First Meeting With Your Conduct Proceedings Officer

The purpose of your first meeting with a Conduct Proceedings Officer (CPO) is to discuss a reported incident, review any alleged violations of the Code of Student Conduct, and provide you with an opportunity to share your perspective.

This meeting is an important part of the student conduct process. Your CPO wants to hear your side of the story, answer your questions, and help you understand your rights, responsibilities, and possible next steps.

What to expect during your meeting

During your meeting, the CPO will typically:

• Get to know you. Introduce themselves and help you feel comfortable participating in the conversation.

• Explain the conduct process. Review your rights and responsibilities and explain how the process works.

• Review the incident. Discuss the reported incident and any alleged violations of University policy.

• Listen to your perspective. Give you an opportunity to explain what happened, share relevant information, and respond to the concerns.

• Discuss possible outcomes. Explain how the matter may be resolved, including possible sanctions, educational opportunities, or additional proceedings.

• Answer your questions. Make sure you understand the information discussed and what happens next.

The goal of the meeting is to address the reported behavior, encourage personal responsibility, and support your continued success at CMU.

Can I bring someone to my meeting?

Yes. You may bring an advisor of your choice, such as a friend, family member, faculty or staff member, or attorney.

Your advisor may provide support and guidance, but you are responsible for speaking on your own behalf during the meeting.

If your advisor is an attorney, you must notify your CPO at least two business days before the meeting.

Possible outcomes of your meeting

Depending on the circumstances, your meeting may result in one of the following outcomes:

• No Further Action: The CPO may determine that the available information does not support moving forward with the conduct process.

• Student Accepts Responsibility: If you acknowledge a policy violation, the CPO may assign appropriate sanctions, arrange for another University official to determine sanctions, or discuss other resolution options.

• Alternative Resolution: The CPO may offer an alternative resolution, such as a mutually acceptable written agreement, a Student Expectation Meeting, or a referral to CMU CARES, when appropriate.

• University Hearing: If you disagree with an alleged violation and the CPO determines that the matter requires further resolution, the case will be referred to a University Hearing Officer or University Hearing Board.

Your CPO will explain the outcome of the meeting, including any assigned sanctions, required next steps, and applicable appeal rights.

What happens if I miss my meeting?

It is important to attend your scheduled meeting. If you cannot attend, contact your CPO as soon as possible to discuss rescheduling.

If you fail to respond or attend your initial meeting, a second meeting will be scheduled. If you also miss the second meeting without contacting your CPO, the University may make a determination based on the available information.

Students who do not participate in their scheduled meetings may have limited appeal opportunities.

We encourage you to participate in the process so your perspective can be considered before decisions are made.

For additional information, review Section 5: Student Conduct Process and Procedures in the Code of Student Conduct.