Truman Policies

The University complies with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 and thereby treats student educational records in a confidential manner. The University discloses information from a student’s educational record only with the student’s written consent, except as permitted by law. Permitted disclosures include University personnel who have a legitimate educational interest, officials of other institutions in which a student seeks enrollment, federal and state educational authorities under certain circumstances, officials connected with a student’s request for or receipt of financial aid, parents of a dependent student, persons named in a judicial order or lawfully issued subpoena, and appropriate parties in a health or safety emergency.

Students are expected to do their own academic work. Any student involved in cheating on a paper, an examination or in any other form of academic dishonesty is subject to disciplinary action, including suspension or expulsion from the class, the student’s academic program, or the University.

It is the responsibility of faculty members 1) to inspire in their students an appreciation of and a desire for honesty in academic work; 2) to discourage dishonesty and to protect the honest student; and 3) to take appropriate action in instances of dishonesty. Such action may include the reduction or elimination of a dishonest student’s score for an affected test or project, the lowering of a grade for the affected class (including the assignment of an “F” grade), or the expulsion of a student from the affected class.

Serious cases of academic dishonesty are reported by the faculty member to his or her Department Chair and to his or her Dean, who may take additional disciplinary action against the dishonest student, including suspension or expulsion from classes in the School. The Dean reports the dishonesty to the Vice President for Academic Affairs, who may also report it to the Dean of Student Life. The Dean may also report the dishonesty to the School in which the dishonest student is enrolled as a major; the Dean of this School may suspend or expel the student from the academic program in the major. The Dean of Student Life may also sanction the student as outlined in the Student Conduct Code for incidents of academic dishonesty.

Disciplinary action by a faculty member for academic dishonesty may be appealed to the Dean of the faculty member’s School. Disciplinary action decisions by an academic Dean may be appealed to the Vice President for Academic Affairs for review and final decision. Disciplinary action by the Dean of Student Life for academic dishonesty may be appealed through the same process as other disciplinary actions by the Dean of Student Life for student misconduct.

To provide the best possible environment for personal and intellectual growth, the University has established regulations to guide student conduct, a summary of which may be found at conduct.truman.edu. Residence hall life has additional guidelines in place to ensure the safety and comfort of on-campus students. These regulations are detailed in The Residence Life Handbook available at https://www.truman.edu/residence-life/rules-and-regulations/the-rules/.

The Office of Citizenship and Community Standards is charged with the administration of the Student Conduct Code. The Student Conduct Code creates an expectation of behavior that the University views as acceptable and appropriate for students and student organizations. The University recognizes the significance of students’ rights. Those rights include freedom of expression, autonomy, procedural protection, and equity. By ensuring those individual rights, the University fosters an environment conducive to student success, personal and social development, and well-being. By doing so, students respect the dignity, rights, and property of all members of the University community. By fulfilling these expectations, students can enjoy their own rights, while also respecting others’ rights and furthering the University’s mission.

Citizenship and Community Standards is committed to resolving allegations of misconduct under the Student Conduct Code in a manner consistent with its principles of fairness, honesty, and integrity.

Citizenship and Community Standards acknowledges the importance of balancing the interests of the individual student or student organization and the community at large, as well as protecting the integrity of the institution and its values. To that end, the Office of Citizenship and Community Standards is dedicated to creating and promoting a purposeful, inclusive, caring, responsible, just, and celebrative community of learners at Truman. The Office is committed to developing responsible citizens and leaders through investment in students’ holistic learning, ethical growth, and character development.

A variety of resources and information including the Student Conduct Code, directions for reporting student or student organization misconduct, and a misconduct referral form are available on the http://conduct.truman.edu website. The Office of Citizenship and Community Standards is located in Student Union Building, room 3100 (Student Life Office). Phone: (660) 785-4111. E-mail: ccs@truman.edu.

The learning process is hindered for many students by the misuse, mutilation, and abuse of library materials. As a result of this concern for student learning, anyone apprehended in the mutilation or theft of library materials is prosecuted under the applicable law and/or made subject to University discipline through standard disciplinary channels.

Students are expected to keep local and permanent addresses current with the University at all times during their enrollment. Each semester, students are required to update or verify their local address and telephone number. Local address and telephone number changes may be made through the student’s TruView account or in the Registrar’s Office. Permanent address changes for currently enrolled students should be made in the Registrar’s Office, McClain Hall 104. Students are responsible for all information sent to their mailing address from University offices and personnel conducting University business. 

