Code of Conduct

Guiding Principles

Hamilton College regulations and practices are designed to promote the educational mission of the College and to encourage respect for the rights of others. Every student enrolled at Hamilton College has certain obligations and responsibilities as a member of the Hamilton College community. The general principles stated below identify College expectations regarding community living and are the principles that shape the regulations and practices outlined in these Policies and Procedures.

Honesty: Personal integrity is expected of all community members in all aspects of community life, both in and outside of the classroom. The Honor Code, fully adopted at Hamilton College in 1912, places responsibility for intellectual honesty upon the individual student.

Respect for Others: Community members are encouraged to treat all people with respect without regard to race, religion, ethnicity, national origin, gender or gender identity, sexual or affectional orientation, political view, physical abilities, age or intelligence. Such respect for one another promotes free and open inquiry, independent thought and mutual understanding.

Respect for Property: It is in the common interest to protect both College property and the private property of all members of the community. Theft and willful property damage will not be condoned.

Freedom of Expression: The right to express opinions may not be abridged, provided that public safety and the rights of individuals are not compromised. The College protects and encourages controversy and dissent.

Freedom of Assembly: Students may freely assemble, and/or form organizations subject to state and federal laws regarding discrimination.

Hamilton College responds to alleged violations of conduct through one of three hearing bodies:

Judicial Board

Violations of standards of conduct and of College regulations are considered to be infractions against Hamilton College. Following receipt of a written complaint, the Assistant Dean of Students will conduct a preliminary review to determine whether the complaint has merit and whether the alleged misconduct might result in suspension or expulsion from the College. Students not subject to suspension or expulsion may be entitled to an administrative hearing, at the discretion of the Assistant Dean of Students in consultation with the Judicial Board Chair. Students subject to suspension or expulsion are entitled to a hearing before the Judicial Board. They may waive that right under the conditions described below.

Harassment and Sexual Misconduct resources

The harassment and sexual misconduct resources exists to ensure that all students, faculty, staff and guests can work, study, and enjoy the society of the College community without being subjected to harassment or sexual misconduct.

Honor Court

The purpose of the Honor Court will be to uphold Hamilton standards of academic honesty and to ensure protection of students' rights in questions of alleged violations of the Hamilton College Honor Code.