Alcohol, Drug, and Substance Abuse Policies

Alcohol Guidelines for Students and Employees

Legal and Responsible Use of Alcohol

The right to acquire, possess, and consume alcoholic beverages is limited by laws that establish minimum drinking ages, drinking and driving laws, and so on. Miami University also has established policies on alcohol use on campus and by campus groups. It is incumbent on students, faculty, and staff to become knowledgeable regarding these policies, whether for individual decision-making or for planning programs and events for a department or organization, including student organizations.

On-Campus Consumption of Alcoholic Beverages – Compliance with Law

All on-campus possession and consumption of alcoholic beverages must be conducted in accordance with Ohio law and University policy regarding the possession, sale, and consumption of alcohol. Specifically:

1. Individuals under the age of twenty-one (21) may not purchase, possess, or consume beer, wine, or intoxicating liquor. It is also against the law for any person to furnish beer, wine, or intoxicating liquor to any person under twenty-one (21) years of age.
2. No person shall have in his or her possession any open container of beer, wine, or intoxicating liquor in any public place except where the alcoholic beverage has been lawfully purchased for consumption on the premises of the holder of the appropriate permit from the State Department of Liquor Control.
3. Only beer and wine (no intoxicating liquor) may be served at on-campus events to which students are invited. Exceptions must be approved, in writing, by the Senior Vice President for Finance and Business Services.  

Alcohol Guidelines for Faculty and Staff

Alcohol Guidelines for Faculty and Staff

1. Only those 21 and older may consume alcohol. 
2. Alcohol may only be charged to an unrestricted gift account and cannot be charged to a departmental account or student organization account. 
3. Alcohol in unlicensed Miami University facilities requires a temporary permit from the Ohio Department of Commerce. Please contact Conference and Event Services with a minimum of 30 days advance notice to secure the permit. Events utilizing a temporary license may not serve unlimited drinks for a flat fee or one-time admission charge. A ticketing system must be utilized to comply with ORC 4301: 1-1-50. 

Please see the licensed facility list for reference. 

General Rules When Students are Invited to Events

In the presence of students, faculty and staff are expected to model responsible adult behavior by either abstaining from the use of alcohol or consuming alcohol in moderation. At no time should a member of the faculty or staff be intoxicated in the presence of students or at a University event. In addition:

1. University faculty and staff may not purchase alcohol for undergraduate students – even if the student is of legal age to consume alcohol. This prohibition applies both on and off-campus, including restaurants, bars, athletic events, alumni events, events with cash bars, and study away/ abroad trips.
2. Although strongly discouraged, faculty and staff who elect to purchase or serve alcohol to graduate students do so at their own risk and bear full legal responsibility. Faculty are encouraged to educate themselves about the laws regarding civil liability and to be aware that those who serve alcoholic beverages to underage students may be charged criminally. Faculty who elect to serve graduate students who are of age in their homes are strongly encouraged to have a TIPS-trained bartender who can ensure that alcohol is only dispensed to participants who are 21 years of age or older and that only a modest amount of alcohol is served.
3. Faculty and staff should not accompany graduate or undergraduate students to restaurants, bars, clubs, fraternity houses, etc., where they are aware that underage drinking is taking place or where students are intoxicated.
4. Faculty and staff advisers to student organizations must be especially careful to encourage the student organization to adhere to University policy and civil law concerning the use of alcohol, and must never join them in breaking the law. Rather, they should encourage students to obey civil law and University policy concerning the use of alcohol and help them understand how to use alcohol in a legal and responsible manner.

