admission, and except for matters of sexual misconduct and
discrimination. The panel is appointed by the director, Office of Student Judicial
Affairs and Community Standards, and consists of three to five members
including at least one student member. The director, Office of Student Judicial
Affairs and Community Standards, or designee shall serve as a non-voting
advisory member of every appeals panel. The recommendations of the Peer
Review Appeals Panel may be reviewed and modified by the Vice President for
Student Affairs at his sole discretion and, once approved, are final and binding
upon all parties.

II. Student Behavior Appeals Panel

The Student Behavior Appeals Panel serves the President through the Vice
President for Student Affairs. The recommendations of the Student Behavior
Appeals Panel are reviewed and modified by the Vice President for Student
Affairs at his sole discretion and, once approved, are final and binding upon all
parties. No student has the right to make a direct appeal to the Vice President for
Student Affairs.

The members of this panel are appointed by the President or his delegate. Each
appeal is reviewed by three members including at least one faculty member and
one student The panel will be advised by an appointee of the Vice President for
Student Affairs. The adviser will be a non-voting member whenever the panel
convenes.

The Student Behavior Appeals Panel will meet on a regular basis to review all
appeals where academic sanctions and/or sanctions of expulsion, suspension,
revocation of degree and revocation of admission are imposed.

16. Student Conduct Records

I. Student conduct records are maintained separate and apart from all other student
records. Student conduct actions become part of a student’s academic records
only in those cases in which a notation on the student’s academic record is made
for suspension, expulsion and/or revocation of admission or degree.

II. Records of student conduct actions are maintained in the Office of Student
Judicial Affairs and Community Standards for a period of up to seven years after
the most recent student conduct incident, except for students assigned
University-wide Sanctions, as described in item number 1.

III. All records are maintained confidentially as provided in the university’s policy
concerning student education records (see Section C.5 Student Education
Records).

IV. The Title IX Coordinator keeps records of sexual, interpersonal, and protected
class misconduct.

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Appendix A: Academic Dishonesty Sanction Guidelines (PDF)

Appendix B: Report of Academic Integrity Violation (PDF)

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C. Academic Policies

1. Class Notes Policy

Notes or recordings made by students based on a university class or lecture may only be made for
purposes of individual or group study, or for other usual non-commercial purposes that reasonably
arise from the student’s membership in the class or attendance at the university. This restriction
also applies to any information distributed, disseminated or in any way displayed for use in
relationship to the class, whether obtained in class, via email or otherwise on the internet, or via
any other medium. Actions in violation of this policy constitute a violation of the Student Conduct
Code, and may subject an individual or entity to university discipline and/or legal proceedings.

2. Disputed Academic Evaluation Procedures

General university policy regarding disputed academic evaluations entitles a student to two levels
of formal appeal after review by the instructor. In the interest of preserving the very important
student-instructor relationship, the student and instructor should try to resolve the grade dispute by
direct communication. If the issue cannot be resolved by this dialogue, the grade dispute should
move beyond the instructor to the next level of review. All grade appeals must be brought no later
than the end of the semester following the semester for which the student received the disputed
grade. The two levels of appeal beyond the instructor are the department chair and the school
dean.

The sequence of the appeal process depends upon the structure of the school in which the
academic evaluation occurred. The two levels of appeal are as follows:

I. Schools Organized by Departments

For schools organized by departments, the first level of review, after speaking with the
instructor, is by the department chair and, if needed, a second level of review by the dean.
The process described in the paragraphs a. and b. below applies to:

USC Roski School of Art and Design

USC Marshall School of Business

USC School of Cinematic Arts

USC Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism

Ostrow School of Dentistry of USC (except the DDS, B.S./DH)

USC Price School of Public Policy

USC Viterbi School of Engineering

USC Thornton School of Music

USC Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences graduate students (USC
Dornsife College undergraduates have a variation on the process, which is
described in paragraph c. below).

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a. The department chair at his or her discretion may review the matter personally
or conduct a formal hearing through an ad hoc or standing committee. The
hearing committee is appointed by the department chair and consists of a faculty
member from outside the involved department or academic unit, a student, a
faculty member of the appealing student’s choice, and two faculty members
from the department or academic unit. A written decision will be given to the
student after the department chair’s decision or the hearing committee decision.
Normally a decision should be sent to the student within approximately 15 days
after the hearing. This time may be extended if necessary. The student should be
informed in writing if the decision will be delayed.

b. If either the student or faculty member who assigned the grade wishes to appeal
the decision of the chair or the hearing committee, in the next level of appeal
beyond the instructor and the department chair, they must appeal in writing to
the dean of the academic unit within 2 weeks after receiving the written
decision. The dean of the academic unit may review the matter personally or, if
a hearing has not been conducted by the department, the dean must conduct a
hearing. The hearing committee consists of the same categories of members
within the academic unit as described above.

The committee will make a recommendation to the dean who will make a
decision which is final and binding. Normally a written decision should be sent
to the student within approximately 15 days after a hearing. This time may be
extended if necessary. The student should be informed in writing if the decision
will be delayed.

c. In the case of undergraduate students in the Dornsife College, there is an initial

consultation by the college ombudsman after the student has talked to the
instructor. All grade or evaluation appeals must be filed in writing with the
college ombudsman by the end of the following semester (excluding the summer
session) after the student received the disputed grade or evaluation. The college
ombudsman will explain the review and appeals process to the student, and will
direct the student’s written appeal to the relevant department chair. The second
level of review beyond the instructor is conducted by the vice dean for academic
programs (with or without a hearing committee). The hearing committee is
appointed by the vice dean and should conform to the guidelines outlined in
paragraph a. above.

II. Schools not Organized by Departments

For schools not organized by departments, the second level of review beyond the
instructor is by the dean. This applies to the following schools:

USC School of Dramatic Arts

USC Davis School of Gerontology

USC School of Social Work

III. Schools with Certain Professional Degrees

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The following degrees are governed by separate disputed academic evaluation

procedures. Copies of these procedures can be obtained directly from the school.

USC School of Architecture (separate procedures for all degrees except Ph.D.)

Ostrow School of Dentistry of USC (DDS, B.S./DH)

USC Rossier School of Education (separate procedures for all degrees except
Ph.D.)

USC Gould School of Law (J.D., MCL, LL.M)

Keck School of Medicine of USC (M.D. and the Physician Assistant Practice
program). Other degree programs in the Keck School of Medicine, including
undergraduate, master’s and Ph.D. programs, fall into the review category I
above.

USC School of Pharmacy (Pharm.D., D.R.Sci.)

IV. Graduate Students who have been Dismissed from an Academic Program

The student may appeal in writing to the department chair or program director within 30
days of the date of dismissal. If the student is dissatisfied with the outcome of the appeal,
then, within 30 days of the date of the department’s or program’s decision, they may
appeal in writing to the dean of the school. If the second appeal is unsuccessful, then the
student may appeal in writing to the Vice Provost for Graduate Programs. Such an appeal
must be received within 6 months after the student has received notice of the outcome of
the school’s decision. Appeal panel guidelines can be found at
usc.edu/schools/GraduateSchool/current_student_resourc_03.html. The school dean has
the final level of review for students wishing to appeal dismissal from the M.D., J.D., and
LL.M. programs.

3. General Academic Petitions

The Office of Academic Review and Retention (Figueroa Building 107) is responsible for
processing student requests to deviate from general university policies. Faculty requests to change
a grade that was originally submitted incorrectly is processed by the Grades Department (Hubbard
Hall 106). The actual decisions on these requests are made by a subgroup of the Committee on
Academic Policies and Procedures (CAPP) which meets several times a month.

Not all requests for deviation from normal requirements are handled through the same process.
Registration-related exceptions are initiated in the Office of Academic Review and Retention.
These include such requests as adding or dropping courses after enrollment deadlines and
changing the grading option after the third week. Degree requirement-related exceptions are
initiated in the student’s academic unit. These include requests to count excess units in a course
with a unit maximum and to extend time to complete an incomplete. Decisions on these types of
exception requests are reported to the Office of Academic Review and Retention by the CAPP
petitions panel.

The following exceptions are those that a student may request under certain circumstances. There
is no assurance that the request will be approved. The panel will review the student’s academic
record and consider the circumstances that led to the student’s situation. The circumstances must

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justify exempting an individual student from a rule or deadline that other students are being
required to follow.

Students should take care that the material they submit is accurate, comprehensive and well
documented. It is important to initiate the petition process as soon as possible. A student who
wishes to file a petition should speak with an academic adviser to determine whether the request is
appropriate and whether it will actually resolve the problem.

I. Registration-related Exceptions (See time limits for filing below)

A student wishing to request a registration-related exception should come to Figueroa

Building 107. By talking with an academic review counselor, the student can determine
whether there are grounds for an exception request and learn what documentation will be
required. When all required documentation and endorsements are gathered, the student
should submit the completed petition to the Office of Academic Review and Retention.
These requests are heard by the Dean of Academic Records and Registrar. Requests not
approved by the dean are referred to the CAPP panel for review. Below are the
registration-related exceptions with the guidelines.

Late or Retroactive Adding of One or More Courses

The final deadline for original registration is the end of the third week of classes for fall
or spring semesters. For summer sessions or special sessions, the student must look up
the equivalent of the third week deadline. This is also true for the twelfth week drop
deadline. Please assume that, in any reference to registration deadlines, the third or
twelfth week refer to the fall and spring semesters and that an equivalent deadline will be
applied for shorter sessions.

The end of the third week of classes is also the deadline to add courses that are not listed
on the original program. CAPP will consider petitions for exception to the add deadline
only if the student has documented extenuating circumstances.

Extenuating circumstances are defined by CAPP as situations over which the student has
no control (e.g., a family death). Reasons such as “I didn’t know the policy” or “I was out
of town that week” or “I forgot” or “That isn’t how they did it at the last school I
attended” are not considered to be extenuating circumstances.

In all cases, a petition to add a course must include a statement from the instructor
indicating the quality of work and dates of attendance.

Late or Retroactive Withdrawal from One or More Courses

The final deadline for dropping one or more courses is the end of the 12th week of
classes or its equivalent for a given term. To officially drop a course, the student must
process a drop form through the Registration Department or drop through Web
registration and secure a Registration Confirmation as proof of having dropped. This 12-
week time period is considered generous. CAPP will entertain petitions for exceptions to
the drop deadline when the student has documented extenuating circumstances or the
student was unable to evaluate his or her level of performance prior to the drop deadline.

Withdrawal petitions based on medical reasons require accompanying documentation

from the student’s physician. It is assumed that such requests will usually involve a
complete withdrawal from all classes. If the request involves less than cancellation of the
whole academic program, a complete explanation must be provided of courses to be

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dropped or retained, plans for completion of the remaining courses and an explanation of
why the student’s medical condition allowed completion of some courses but not all. In
general, if a student is healthy enough to participate in campus activities outside of class,
he or she is considered responsible for all courses undertaken. In all cases, a petition to
drop a course must include a statement from the instructor indicating the quality of work
and dates of attendance.

A final word of caution: CAPP almost never approves requests for late withdrawals if the
student has taken the final exam in a course. However, a student should not take this
word of caution as an indication that she or he should purposefully miss a final exam
because of a pending petition to drop. A student who misses a final exam because of a
pending petition and then discovers that the petition was denied, will surely be in a worse
position because the final exam grade will be calculated as an “F.”

Change in Registration Grading Option from Pass/No Pass to Letter Grade or Vice
Versa
The final deadline for changing the grading option of a course from pass/no pass to a
letter grade or vice versa is the end of the third week of classes or its equivalent for a
given term. Approval of requests to change enrollment status after the deadline is rare.

Time Limits for Registration-related Requests

Exception requests for retroactive change of an official registration for a semester or
special session must be submitted no later than 24 months from the last day of final
examinations for the semester or special session in question. If appropriate, the time limit
can be waived by the dean of the academic unit in which the student is seeking a degree,
but may not be waived if the courses in question occurred longer than five years
previously.

II. Degree Requirement-related Exceptions

These requests are generated in the student’s major department or school. When the
petition is completed, the school’s petition contact person will submit the petition to
Academic Review and Retention to be heard by the CAPP petitions panel. Below are the
most common degree requirement-related petitions with the guidelines.

Extension of Time for Removal of an Incomplete (IN)

One calendar year is allowed to remove the mark of IN. A mark of IN cannot be removed
by repeating the course, even if it is successfully completed within the calendar year
requirement. If the IN is not removed within the calendar year, the course is considered
“lapsed” and the grade is changed to an IX. Lapsed incompletes (IX) are penalty grades
and are calculated as grades of “F.” Courses offered on a Credit/No Credit basis or taken
on a Pass/No Pass basis for which a mark of Incomplete is assigned will be lapsed with a
mark of NC or NP and will not be calculated into the grade point average.

Extensions beyond this deadline are not likely to be approved if the student has enrolled
in subsequent semesters, since it is assumed that the student’s first priority should be the
removal of the incomplete.

In all cases, a petition for an extension of time for removal of an IN must include a
statement from the instructor explaining what is needed to complete the course and why
the instructor feels the student should be given even further time for completion.

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Other degree-related exceptions include requests to count excess units for a course with a
unit maximum.

Exceptions Made Elsewhere

The Office of Admission and Financial Aid, Financial Services and the Graduate School
have similar processes for actions taken by their respective committees or deans. Still
other requests are handled through the exception process which comes directly from the
academic unit to the Degree Progress Department.

Registration in Graduate-level Courses by Undergraduate Students

Exceptional undergraduate students may enroll in a graduate course. In order to do so,
students must receive approval from the instructor. Students must also have prior
approval from the chair of the major department to count the course for undergraduate
credit or audit the course. The student’s major department will notify the Degree Progress
Department in writing regarding the manner in which the graduate course will be used. In
no case will a student be allowed to enroll in and receive credit for a graduate course if
the student’s cumulative USC GPA is below 2.0.

Graduate Credit for 400 and 500 Level Work Taken as an Undergraduate
An undergraduate student who is within 12 semester units of the bachelor’s degree and
has a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0 may request to enroll in and reserve
for graduate credit a limited amount of work at the 400 and 500 levels during the last
semester as a senior, provided that the semester program does not exceed 16 semester
units. A written request should be submitted to the Degree Progress Department and
should bear the endorsements of the chair of the student’s major department and of the
department in which the reserved work is to be taken. The Degree Progress Department
verifies that the units being reserved are not needed to fulfill requirements for the
bachelor’s degree. The student must present a copy of the final action to the Registration
Department at the time of enrollment.

III. Exceptions to the Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences Limits on Units in the
Major or Limits on the College Basic Requirement

Departments within the Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences awarding the B.A.
degree cannot require fewer than 24 or more than 36 upper division units in the major.
However, students may elect to take up to 40 upper division units within their major
without a petition. A student wishing to exceed the limit must obtain the approval of the
department with the final endorsement of the dean of undergraduate programs.

Students who major in the Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences must earn 104
units in the college departments. For students graduating with a minor or second
bachelor’s degree, this minimum is reduced to 96 units. Exceptions will be considered by
the dean of undergraduate programs.