Each currently enrolled student is provided with an e-mail address that is considered their official campus e-mail address during their enrollment at Truman. Students are expected to check this e-mail address regularly or ensure that their campus e-mail is forwarded to a reliable address that is checked regularly. Students are responsible for all information sent to their official campus e-mail address from the University.

Truman’s public liberal arts mission and vision embrace the importance of transformational learning opportunities in both the curricular and co-curricular realms. It is inevitable conflicts will arise between those curricular and co-curricular experiences. As such, the university expects students to attend all classes, yet recognizes co-curricular opportunities could lead to class absences. Faculty, students, and staff have the responsibility to support an environment that upholds the integrity of a Truman education and students’ ability to experience a diversity of educational experiences.

To facilitate reasonable handling of class absences, this policy outlines what is considered a sanctioned absence and responsibilities for students, faculty and organizers of co-curricular activities. 

Truman adheres to Federal law regarding accommodations. Absences related to disability accommodations will be handled in coordination with the Disability Services Office. Absences related to Title IX will be handled in coordination with the Institutional Compliance Office.

1. Sanctioned Absence Policy​
   1. ​No student having a sanctioned absence shall be penalized for such absence on account solely of being absent. Nothing in this policy is intended to excuse a student from the responsibility to make up missed work within a reasonable length of time.
   2. Once a student has missed 6.67 percent of class time (the equivalent of one week of classes during the fall and spring semester) due to sanctioned absences, the instructor will have discretion over whether to deem additional absences as sanctioned.
   3. Courses with field or clinical placements may defer to the attendance policy of the cooperating agencies.
2. Definition of Sanctioned Absences

​​Absences of students from scheduled classes will be considered sanctioned for the following listed reasons:
(Documentation may be waived at the discretion of the Instructor.)

1. Participation as a representative of the University in a scheduled intercollegiate athletic event.
2. Participation as a representative of the University in a scheduled professional/academic conference, academic competition, or a field trip scheduled as part of a course.
3. Participation as an officer of a University co-curricular organization in a scheduled conference for which participation is mandatory for the student (e.g., a required annual meeting for all presidents of a national student organization).
4. Professional or graduate school interviews as well as professional job interviews that cannot be rescheduled.
5. Health related absences for which valid documentation is presented.
6. Absences covered by Truman’s non-discrimination policy (e.g. special religious observances, military commitments).
7. Other situations not specifically noted in this list, but approved by the Instructor or Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost.

3. Responsibilities of Students

To qualify for a sanctioned absence:

1. Students must be aware of course requirements as outlined in syllabus for the course.
2. Students should notify instructors within the free add/drop period of anticipated absences. Students with unanticipated absences should notify instructors as early as possible.
3. In addition to notification during the free add/drop period, students should once again notify their instructors prior to an absence from class, with written notification.
4. Students shall make arrangements with instructors prior to their absence to make up any missed work within a reasonable amount of time.
5. Students shall make arrangements with instructors for unexpected absences to make up any missed work as soon as possible.  

4. Responsibilities of Faculty
   1. ​Faculty should make course requirements available and clear within a course syllabus.
   2. Each instructor will develop a sanctioned absence policy, which follows the Sanctioned Absence Policy and the Definition of Sanctioned Absences. In lieu of such an individual policy, a department may choose to develop a departmental policy. Such a policy should specify clearly the number of allowed sanctioned absences (if over the default of 6.67%), any course penalties for additional absences and for unsanctioned absences, and the procedures for arranging the make-up of eligible work.
   3. The absence policy shall be made a part of the course syllabus and shall be made available in print or electronically to all enrolled students before the end of the free add/drop period of the academic term.
   4. Faculty may hold students with sanctioned absences to deadlines for submitting class work, provided such deadlines are a part of the course syllabus and were available to the student before the end of the free add/drop period of the academic term.
5. Responsibility of University Organizations Sponsoring Co-Curricular Activities
   1. ​University organizations should do everything they can to develop schedules that minimize absences from class. They should also work with their participating students to ensure that those students communicate clearly with faculty regarding the classes they will miss.
   2. University organizations will provide students written documentation, which can be provided to faculty upon request, outlining the purpose of the absence, the time students will leave campus, the time students will return to campus, and the names of all students that will absent.
   3. University organizations will ensure that students understand that if they are denied a sanctioned absence in excess of the limit that such students have the option to absent themselves from a co-curricular university-sanctioned activity and that their university scholarships will not be jeopardized by such a decision.
6. Policy on Absences for Out-of-Class Events, Conferences, and Field Trips​