Alcohol at University Sponsored Events – On-Campus

When a department, institute, center, or other University office invites students to a University gathering/event held on campus, the following guidelines apply:

1. Events Held in Licensed University Facilities (https://miamioh.edu/finance-business/permitted-facilities/index.html) 
   
   1. Alcohol may only be provided through the facility and must be dispensed by TIPS-trained bartenders.
   2. Only those 21 and older may consume alcohol.
   3. The event must also include nonalcoholic beverages as an alternative to alcohol and hors d’oeuvres must be served.
   4. If the event is scheduled to last longer than two (2) hours, a meal must be provided, and the bar closed at least one-half hour before the event ends.
   5. If a flat fee for attendance is charged (e.g., a ticket is $35), the cost of the alcoholic drinks must be borne by individual consumers (e.g., cash bar) and may not be included in the fee.
   6. Alcohol may only be charged to an unrestricted gift account and cannot be charged to a departmental account or student organization account.
   7. University faculty and staff may not purchase alcohol for students.
2. Events Held in Other University Facilities:
   1. Alcohol must be purchased from the University and may not be “carried in” by faculty or staff. Alcohol must be dispensed by TIPS-trained bartenders provided by University Catering.
   2. Only those 21 and older may consume alcohol.
   3. No admission fee may be charged and no alcohol may be sold (e.g. no cash bars).
   4. The hosting department must also provide nonalcoholic beverages as an alternative to alcohol and non-salty snacks must be served.
   5. Events may not be scheduled to last longer than 90 minutes.
   6. Alcohol may only be charged to an unrestricted gift account and cannot be charged to a departmental account or student organization account.
   7. The approval of the Senior Vice President for Finance and Business Services is required. 

Alcohol at University Sponsored Events – Off-Campus

When a department, institute, center, or other University office invites students to a University gathering/event to be held in an off-campus facility (e.g. restaurant, bar, club) the following Guidelines apply:

1. University faculty and staff may not purchase or provide alcohol for prospective, undergraduate, or graduate students – even if the student is of legal age to consume alcohol.
2. Only those 21 and older may consume alcohol.
3. Departmental funds (including program fees) may not be used to purchase alcohol. Alcohol may only be charged to an unrestricted gift account and cannot be charged to a departmental account or student organization account.
4. The promotion and advertising of events sponsored by alcohol companies must be in accordance with Miami University policies. The main focus of such events must not be on promoting and advertising the use of the product.
5. No alcoholic beverages may be given as prizes or awards.
6. While listing the name of the company is permissible, symbols of alcohol may not be displayed on posters, signs, banners, or other advertisements for events. No advertisements featuring foaming mugs, cans, glasses, or kegs will be allowed.
7. Promotion of events sponsored by alcohol companies must not encourage alcohol abuse or emphasize frequency or quantity of use.
8. Advertising, both for the promotion of events and for products, either on campus or in institutional media, should not portray drinking as a solution to personal or academic problems or as a necessary ingredient to social, sexual, or academic success. In addition, it should avoid demeaning or discriminatory portrayals of individuals or groups.
9. Advertising or promotion of campus events should not associate the consumption of alcoholic beverages with the performance of tasks requiring skilled reactions, such as the operation of motor vehicles or machinery.
10. The approval of the Senior Vice President for Finance and Business Services for events involving more than 5 students is required. 

Drug-Free Workplace Policy – Students and Employees

Purpose

Miami University is dedicated to providing a safe, healthy, and efficient workplace for its employees and a safe and healthy campus for the entire University community. 

Policy

1. The illegal use of drugs or alcohol in the workplace or on University property or as part of any University activity is strictly prohibited.
2. Employees may not be under the influence of drugs or alcohol in the workplace.
3. The unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensation, possession, or use of a controlled substance on University property or as part of any University activity is strictly prohibited.
4. Students and employees must notify Miami University of any criminal drug statute conviction for a violation occurring on University property no later than five (5) days after such conviction.
5. Any student who violates any portion of this policy will be subject to disciplinary action, including suspension or dismissal, under the Code of Student Conduct. Any employee who violates any portion of this policy will be subject to disciplinary action up to and including discharge under the appropriate disciplinary procedures.
6. The University reserves the right to include completion of an appropriate rehabilitation program as a disciplinary sanction.

For a description of the applicable legal sanctions under local, state, or federal law for the unlawful possession, use, or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol, the health risks associated with the use of illicit drugs and the abuse of alcohol or a description of drug and alcohol counseling, treatment, rehabilitation, or reentry programs that are available to employees and students is contained below.