Students who are completing major degree programs in a professional school, but whose
degree is conferred by the college, are exempt from this policy.

Substitutions of general education requirements and skill level requirements are

generated in the student’s academic unit and submitted to the dean of undergraduate
programs. Substitutions of foreign language requirements are also generated in the
student’s academic unit and submitted to the American Language Institute.

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IV. Grading Issues

Correction of Grade
A student who believes an error was made in the assignment of a grade should consult
directly with the instructor of the class. The instructor may request from the Grades
Department and submit to CAPP a Correction of Grade form with appropriate
endorsements. This type of request cannot be submitted on any other form and the form
may not be handled by a student at any point in the process.

A full description of the actual error will be required of the instructor. General
descriptions such as “clerical error” will not be accepted. CAPP considers grade changes
on the basis of the explanation given, but may void a request involving any of the
following circumstances:

• A request to change a grade of IN unless all work was completed prior to the
end of the semester involved.

• A request to change a grade to any other mark than IN when work was
completed subsequent to the end of the semester involved.

• A request that is missing the required endorsements (instructor, department chair

and dean).

Missing Grades (MG) Defaulting to Unofficial Withdrawals (UW)

Students have 1 year, from the end of the semester in which they were assigned a mark of
MG, to resolve or clarify the mark of MG. (Note: Marks of MG assigned PRIOR to fall
2005 are not bound by this policy.) Missing grades can be resolved by the instructor of
the course through the Correction of Grade process. The Correction of Grade process
(COG), is handled by the Grades Department, (213) 740-5586, Hubbard Hall 106, MC
9012.

Failure to resolve the mark of MG within the one-year limit results in the assignment of
the mark of UW (Unofficial Withdrawal). A mark of UW is a failing grade and will
calculate in the student’s GPA the same way that a grade of “F” is calculated in the GPA.
Courses graded Credit/No Credit (CR/NC) in which a mark of MG is not resolved will
result in a mark of NC. Students who have elected to take a course on a Pass/No Pass
(P/NP) option and do not resolve the mark of MG will be assigned a mark of NP.

4. Timeline for Degree Progress

All undergraduate students must make reasonable progress, each year, toward their degree
objectives.

I. All students are required to record their primary major in the Office of Academic Records
and Registrar, Trojan Hall 101, by the start of the junior year (on completion of 64
semester units). Supplemental or secondary majors may be added after junior standing
has been attained. Minors may be added at any time.

II. While there are no specific limits for completing bachelor’s degrees (except in the case
of discontinued programs), many departments change their major requirements over the
years based on changing technology, etc. Occasionally, general education requirements
are changed as well. Therefore, students who do not complete their academic degrees

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within six consecutive years from the beginning of the semester of their first completed
USC course work will not be allowed automatically to continue following the pre-major,
major, and minor requirements. (This time limit includes semesters during which students
were not enrolled.) The pertinent department chair will decide what pre-major, major and
minor requirements each student must follow and communicate the decision to the
student in writing.

Students who do not complete their degrees within 10 consecutive years from the beginning of the
semester of their first completed USC course work will not be allowed automatically to continue
their general education requirements. (This time limit includes semesters during which students
are not enrolled.) The General Education Office will decide what general education requirements
each student must follow and communicate the decision to the student in writing.

Changes in certain university-wide regulations, policies and procedures are immediate, regardless
of the degree requirements in effect at entrance or transfer.

Students pursuing degree programs which the university discontinues may be required to
immediately change majors and pursue other degrees. Some departments may allow students
already in the program to complete the degree within a specified time limit, not to exceed five
years. Beyond that time, such degrees will not be awarded.

5. Student Education Records

The University of Southern California maintains the privacy of student education records and
allows students the right to inspect their education records consistent with the requirements of the
Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (1974). The following is a summary of rights afforded
students regarding their own education records. The entire text of the university’s policy
concerning student education records is located in the Office of the General Counsel and in the
Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs.

I. A student has the right to inspect and review education records pertaining to them.
Should a student wish to inspect a particular education record, a request to do so should
be made in writing to the university office maintaining that record. Certain records (or
information contained in records), such as parental financial records and information to
which the student has waived access (e.g., confidential letters of recommendation), are
excluded from the student’s right to inspection. Excluded categories of records and
information are specified in the university’s policy concerning the privacy of student
education records.

II. A student has the right to request amendment of their education records. Should a
student believe an education record is inaccurate or misleading, a request for amendment
or correction should be addressed, in writing, to the university office maintaining the
record in question. The custodian of records for that office may correct or amend the
record in question or may determine that the record is accurate as it stands. In instances
when a dispute cannot be resolved between the student and the office maintaining the
record in question, the student may request a formal hearing by the university to resolve
the issue. Questions about and requests for formal hearing should be directed to the
Office of the General Counsel. This provision for amendment does not apply to disputed
grade information on academic transcripts. (See Disputed Academic Evaluation
Procedures).

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III. The university will not release personally identifiable information from a student’s
education records without the student’s prior written consent or an authenticated
electronic signature release. Exceptions are noted in the university’s policy concerning
the privacy of student education records and include:

a. disclosure of information to a university official having a legitimate educational

interest in the specific education record. A university official is any person
employed by the university in an administrative, supervisory, academic, research
or support staff position, a person elected to the Board of Trustees, a student
serving on an official committee, or a person employed by or under contract to
the university to perform a specific task. Such a person has a legitimate
educational interest whenever he or she is performing a task that is specified in
his or her position description or by a contract agreement, performing a task
related to a student’s education, performing a task related to the discipline of a
student, or providing a service or benefit relating to the student or student’s
family (such as health care, counseling, job placement or financial aid);

b. disclosure of information in connection with financial aid for which the student
has applied or which the student has received, when disclosure is necessary for
such purposes as determining eligibility for, amount or conditions of the aid;

c. disclosure of information in response to a judicial order or legally issued

subpoena;

d. disclosure to officials of another school in which a student seeks or intends to

enroll; or

e. disclosure concerning “directory information.” The university has designated

“directory information” to include a student’s address (local and permanent),
telephone number (local and permanent), university email address, student
identification number, student photo, USC attendance dates, USC degrees
earned (with dates), academic honors, major/minor and degree objective,
expected date of graduation, previous school attended, enrollment status,
whether or not the student currently is enrolled, and participation in officially
recognized activities and sports. The university is under no obligation to release
directory information upon request. Students wishing to restrict release of
“directory information” may do so by completing the appropriate form provided
by the Registrar’s Office (Trojan Hall 101). Such requests remain in effect for
the academic year. The above exceptions represent a partial listing of those
found in the university’s policy concerning the privacy of student education
records.

IV. A student has a right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education
concerning alleged failures by the university to comply with the requirements of the
Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act.

V. A student has a right to obtain the university’s policy concerning the privacy of student
education records. Requests should be directed to the Office of the General Counsel, the
Office of Student Judicial Affairs and Community Standards or the Office of the Vice
President for Student Affairs.

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VI. Additional information can also be found by visiting the Registrar’s FERPA website at
usc.edu/dept/ARR/records/ferpa/.

6. Falsification of Financial Aid Information

The types of information covered by this policy include all documents and information submitted
to apply for and/or receive need-based financial aid, scholarships and private financing funds.
These documents and information include, but are not limited to, the following:

• The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)

• The Student Aid Report (SAR)

• The CSS Financial Aid/PROFILE Application and CSS Noncustodial Parent PROFILE
Application

• Enrollment and Housing Form

• Student and parent federal income tax forms, tax return information and other income
documentation

• Documentation of U.S. citizenship or eligible non-citizen status

• Documentation of housing/living arrangements

• Academic documents relating to high school diploma or college course work

• Loan applications, promissory notes and related documentation

• Specific program applications

• Federal Work-Study time sheets

• Any university financial aid forms and related documentation

• Any written, electronic or verbal statements sent to or made to a university employee

regarding the student’s financial aid application or other related documents

The integrity of the documents and the honesty of the information presented through them are
critical to the financial aid process. Students should be aware that they will be held responsible for
the integrity of any financial aid information submitted either by them or on their behalf.

If the university determines that a student or a parent has provided falsified information, or has
submitted forged documents or signatures, the following steps may be taken without prior
notification to the student or parent:

I. An incident report will be filed with USC’s Office of Student Judicial Affairs and
Community Standards following procedures outlined in the University Student Conduct
Code. Pending resolution of the complaint, the Financial Aid Office may restrict the
distribution of any further aid to the accused student.

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II. If the Financial Aid Office or the student conduct review process finds that a violation
has occurred, the consequences may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• The student will be required to make full restitution of any and all federal, state,
private and/or university scholarship, grant, loan, or work funds to which he or
she was not entitled.

• Until full restitution is made, all federal, state and university funds will be
withheld from the student, including all funds disbursed in past or in current
semesters.

• No arrangements will be made with the Cashier’s Office or Collections Office

on the student’s behalf to settle an account. The student will be responsible for
all charges incurred on the student’s account because of the loss of federal, state
or institutional financial aid funds.

• If the student is determined to be ineligible for financial aid, based on a basic

eligibility criterion, no further federal, state or university funds will be awarded
to the student in any future terms of enrollment at the university.

• The student may become ineligible for future participation in some or all
financial aid programs for a minimum of 1 year or longer. In some cases, the
student will not be eligible to receive funds from that program in any future
terms of enrollment at the university.

• The student will not be awarded funds to replace those lost because of
dishonesty.

III. In addition to any consequences directly related to the student’s financial aid, the
student may be assigned disciplinary sanctions as described in the Student Conduct Code
(see Section B.11.80).

IV. As required by federal and state law, the USC Financial Aid Office will report any
infraction to the appropriate office or agency. These include, but are not limited to, the
U.S. Department of Education Office of the Inspector General, state agencies or other
entities that may take whatever action is required by federal and state law. In this report,
the Financial Aid Office will describe in detail the incident, the response of the Financial
Aid Office and any additional actions taken by or pending with the university.

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D. Free Expression and Dissent

1. Policy

The University of Southern California is committed to fostering a learning environment where free
inquiry and expression are encouraged and celebrated and for which all its members share
responsibility. Dissent (defined as disagreement, a difference of opinion, or thinking differently
from others) is an integral aspect of expression in higher education, whether it manifests itself in a
new and differing theory in quantum mechanics, a personal disagreement with a current foreign
policy, opposition to a position taken by the university itself, or by some other means.

The university is a diverse community based on free exchange of ideas and devoted to the use of
reason and thought in the resolution of differences. Whether in free debate or in the exchange of
information, this community must rely on self-restraint and self-discipline if it is to retain its
freedom to search and question. However, when self-restraint and self-discipline fail, the
university will initiate such action as necessary to prevent disruption of or substantial interference
with its community and to preserve the rights of its individual members.

The university’s position is set forth in the following statement on Student Rights and
Responsibilities:

“Students and student organizations shall be free to examine and discuss all questions of
interest to them and to express opinion publicly and privately. They shall be free to
support causes by all orderly means which do not disrupt or substantially interfere with
the regular and essential operations and activities of the university, since such disruption
or substantial interference violates the responsible exercise of free inquiry and
expression. Students and organizations shall make it clear to the academic and larger
communities that in their public expression they speak only for themselves.”

If any student member of the university community believes that the university has acted in an
arbitrary, capricious or discriminatory manner in exercising the Policy on Free Expression and
Dissent (or its related policies), he or she may submit a formal grievance as outlined in the Student
Grievance Procedures.

2. Reasonable Time, Place, and Manner

In exercising its responsibility to provide and maintain an atmosphere of free inquiry and
expression, the university may establish reasonable time, place and manner restrictions for the
purpose of avoiding disruption to or substantial interference with its regular and essential
operations and activities. The university will not base decisions regarding time, place and manner
upon the content of the message, except as permitted in those narrow areas of expression devoid of
federal or state constitutional protection.

The university recognizes the crucial importance of preserving First Amendment rights and
maintaining open communication and dialogue in the process of identifying and resolving
problems which arise in the dynamics of life in a university community. The legitimate expression
of differing opinions and concerns, including unpopular, controversial or dissident viewpoints, is
an essential element of the academic process; the imposition of these opinions and concerns upon
those who in turn dissent from them is not to be condoned and is inconsistent with a university’s
process and function.

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Lawful and peaceful demonstration as an expression of favor or dissent will be permitted and
protected. On the other hand, the university will not tolerate coercive disruption, defined generally
herein as activity that imposes the will of other persons or groups within the university
community, outside of the established university procedures and policies for the expression of
opinion and the resolution of differences. Coercive disruption is construed to include any activity
which, contrary to law, denies the rights of other students, the faculty or the staff of the university
and:

I. Disrupts or obstructs educational or other activities of the university.

II. Reacts to the expression of the peaceful dissent of others by attempting to deny their
rights.

III. Obstructs or restricts free movement of persons on any part of the university campus,
including the free entry to or exit from university facilities.

IV. Denies or interferes with the standard operations, or use, of offices or other facilities to
the students, faculty, officers, staff or guests of the university.

V. Threatens or endangers the safety of any person on the university campus. This includes
but is not limited to signs on any forms of stakes.

VI. Results in damage to or destruction of property.

VII. Contains “fighting words” where (a) the speech, considered objectively, is abusive and
insulting rather than a communication of ideas and (b) it is actually used in an abusive
manner in a situation that presents an actual danger.

VIII. Constitutes “hate violence,” meaning any act of physical intimidation or physical
harassment, physical force or physical violence, or the threat of physical force or physical
violence, that is directed against any person or group, or the property of any person or
group because of the ethnicity, race, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation,
disability, or political or religious beliefs of that person or group. (Acts shall not be
considered “hate violence” based on speech alone, except upon a showing that the speech
itself threatens violence against a specific person or group, that the person or group
against whom the threat is directed reasonably fears that the violence will be committed
because of the speech, and that the person threatening violence had the apparent ability to
carry out the threat.)

IX. Makes sustained or repeated noise in a manner which substantially interferes with a
speaker’s ability to communicate his or her message or the rights of others to listen. Since
a clear differentiation between lawful or peaceful dissent and coercive disruption may
often be difficult, the foregoing list is illustrative and not exhaustive; this list is expected
to evolve, based on experience and changes in the law. It should be understood that the
application of this policy also takes situational factors into consideration. For example,
conduct appropriate at a political rally might constitute a violation of this policy if it
occurred within a classroom.

In all cases, the rights of students under the First Amendment to the Constitution, as applied by
California law, will always be protected.

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Any coercive disruption initiated by a visitor or a student member of the university community or
occurring during any university-sanctioned activity or function may be met by the action of the
university that is necessary to restore the order and communication required for the rational
solution of problems and free debate. In addition, any coercive disruption by students may be
subject to disciplinary action through the Office of Student Judicial Affairs and Community
Standards up to and including suspension or expulsion and/or legal action through local, state or
federal courts.

