The intent of this policy is to be helpful to the student who cannot function effectively in the university community without posing a risk to him/herself and/or others, or without infringing on the rights of others, or without significantly disrupting the university community. This policy also provides mechanisms by which a student may continue toward the completion of his/her academic goals, if not immediately, then in the future.
There are occasional circumstances in which a student’s psychological or physical condition must be addressed by the university. The student generally will be referred for a medical and/or psychological/psychiatric assessment and recommendation regarding the student’s ability to remain or continue in school. The results of that assessment will assist in determining if and how the student will continue in or return to classes and his/her place of residence, if such residence is university-owned.
The student may be allowed to continue or return if he or she agrees to take the recommended therapeutic steps. If the student refuses to take such steps, or if the disruptive, dangerous, or otherwise unacceptable behavior continues, the university may take action (e.g. student conduct action) to withdraw the student from classes. For instance, such action could occur, if in the judgment of the university, the condition is such that the student could not reasonably be accommodated in the academic program; or if the student was threatening to self and/or others; or was seriously disruptive to others or to the university community.
In such circumstances, the parents of the student and appropriate university officials with a need to know, including academic deans, may be notified because of the potentially serious nature of the situation. Questions regarding this policy may be addressed to the dean of students.