Drug Testing for Employees

Miami University is dedicated to providing a safe, healthy, and efficient workplace for its employees and for the entire University community. As a result, Miami University recognizes that one of its most important obligations is to maintain a drug and alcohol-free workplace. Reasonable Cause and Post-Accident drug and alcohol testing may only be conducted pursuant to properly adopted workplace rules or a collective bargaining agreement. Employees are encouraged to take advantage of the University’s employee assistance program (EAP) for substance abuse issues.

Medical and/or Recreational Marijuana

As a recipient of federal funding, such as student financial aid and federal grants and contracts for research, Miami University is required to follow federal law including the Safe and Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act and the Drug-Free Workplace Act. In order to comply with these laws, Miami University prohibits the manufacture, dispensation, possession, use, or distribution of marijuana in any form on any University-owned property, in the conduct of University business, or as part of any University activity. On September 8, 2016, Ohio law permitted certain activities related to the possession and use of medical marijuana. On December 7, 2023, Ohio law permitted certain activities related to the possession and use of recreational marijuana. However, using and possessing marijuana continues to be prohibited by and a violation of University policy and remains a crime under federal law.

This prohibition applies even when the possession and use would be legal under the laws of the State of Ohio. As a result, no person is permitted to use marijuana on campus, in the conduct of University business or as part of any University activity, including those with medical marijuana prescriptions/cards. Sanctions for students and employees who are found to be in possession of or using marijuana include suspension, dismissal and/or termination of employment.

This prohibition does not extend to research related to marijuana that is approved by:

1. The Agency for Health Care Research and Quality;
2. The National Institutes of Health;
3. The National Academy of Sciences;
4. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services;
5. The United States Department of Defense;
6. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention;
7. The United States Department of Veterans’ Affairs;
8. The Drug Enforcement Administration;
9. The Food and Drug Administration; or
10. Any board recognized by the National Institutes of Health for the purpose of evaluating the medical value of health care services.

Additional information can also be found at the University's Alcohol and Other Drugs page. 

Smoke- and Tobacco-Free Environment

Policy

In order to promote the health of our students, faculty, staff, and visitors, all Miami University campuses are designated as smoke-free and tobacco-free environments. Smoking is defined as the burning of tobacco or any other material in any type of smoking equipment, including, but not restricted to, cigarettes, electronic cigarettes, vaporizers, hookahs, cigars, or pipes. Smoking is prohibited at all times in all prohibited areas. The use of any tobacco product, including chewing tobacco, is also prohibited.

Smoking and tobacco use are prohibited in all Miami University-owned facilities and on the grounds of any University-owned property. This includes all buildings owned or controlled by Miami University, shelters, indoor and outdoor facilities, natural areas, indoor and outdoor theaters, bridges, walkways, sidewalks, residence halls, parking lots, and street parking and garages controlled by the University (including inside personal vehicles parked on University property). Smoking and tobacco use are prohibited on sidewalks that adjoin University property. Smoking and tobacco use are also prohibited in any vehicle or equipment owned, leased, or operated by Miami University.

Miami University actively promotes and provides smoking cessation assistance and nicotine replacement therapy to students, faculty, and staff, as well as to their benefit-eligible spouses. Many services are provided at no cost or a reduced cost. Interested employees should contact Employee Benefits & Wellness. Interested students should contact Student Health Services.

Violations

Faculty, staff, and students violating this policy are subject to University disciplinary action. Violators may also be subject to prosecution for violation of Ohio’s Smoking Ban (Ohio Revised Code Chapter 3794). Visitors who violate this policy may be denied access to Miami University campuses and may ultimately be subject to arrest for criminal trespass.

Prohibited Conduct Related to Alcohol and Drug Use by Students

Alcohol Violations

Violation of alcohol laws or university policies related to the possession and/or consumption of alcohol. Interfering with the rights or safety of others due, in part to intoxication, or interfering with University operations that is due, in part to intoxication. Examples include, but are not limited to: (A) possessing or consuming alcoholic beverages and/or empty alcoholic beverage containers by students less than 21 years of age; (B) public intoxication; (C) furnishing or selling alcohol to any person less than 21 years of age; and (D) permitting any person less than 21 to consume alcohol in one’s residence.