If any member of the university community believes that disruption of or substantial interference
with the regular and essential operations and activities of the university is occurring or that this
policy is otherwise being violated, the established procedure is to inform university Public Safety
officers and/or university administrators. It is the responsibility of designated university officials
to protect the university community to the fullest extent possible.

3. Guidelines for Campus Demonstrations

All student members of the university community have the right to hold a demonstration
(including, but not limited to, a rally, gathering, protest, parade or procession) on campus. Any
property damages related to the demonstration may result in the assessment of fees associated with
cleaning or repair costs to either the organization or the individuals.

Reservations and prior arrangements are recommended for campus demonstrations. If students do
not make advance reservations, their event may be moved or rescheduled in order to accommodate
previously scheduled reservations, in accordance with the university’s right to establish reasonable
time, place, and manner for campus events.

All demonstrations are encouraged to follow these guidelines, which serve as a mechanism to
ensure a successful and safe demonstration:

I. Reservations for outdoor spaces or other venues to conduct campus demonstrations are
encouraged and should be made through Trojan Event Services online at
sait.usc.edu/scheduling/. These spaces are made available to the campus community on a
first-come, first-served basis. Students may also reserve space to protest approved
speakers, presenters or programs as long as those protests are consistent with the
guidelines stated in the Reasonable Time, Place and Manner section of this policy.

II. Representatives of the sponsoring organization wishing to stage a demonstration are

encouraged to complete an Outdoor Event Questionnaire and a USC Event Permit
Application at least two weeks prior to the demonstration. The SLI staff will check on the
availability of the venue requested and can facilitate communication with Safety and Risk
Management, Operations and Maintenance, Public Safety and Student Affairs, as needed.

III. Representatives of the organization sponsoring a demonstration are encouraged to

attend a meeting with the Director of Campus Activities or other Student Affairs staff so
that expectations, rights and responsibilities are mutually understood. The sponsoring
organization is responsible for the behavior of the organization’s members and of guests
from off campus. Informing these members and guests of the university’s expectations is
the responsibility of the sponsoring organization’s representatives. The sponsoring
organization’s representatives should also explain to the organization’s members and
guests the individual and organizational implications for failure to adhere to these
expectations.

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IV. When a campus demonstration is scheduled, organizers can expect the university
personnel present (typically staff from the Division of Student Affairs) to help ensure that
organizers’ rights are protected and the university’s regular and essential operations and
activities continue. Such regular and essential operations and activities include, but are
not limited to, classes, meetings, and the standard operation of university offices and
facilities. As the university is concerned about the entire university community and
visitors, particular attention will be spent on managing crowds, maintaining access to
buildings, sidewalks, streets, etc. and personal safety for all.

4. Advertising, Promotion and Literature Distribution

I. Advertising

The Division of Student Affairs oversees all advertising, promotions, literature and
publications distribution on the USC campus in order to:

a. Protect the rights enumerated in the policy on Free Expression and Dissent.

b. Help foster and maintain a campus atmosphere of personal responsibility and

mutual respect.

c. Allow for maximum promotion of student events.

d. Ensure a safe environment of order and cleanliness on campus.

This will aid in creating a campus that promotes the well-being of its students, faculty,
staff and visitors and will provide events with effective publicity and exposure.

II. General Regulations

a. Content of all printed materials posted or distributed on campus must:

i. Contain no material containing advocacy directed to inciting or

producing imminent lawless action

ii. Contain no advertisements for “term paper mills” or other products or

services which undermine the academic integrity of the university.

iii. Contain no true threats or intimidation, meaning language where:

• The speaker means to communicate a serious expression of an

intent to commit an act of unlawful violence to a particular
individual or group of individuals, or

• The speaker directs a threat to a person or group of persons

with the intent of placing the victim in fear of bodily harm or
death.

iv. Contain no advertisements or promotions for alcoholic beverages,

illegal drugs or drug paraphernalia.

v. Contain no “fighting words” meaning language where:

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• The speech, considered objectively, is abusive and insulting

rather than a communication of ideas.

• The speech is used in an abusive manner in a situation that

presents an actual danger that it will cause a breach of peace.

b. USC does not exercise prior restraint on printed materials to be posted or

distributed on campus that may be libelous or slanderous. However, if such
materials are posted or distributed, they may be referred to the Office of Student
Judicial Affairs and Community Standards for action.

c. Any material that is not written in English requires a translation to be kept on

file with Trojan Event Services in Ronald Tutor Campus Center 425.

d. Any student groups or organizations not recognized by the university will be

considered either “commercial” or “personal,” including non-profit
organizations.

III. Publicity

All advertising and communication plans/timelines must be submitted in advance to the

approving departments. No advertising is permitted until all approvals, paperwork and
final payments have been received.

The use of third party promoters is strictly prohibited.

All printed publicity such as flyers, posters and postcards, must include the following
entry guideline in accordance with the level of event identified during the dance
agreement-planning meeting.

The following must be indicated on all materials to be posted:

a. The full name of the sponsoring organization

b. The time, date and place of the event

c. Any entrance fees or costs to participate

d. Entry guidelines

Entry Guidelines

Level 1 Open to USC student members of the student organization only, with
valid USC ID

Level 2 Open to any USC student with valid USC ID

Level 3 Open to USC students, with valid USC ID, and guest

Level 4 Open to USC students, guest(s) and other college student(s). Valid USC
ID or other valid college photo ID and proof of 18 years or older required.

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Posting

Posting on bulletin boards not controlled by the division must be approved by the staff of
the principal department in that building. It is the university’s intent to limit the use of
departmental bulletin boards to information relating to that department, unless otherwise
posted.

In order to advance the university’s objectives, to control the number of posters or flyers
posted, and to ensure appropriate use of university facilities and property, limits may be
placed on the number of posting locations that commercial or personal groups may use.

The individual or organization responsible for the posting must be identified.

Posting or flyer distribution is prohibited in the following areas or in the following ways:

a. all trees and hedges

b. the ground, taped or loose

c. buildings (including glass windows, doors, walls and columns)

d. Tommy Trojan and all other statues

e. trash cans

f. all lamp posts

g. telephone booths/telephone poles

h. parking lots and structures

i. on top of other previously posted materials

j. fountains

k. chalking

l. electronic flyers or materials distributed via USC listservs

m. on cars, bicycles or other individual property

n. freestanding advertisements such as signs on stands, sandwich boards, other

displays, etc.

The individual or organization responsible for posting will be held accountable for any
violations and associated fees.

5. Literature and Publications Distribution

I. General Regulations

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a. This policy applies to students and recognized student organizations and

establishes time, place and manner regulations. It will be interpreted and applied
so as to respect all federal and state constitutional and statutory rights. (Off-
campus organizations, individuals or vendors should consult the policy on
Solicitations by Off-Campus Persons, and section IX Vendors in the policy on
Sales and Fund-raising.)

b. The Division of Student Affairs oversees the in-person distribution of literature

(including posters, handbills and pamphlets) and publications on the campus and
the compliance of individuals and organizations with this policy.

c. All university students and recognized organizations may distribute literature

anywhere on campus provided such distribution does not affect the scheduled
activities in that area and does not interfere with the essential operations of the
university.

d. Designated bins are for official university publications only

e. No preprinted manually inserted sheets of information (flyers, advertisements or

any other information message sheets) are allowed inside the pages of any
official university publication.

II. Banners

Banners may only be mounted on campus buildings if:

a. Permission is obtained by the occupants of the building

b. Such banners are professionally produced

c. They meet design criteria established by the university architect’s office

d. They are consistent with the university’s graphic identity guidelines

e. Such banners are for identification of the academic program, department or

school housed within the building on which the banner is mounted. Banners may
not be mounted on guide wires suspended between campus buildings.

III. Trousdale Light Post Banners

a. Trojan Event Services maintains 11 light post locations on Trousdale Parkway

for pole panels. The light poles may be reserved by campus departments at least
four weeks prior to the desired first date of banner display.

b. Panels may only be mounted if such banners:

• are professionally produced;

• meet design criteria established by the university architect’s office;

• are consistent with the university’s graphic identity guidelines;

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• are for identification of the academic program, department or university

event.

c. In addition, pole panels must:

• be produced by an approved university vendor (contact Trojan Event

Services);

• fit the dimensions of the existing mounting hardware (2’ by 4’);

• use a minimum of five of the eleven available poles.

If the proposed banner design includes text, such text must prominently feature
the name of the campus department and the name of the campus event.

d. A copy of the proposed panel design must be submitted to Trojan Event

Services at least four weeks prior to the desired first date of banner display, in
order to receive approval.

e. The reserving campus department will arrange for the light pole panel
installation and removal. Charges will be the responsibility of the campus
department.

f. A representative from the campus department is responsible for meeting the

light pole panel installer at installation and removal of panels to deliver and
accept their panels.

g. The campus department is responsible for the storage of their pole panels.

IV. Ronald Tutor Campus Center International Plaza Light Post Banners

a. Trojan Event Services maintains 26 light post locations in and around the
Ronald Tutor International Plaza for pole panels. The light poles may be
reserved by campus departments at least four weeks prior to the desired first
date of banner display.

b. Panels may only be mounted if such banners:

• are professionally produced;

• meet design criteria established by the university architect’s office;

• are consistent with the university’s graphic identity guidelines;

• are for identification of the academic program, department or university

event.

c. In addition, pole panels must:

• be produced by an approved university vendor (contact Trojan Event

Services);

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• fit the dimensions of the existing mounting hardware (1’ by 3’);

• use a minimum of seven of the thirteen available poles.

If the proposed banner design includes text, such text must prominently feature
the name of the campus department and the name of the campus event.

d. A copy of the proposed panel design must be submitted to Trojan Event

Services at least four weeks prior to the desired first date of banner display, in
order to receive approval.

e. The reserving campus department will arrange for the light pole panel
installation and removal. Charges will be the responsibility of the campus
department.

f. A representative from the campus department is responsible for meeting the

light pole panel installer at installation and removal of panels to deliver and
accept their panels.

g. The campus department is responsible for the storage of their pole panels.

V. Violations

a. Non-compliance with any of the provisions of these guidelines will constitute a

violation.

b. All printed materials in violation of these policies will be removed. Costs

incurred for the removal of such materials can be charged to the person, persons
or department responsible for the violation.

c. Any violation or continued violations of these guidelines will be handled in

accordance with the severity of the infraction, and will include one or more of
the following responses:

• Written warnings

• Assessments for damage to facilities and/or assessed a $1 per flyer

violation fee or the cost for removal

• Denial of future posting and other privileges, including the ability to

schedule on-campus facilities for events and/or assessed a $1 per flyer
violation fee

• Appropriate on-campus judicial proceedings through the Office of

Student Judicial Affairs and Community Standards

• Appropriate legal action in local, state or federal courts of competent

jurisdiction

VI. Responsibility for Content

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An individual or organization shall be personally responsible for the content of any sign,
notice, poster or other material referenced herein, which the individual or organization
sponsors or posts on campus.

Advertisements or promotions on campus or in university publications and activity

programs do not imply official endorsement by the university.

VII. Helpful Hints

a. In the interest of a free exchange of ideas, we recommend that an individual or

organization comply with a request from any and all members of the university
community for a copy of the material being distributed.

b. Whenever literature is distributed by more than five individuals in any campus

area at the same time, we recommend an Event Request process that ensures
prior notification to area occupants regarding the activity, works to alleviate
misunderstandings, lessens the chance for actions against individuals or
organizations distributing literature, allows separation from other groups
wanting to distribute literature, and works to alleviate impediments to the flow
of traffic across campus or into entrances or out of exits of campus buildings. If
more than five individuals will be distributing literature in the same campus area
at the same time, we recommend that a representative complete an Event
Request form and obtain event confirmation., and that a representative be
present with a copy of Trojan Event Services confirmed Event Request Form,
Confirmations are granted on a first-come, first-served basis. (This
paragraph does not apply to normal academic activities within the program of
any school of the university.)

c. If any literature contains language other than English, in the interest of a free
exchange of ideas we request that a copy of the translated information be on file
with Trojan Event Services.

d. Make an effort to print quality flyers and/or literature.

e. Plan for six weeks or more of lead-time to take full advantage of the process of
scheduling and advertising an event.

f. Plan carefully before printing materials in order to avoid printing more than can
legitimately be utilized.

g. Use other types of promotion in addition to flyers. Flyers should only be one
small part of your promotional campaign.

h. For additional ideas regarding effective promotion of your student

organization’s events, consult with Campus Activities staff members in the
Ronald Tutor Campus Center.

6. Solicitations by Off-Campus Persons

I. General Regulation

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This policy is issued to establish time, place and manner regulations for solicitors who
substantially interfere with the regular and essential educational and other activities of the
university.

Off-campus persons must have written permission from Trojan Event Services to conduct
solicitation anywhere on campus.

a. “Off-campus persons” are defined to include all those who are not USC
students, recognized student organizations, staff or faculty.

b. “Solicitation” is defined to include advertising, taking orders, sales not governed

by another policy, distributing literature, distributing material including samples,
asking for donations, campaigning (political or otherwise), collecting signatures,
collecting email addresses or personal information. The university will apply
this policy with full respect for all relevant constitutional and statutory rights.

c. Vendor sales of products on campus are governed by a more restrictive policy.

See Section G.7.IX. Vendors in the Sales and Fund-raising policy.

d. In exercising its responsibility to provide and maintain an atmosphere of free

inquiry and expression, the university may establish reasonable time, place and
manner restrictions for the purpose of avoiding disruption to or substantial
interference with its regular and essential operations and activities. For all
expression with federal or state constitutional protection, the university will not
base decisions regarding time, place and manner upon the content of the
message. Also see the policy on Reasonable Time, Place and Manner.

II. Considerations in Issuing Permits

a. Trojan Event Services will consider other demands on space and will not issue a
permit if the space is otherwise programmed.

b. The activity will be limited to certain designated areas.

c. The only area currently available for soliciting by off-campus persons is the
plaza at the north end of Trousdale Parkway.

d. The applicant must provide identification.

e. The application must state the number of participants. Excessive numbers of

participants will not be approved to ensure no interference with the free passage
of pedestrians.

f. Each participant will be issued an individual permit.

g. Permits are for one day at a time.

h. Decisions on permits will not be based upon the content of the message.

III. Displaying Permits

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All off-campus persons who are participating in solicitation approved by Trojan Event
Services must keep their written permission prominently displayed with them at all times
on campus.

IV. Code of Conduct

It is important to foster and maintain a campus atmosphere of mutual respect. Aggressive

solicitation is prohibited, including:

a. Obstructing or restricting free movement of persons on any part of the campus

including free passage and the free entry to or exit from classrooms, offices or
facilities.

b. Persisting in closely following or approaching a person, after the person

solicited has informed the solicitor by words or conduct that such person does
not want to be solicited.

c. Intentionally touching or causing physical contact with another person without

that person’s consent in the course of soliciting.

d. Disrupting, obstructing or substantially interfering with the educational or other

operations and activities of the university, including by making sustained or
repeated noise.

e. Using violent or threatening gestures toward a person solicited either before,

during or after soliciting; using profane or abusive language which is inherently
likely to provoke an immediate violent reaction, either before, during or after
solicitation; uttering “fighting words” where the speech, considered objectively,
is abusive and insulting rather than a communication of ideas and it is used in an
abusive manner in a situation that presents an actual danger.

f. Physically intimidating or physically harassing, or using physical force or

physical violence, or threatening physical force or physical violence.

g. Endangering the safety of any person on the university campus.

h. Damaging or destroying property.

i. Soliciting for immediate receipt of funds.

j. Remaining on campus at times when only USC persons and invited visitors may
enter.

