COMMUNITY STANDARDS INTRODUCTION

John Carroll University is a Catholic and Jesuit University dedicated to developing women and men with the knowledge and character to lead and to serve.

All statements of student rights must be read in light of responsible membership in a university community committed to the above statement.

Please be aware that the provisions of this handbook are not to be regarded as an irrevocable contract between John Carroll University and its students. The University reserves the right to change any provision or any requirement at any time.

Rights and Responsibilities

Campus Expression: Students enjoy freedom of speech and expression on campus and at university-sponsored, off-campus events or activities. Civil discourse, characterized by mutual respect for individuals and for opposing viewpoints, is an inherent responsibility of all members of the university’s community.  

Free speech and expression does not include illegal activity or activity that endangers or threatens to endanger the safety of any member of the community, or any of the university’s physical facilities, or any activity that disrupts or impedes the functions of the university or threatens such disruption or hindrance.

Indecent or obscene expression that is offensive on matters such as race, ethnicity, religion, gender, disability, or sexual orientation is inappropriate in a university community.

University facilities may not be used for the continued public advocacy of positions contrary to the Catholic character of the university.

Classroom Expression: Students enjoy freedom of research, of legitimate classroom discussion, and of advocacy of alternative opinions to those expressed in the classroom. 

For purposes of academic credit, students will be evaluated on knowledge and academic performance and not on the basis of personal or political beliefs.

Public Speakers: Students may invite and hear speakers of their choice on subjects of their choice, subject to the limitation that the university may withhold approval of an event or a speaker if holding such an event or providing a forum for the speaker is determined to be contrary to the mission of the university.

Campus Publications and Communications: The student press and radio station enjoy editorial freedom. This freedom carries with it the obligation to operate responsibly according to journalistic and broadcast ethics, consistent with the university’s mission and any applicable legal regulations. Student editors and managers will not be suspended arbitrarily because of student, faculty, administration, alumni, or community disapproval of editorial policy or content.

Campus Postings and Distribution of Literature: Students or student organizations may post or distribute written materials on campus providing such posting or distribution conforms to university guidelines on campus expression, solicitation and posting. Any materials to be posted or distributed must be approved by the director of student activities.

Disciplinary Sanctions: Students have a right to written notice of any disciplinary charges. Students have a right to a fair hearing on disciplinary charges.