The University may notify by email or regular U.S. mail the parents of students under the age of 21 who have been found responsible for violating the Code of Student Conduct regarding the use or possession of alcohol or drugs. 

Complicity

Allowing a violation to occur, whether by enabling the violation or failing to report it. This includes advising, instigating, encouraging, or assisting with a violation of the Code. A student may not be found responsible for both complicity and the underlying charge. A student can be charged with complicity for violations of the Code that were committed by their guest.

Drug Violations

1. Unlawful possession and/or consumption of any controlled substance or drug except as expressly permitted by law; lawful possession or consumption of cannabis (whether for medical or recreational purposes) is prohibited on campus, and as such is treated as a drug violation under this Code.
2. Possession of drug-related paraphernalia (including, but not limited to, bongs, scales, or pipes) except as expressly permitted by law.
3. The abuse, misuse, sale, or distribution of prescription or over-the-counter medication.
4. The use, offer for sale, sale, distribution, possession, or manufacture of chemicals, products, or materials for the purpose of use as an intoxicant except as expressly permitted by law.

The University may notify by email or regular U.S. mail the parents of students under the age of 21 who have been found responsible for violating the Code of Student Conduct regarding the use or possession of alcohol or drugs.

Hazing

Doing, requiring, encouraging, or coercing another, including the victim, to do any act of initiation into any student organization or other University-sanctioned organization or athletic team, or any act to continue or reinstate membership in or affiliation with any student organization or other University-sanctioned organization or athletic team, that causes or creates a substantial risk of causing mental or physical harm to any person, regardless of their willingness to participate. Failure to intervene, prevent, report, or engage honestly in the investigation and/or adjudication of any act of hazing may also constitute a violation. Examples include, but are not limited to:

1. Physical abuse (e.g., whipping, beating, striking, electronic shocking, placing harmful substances on the body);
2. Forced or coerced activities (e.g., sleep deprivation, exposure to elements, confinement, extreme physical exercise);
3. Forced or coerced consumption of food, alcohol, drugs, or other substances;
4. Coerced sexual acts;
5. Threatening behavior that causes fear of harm;
6. Any conduct that violates local, state, or federal law.

University Penalties and Sanctions - Students

General

The Office of Community Standards fosters student accountability and responsible decision-making by facilitating an understanding of the University’s Code of Student Conduct (the “Code”) through educational-centered sanctions.

Sanctions may be imposed individually or in combination with one another. Suspension or dismissal may be imposed for a single violation. Multiple violations or additional violations of the Code may result in more severe sanctions.

If found responsible for violation(s) of the Code, sanctions are based on:

• Nature and seriousness of the violation;
• Harm caused to individuals and/or the community;
• Risk of ongoing danger;
• Student’s conduct history;
• Motivation, if applicable;
• Student input, when (1) a student actively engages in the conduct process and chooses to mutually resolve, and/or; (2) there is an identified complainant who actively engages in the conduct process.

Any sanction(s) are implemented as soon as feasible once an outcome is finalized, either upon the outcome of any appeal or, when the appeal window is exhausted. The Dean of Students or designee may impose interim measures during the appeal process to ensure the safety and well-being of members of the University community or preservation of University property.

Should a respondent be academically dismissed or choose to withdraw from Miami University before a “1219” proceeding (as described in Ohio R.C. 3345.22 and 3345.23) or before any other disciplinary action has been resolved, the matter may proceed in the absence of the student.

All Miami University disciplinary reports against a student must be resolved and sanctions completed before a student is eligible to graduate.

In the event of a suspension or dismissal, the University will follow the regular refund schedule available via the Office of the Bursar website. Housing fees are normally prorated, forfeiting the deposit, in the event of a suspension or dismissal from University housing.

Community Circle Program

Grounded in the mission of the Office of Community Standards, the Community Circle Program allows students to engage in a meaningful and reflective process following an incident of alleged misconduct involving alcohol. The program focuses on student accountability, recognizing and repairing harm (to the extent possible) caused by violation(s) of the Code, and restoring trust with the university community.