V. Sanctions

Students and others may register complaints about the activities of off-campus solicitors
with the Division of Student Affairs.

Failure to obtain and display a permit, violation of the code of conduct, or violation of the
conditions of a permit may result in cancellation of a permit, requirement to leave and not
return, and denial of permits in the future. Violations of criminal law may result in arrest.

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7. Student Organization Logos Policy

a. All recognized student organizations are permitted to create and use their own logos
providing the logos do not violate the USC Graphic Identity Program or alter existing
university logos. Student organizations are not allowed to use academic unit of
department logotypes without permission from the academic unit or department. Student
organizations are also not allowed to use the following university marks without special
permission from the Department of Athletics or the Trojan Marching Band: Interlocking
SC, Baseball Interlocking SC, Football Helmet Trojan Head and the Trojan Marching
Band’s logo. For more information, visit identity.usc.edu.

b. Student organizations are permitted to identify their affiliation with the university
through the proper use of USC official logos and trademarks on all products,
publications, flyers and documents. Student organizations are required to use authorized
licensed vendors when sourcing products that feature any of USC’s trademarks or
wordmarks. For more information, visit trademarks.usc.edu/campus-community.

c. Student organizations may use their own logos in the context of a website that meets the
established USC Web publishing guidelines found at itservices.usc.edu/web/ .

d. Requests for permission to use any university logo or mark must be initiated by a student
from the requesting organization. Requests from a national organization or other non-
USC entity affiliated with the student organization will not be granted.

e. Student organizations must adhere to the General Regulations section of the Advertising,
Promotion and Literature Distribution Policies, which state that content of printed
materials posted or distributed on campus must:

a. Contain no material containing advocacy directed to inciting or producing

imminent lawless action.

b. Contain no advertisements for “Term Paper Mills” or other services which

undermine the academic integrity of the university.

c. Contain no true threats or intimidation, meaning language where (i) the speaker
means to communicate a serious expression of an intent to commit an act of
unlawful violence to a particular individual or group of individuals, or (ii) the
speaker directs a threat to a person or group of persons with the intent of placing
the victim in fear of bodily harm or death.

d. Contain no advertisements for alcoholic beverages, illegal drugs or drug

paraphernalia.

e. Contain no “fighting words”, meaning language where (i) the speech, considered
objectively, is abusive and insulting rather than a communication of ideas and
(ii) is actually used in an abusive manner in a situation that presents an actual
danger that it will cause a breach of peace.

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E. The University’s Policy and Procedures on Student Sexual, Interpersonal, and Protected Class
Misconduct is now a separate document, available at https://policy.usc.edu/student-misconduct/.

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F. Other University Policies

1. Computing

Because the use of computers and computing facilities is central to the learning experience at
USC, it is important for all students to understand the policies governing the use of computing
resources and appropriate behaviors in an electronic community. To that end, the university has
developed a set of computing policies for members of the university community, regarding
electronic communications, the use of computing resources at USC, compliance with the Digital
Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA) and other related topics.

All of these policies are available online at policy.usc.edu or cio.usc.edu/copyright/policy.

Students are expected to read and abide by all policies located at this site and check this page for
updates, as these policies are subject to change. All electronic information under this website
supersedes all printed computing policies.

2. University Email Notifications to Students

Email has been adopted as the primary mechanism for sending official communications to
students at the University of Southern California. Students, therefore, must check email regularly
in order to stay abreast of important messages and notifications. Failure to read official university
communications sent to students’ official email addresses does not absolve students from knowing
and complying with the content of official communications.

Faculty may use students’ official email addresses as the official out-of-class means of
communicating with students registered in their classes. Students must comply with course
requirements communicated to them by email.

Implementation

All students are assigned an official university email address that will be maintained in the
university’s email directory for at least one year after the student’s last enrollment at the
university.

All official university communications for students will be sent to the student’s official university
email address.

Students may forward their email from their official university email address to another email
address of their choice. The university, however, is not responsible for email forwarded to another
email address.

3. Student Website Disclaimer

The University of Southern California protects its students’ rights of free speech and academic
freedom on student websites. Because student websites are hosted on official university servers,
however, the university automatically places a disclaimer on each student site.

The disclaimer reads as follows: USC does not control the content herein and takes no
responsibility for any inaccurate, offensive, indecent or objectionable content, which is the sole
responsibility of the individual student author.

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Students may not remove or otherwise take steps to defeat this disclaimer. Any attempt to do so
will be cause for disciplinary action.

4. Student Grievance Procedures

I. Definitions

A grievance arises when a student believes, based on established administrative policies

and procedures, that he or she has been treated in an arbitrary or capricious manner by a
university department or a representative of the university.

II. Grievances Covered by This Policy:

A grievance against a university official arises when a student believes he or she has been
subjected to inappropriate behavior by a department or university representative (faculty
or staff) acting within their role and duty.

A grievance of personal misconduct by a faculty member or other university employee

arises when a student believes he or she is the subject of inappropriate behavior outside
of the employee’s role and duties within the university.

III. Grievances Not Covered by This Policy Include:

• Grade disputes, academic evaluation disputes and other matters related to a

faculty member’s assigned duties. The grievance process for these disputes is
found in Section C.2. Disputed Academic Evaluation Procedures.

• Issues of sexual harassment or discrimination. These issues should be referred

to the Title IX coordinator, Office of Equity and Diversity (Credit Union
Building 2nd Floor, University Park Campus, (213) 740-5086, [email protected]).
Also see https://policy.usc.edu/student-misconduct/.

IV. Informal Grievance Resolution

Prior to bringing a grievance forward against a university office or representative acting

within their role or duty, students are encouraged to attempt a good-faith resolution of the
grievance. This attempt may be made with the party directly involved with the disputed
matter, or with the head of the department or unit in which the grievance arises. Please
note that there are cases when it is appropriate to go directly to the formal grievance
resolution process.

Attempts at information resolution should be initiated within 30 days of the incident in

dispute.

V. Formal Grievance Resolution

Should a situation arise in which a student is unable to resolve his or her grievance
informally, the university’s formal grievance process may be employed. This process,
outlined below, should also be initiated within 30 days of the failed informal resolution if
applicable.

Step I

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A formal grievance is presented in writing to the Office of the Vice President for Student
Affairs (Student Union 201). This written grievance must include the following:

• Name, address and phone number of the person making the grievance;

• Identification of the office or individual against whom the grievance is

brought;

• A description of the specific university action or individual behavior

resulting in this grievance;

• The date or period of time in which the behavior occurred and the location
of the incident; and

• A listing of all individuals who witnessed any part of the incident in

dispute.

Step II
Upon receipt of the formal grievance, a designee is appointed by the Office of the Vice
President for Student Affairs to investigate the dispute.

The grievance involves a university office or representative acting within their role or
duty, the investigator determines the involvement of pertinent supervisors, department
chairs and deans in the investigation. Depending upon the grievance, pertinent data
(interviews, etc.) will be gathered by the investigator or the university office involved in
the grievance. This data is then presented to the department for resolution. If the
complainant and the respondent do not agree through informal resolution, a formal
hearing becomes necessary. In a formal hearing, the Office of the Vice President for
Student Affairs appoints a panel or administrator to make a recommendation to the
cognizant administrator. Copies of the detailed protocol may be obtained from the Office
of the Vice President for Student Affairs (Student Union 201).

If the grievance is based on personal misconduct by a faculty member or other university

employee, the investigator gathers pertinent information and presents it to either the Vice
Provost for Faculty Affairs (faculty complaint) or the Office of the Senior Vice President
for Administration (staff complaint). The Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs
assists the appropriate office with resolution and the resolution process.

5. Alcohol and Other Drugs

The illegal or abusive use of alcohol and/or other drugs by students, faculty or staff adversely
affects USC’s commitment to provide an environment of excellence in teaching, research and
learning. As members of the USC community, we all share in the responsibility for creating and
maintaining a healthy and productive environment for work and study alike. With this
responsibility comes the obligation to be involved in preventing problems caused by the abuse of
alcohol, tobacco and other drugs.

USC’s comprehensive approach to addressing substance abuse emphasizes:

• Taking effective steps to create and maintain a drug-free workplace and educational
environment for students, faculty and staff.

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• Providing continual prevention, education and counseling services along with

referrals to off-campus treatment facilities as appropriate.

• Encouraging individuals who are experiencing problems associated with alcohol

and/or other drugs or chemical dependency to seek assessment, counseling and/or
treatment voluntarily with the understanding that this assistance is confidential and
will not be used against them.

(Taken from USC Drug-Free, policy.usc.edu/drug-free/)

I. Alcohol Policy

With this approach in mind, the university has expectations concerning alcohol use on
campus which directly correspond to California and Los Angeles laws and ordinances
and include, but are not limited to, the following provisions:

a. The purchase, possession, or consumption of any alcoholic beverages

(including beer and wine) by any person under the age of 21 is prohibited.

b. Alcoholic beverages will not be provided to individuals under 21 years of age.

c. The selling, either directly or indirectly, of alcoholic beverages (including beer

and wine) except under the authority of a California Alcoholic Beverage
Control Board license is prohibited. This includes selling cups, mixes, ice,
tickets for admission, required donations, etc.

d. The serving of alcohol to an intoxicated person or to the point of intoxication

is prohibited.

e. The manufacture, use or provision of a false state identification card, driver’s

license, or certification of birth or baptism is prohibited.

f. The act(s) of being drunk and disorderly in public view, including on public
sidewalks and walkways, is prohibited.

g. The consumption of alcoholic beverages in a public place (unless licensed for

consumption of alcohol on the premises) is prohibited. This includes a
prohibition of alcoholic beverages in public areas of academic facilities,
recreation fields, university housing corridors and lounges.

h. Operating a motor vehicle, bicycle, skates, or scooters while under the

influence of alcohol is prohibited.

i. The possession of an alcoholic beverage in any open container in a motor

vehicle, or while operating a bicycle, skates, skateboard, or scooter is
prohibited regardless of who is driving and whether one is intoxicated (taken
from USC Drug-Free).

j. Behavior that is disruptive or abusive to others as a result of using intoxicants.

II. Alcohol and Event Planning

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Since the consumption of alcoholic beverages is prohibited (unless licensed for

consumption of alcohol on the premises), any event being sponsored or hosted by a
campus individual, university-recognized group, department, or office, must get approval
to serve alcohol. All student organizations must have permission to serve alcohol at their
events. The Office of Fraternity and Sorority Leadership Development must approve
requests to serve alcohol for all organizations within the Asian Greek Council, the
Interfraternity Council, the Multi-Cultural Greek Council, the National Pan-hellenic
Council, the Panhellenic Council and the Professional Fraternity Council. All other
student organizations should contact the Campus Activities for additional information.
Approval must be obtained for all events on campus within any university-owned
property. For approval and copies of the detailed protocol on serving alcohol on campus,
call:

• Campus Activities, Steven and Kathryn Sample Hall 410, (213) 740-5693

• Office of Fraternity and Sorority Leadership Development, Ronald Tutor

Campus Center 330, (213) 740-1195

• USC Hospitality, Bookstore 404, (213) 740-6285

III. Drug Policy

The university’s policy is to conform to all applicable laws and follows the current stance
of the medical and mental health professions regarding the use of other psychoactive
substances including stimulants, depressants, narcotics, inhalants and hallucinogens
including marijuana.

The university expects all students and student groups to comply with all local, state and
federal laws. It is the responsibility of each individual to be aware of, and abide by, all
federal, state and local ordinances and university regulations. Current laws provide for
severe penalties for violations which may result in criminal records (taken from USC
Drug-Free).

IV. Violation of Alcohol and Drug Policy

Student involvement in underage consumption of alcohol or the manufacture, use,

possession, distribution or sale of illicit drugs is a matter of concern to the university and
will subject a student so involved to disciplinary action by the university. Dependent on
the nature of the violation, university sanctions may include educational intervention,
mandated community reparations, suspension, or expulsion aside from or in addition to
prosecution under applicable state and federal laws. University action may be taken
whether or not independent action is taken by civil authorities.

V. Assistance

There are many well-documented risks associated with the use of alcohol and other
drugs, affecting not only the individual user, but also his or her family, friends and
roommates. Alcohol abuse is frequently a factor in cases of assault on campus. Other
problems associated with alcohol and other drug abuse include poor academic or job
performance; relationship difficulties, including sexual dysfunction; a tendency toward

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verbal and physical violence; financial stress; injuries or accidents; and violations of the
law such as driving under the influence and willfully destroying property.

Members of the university community are encouraged to seek assistance and/or support
for themselves or others through any of the following resources:

• Student Counseling Services, (213) 740-7711

• Office for Wellness and Health Promotion, (213) 740-4777

• Engemann Student Health Center, (213) 740-9355

• Alcoholics Anonymous, University Religious Center 205,

[email protected]

6. Smoke-free Campus

In order to provide a safe and healthy environment for all of our faculty, staff and students, it is the
policy of the University of Southern California that smoking is prohibited in all enclosed
buildings, facilities and university vehicles.

The thoughtfulness and cooperation of the entire campus community are paramount to successful
implementation of this policy. Given the established harmful effects of smoking to both smokers
and non-smokers, it is the intent of the University of Southern California to reduce the existence of
this health hazard in our campus environment.

Smoking is prohibited in all enclosed buildings, facilities and vehicles, which are owned or leased
by the university, on both the University Park Campus and the Health Sciences Campus. This
applies to all academic and administrative units including all individual faculty and administrative
offices.

Smoking is prohibited in all university owned and leased housing. All University Park on-campus
housing facilities are smoke free environments, regardless of roommate consent. All shared
community space within university housing shall be designated as non-smoking areas.

All dining facilities on both the University Park Campus and the Health Sciences Campus shall be
designated as non-smoking areas.

Smoking is prohibited during indoor athletic events and other university-sponsored or designated
indoor events.

The university recognizes the need to accommodate those members of the university community
who wish to smoke. Therefore, administrative and academic units may designate existing outdoor
space as smoking areas, but these areas should be located far enough away from doorways,
windows and ventilation systems to prevent smoke from entering enclosed buildings and facilities.

Some outdoor areas are confined spaces or particularly busy thoroughfares; in such cases,
administrative and academic units may request Risk Management to designate those outdoor areas
as smoke free.

For information on smoking cessation, contact the Engemann Student Health Center, at (213) 740-
9355, or Office of Wellness and Health Promotion (OWHP) at (213) 740-4777.