​​In providing a rich cultural education, Truman recognizes a total University experience extends beyond regularly scheduled instruction in a formal classroom or laboratory setting. There are a number of educational events or activities that occur outside these settings (e.g., concerts, plays, field trips, etc.) that are an important part of students’ liberal arts education. Attendance at out-of-class events may present hardship for some University students, especially those with jobs and other commitments. Therefore, reasonable accommodations shall be made for all students with respect to such events, with the following provisions:

1. ​Instructors may schedule out-of-class experiences as they deem necessary to achieve the purposes and goals of their course. When such events conflict with a student’s other class meetings, students must be given the option to attend their regular class meetings without penalty. Students for whom attendance at any such event will constitute a hardship with scheduled classes or family or employment responsibilities shall be granted an opportunity to complete an equivalent alternative assignment to meet the course requirements. 
2. Insofar as possible, all out-of-class events at which student attendance is expected are to be included on the course syllabus by the end of the free add/drop period.

7. Appeals
   1. ​Any appeal of a published attendance policy will be a part of a grade appeal; such an appeal must be initiated according to the guidelines outlined in and will follow the schedule mandated by the University Grade Appeals Policy (see Academic Policies and Procedures  - Grade Appeals policy).
   2. Relevant issues to consider by those determining appeals will include whether the respective parties met their responsibilities under Part 3-6.

Truman endorses the following statement of policy to prevent the use of illicit drugs and the abuse of alcohol by students and employees. “The unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensing, possession or use of a controlled substance is prohibited on all property owned or operated by the University, herein referred to as the University campus. The manufacture, distribution, dispensing, possession, or use of intoxicating beverages is also prohibited on the University campus, except in accordance with a written policy promulgated, approved and published by the President of the University, such policy to describe the times, places and purposes for the distribution, dispensing and possession or use of intoxicating beverages on the University campus. The presence of persons under the influence of unlawful drugs or intoxicating beverages, regardless of where the use or consumption of such drugs or beverages may have occurred, is also prohibited on the University campus. Any employee who violates this policy will be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment, and any student who violates this policy will be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including expulsion from the University. As a condition of their employment, due to the University’s receipt of federal grants, employees of the University, both full-time and part-time, 1) must abide by the prohibition against controlled substances, and 2) must notify the University, no later than five days after their conviction, of any criminal drug statute conviction for a violation occurring on the campus.” Code of Policies of the Board of Governors, section 16.030.

DRUG AND ALCOHOL ABUSE PREVENTION PROGRAM

1. Code of Policies of the Board of Governors (Sec. 8.050 and Sec. 16.030, Code of Policies): The following acts are prohibited and any student found to have committed, to have attempted to commit, or to have willfully aided or abetted these acts of misconduct is subject to disciplinary sanctions. Public intoxication on University premises or use, possession or distribution of alcoholic beverages on University premises, when such use, possession or distribution is prohibited by law or University regulations. Use, possession or distribution of narcotic or other controlled substances, except as expressly permitted by law.
2. Applicable Legal Sanctions: Illicit drug purchase, possession and use is a crime under state and federal law. The Kirksville City Code and Missouri law prohibit a variety of alcohol related conduct, including the purchase or possession of alcohol by one under 21 years of age. Violations of law are punishable by fines, imprisonment or both.
3. Health Risks: Numerous health risks are associated with the use of illicit drugs or the abuse of alcohol. Repeated use of either drugs or alcohol can lead to dependence. Use of illicit drugs and abuse of alcohol causes a substantial number of health problems and can be fatal. Contact the Student Health Center in the McKinney Center (785-4182) for a complete description of the health risks associated with use of illicit drugs and alcohol abuse.
4. Available University Services: Students and employees seeking additional information about the effects of drug or alcohol use or seeking assistance for alcohol or drug related problems should contact the Student Health Center (785-4182) or University Counseling Services (785-4014) for referral information. Employees seeking information regarding benefit coverage and/or the employee assistance program may contact the Human Resources Generalist (785-4031).
5. Sanctions: Disciplinary sanctions will be imposed on students and employees for violations of the University policy governing illicit drugs and alcohol. Sanctions may range from referral for rehabilitation to expulsion, termination of employment and referral for prosecution.
6. Further information: For further information about drug and alcohol issues or to receive a more complete description of the health risks associated with drug use and alcohol abuse and the relevant legal sanctions, contact the Student Health Center in the McKinney Center (785-4182).