The Community Circle Program is a voluntary program offered to students for low-level, first time alcohol policy violations that occur either on or off campus. Behaviors referred to the Community Circle Program must meet all of the following criteria:

• Alcohol possession or consumption (beer, wine, seltzers only; no hard liquor);
• No evidence of excessive alcohol possession, use, or intoxication;
• No other misconduct involved;
• No evidence of endangering health and/or safety;
• No evidence of intentional damage to property/vandalism; and
• No prior disciplinary history.

Students whose cases meet the criteria above may be offered the opportunity to attend the program, which involves a facilitated conversation with the Office of Community Standards and a small group of fellow students. A student may opt out of participating in the Community Circle Program at any time. If a student opts out, or fails to attend the program when offered, the student’s case will be referred to the formal disciplinary process.

The Community Circle Program is designed for students to learn from past decisions and take healthy steps to avoid such incidents in the future. To further this goal, a student may participate in the Community Circle Program only once in their Miami career.

A student’s participation in the program is kept on file with the Office of Community Standards, but it is not considered a disciplinary matter and therefore will not be noted on the student’s official university disciplinary record. If you violate the Code within 12 months of attending a Community Circle, your participation in the program will be considered as part of sanctioning in the subsequent case, but your participation in the program will not be counted as a prior disciplinary case.

The Office of Community Standards makes all determinations as to whether the Community Circle program is appropriate, on a case-by-case basis.

Good Samaritan Policy

The health and safety of Miami students is of the utmost importance. As members of the Miami University community, we must all commit to the principles of mutual respect and the common good. Students are expected to exercise personal responsibility for their own health and safety and to look out for the health and safety of their fellow students.

The university recognizes that sometimes concern about arrest and/or university disciplinary action may deter students from seeking medical assistance for themselves or others in drug or alcohol-related emergencies. Whenever anyone’s health and/or safety is or appears to be at risk from drug or alcohol consumption, the best course of action is to seek medical assistance immediately. To encourage and support students in seeking medical attention, Miami University will not take disciplinary action for a violation of Miami’s drug or alcohol policies against students who seek emergency medical assistance for themselves or other students.

This policy applies to students who seek assistance both on campus and off campus by contacting emergency services, residence life staff, or going to a local emergency room.

Students should be aware, however, that this is a Miami policy, not a legal one. Legal action may still be taken by local law enforcement agencies in the event that a violation of law has taken place. Additionally, legal and/or disciplinary action may still be taken for behavior that may violate other laws or other university policies that warrant action (e.g., students who are disruptive or combative, possess a false I.D., commit assault, or do property damage).

The university also recognizes the negative health and safety consequences of the use of dangerous amounts of alcohol or drugs. As a result, students receiving assistance under this policy are required to meet with the Office of Community Standards and will be required to complete an assigned educational course. They may also be required to meet with a university substance abuse specialist for education, assessment, and possible referral for treatment. The student will be responsible for any associated costs.  If a student fails to attend the required meeting with the Office of Community Standards or fails to complete any required education or follow-up under this policy, the matter will be referred to the formal disciplinary process.

In the event the student incurs any alcohol violation during the twelve-month period following the Good Samaritan report, the prior assistance file may be reviewed as part of the sanctioning process, but it will not be counted as a prior alcohol offense.

A student may seek assistance for others an unlimited number of times under this Good Samaritan policy. However, a student for whom help is called will avoid disciplinary action under this policy only once; it is an opportunity to learn from a serious mistake and take healthy steps to avoid such mistakes in the future. The Office of Community Standards makes all determinations as to whether the Good Samaritan policy applies in all cases.

Sanctions Associated with Minor Violations

Sanctions associated with minor violations include, but are not limited to:

• Community Service:  Experiences within the Miami and/or Oxford communities.
• Completion of Educational Activities:  Completion of assigned activities, courses, events, meetings, or programs. The respondent will be responsible for related expenses.
• Parent or Guardian Notification:  When a student is found responsible for an alcohol and/or drug violation and is also under the age of 21, the University may notify the student’s parents or guardians via mail.
• Disciplinary Probation:  A definite period of time in which students should demonstrate a willingness and ability to respect and comply with the standards of behavior outlined in the Code and University policies.
• Restitution:  Financial compensation for University resources, loss, damage, and/or injury. Restitution will be charged to the student’s bursar account.
• Restrictions:  Denial of specific privileges for a definite period of time including, but not limited to, parking, computing/email resources, attendance at events, access to facilities, participation in non-academic activities, and interpersonal contact restrictions.