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7. Student Health Insurance Requirement

USC requires our students to carry comprehensive health insurance. It is mandatory for all
domestic students (including online and graduate programs) enrolled in 6 or more units. It is also
mandatory for all Health Science Campus and International students enrolled in any number of
units.

The university offers a USC Student Health Insurance Plan into which the students acknowledged
above will be automatically enrolled. Students will have the option to waive the USC Student
Health Insurance Plan if they are already covered under another comprehensive health insurance
policy. Prior to the start of the semester, students will receive communication from the Student
Health Center stating the opening and closing dates of the waiver request process.

For more information regarding the USC Student Health Insurance Plan including current rates
and the steps to waive out, visit usc.edu/engemann and go to the Insurance page.

Additional questions can be answered by contacting an insurance representative at USC’s

Engemann Student Health Center at (213) 740-9355.

8. Student Releases

A person’s registration as a student and either (i) attendance at or near the campuses of the
university, or (ii) participation in classes and other activities of the university, constitutes an
agreement by the student to the university’s use and distribution (both now and in the future) of
the student’s image or voice in photographs and video and/or audio recordings in any form
(including electronic reproductions) of such attendance or participation. If any student in a class
where such photography or recording is to take place does not wish to have his or her image or
voice used, the student should raise the matter in advance with the instructor.

9. Trojan Spirit Code Guidelines

Please encourage friends and family to honor our championship team by upholding the Trojan
tradition of good sportsmanship. Alcohol is not permitted inside the stadium. Possession of
alcohol, drunk or disorderly behavior, or threatening or obscene language will result in eviction
from the Coliseum and permanent loss of the privilege of buying tickets in the future. Keep the
Coliseum a family-friendly environment!

Treat all fans, students, staff, players, coaches, and officials in a respectful and courteous manner
— win or lose/home or away.

Remember that you are responsible for your actions and how they may affect other fans and
athletes, as well as the university.

Obey all rules and regulations as set forth by the university.

Join in the Trojan Spirit by supporting all student athletes and their commitment to academic and
athletic excellence.

Avoid making negative remarks or gestures that disrespect opponents, their fans and their
institutions.

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Never forget the ideals of a Trojan — ambitious, courageous, skillful, scholarly, and faithful.
Always do your best to live up to the high standards of the Trojan Family.

Send a positive message to our opponents about USC, our teams, students and fans wherever USC
is playing.

10. Bicycles

Maintaining a safe environment for pedestrians and bicyclists requires that those individuals who
ride bicycles exercise sound judgment and courtesy at all times while operating and parking their
bicycles.

All applicable sections of the California Motor Vehicle Code pertaining to bicycle use are to be
observed on the properties of the University of Southern California. Any person operating a
bicycle on USC property implicitly accepts responsibility for adherence to all state and local laws
governing bicycle operation, as well as this bicycle policy.

California bicycle laws and bicycle safety tips can be found on the California Department of
Motor Vehicle’s website, dmv.ca.gov.

Riding your bicycle on the sidewalk while on campus is permitted, except where noted by signs on
campus.

I. Licensing/Registration

a. Bicycle registration is mandatory for all faculty, staff and students who ride or
park a bicycle on the USC campus. By registering your bicycle, you will help
DPS identify your bike if lost, stolen, recovered or impounded. Registration can
be completed online at dps.usc.edu/services/bikes/ and is free. After
completing the registration process, you will receive an automated receipt by
email which should be kept for your personal record. Print and take a copy of
this receipt to the DPS office to pick up your registration decal. DPS is located
at Parking Structure A on the University Park campus. For more information,
please call DPS at (213) 740-5519.

b. Upon change of ownership or destruction of the licensed bicycle, it is the

responsibility of the owner to notify DPS. Please see dps.usc.edu/contact/ for
DPS contact information. .

c. Valid California Bicycle Licenses obtained from other agencies will be

accepted by DPS. However, it is recommended that owners register their
bicycles with DPS to assure that current information is available in the event of
a theft or if your bicycle is impounded. There is no charge for this
informational registration.

d. It is unlawful for any person to tamper with, destroy, mutilate or alter any
license, indicia, registration tag or serial number on a bicycle (CA Vehicle
Code 39002(b)).

e. Any person who knowingly buys, sells, receives, disposes of, conceals, or has
in his or her possession any personal property from which the manufacturer’s
serial number, identification number or any other distinguishing number has

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been removed, defaced, destroyed or altered is guilty of a crime (CA Penal

Code 537e(a)).

II. Parking Regulations

a. Bicycles may be parked only in those areas which have been specifically
designated for this purpose. A bicycle parking area is indicated by the presence
of bicycle racks. All bicycles must be parked in bicycle racks, and it is
recommended that they are secured to these bicycle racks to deter theft.

b. Bicycles may not be parked in a way that would block or impede the access to a
building entrance or exit. Bicycles may not be left within six feet of an entrance
or exit unless the area is designated for bicycle parking by racks. Additionally,
bicycle parking is prohibited at any entrance, exit or access ramp to any
building on campus.

c. Bicycles parked in a manner that impedes the normal access to ramps

designated for wheelchair or handicapped access to facilities are subject to
impound and fines.

d. Bicycles may not be parked or left on any lawn or landscaped area except those
that have been designated for bicycle parking with the presence of bicycle
racks.

e. Bicycles may not be chained or attached to shrubbery, trees, plants, guide rails,
posts, doors, lamps, telephone poles or other objects not designated for the
purpose of securing bicycles.

f. Bicycles may not be parked or left standing in any lobby or hallway of any
building.

III. Parking Regulation Enforcement

a. A public safety officer or other individual specifically authorized by DPS may

issue a citation, relocate or impound a bicycle which:

i. is in violation of any regulation stated above in Sections I or II; or

ii. appears to have been abandoned, inoperable; or

iii. has been reported stolen by its owner.

b. DPS may remove the securing mechanism of the bicycle by whatever means
are necessary for impounding a bicycle or locking the bicycle in place. DPS
officers are authorized to remove the device and impound the bicycle in this
manner, and the university shall not be liable to the owner of the securing
device or the bicycle for the cost of repair or replacement of such securing
device.

c. Any bicycle that has been impounded will be secured at its location or in the
impound area of DPS. Persons retrieving an impounded bicycle will be
required to show proof of ownership (with complete description: manufacturer,

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model, color, size and serial numbers) and their picture identification (student
ID or appropriate state driver’s license).

d. Bicycles are not to be left on campus for storage during winter and summer
breaks. Bicycles considered abandoned will be tagged and issued a 3-day
warning. If no action is taken within 3 days, these bicycles will be considered
abandoned and impounded with a fee assigned.

IV. Bicycle Operation

a. All bicycles must be walked in and around the following areas, Monday
through Friday, between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.:

• Trousdale Parkway, between Hellman Way and Downey Way

• Childs Way, between Watt Way and the eastern boundary of Trousdale
Parkway

• All construction areas at all times for the continued safety of

pedestrians and bicyclists.

• Gate 5, at times, on McClintock, between Jefferson Boulevard and 34th

Street

b. Bicycles may not be operated at a speed that exceeds the university speed limit
for vehicles (15 miles per hour on streets and 5 miles per hour on campus
grounds).

c. Bicycles may be operated on the streets and pedestrian malls on campus;

however, bicycles are to be walked on sidewalks in designated areas delineated
by signage.

d. Bicycles must always yield to pedestrians anywhere on the pedestrian malls.

Bicycles must be walked in crosswalks since they are many times filled with
pedestrians.

e. When operating a bicycle, bicyclists must remain in the marked bike lane, if
there is one. Otherwise they must remain to the far right of the street or paved
area.

V. Fine Structure

Violators receiving a citation are referred to Student Judicial Affairs and Community
Standards, and may receive a monetary fine.

• The impound fee is $20 for each occurrence. A bicycle will not be released until
after the payment is made and ownership is established. If an owner is unable to pay
the fine, he or she must sign a promissory note in order to retrieve their bicycle. If
the owner does not return with the fine within three days, the charge will be added to
the student’s fee bill and a registration hold will be placed if the amount is not paid.

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• The impound fee for bicycles blocking building access, wheelchair ramps or
handicapped access is $35.

• The impound fee for bicycles locked to a wheelchair ramp or handicapped access is
$75.

• Bicycles not claimed in 90 days will be presumed to be abandoned and will be sold
or donated to charity.

VI. Cautionary Note

Bicyclists are urged to be very cautious when riding on campus. Accidental collisions
may seriously injure pedestrians or other bicyclists. In the state of California, bicyclists
on public streets have the same rights and responsibilities as automobile drivers and are
subject to the same rules and regulations as any other vehicle on the road. A bicyclist
who strikes anyone is liable for all medical expenses of that victim and any damage done
to the victim’s property.

A bicycle operator who strikes a pedestrian or other bicyclist and does not stop to inquire
whether any harm or damage has been done, has committed the crime of “hit and run”
(Calif. Motor Vehicle Code, Section 20001). This could result in the arrest and
prosecution of the bicycle operator. Such an offense carries a 1-year sentence in jail or
state prison, or a fine of $10,000, or both.

If you operate a bicycle, you are also urged to review your homeowner and automobile
insurance policies, or other personal liability coverage to be sure you, and your family if
you are a dependent, are protected.

11. Motorscooters/Motorcycles

This policy relates to all motorized scooters, mopeds, motor bikes, motorcycles or other two- or
three-wheeled, motor driven vehicles, herein referred to as motorized scooters/ motorcycles.

• Motorized scooters/motorcycles must be ridden in a safe manner with the riders

observing the university speed limit of 15 mph and obeying all vehicular traffic
regulations while on campus.

• Riding motorized scooters/motorcycles is not allowed at any time on the malls, sidewalks
or the center of campus (Trousdale Parkway between 34th Street and Exposition
Boulevard, and Childs Way from McClintock to Trousdale Parkway). Riders may not
take “short cuts” through unauthorized areas nor ride the vehicle in any way that may
endanger pedestrians.

• All motorized scooters/motorcycles must be parked in the designated motorized

scooter/motorcycle parking areas only. The vehicles may not be parked in such a manner
as to prevent automobiles from parking, i.e., parallel to the curb or between two parked
cars. Motorized scooters/motorcycles may not be parked on the malls, within the center
of campus or on a sidewalk adjacent to any building unless a designated motorized
scooter/motorcycle parking area exists there. Designated scooter/motorcycle parking area
maps are available at the USC Transportation Office.

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• All motorized scooters/motorcycles parked or driven on university property must have a

valid parking permit. Parking permits may be purchased at the USC Transportation
Office. The permit must be affixed in a highly visible area, e.g., the front fender, fork, or
windshield. The USC Transportation Office is located at 620 West 35th Street PSX on
the University Park Campus, and is open 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.
The telephone number is (213) 740-3575.

• The use or possession of hoverboards (self-balancing scooterboards) is prohibited in

university-owned residence halls, apartments and houses.

12. Coasting Devices

Roller skates, scooters, skateboards and other coasting devices are not vehicles, and are prohibited
on roadways dedicated solely to vehicular traffic and in parking structures. Coasting devices are
approved for use as transportation on university property, but cannot be used in any manner that
places pedestrians at risk; use for acrobatic, racing or other stunts is strictly prohibited. Persons
may coast or ride upon any sidewalk or improved surface used for pedestrian purposes, provided
they yield the right-of-way to pedestrians on foot.

The use of coasting devices is prohibited within any building on the USC campuses or on any
surface features (e.g., handicapped ramps, benches, or other architectural features) that might
reasonably be expected to incur damage because of such use. Persons using roller skates must
remove them before entering all university buildings.

These regulations will be enforced by the Department of Public Safety. Students or employees
violating these regulations are subject to disciplinary action by the appropriate university office or
official. Any other person violating these prohibitions may be cited for criminal trespass as well as
criminal citation.

I. Definitions

a. Roller skate: a shoe, or attachment for a shoe, with a set of wheels connected for
skating. This includes rollerblades.

b. Scooter: a narrow platform mounted on in-line or skate-type wheels with a

handle to allow steering by turning the front wheels.

c. Skateboard: a board mounted on skate-type wheels.

d. Acrobatics, recreational use: any action on roller-equipped devices that is not

necessary for the safe forward movement of the rider and which might be
described as a “trick” or “routine,” including, but not limited to, such maneuvers
as having all wheels off the ground at the same time, jumping up or down steps,
and so on.

II. Operation

a. All coasting devices must be walked in and around the following areas,
Monday through Friday, between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.:

i. Trousdale Parkway, between Hellman Way and Downey Way

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ii. Childs Way, between Watt Way and the eastern boundary of Trousdale
Parkway

iii. All construction areas at all times for the continued safety of
pedestrians and bicyclists.

iv. Gate 5, at times, on McClintock, between Jefferson Boulevard and 34th

Street

b. All coasting devices may not be operated at a speed that exceeds the university
speed limit for vehicles (15 miles per hour on streets and 5 miles per hour on
campus grounds).

c. Coasting devices are not vehicles, are prohibited on roadways dedicated solely
to vehicular traffic and in parking structures, and are to be walked on sidewalks
in designated areas delineated by signage.

d. You must always yield to pedestrians anywhere on the pedestrian malls.

Coasting devices must be walked in crosswalks since they are many times filled
with pedestrians.

III. Cautionary Note

You are urged to be cautious when riding on campus. Accidental collisions may seriously
injure pedestrians or other skaters. In the City of Los Angeles Municipal Code, “No
person shall ride, operate or use a bicycle, unicycle, skateboard, cart, wagon, wheelchair,
rollerskates, or any other device moved exclusively by human power, on a sidewalk,
bikeway or boardwalk in a willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or
property” (LAMC 56.15.1). A person riding roller skates or skateboards who strikes
anyone is liable for all medical expenses of that victim and any damage done to the
victim’s property.

If you use roller skates/blades or a skateboard, you are also urged to review your
homeowner and automobile insurance policies, or other personal liability coverage to be
sure that you, and your family if you are a dependent, are protected.

13. Missing Student Notification

See policy.usc.edu/missing-students/

14. Mandatory Online Training Courses

All new students, both undergraduate and graduate, are required to complete online training
courses pertaining to safe and healthy lifestyle choices. Failure to complete these courses will
result in a hold which will prevent students from registering for the subsequent semester. More
information about how to complete these trainings is available at each student’s MyUSC.

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G. Recognized Student Organizations

1. Recognition of Student Organizations

Recognized student organizations provide opportunities for students and other members of the
university community to explore their academic, professional, political, social, recreational,
artistic, cultural, spiritual or community service interests. In addition, student organizations
provide a laboratory for the development of interpersonal, organizational and leadership skills in
the members and officers. Such organizations exist to promote the educational mission of the
university.

The existence of student organizations at the university is sanctioned by the Board of Trustees.
The responsibility for recognition of student organizations falls within the Division of Student
Affairs. Recognized student organizations are offered privileges, provided the organizations accept
certain responsibilities. All student organizations must complete recognition paperwork through
engageSC on an annual basis. In addition, national, regional and local social greek-letter
organizations are recognized through the Office for Fraternity and Sorority Leadership
Development (Tutor Campus Center 330, (213) 740-1195) which may require additional processes
and paperwork. All other student organizations are recognized through the Campus Activities
(Steven and Kathryn Sample Hall 410, (213) 740-5693).