Truman State University is committed to making University life and experiences inclusive and accessible to individuals with disabilities. We identify, evaluate, and reduce or eliminate barriers to access and equity with the intent to allow all Truman community members the opportunity to live and learn successfully. 

Qualified persons with disabilities who need accommodations, effective communication, or access to University facilities, programs, or activities may contact the persons identified below.

Employees and job applicants with disabilities who seek information related to their work or prospective employment should contact the Office of Human Resources, 101 McClain Hall, 100 East Normal Avenue, Truman State University, Kirksville, Missouri 63501. Telephone (660) 785-4031. Email at hrstaff@truman.edu. 

Candidates for admission with disabilities in need of reasonable accommodations, effective communication, or access to the process of applying for admission to the University should contact Julie Sneddon, Director of the Office of Student Access and Disability Services at PLM 109A, 100 East Normal Avenue, Truman State University, Kirksville, Missouri 63501. Telephone (660) 785-4478. Email at jsneddon@truman.edu.

Students with disabilities in need of reasonable accommodations, effective communication, academic adjustments and/or auxiliary aids or services in courses, programs, services, employment, activities, or facilities should contact Julie Sneddon, Director of the Office of Student Access and Disability Services at PLM 109A, 100 East Normal Avenue, Truman State University, Kirksville, Missouri 63501. Telephone (660) 785-4478. Email at jsneddon@truman.edu.

Persons with disabilities in need of effective communication, or access to and/or reasonable accommodations for University programs, services, events, activities, or facilities should contact the Institutional Compliance Officer, 1308 Violette Hall, 100 East Normal Avenue, Truman State University, Kirksville, MO 63501. Telephone (660) 785-4354. Email at titleix@truman.edu.  

The University has an effective grievance procedure in place to handle complaints of discrimination including failure to provide reasonable accommodations. Questions may be directed to the Institutional Compliance Office at titleix@truman.edu or individuals may report discrimination at http://titleix.truman.edu/make-a-report/. 

Truman State University is committed to providing equal opportunities in our employment and learning environments. Truman therefore informs its faculty, staff, student body, contractors and guests that Truman prohibits discrimination and harassment on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex (including pregnancy), disability, religion, age, sexual orientation or veteran status in its programs and activities as required by equal opportunity/affirmative action regulations and laws and university policies and rules. 

Truman’s Institutional Compliance Office is responsible for compliance with state and federal equal employment laws and affirmative action regulations. This incorporates implementation of the University’s Affirmative Action plan including equal employment practices, monitoring and reporting. If you believe you have been treated in a manner inconsistent with equal opportunity, contact the Institutional Compliance Office.

Truman prohibits discrimination based on sex in its education programs and activities including employment and admission. The University has designated the Institutional Compliance Officer as the Title IX Coordinator and they are responsible for ensuring compliance with Title IX and addressing sexual and gender-based harassment, including sexual assault, dating violence, domestic violence, stalking, and other forms of harassment based on sex and gender.  The University encourages reporting of all concerns regarding sex-based harassment and discrimination. 

Truman prohibits retaliation against those who report discrimination or harassment or who participate in University investigations, proceedings or hearings of such reports.   

Truman recognizes that individuals with disabilities are entitled to access, support and, when appropriate, reasonable accommodation. The Institutional Compliance Officer is also designated to coordinate compliance with Section 504 and other state and federal laws that prohibit discrimination on the basis of disability in admission, treatment and/or access to its programs and activities.

Individuals that desire to discuss an incident; make an inquiry regarding equal opportunity, affirmative action, Title IX, and/or Section 504; or make a report are directed to:

Institutional Compliance Officer/Title IX Coordinator/Section 504 Coordinator, Institutional Compliance Office, Truman State University,Violette Hall 1308, 100 E. Normal Avenue, Kirksville, MO  63501, (660) 785-4354, titleix@truman.edu.

The University has an effective grievance procedure in place to handle complaints of discrimination which can be found at https://titleix.truman.edu/complaint-reporting-resolution-procedure/. Complaints of discrimination, harassment, sexual violence and retaliation may be directed to the Institutional Compliance Office or http://titleix.truman.edu/make-a-report/. Complaints may also be filed with Office of Civil Rights, United States Department of Education, One Petticoat Lane, 1010 Walnut Street, Suite 320, Kansas City, MO 64106, Telephone: (816) 268-0550 or by email at OCR.KansasCity@ed.gov or with Missouri Commission on Human Rights.