Sanctions Associated with Serious Violations

Sanctions associated with serious violations include any of the sanctions associated with minor violations, and:

• University Suspension:  Suspension is a sanction that terminates the student’s enrollment for a specified period of time. The Office of Community Standards will determine the effective date of the suspension for a minimum of either fall or spring semester and may also include summer and/or winter term. A student may not be suspended solely for either summer and/or winter term. Conditions for readmission may be specified.
• University Dismissal:  Dismissal is a sanction that permanently separates the student from the University without any opportunity to re-enroll in the future.
• Residence Hall Suspension:  Residence Hall Suspension is a sanction that terminates the student’s housing agreement for a specified period of time. The Office of Community Standards will determine the effective date of the suspension for a minimum of either fall or spring semester and may also include summer and/or winter term. A student may not be suspended solely for either summer and/or winter term. Conditions for readmission may be specified.
• Residence Hall Dismissal:  Residence Hall Dismissal is a sanction that permanently separates the student from University Housing without any opportunity to re-apply in the future.

Conditions of Suspension and Dismissal

A student who has been dismissed or suspended from the University is denied all privileges afforded a student and must vacate campus. Students who are dismissed or suspended may not enter any Miami University campus/or other University property at any time for any reason in the absence of the express written consent of the Dean of Students or designee. To seek such permission, a suspended or dismissed student must file a written request with the Office of Community Standards for entrance for a limited, specific purpose. During the period of suspension or upon dismissal, a student may not attend classes (either in person or online), or participate in University-related activities, whether they occur on or off campus. All assigned educational sanctions must be completed prior to the conclusion of suspension, otherwise, the respondent’s ability to re-enroll may be impacted. Presence on campus in violation of sanctions could result in arrest.

Academic credit earned elsewhere during a period of suspension will only be accepted for transfer if the Office of Community Standards determines that the offense did not involve harm to others or destruction of property.  A student who has been suspended must apply for re-enrollment. Incomplete grades may not be removed during periods of suspension or dismissal.

Organizational Sanctions

Sanctions that may be imposed on student organizations, include but are not limited to:

• Recognition Probation: Is given for a specific period of time. Further violations of the Code during the probationary period may result in recognition suspension or revocation. During the period of recognition probation, the student organization is not considered in good conduct standing with the University. The student organization may seek and add members during this probationary period and may host other activities unless otherwise specified*.  
• Recognition Suspension: Is the removal of University recognition for the student organization for a specific period of time. During the Recognition suspension, the student organization is not considered in good conduct standing with the University. While under suspension, the student group may not seek or add members, hold or sponsor events in the University community, or sponsor or attend any events*.  
• Recognition Revocation: Is the permanent removal of University recognition for an organization. Recognition revocation means the student organization at the University, participate in University programs, or utilize University facilities or services*.

*Organizations that are on probation or who have their recognition suspended or revoked are not eligible for the second year housing exemption.

• Restrictions: Denial of specified privileges for a designated period of time including, but not limited to, attendance at events, access to facilities, participation in non-academic activities, and interpersonal contact restrictions.
• Suspension of Activities including but not limited to:
  • Exclusion from intramural competition;  
  • Denial of use of University facilities for meetings or activities;
  • Suspension of new member education, recruitment, and/or intake process; and/or,  
  • Loss of social privileges for no less than one month. The student organization may not sponsor any activity, party, or function that is social in nature during the suspension.
• Restitution of expenses incurred:
  • For providing educational programs or other educational experiences related to the violation(s); and/or,
  • For losses to the University