The Board of Trustees has ultimate authority over student organizations and can, from time to
time, direct the Division of Student Affairs on matters regarding student organizations.

I. Privileges

All recognized student organizations may:

a. Post notices on campus, within the posting policy.

b. Receive and post messages on the student organization electronic mailing list.

c. Post on the Trojan Information Kiosk.

d. Use a campus mailing address and/or mailbox.

e. Reserve campus facilities for events, programs and meetings.

f. Apply for university funding (including student program fee monies).

g. Conduct fundraising efforts within the stated Sales and Fundraising Policies of
the university (see Section G.7. Sales and Fundraising). Student organizations
(or individual members while acting in any capacity for the organization) may
not: (i) conduct for-profit or commercial activities (or facilitate the for-profit or
commercial activities of others), (ii) conduct a business (or facilitate conducting
the business of others), or (iii) act as (or create the appearance of acting as) a
liaison, representative, agent, facilitator, face or front for another business,
person or entity. All recognized student organizations are permitted to fundraise
on their own behalf. However, student organizations may only fundraise or
pursue activities to benefit their organization, another student organization or an
outside philanthropic agency or relief effort. No individual student(s) may

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receive any type of payment either in the form of money, discounts and/or goods
and services.

h. Receive a discount on selected facility and equipment rentals.

i. Access organizational email and Web accounts (the university will place the
following disclaimer at the bottom of each organization’s website: USC does not
control the content herein and takes no responsibility for any inaccurate,
indecent or objectionable content, which is the sole responsibility of the student
author). Students may not remove or otherwise take steps to defeat this
disclaimer. Any attempt to do so will be cause for disciplinary action.

j. Access banking services at the USC Credit Union and/or through Campus
Activities.

k. Use the name, logo or other trademarks of the university, while making clear to
a reasonable person not from the campus that the organization is a student
organization at the university and not the university itself. Use of the name, logo
or other trademarks must be consistent with the USC Graphic Identity Program,
including those specified in the Sales and Fund-raising Policies (see Section
G.7. Sales and Fundraising).

II. Responsibilities

In return, the university expects all student organizations to:

a. Abide by all university policies, regulations and procedures as defined in this

Student Handbook and elsewhere, all state laws, and any applicable governing
regulations associated with a national affiliation;

b. Limit its participation to students, faculty, staff, alumni and alumnae of the
university;

c. Limit its voting members and officers to currently enrolled USC students;

d. Refrain from discriminating in membership decisions, elections and all other

matters on the basis of race, creed or religion, sex*, age, ethnicity, disability,
sexual orientation, gender identity, medical condition and national origin. A
statement to this effect should appear in the constitution of all recognized
organizations.

*Except those exempted from Title IX compliance.

III. Recognition Process

Recognition status runs for one academic year (August 1-July 31) regardless of when an
application is approved. All student organizations must complete recognition paper
through the online recognition portal, engageSC, on an annual basis.

Organizations that do not complete the recognition renewal process by the specified time
will lose all privileges.

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The name and email of the first person listed on the application will be made available to
members of the USC community. This student will also receive official communications
from the Campus Activities and is expected to share any pertinent information with their
organization. Only the organization’s email and website will be listed on the student
organization website.

Recognized student organizations are required to upload the following information to

engageSC:

• Complete membership profile and roster

• Constitution ratified by the membership
• Names and contact information of at least ten members (beginning Spring 2017)
• Name and contact information of the full-time faculty/staff adviser
• Agreement to abide by all university policies
• Proof of attendance by one officer at a mandatory meeting

Religious organizations seeking recognition must complete the guidelines outlined on the
Office of Religious Life website (orl.usc.edu/organizations/recognition/application/) prior
to receiving university recognition. This letter must be uploaded to engageSC during the
recognition process.

Fraternities and Sororities seeking recognition must complete guidelines outlined on the
Office of Fraternity and Sorority Leadership Development website (greeklife.usc.edu/)
prior to receiving university recognition. This letter must be uploaded to engageSC
during the recognition process.

Club Sports seeking recognition must complete guidelines outlined on the USC
Recreational Sports website (sait.usc.edu/recsports/) prior to receiving university
recognition. This letter must be uploaded to engageSC during the recognition process.

Student organizations may be affiliated with other off-campus organizations. If this is the
case, the student organization must submit a copy of the constitution, articles of
incorporation or other governance document of the external organization for university
approval.

Policies are subject to change. Refer to Campus Activities website

(campusactivities.usc.edu/organizations/recognition/) for current policies and procedures.
Where university policies or regulations conflict with student organization constitutions
or bylaws, the university policies or regulations will govern.

Through this recognition process, the university accepts no financial, tort or other liability
for the action of the student organization or its members. Recognition of a student
organization may be withdrawn by the organization itself, by Campus Activities, or
following a recommendation of the Office of Student Judicial Affairs and Community
Standards, for any violation of university regulations and policies governing students,
student organizations or their actions.

IV. Unrecognized Student Organizations

Any student who knowingly chooses to affiliate with a club, organization or group that is
not officially recognized, or has been suspended, disbanded or dissolved by the

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university, or any external authority, is subject to disciplinary action up to and including

suspension and expulsion from the university.

2. Group Responsibility for Student Organizations

The Student Conduct Code’s overall general principles (Part B) incorporate the expectation that
students will meet higher standards of conduct than the minimum to avoid disciplinary action, and
also assert that university standards may be set higher than those found elsewhere in society.
Consistent with these principles, USC has established the following policy to ensure that leaders
and members of student organizations understand and accept responsibility for the actions of their
organization and all of its members. The following policy applies to all student organizations.

Student organizations may be held responsible for the acts of individual members. Acts include
but are not limited to the following types of circumstances:

• when a member of an organization is violating state law or university standards and other
members present fail to indicate their disapproval, or by their continued presence without
objection implicitly condone the behavior;

• when the acts grow out of or are directly related to the student organization’s activities or
an environment created by the organization;

• when the acts are those of guests of an organization, or by persons authorized or

permitted to represent themselves as connected with the organization;

• when an organization places prospective members in a subordinate status prior to

achieving full membership, or imposes any kind of probationary period prior to full
membership, and hazing occurs.

Liability on the part of the student organization may be mitigated if members of the organization
take reasonable steps to prevent infractions of university regulations by their fellow members.
Such steps will usually include clear establishment of standards (preferably in writing),
documented education of members as to the standards established and documented enforcement of
standards when violations occur. The specific steps necessary to avoid this liability (or to mitigate
consequences) will vary according to the circumstances of the situation, the seriousness of the
behavior, and the possible harms which could have arisen from the behavior. Where more serious
behavior and harm is in question, the student organization has the duty to take clear and firm
action that is reasonably calculated to prevent and/or cease the behavior in question.

It is the duty and responsibility of every member of every student organization to respond to the
conduct of the other members when they are engaged in behavior which violates the law or
university regulations. It is not the number of members involved in an activity that is crucial to a
determination that the organization is responsible. The test is whether the activity is related to a
student organization through one of the four sets of circumstances previously articulated, rather
than a private activity by persons who happen to be members of the same student organization.
The factors to be considered include whether the activity is one normally considered part of
student organization life and whether the atmosphere in the particular organization encourages or
condones the particular group activity of the members.

It is the duty of every organization to create the proper atmosphere to ensure that misconduct
related to the student organization is inconsistent with membership in the organization.

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The duty just defined is applicable not only to members who are engaged directly in the activity,
but also to members not engaged in the activity who are present or who have knowledge of the
activity. For instance, knowledge of involvement by other members in illicit activities is sufficient
to invoke culpability. All members must be on notice that their misdeeds may result in the
sanctioning of their student organization through the Office of Student Judicial Affairs and
Community Standards.

In addition to the group being held culpable, members and officers may be cited and held
responsible as individuals for their role. In sum, the policy is that every student organization
member has the duty to take all reasonable steps necessary to prevent infractions of university
rules growing out of or related to the student organization’s life. Policies which may be relevant in
such cases include, but are not limited to, those involving:

• Hazing
• Discrimination
• Vandalism
• Theft
• Alcohol or substance abuse
• Dishonesty
• Misappropriation of organization or university funds

For more information, contact the Office for Residential Education, Student Union 200, (213)
740-2080; Fraternity and Sorority Leadership Development, Ronald Tutor Campus Center 330,
(213) 740-1195; or Campus Activities, Steven and Kathryn Sample Hall 410, (213) 740-5693.

3. Student-led International Travel

The following set of policies and guidelines has been developed, with the approval of the Provost,
to clarify university expectations for student organizations planning international trips. For
questions about this policy, contact the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs.

• Sponsored programs consist of student organizations or groups of students working under

the specific direction of a university school or department. These students have regular
and ongoing direction and involvement from a USC staff or faculty member and the
program is listed among the school or department’s schedule of programs.

• Affiliated programs consist of: (a) recognized student organizations, or (b) groups that
choose to affiliate with the university and are willing to comply with the requirements set
forth below. Any recognized student organization that receives university funds, uses the
USC name, and/or receives support or guidance from a university school or department,
or individual faculty or staff member, can be classified by the university as an affiliated
program.

All USC sponsored or affiliated programs must follow the guidelines below, which include
general trip requirements/recommendations and descriptions of the roles and responsibilities of
advisers and student coordinators:

I. Complete the Overseas Roster Spreadsheet, as described at studentaffairs.usc.edu/ssa/ssa-

overseas/.

II. Designate coordinators and advisers.

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a. Student Coordinator
Pre-trip Roles

• Thoroughly explain mission and purpose of the trip to all

prospective/selected participants.

• Make final determination on eligibility for participation (this often

entails a selection process with the possible involvement of a
faculty/staff adviser).

• Inform participants that they will be required to have USC travel

insurance.

• Coordinate the collection/submission of student information to

University Health Insurance Coordinator within stated time frame.

• Collect and submit required student travel participant data to Student

Affairs (Student Support and Advocacy) no later than seven days prior
to departure.

• Collect and submit to departmental representative and adviser vital

participant information: (1) university release; (2) medical
authorization; and (3) emergency contact form.

• Make travel clinic information available to all participants. (1)

Schedule group appointment and (2) contact travel nurse to review
immunization requirements.

Roles During the Trip

• Provide general leadership while on the trip. Act as primary decision-

maker and group representative in all matters affecting the day-to-day
experience of the trip.

• Maintain contact with community partners and facilitate regular

conversations between all parties to troubleshoot problems and
determine solutions.

• Assist with emergency response as needed.

• In cooperation with faculty/staff adviser (if present), respond to student

concerns and problems as they arise.

b. Adviser

Each USC sponsored overseas student trip is strongly encouraged to include a

faculty/staff adviser for the duration of the trip. An adviser may be any of the
following:

• An employee whose job requires them to go on the trip

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• An exempt employee with at least a 50% staff or faculty appointment

• A non-exempt staff employee performing duties and taking personal

vacation time

All employees traveling with students as advisers or volunteers on domestic or

international trips are covered under workers’ compensation should they become
injured or ill while on the trip, providing the injury is in the course and scope of
the activities associated with the trip. In other words, if an employee takes a
personal outing before or after the student trip they would not be covered by
workers’ compensation. The type of trips for which the coverage is extended
includes, but is not limited to: alternative spring breaks; trips involving sport
clubs; trips involving religious groups; academic trips, either for credit or not-
for-credit; and both domestic and international trips.

These employees will also be covered under the university’s general liability
policy should they become involved in some legal action arising out of their
involvement with the trips, unless the action is egregious or criminal or in some
way is not otherwise covered under a general liability policy, or that the
university cannot in good conscience defend.

Pre-trip Roles

• Meet several times with the student coordinator(s) before leaving USC
to delineate the adviser role and allow for an open exchange of ideas
and expectations between the advisers and student coordinators.

• Assure the collection of vital participant information: (1) university

release; (2) medical authorization; and (3) emergency contact form.

Roles During the Trip

• Respond to coordinator/participant concerns and problems as needed.

• Possess a full set of student information forms and emergency

procedures.

• Serve as the official university representative in the case of an

emergency.

• Coordinate emergency response and all communications between

university and others as needed.

c. All groups must host at least one pre-trip orientation session that covers the
following:

• Travel details, living arrangements, and trip itinerary

• Emergency procedures, health insurance, International SOS

• Health and safety precautions

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• Expectations for appropriate behavior and participation

• Country-specific information

d. Transportation While on Trip

Every effort must be made to secure transportation in the host country that is
provided by licensed and insured vendors. USC’s affiliated travel agencies are
available to provide assistance with these arrangements at
procurement.usc.edu/travel/agencies.

e. Accommodations While on Trip

• Every effort must be made to identify and assure access to adequate

services.

• Identify emergency medical facilities.

• Inform all participants of their expected living conditions prior to their

departure.

f. Communications While on Trip

• Determine the extent of adequate communications – either email,

cellular or land line communications available.

• Formulate a plan for communications and articulate the plan to all trip
leaders prior to departure.

III. Obtain Signatures on Required Forms. Each coordinator must collect all of the signed
forms listed below from all students participating in their program. Both the on-campus
coordinator and on-site coordinator should keep copies of these forms. Forms are
available at studentaffairs.usc.edu/ssa/ssa-overseas/:

a. Know Before You Go Informed Consent Form. This document serves as a

guide for students with different physical or learning abilities, those with
medical conditions, and those with psychological issues in order to assist them
in making an informed decision on selecting an overseas location that is
appropriate for them.

b. Medical Treatment Authorization. This form allows USC representatives to

authorize medical treatment for a student who is incapacitated and unable to
make such decisions on their own.

c. Travel Release. This is USC’s standard release form to be used by all overseas
programs.

IV. Obtain Travel Insurance. All students on USC overseas programs (credit and non-credit
programs) must be covered by either regular USC student health insurance, or the USC
overseas health insurance plan, both of which include special health and emergency

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coverage by International SOS. Please see engemannshc.usc.edu/insurance/overseas-

travel-resources/ for information about insurance options.

V. Review Restrictions on Destinations for International Trips. At the discretion of the

Provost and/or the Vice President for Student Affairs, specific intended destinations for
USC-affiliated or USC-sponsored international trips may be restricted due to State
Department travel warnings, Centers for Disease Control (CDC) warnings or other
indicators that might suggest conditions that are unhealthful or particularly dangerous for
travel. Student groups planning international trips are advised to consult State
Department and CDC resources early in the planning process to avoid the risk of
choosing a destination that is subsequently denied by the university. It should also be
recognized that the health and safety factors of a particular location can change
drastically without warning, and organizations are strongly urged to take necessary
precautions (such as trip cancellation insurance through a travel agent) in case it becomes
necessary to change plans or cancel a trip on short notice.