Sanctions for Alcohol and Drug Violations by Student Organizations

Minimum Sanctions

• First Offense: The minimum penalty for a first offense is required attendance of members of the organization at a two-hour substance abuse program designed to remind organization members of their civil and legal responsibilities as well as the personal and organizational implications of alcohol and other substance Programs, which must be pre-approved by the Office of Community Standards. Attendance requirements will be established by the Office of Community Standards.
• Second Offense: No less than two semesters of recognition probation and one or more of the following sanctions:
  • No events with alcohol for a time period to be specified by the Office of Community Standards;
  • Evidence of a risk management plan for organization sponsored events—if applicable, provide proof of national organization involvement in the development of or approval of the risk management plan;
  • Denial of the ability to host events for a time period to be specified by the Office of Community Standards;
  • Additional substance abuse education as specified by the Office of Community Standards;
  • Restriction of access to University controlled space or resources;
  • Community service approved by the Office of Community Standards;
  • Required meeting(s) with an appropriate University official; or
  • Restriction from participation in University-sponsored events;
  • Similar sanctions designed to address the specific incident that took place.
• Third Offense: Suspension or permanent revocation of recognition from the University.

Permanent revocation of recognition is a possible sanction for a first offense in cases where students were harmed due to hazing or the use of drugs or alcohol at an organizational event.

If the incident for which the organization is found responsible for a violation of alcohol or drug policy involves a risk to the health or safety of any person, the severity of the sanctions may be increased regardless of the organization’s disciplinary history. If at least three calendar years have elapsed from the date of the last incident, a prior offense will be considered in determining the sanction, but does not require the imposition of the minimum sanction.

Interim and Administrative Measures

Interim Suspension

The Dean of Students or designee may impose an immediate Interim Suspension if they have reasonable cause to believe that a student's or student organization's continued presence creates an immediate and significant risk of substantial harm to the safety or security of:

• Themselves (the student/organization members);
• Others; or
• University property.

This interim suspension immediately removes the student or organization from all or any portion of University premises, University-related activities, or registered student organization activities. This temporary suspension will be confirmed in a written statement and remains in effect until the conclusion of the disciplinary process.

A student or student organization may petition the Dean of Students or designee for reinstatement within three (3) University business days of the suspension being imposed.

The petition must be in writing and include supporting documentation or evidence that shows the student or organization does not pose, or no longer poses, a significant risk of substantial harm. The Dean of Students or designee will issue a decision on the petition without undue delay.

Mutual No Contact Directives

The Dean of Students or designee may direct a student to have no contact with another individual for a specified period.  No Contact Directives are issued when, in the judgment of the Dean of Students or designee, there is reason to believe that a directive would be in the best interest of the parties and/or the community for maintaining safety. Such situations include, but are not limited to: harassment, threats, physical assault, stalking, domestic violence, dating violence, retaliation or other behaviors as indicated in the Code. No Contact Directives will typically be issued as mutual and time-limited, meaning both parties involved are subject to the same restrictions for a specified period of time.  No Contact Directives prohibit all forms of communication between designated students; direct or indirect, written, electronic, through a third party, or social media.  Should a student fail to comply with a Mutual No Contact Directive, the student may be subject to disciplinary action for violating the Code.

Mutual No Contact Directives are distinct and different from court-imposed restraining orders or protective orders as they only apply to enrolled students. A Mutual No Contact Directive is a University action and is not recognized by city, county or state law as a legal action. If a student wishes to pursue a civil protection order, they must make the request through an appropriate court.

A Mutual No Contact Directive may be requested at any time through the Office of the Dean of Students; however, it will only be issued after a formal request is filed through the Office of the Dean of Students, the Office of Community Standards, the Title IX Coordinator, or the Deputy Title IX Coordinator.  Modification requests will be considered when submitted through the Office of the Dean of Students and accompanied by evidence to support the request.

Administrative Fee

Any student or student organization that is found responsible for violating the Code of Student Conduct will be assessed an administrative fee of $50 per incident. If a student experiences undue hardship or burden as a result of this fee, they may contact the Director of the Office of Community Standards to request assistance.

Definitions

Dismissal:  The permanent dismissal of a student from Miami University.