VI. Review Overseas Emergency Response Plan.

Coordinators and faculty/staff advisers must read and keep in their possession a copy of
the USC Overseas Emergency Response Plan, available at studentaffairs.usc.edu/ssa/ssa-
overseas/. The first point of contact in an emergency is International SOS, USC’s
contracted health and safety emergency service provider for overseas programs: 215-354-
5000, or 215-942-8226, or [email protected].

VII. Review Policies Concerning Standards for Student Behavior

As is the case with USC study abroad programs, all Student Handbook polices are in
effect for sponsored and affiliated student-led trips abroad. Coordinators, all trip
participants, and faculty/staff advisers should familiarize themselves with the Student
Conduct Code, and the University’s Policy and Procedures on Student Sexual,
Interpersonal, and Protect Class Misconduct. It is the responsibility of coordinators and
faculty/staff advisers to inform prospective/selected participants that all university
policies apply to trips abroad.

VIII. Contractual Agreements

No student or student organization may enter into direct contractual agreement in USC’s
name with outside vendors (travel agencies, tour operators, etc.). Check with the
appropriate administrative unit (Vice President for Student Affairs or specific dean’s
offices) for clarification of required procedures.

For more information and resources for student organizations, visit the Campus Activities
website at usc.edu/ca.

4. Facilities

I. General Policies

Recognized student organizations are offered priority use of all Student Affairs venues.
However, other reservations that are made prior to student reservations will not be
cancelled to accommodate these higher priority programs. Recognized student
organizations may also request to use classroom space, but academic scheduling has

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priority in these venues. Anyone using USC venues must be in compliance with
university regulations regarding time, place and manner. Activities, programs or events
must not interfere with other university functions. If any unscheduled activity interferes
with an official university function or any other scheduled activity, it may be
discontinued at the direction of the Division of Student Affairs.

Scheduling reservations shall be made on a first-come, first-served basis according to

organization type, and the university cannot and does not guarantee that facilities suitable
for all group needs will be provided. Requests should be made early enough to allow
adequate time for processing the request, planning the event, payment of fees and
advertising. No advertisement can take place before written confirmation is received.

No requests may be finalized or confirmed until arrangements have been made and
approved by all USC departments having vested interest in the event, including but not
limited to the Division of Student Affairs, USC Bookstores, USC Hospitality, USC
Transportation, the Department of Public Safety and Fire Safety.

The University of Southern California reserves the right to cancel any event if fees are
not paid by the required due date, if the group does not comply with USC policies and
procedures, or if USC officials cannot ensure the safety of students, faculty, staff and/or
visitors.

II. Reserving Venues

Reservation request forms for Bovard Auditorium, Ground Zero Performance Café,
Ronald Tutor Campus Center, outdoor venues and advertising spaces are available online
at sait.usc.edu/scheduling/.

All reservation requests for table, banner and light pole spaces must be made by
submitting reservation request forms at least four weeks prior to the event. Event requests
for Bovard Auditorium, Ground Zero Performance Café, Ronald Tutor Campus Center,
and the outdoor parks and plazas must be submitted to Trojan Event Services no later
than 4 weeks prior to the event. Telephone requests are not accepted. The venue
requested becomes officially confirmed only when written approval is issued.

For complete policy details, please see sait.usc.edu/scheduling/. An online schedule is

also available at this site.

III. Programming Venues

The Division of Student Affairs operates the Ronald Tutor Campus Center, Bovard
Auditorium, Ground Zero Performance Café and all outdoor areas in the center of
campus. These venues may be scheduled through Trojan Event Services at
sait.usc.edu/scheduling/.

Bovard Auditorium
Bovard Auditorium is a multiuse lecture/performing arts venue that seats 1,230 people
with stage dimensions of approximately 37 feet by 42 feet. Information about Bovard
Auditorium can be found online at trojanevents.usc.edu/bovard/ .

Ground Zero Performance Café

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Ground Zero Performance Café is a student-run coffeehouse available for concerts,

lectures and performances. Located on the southeast corner of campus between Marks
Hall and Trojan Residence Hall, Ground Zero is a great place to hold an event or just
hang out. Venue information can be found by visiting trojanevents.usc.edu/gz/.

Outdoor Programming Venues

Trojan Event Services provides outdoor programming areas for use by recognized student
organizations, campus departments and invited guests on a reservation basis. The
programming areas include:

• Alumni Park

• Argue Plaza

• Associates Park

• E.F. Hutton Park

• Founders Park

• Crocker Plaza, Herbert Plaza, Pardee Plaza, Queens Courtyard, Bogardus

Courtyard

• Hahn Plaza/Tommy Trojan

• Sections of Trousdale Parkway and Childs Way adjacent to the above locations

• Meyer Plaza

• Von KleinSmidt Center

• McCarthy Quad and Fred Fagg Jr. Gardens (the barbeque grill area)

Ronald Tutor Campus Center

The Ronald Tutor Campus Center is a multiuse facility that features many reservable
meeting and event spaces in addition to several non-reservable lounges and study spaces.
For details on available venues and reservation policies, visit trojanevents.usc.edu .
Programming spaces include:

• The Grand Ballroom

• Tommy’s Place (available for rentals on a case-by-case basis)

• The Rosen Family Screening Theater

• The Forum

• More than 15 other meeting rooms

Alternate campus venues that are not managed by Trojan Event Services include:

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• Archimedes Plaza/Engineering Quad (USC Viterbi School of Engineering, (213)

740-4530)

• Annenberg G21 Auditorium (USC Annenberg School for Communication and

Journalism, (213) 740-5297)

• Breezeway and Bridge South Lawn (USC Marshall School of Business, (213)
740-6886)

• Bing Theatre, (213) 740-1293

• Childs Way sidewalk in front of the Bookstore (Bookstore, (213) 740-BOOK)

• Cromwell Field, Cromwell Track, Dedeaux Field, Fagg Park, Howard

• Jones Field, Intramural Field, Lyon Center, McAlister Athletic Field, P.E. gym
and pool, and tennis courts (Recreational Sports Department, (213) 740-5127)

• Lewis Hall (USC Price School of Public Policy, (213) 740-0397)

• Libraries (libraries.usc.edu/spaces-overview )

• Theatres (contact the appropriate theatre for scheduling procedures)

IV. Sound Amplification Policy

General Policies
To maintain the academic environment at the university, the use of amplified sound
equipment in open areas must be approved by Trojan Event Services. Amplified sound is
defined as any form of equipment (i.e., microphone, speakers, amplifiers, bullhorns,
musical instruments) used to increase sound levels or any object that does not require
equipment to project its sound. In some cases, large group singing is also considered
amplified sound. Events involving high sound levels may not be scheduled during regular
classroom instruction if the possibility of interference exists. Any recognized student
organization or university department may reserve one of the designated open spaces for
sound amplification.

The use of outdoor areas for amplified events is limited by the nature of the given area
and the probability of interference with official university functions. In general, moderate
amplification (not more than 90 decibels, “A” weighted, measured 45 feet from the front
center of the stage) is allowed at Hahn Plaza (adjacent to Tommy Trojan) from noon to 1
p.m. Monday – Friday. A sound check will be permitted from 11:50 a.m. to noon. All
other requests for amplified sounds will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis by Trojan
Event Services. All outdoor venues and events after 5 p.m. will be considered for
approval by Trojan Event Services.

V. Reservation Procedures

All reservation requests are processed through Trojan Event Services, (213) 740-6728.

Reservation request forms are available online at trojanevents.usc.edu. Reservations will

be honored on a first-come, first-served basis according to your organization type.

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Scheduling procedures for tables, banners, display cases and the Trousdale and tutor
Campus Center Plaza light posts are addressed under Advertising, Promotion and
Literature Distribution Policies (see here). All other areas are addressed in this policy.

Individuals or groups are responsible for any damage they cause. Repair or replacement
costs will be charged to the group reserving the facility at the time damage is incurred.

Trojan Event Services reserves the right to relocate any event for reasons including, but
not limited to, states of emergency, official university functions, an event exceeding room
capacity and/or facility repair.

VI. Classrooms

Classrooms may be reserved by contacting the USC Classroom Scheduling Office, at

(213) 740-4612, or [email protected].

VII. Filming

School of Cinematic Arts students wishing to film in any of the listed venues must submit
the completed SCA location release form to Trojan Event Services at least 24 hours in
advance of their film shoot.

Students or recognized organizations wishing to film must obtain and complete a non-
SCA film shoot form from Trojan Event Services at least 24 hours in advance of their
film shoot. Student filmers are subject to venue fees.

Commercial filming is booked through the USC Campus Filming Office at (213) 740-
6951. Fees are determined by the Filming Office.

VIII. Cancellation of Scheduled Events

a. Groups reserving tables, banner space or display cases must cancel at least 2
working days prior to the meeting or event. Groups reserving Bovard
Auditorium, Ground Zero Performance Café, Ronald Tutor Campus Center, or
any outdoor parks or plazas must cancel by the cancellation date listed for each
venue in the Performance Venues Terms and Conditions. Failure to cancel an
event will result in a violation and may incur charges for set-up and/or staff.
Charges may be applied for late cancellations.

b. If any unscheduled activity interferes with an official university function or any

other scheduled activity, it may be relocated or discontinued at the direction of
the Division of Student Affairs.

c. Trojan Event Services and/or Student Life and Involvement staff reserves the
right to cancel any scheduled event, in whole or in part, due to lack of payment
of fees; failure to show within 15 minutes of the specified event start time;
complaints received for disturbing academic classes or other events.

d. Groups reserving space are responsible for the behavior of its members and
guests. Inappropriate or disrespectful behavior may result in the cancellation
and/or suspension of future reservations.

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e. Failure to comply with university policies and procedures may result in the
cancellation and/or suspension of future reservations and/or scheduling
privileges.

IX. Violations

Non-compliance with any of Trojan Event Services guidelines will constitute a violation.
The first violation constitutes a written warning. The second violation will result in a fine
determined by the nature of the violation. The third violation can result in the loss of all
Trojan Event Services privileges.

5. Camping

University grounds and facilities may not be used for the purposes of camping, which includes but
is not limited to the use of tents or temporary, makeshift or portable structures intended for living
or sleeping.

On an exceptional basis, the Vice President for Student Affairs or appropriate designee may grant
permission for USC students to erect tents with the following stipulations:

• Tents may only be erected for an approved number of days, normally three to five days
when school is regularly in session;

• Tents must be broken down (disassembled) from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.;

• A maximum of three tents (designed for no more than two persons) may be erected on
campus when an exception is granted;

• The presence of tents may not interfere with normal university operations and may not
damage university property (e.g., stakes in the ground);

• The location of tents may not impede pedestrian or vehicular traffic.

6. Social Events

Guided by the University of Southern California’s Principles of Community, the university

supports opportunities for students to promote an array of diverse views and to positively enhance
the campus community through events and social programs. USC has adopted guidelines for
major social and sponsored events in an effort to enrich the academic experience while
maintaining the importance of safety and security within the campus community.

Scope

I. Activities governed by this policy have the following characteristics:

a. alcohol is present; or

b. there is amplified sound (either live or recorded)

II. This policy is not designed to discourage events which:

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a. directly support the academic mission of the university;

b. expand the cultural awareness of USC students; or

c. are primarily intellectual or educational in nature.

Regulations

I. All university recognized social events must be scheduled following procedures of the
university, and all required clearances must be obtained.

II. Social events where alcohol is NOT provided by the host student organization are
permitted Sunday through Thursday until midnight and Friday through Saturday until 2
a.m. Alcohol is not permitted at university dances sponsored by recognized student
organizations.

III. Social events where alcohol is served by the host student organization are ONLY
permitted Thursday until midnight and Friday and Saturday until 2 a.m. Alcohol service
must end by 1 a.m. on Friday and Saturday nights.

a. Distribution of alcohol to persons under the age of 21 is prohibited.

b. Alcohol must not be the main “focus” of the event.

c. When alcohol is served, it is required that sufficient quantities of non-

alcoholic beverages and food must be available.

d. The Alcohol approval form must be completed by the host student

organization and must be received by Trojan Event Services, with designated
approval signatures prior to the event. This form can be found on the Trojan
Event Services website.

IV. All members of the USC community are expected to abide by all federal, state and local
laws, including those governing alcohol consumption and distribution. Under California
law, it is illegal for anyone under the age of 21 to purchase alcohol or to possess alcohol
in a public space. It is also illegal for anyone to furnish alcohol to an individual under the
age of 21.

V. Amplified sound cannot exceed 90 dBA, when measured 50 feet from the source.

VI. No social events may take place during university study days or final exams.

VII. All aspects of social events must be advertised in accordance with Section D.6.
Advertising, Promotion and Literature Distribution.

VIII. Security. Fencing, staffing, identification checks, and the need for other security
requirements will be determined by Trojan Event Services, using considerations
including but not limited to: history of event, scale of the event, nature of the event,
liability and risk, health considerations, construction, and sponsorship.

IX. Outdoor events and social dances must adhere to the guidelines detailed on the Outdoor
Events and Social Dance Policy, available at the Trojan Event Services website.

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7. Sales and Fund-raising

All recognized student organizations are permitted to fundraise.

I. Prohibited Activities

Student organizations (or individual members while acting in any capacity for the
organization) may not:

a. Conduct for-profit or commercial activities (or facilitate the for-profit or

commercial activities of others)

b. Conduct a business (or facilitate conducting the business of others), or

c. Act as (or create the appearance of acting as) a liaison, representative, agent,
facilitator, face or front for another business, person or entity.

This should not be confused with fundraising. All recognized student organizations are
permitted to fundraise on their own behalf. However, student organizations may only
pursue fundraising activities to benefit their student organization, another university
student organization, or an outside philanthropic agency or relief effort. No individual
student(s) may receive any type of benefit or payment in connection with any of these
activities, either in the form of money, trade, discounts and/or any other goods or
services.

II. Process

a. If your organization is recognized and wants to fundraise, a student representative

must complete the Fundraising Approval Request Form found on the Trojan Event
Services website at trojanevents.usc.edu/forms-and-permits .

b. Identify the type of fundraising event your organization is planning.

i. Food sale – Approval signature required from the director of USC

Hospitality, (213) 740-6285. Note: All food must be supplied by a
food-licensed kitchen/grocer/distributor. No “homemade” items will be
approved. Food product sales must be accompanied by permission
from USC Hospitality. The event registration form section for USC
Hospitality must be signed. Sales are limited to a maximum of two,
one-week periods per semester. Sales weeks must be held at least four
weeks apart.

ii. Item sale – Approval signature required from the University Bookstore.
USC recognized student organizations, departments and athletic teams
must obtain final permission to sell products on campus from the USC
Bookstores, Administrative Offices, located on the fourth floor, (213)
740-9254, or send a facsimile to (213) 740-5203 (FAX), MC 2540.
Permission is granted on the bookstore signature portion of the event
registration form.

iii. Donation collection for organization

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iv. Charity collection/non-profit collection – a letter is required from the

agency/organization receiving the funds raised stating that they are
aware of this fundraiser and will be accepting the money. This letter
must be on the agency’s official letterhead and submitted with this
request. Please see the policy on Non-Profit Collections below.

v. Other types – We will review and approve events to determine the

signatures required.

c. Appropriate signatures from the University Bookstore and/or USC Hospitality are
required prior to requesting the final signature from Campus Activities.

III. Non-Profit Collections

Recognized student organizations collecting money/donations for specific non-profit

organizations must meet with the Campus Activities at least two weeks prior to the event
and supply Trojan Event Services with a written letter from the non-profit organization
stating their agreement to accept donations prior to the scheduled collection of any goods
or funds.

IV. Raffles or Lotteries

In the state of California, raffles and lotteries are illegal if a person is required to
purchase a ticket or make a donation in order to be eligible to win the contest.

V. Free Drawings

Free drawings are legal when rules conforming to the California State Law are followed
exactly. These rules are:

a. The drawing must be in connection with an event or a recognized student

organization.

b. The ticket must have the following information printed on it:

i. Date, time and location of drawing

ii. Name of sponsors and beneficiary of fund-raising

iii. Donation or purchase of ticket is not required to be eligible to win

iv. Winner need not be present at drawing (not required but advised)

c. Free tickets (a minimum of one per person) must be available.

d. Each solicitor must know that free tickets can be obtained and how to obtain them.

e. The word “drawing” or “free drawing” is required; do not use the word “raffle” on
the ticket or in advertisements.

VI. Silent Auction

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The same rules apply for coordinating a silent auction as would apply for a free drawing.

a. The drawing must be in connection with an event or a recognized student

organization.

b. The bid sheet must have the following information printed on it:

i. Date, time and location of drawing

ii. Name of sponsors and beneficiary of fund-raising

iii. Donation or purchase of ticket is not required to be eligible to win

iv. Winner need not be present at drawing (not required but advised)

c. Do not use the word “raffle” on the ticket or in advertisements.

VII. Student Organization Co-Sponsorship

As many student organizations co-sponsor events with outside agencies, it is important to

be aware of what constitutes a co-sponsorship.

A student organization hosting an event with an outside organization must be aware that:

a. The student organization must be the primary contact for Trojan Event Services.

b. The main contact from the student organization must be a current, full-time
student and member of the student organization.

c. The money must be paid by the student organization and not the outside agency
for any fees owed to the university.

d. The student organization must be the primary name listed on all advertisements
and promotional materials.

e. The main contact from the student organization must be present at all meetings
and walkthroughs as the primary producer of the event.

f. Student organizations may not bring a business to campus as a vendor. Businesses

can only come to campus if a pre-existing event is occurring.

g. All money made from the event (if any) must follow the guidelines listed in this
Student Handbook.

h. The primary target audience for the event must be USC students.

i. Student organizations co-sponsoring events with university departments will only

be considered the primary producing entity if all of the above conditions apply.
Student organization policies only apply to events for which the above conditions
are met.

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VIII. Misrepresentation (Fronting)

Individual students and/or employees of the university may not reserve space for personal
or commercial purposes. Additionally, student organizations may not act as agents for
university departments, off-campus persons or organizations in order to receive student
rates for the space.

University departments may not act as agents for off-campus vendors or organizations to
receive department rates for the space. Sponsoring organizations that reserve space for
the purpose of allowing off-campus vendors or organizations to advertise or sell items
will be held responsible for misrepresenting themselves and their organizations.

IX. Vendors

The Division of Student Affairs and Trojan Event Services are responsible for vendor
sales on campus. No other department or organization, with the exception of the USC
Bookstores and the Athletic Department, is permitted to bring outside vendors to campus.
Outside vendors are prohibited from selling on campus without prior permission from
Trojan Event Services and must meet the criteria outlined below. Reservation requests for
vending locations are available online at trojanevents.usc.edu.

a. Approval for on campus sales will only be considered for those vendors whose
products or services:

i. Provide significant positive value to the quality of campus student life.

ii. Are not in competition with vendors holding current university-wide

contracts.

iii. Are not duplicative of goods and/or services currently available through
established on-campus sources.

iv. Are not alcoholic beverages, illegal drugs or drug paraphernalia.

v. Are not considered obscene as defined by community standards.

vi. Are not for products or services which undermine the academic
integrity of the university.

vii. Are not counterfeits of brand-name goods.

b. Appropriate approvals must be obtained from the USC Bookstores, Trademarks

and Licensing (only if the product bears a USC emblem) and/or USC Hospitality.
The USC Bookstores requires a sample of the merchandise to be sold as well as a
copy of the Vendor Agreement before approval will be granted; final approval
must be given by Trojan Event Services. USC Bookstores reserves the right to
refuse approval of the sale if the merchandise or service competes with bookstore
business.

c. Sales are only permitted in one of two official vendor spaces along Trousdale
Parkway.

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d. Vendors must use the 10 feet of frontage space within the designated vendor
canopy. Vendor displays extending outside of the 10 foot by 10-foot canopy will
be fined an additional $25 for every square foot they extend beyond the space.

e. Vendors may not be on campus during any official university event, such as
orientation or final exam period.

f. In extenuating circumstances, vendors associated with special events must have

the approval of Trojan Event Services at least three weeks prior to the event. A list
of vendors participating in the special event must be provided to Trojan Event
Services at least two weeks prior to the event. Written permission and appropriate
identification will be provided for those vendors associated with the special event.

All approved vendors must obtain written permission from Trojan Event Services
and must keep their written permission, a valid seller’s permit (issued by the State
Board of Equalization) and appropriate identification visibly displayed with them
at all times on campus.

X. USC Emblem Products

USC emblem products intended for sale during fundraisers must be manufactured by a
vendor that is licensed by USC. A licensed vendor has a contract with USC that specifies
quality standards and services and recognizes that USC insignia are protected trademarks.

A list of licensed product manufacturers may be obtained from the Trademarks and
Licensing Services website at trademarks.usc.edu, (213) 740-5222.

XI. Conflict of Interest

The university does not enter into purchasing contracts with students, faculty or staff or
members of their immediate families. No employee, officer or agent shall participate in
the selection, award or administration of a contract if they, their immediate family or
partners, or organization to which they, their immediate family or partners belong or has
any arrangement concerning employment with any vendor under consideration. Any
violation of this policy by a USC employee or agent will be subject to disciplinary action.

XII. Campus Tour Policies

A campus tour is any event that brings a non-university affiliated company or business
onto campus solely to market its products or services. Often, campus tours will approach
student organizations about booking their event on campus in exchange for money. The
university does not permit student organizations to earn money in this capacity. Trojan
Event Services is permitted to accept four requests for Campus Tours per semester. USC
Undergraduate Student Government (USG) is the only student organization at USC that
is permitted to book campus tours. USG is limited to booking two campus tours per
semester. All other student organizations are not permitted to bring campus tours to USC.
The other two tour dates per semester may be used by university departments. Priority is
given to tours that are not for profit and are for educational purposes (as opposed to
marketing and sales). All campus tours must be approved by the Campus Activities.
Campus tours may not bring any merchandise or materials to campus that are in direct
conflict with an existing USC on-campus vendor.

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If the university suspects that a student organization or department is in violation of these

guidelines, its event may be charged off-campus rates for the venue, and/or be canceled
and the student organization will forfeit any deposits.

8. Hazing

I. Compliance with Applicable Rules

All students and student organizations will observe and fully comply with California law
and university policy against hazing. In addition, all students and student organizations
are expected to adhere to related regulations set forth by their respective inter/national,
regional or local organizations and university department. It is the responsibility of the
students and the officers of organizations to be informed of all the regulations and to
ensure they are brought to the attention of the rest of the membership.

II. Policy Statement

Students and student organizations shall not engage in any activity that is considered
hazing by university standards, or as defined in California Penal Code 245.6, which
defines hazing as,

“any method of initiation or preinitiation into a student organization or student

body, whether or not the organization or body is officially recognized by an
educational institution, which is likely to cause serious bodily injury to any
former, current, or prospective student of any school community college,
college, university, or other educational institution in this state. The term hazing
does not include customary athletic events or school-sanctioned events.”

III. Prohibition of Hazing

In addition to California law, the university’s policy with respect to hazing prohibits
students from engaging collectively or individually in any of the following practices as a
part of any programs or general activities. This list is intended to provide examples of
hazing; as it is impossible to anticipate every situation that could be defined as hazing,
this list should not be considered to be all-inclusive.

a. Forced excessive or strenuous physical activities.

b. The application of foreign substances to the body.

c. Activities such as scavenger hunts, which result in illegal or otherwise prohibited

activity, such as pledge ditches, kidnaps and the like.

d. Depriving students of sufficient sleep (eight consecutive hours per day minimum).

e. Not providing decent and edible meals (no unusual combinations or preparation,
colored foods, etc.).

f. Depriving students means of maintaining a normal schedule of bodily cleanliness

(including a minimum of one shower per day).

g. Depriving students means of communications, such as their cell phones.

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h. Forcing, coercing or permitting students to eat an excess of substances such as raw

meat, onions, peppers, etc.

i. Forcing, coercing, or permitting students to drink excessive amounts of liquids

including alcohol, salt water, water, etc.

j. Nudity or forcing or allowing students to dress in a degrading manner.

k. Branding any part of the body.

l. Psychological hazing, which is defined as any act or peer pressure which is likely
to: (i) compromise the dignity of any student affiliated with the organization, (ii)
cause embarrassment or shame to any student affiliated with the organization, (iii)
cause any student affiliated with the organization to be the object of malicious
amusement or ridicule, or (iv) cause psychological harm or emotional strain.

IV. Reporting Hazing

Anyone with information about a possible hazing incident has a responsibility to report it
to the Department of Public Safety (213-740-6000, or dps.usc.edu). Additional
opportunities for reporting hazing include the LiveSafe smartphone app, Trojans Care for
Trojans (studentaffairs.usc.edu/trojans-care-for-trojans-tc4t), organization adviser, or
university representative.

Students and/or student organizations engaging in activity which is considered hazing as

defined by California law may be reported to the Los Angeles Police Department.

V. Loss of Recognition and Probation for Recognized Student Organizations

Following a proved allegation of hazing, individual members and officers of the

organization may be subject to disciplinary action by the university, up to and including
suspension and permanent dismissal from the university. Additionally, the student
organization may lose its recognition/registration with the university. Loss of
recognition/registration may begin immediately after a decision finding hazing is
finalized by the Office of Student Judicial Affairs and Community Standards. In order to
regain recognition/registration a student organization may be required to suspend
activities such as:

• recruitment of new members

• changes in membership status

• social functions

• officer elections

• participation in voting groups of associated organizations (e.g., student

assemblies, councils, etc.) or participation in their sponsored events

• participation in intramurals and accumulation of award points

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• use of university facilities, including office space, meeting space or residence

• all operations of the student organization

• Internet access (email and website)

The restoration of recognition/registration with the university will be followed by a

period of probation for the organization. Probationary status for the organization may
include some of the limitations imposed during suspension and may also involve projects,
programs and/or other criteria to be met by the organization. These stipulations will be
designed to promote positive development of the organization.

Please refer to Section B.11. Behavior Violating University Standards and Appropriate
Sanctions for additional information.

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H. Safety

1. Department of Public Safety

See adminopsnet.usc.edu/department/department-public-safety

2. Mandatory Federal Reporting and Campus Crime Statistics

I. Clery Act

The Clery Act requires the university to disclose campus crime statistics and security
information. The requirements of the Clery Act are complex and require significant
coordination and organization among campus officials, but can be condensed into three
primary categories:

a. Policy Disclosure Statements. The policy disclosure mandate requires the

university to create and publish policy and information disclosure statements,
which must be contained in a single document titled the Annual Security
Report (ASR). The university publishes its ASR on the Department of Public
Safety website at dps.usc.edu/files/2016/03/ASR-2015.pdf.

b. Records Collection and Retention. The records collection and retention

mandate requires the university to collect information concerning certain
crimes reported to campus police or individuals identified in the law as
“Campus Security Authorities” for crimes occurring on Clery geography,
defined as: on-campus; non-campus locations; or certain public property
within or near campus. USC is also required under this mandate to maintain a
daily crime log and to make it accessible to the public during normal business
hours. USC’s Daily Crime and Fire Log can be accessed on the Department of
Public Safety’s website, at dps.usc.edu/alerts/log.

c. Information Dissemination. The information dissemination mandate requires

the university annually publish by October 1 campus crime statistics and
policy disclosure statements in one document entitled the Annual Security
Report. The Annual Security Report includes Clery crime statistics for the
three-year period prior to the report and is disseminated to current and
prospective students and employees. Data identical to that contained in the
Annual Security Report must be entered on the university’s survey website
prior to October 1 of each year. The Department of Education is charged
under the Clery Act with monitoring compliance with the act and for
enforcement.

There are three new crime categories for which statistics must be collected
under the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act amendments to the
Clery Act: domestic violence; dating violence; and stalking. For further
information on the definitions of the VAWA crimes which must be reported
for the Clery Act refer to the Annual Security Report posted on the
Department of Public Safety’s website, at dps.usc.edu/files/2016/03/ASR-
2015.pdf.

II. Campus Security Authorities

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A Campus Security Authority (CSA) is a Clery-specific term that encompasses four

groups of individuals and organizations associated with an institution:

a. a campus police department or a campus security department of an

institution;

b. any individual or individuals who have responsibility for campus

security but who do not constitute a campus police department or a
campus security department (e.g., an individual who is responsible for
monitoring the entrance into institutional property);

c. any individual or organization specified in an institution’s statement of

campus security policy as an individual or organization to which
students and employees should report criminal offenses; and

d. an official of an institution who has significant responsibility for

student and campus activities, including, but not limited to, student
housing, student discipline and campus judicial proceedings.

Students, faculty and staff can contact a CSA to confidentially report a crime pursuant to
the Clery Act. CSAs who are not employed by the USC Department of Public Safety
complete a confidential online Campus Security Authority Crime Incident Report or
(CSACIR) when they receive a report of a crime. The CSACIR can be located on the
Department of Public Safety website at dps.usc.edu/contact/report/security-authorities.
Completion of a CSACIR does not require a reporting party’s personal identifying
information unless the reporting party chooses to provide their information. The CSACIR
is transmitted to the Clery Compliance Program Manager and remains confidential. Only
the location where the crime occurred, the crime classification and the date the crime
occurred are required for completion of a CSACIR. The intent of the CSACIR is to assist
the university in its efforts to gather mandatory crime statistics required by the Clery Act.

III. Housing and Residential Education

Resident Advisers (RAs), Resident Coordinators (RCs), and their supervisors, are
designated and trained CSAs and are instructed to complete a CSACIR upon receipt of a
report of a crime. As previously mentioned, confidential CSACIRs do not require
disclosure of personal information.

IV. More Information

For more information on the Clery Act, refer to the U.S. Department of Education
Handbook for Campus Safety and Security Reporting (2016) at
www2.ed.gov/admins/lead/safety/handbook.pdf, or contact Mardi Walters, Ed.D., Clery
Compliance Program Manager, at (213) 309-7569 or [email protected].

3. Preparedness

See safety.usc.edu/emergency-preparedness

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