Minor Violation:  A conduct violation that does not carry the possibility of suspension or dismissal.

Not Responsible:  A finding that a student has not violated the Code, based on the preponderance of the evidence.

Possession:  Physically holding or having control over an item, or having control over a space where the item is found. Being in control of a space creates a presumption of possession of items in that space.

Resolution:  The outcome of a hearing, including a decision about responsibility and any related sanctions, based on the “more likely than not” (preponderance) standard.

Responsible:  A finding that a student violated the Code, based on the preponderance of the evidence.

Sanction:  An educational action assigned when a student is found responsible for a violation.

Serious Violation:  A conduct violation that may result in suspension or dismissal.

Suspension:  A temporary termination of the student’s enrollment for a specified period of time.

University Facilities:  Any property owned, rented, or controlled by the University, including nearby sidewalks and streets.

University Penalties and Sanctions - Employees

Miami University employees found to be in violation of federal, state, or local law, or who violate the University’s alcohol and drug policies, are subject to University disciplinary procedures and/or referral to the appropriate authorities for legal action.

Alcohol and Other Drug Education for Students and Employees

Miami University encourages education as the first step in assisting students to take responsibility for their behavior and to understand the consequences of current and future behavior as it relates to drug and alcohol use.

Miami University requires all first-year students to participate in an online educational program prior to coming to campus. The online education module is a population-based prevention strategy (as defined by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism) to educate students about alcohol use, abuse, and protective factors to minimize high-risk alcohol behaviors.

Bystander Intervention training is delivered to students in the first-year experience course, Greek new member education, and by request. Skills to intervene safely and effectively are taught to students in situations of alcohol poisoning, sexual assault, and emotional or psychological distress.

Alcohol skills training programs are delivered by request. In addition, Miami makes available programs from the Alcohol Skills Training Program for high-risk student populations, such as fraternity and sorority members and student-athletes. In addition, the Office of Student Wellness conducts awareness campaigns during National Collegiate Alcohol Awareness Week.

When students are sanctioned for violations, Miami University mandates one of two education programs, the Alternatives Program and the Chemical Abuse Education Program.

The Alternatives Program is a two-hour program that focuses on decision-making and responsible actions around alcohol use. The Chemical Abuse Education Program (CAEP), which is a four-hour program, focuses more specifically on drug use, abuse, and dependence. The primary focus of each program is to help students gain a broader knowledge regarding alcohol and other drug use by providing factual information about alcohol and other drug use and the negative consequences that may result from chemical use. Each program encourages abstinence and informs students of the health risks involved with continued use or abuse of alcohol or other drugs. These education programs also help students examine attitudes and influences, both internal and external, that affect their choices regarding chemical use.

Such programs support Miami's drug-free policy and employees and students are informed of Miami's drug-free policy and its implications. Employees are offered smoking cessation programs and, through an employee assistance program, counseling on alcohol or drug abuse, among other benefits.

Counseling, Treatment, and Rehabilitation Services – Students

Group and Other Counseling

Transformations Group

This group meets weekly and is for students contemplating making changes in their alcohol/drug use. This is a psycho-educational group. Members will examine their substance use and how it impacts their academics, relationships, and personal goals. Students may be self-referred to the group, or referred by the court system, parents, or Miami University. Upon court approval, this group can be used to fulfill 10 hours of substance use education. Any information disclosed in the group about the misuse of legal or illegal substance use is strictly confidential.

AA Meetings Near Campus

Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) meetings are held in United Campus Ministries, 16 South Campus Ave. Oxford, OH. also meets in Oxford. For meeting dates and times, please see the AA districts 12 and 13 sites. Smart Recovery groups can also be found in the surrounding area at the Smart Recovery site.

Miami's Psychology Department

Operates a fee-for-service clinic located in the Psychology Building (room 39). Sessions are $25.00 each. Therapists are students in the doctoral program in clinical psychology at Miami University. If the fee poses a hardship, you are encouraged to speak to the therapist with whom you meet to discuss this issue. Appointments may be scheduled in the Psychology Clinic by calling the clinic directly at 513-529-2423.