General Misconduct

Section 8.1: Abuse or Physical Harm

Intentionally or recklessly causing physical harm to others or causing apprehension of harm.

Section 8.2: Alcohol

Lincoln Memorial University prohibits the possession, consumption, sale, distribution, or presence of alcoholic beverages on campus grounds unless sanctioned by the University and in accordance with all local, state, and federal laws.

Designated Residential Spaces

Designated Undergraduate Residential Spaces: Alcohol is strictly prohibited at all times in any residential spaces designated for undergraduate students, regardless of a student’s age. This applies to all residents and their guests.
Designated Graduate Residential Spaces: Alcohol is permitted only in designated residential spaces assigned to graduate students who are 21 years of age or older. Of-age graduate students may possess beer, wine, and other alcoholic beverages in their assigned residential spaces, provided that no individuals under the age of 21 are present.

General Limitations and Restrictions

Common source containers (e.g., kegs) are strictly prohibited.
Students and/or guests under the legal drinking age may not possess, consume, sell, distribute, or be present with alcohol at any time or in any location on campus.
Individuals of legal drinking age may not provide or encourage the possession, consumption, sale, or distribution of alcohol to underage students or guests.
Empty alcohol containers may not be used as décor and must be properly and immediately disposed of.
Alcohol is strictly prohibited in all public spaces, including hallways, lounges, laundry rooms, pools, pavilions, common areas, and similar shared areas.

Students who are concerned about their own substance use or the substance use of others are encouraged to seek help from University health and counseling services. Students may also seek resources listed on the Alcohol & Drug Resources for Students webpage.

Alcohol Education Requirement

All incoming students must complete an online alcohol education module by the designated deadline. Students will be automatically enrolled and will receive an email at their LMU email address with instructions for completing the module.

Section 8.2.2: Medical Emergency and Responsible Action Policy (ME-RAP)

In order to promote the health, safety, and well-being of students, this policy provides that the University, through the Office of the Dean of Students or the Office of Community Standards, may provide amnesty from charges and sanctions for first-time alcohol violations under the Code for those students who act responsibly to provide active assistance for the intoxication of the student or others.

In order to be considered for amnesty, a student must demonstrate proactive, responsible action and active assistance by making timely contact with University staff and/or the local 911 to request/obtain medical attention for the intoxicated student. If either University staff or 911 have already been made aware of the emergency at the time the student makes contact, amnesty may not be an available option for the student.
In order to be considered for amnesty, the student who requests medical attention must remain with the intoxicated student until help arrives. The student must follow the directions of the personnel providing assistance to the intoxicated student.
This policy only applies to medical emergencies resulting from the use of alcohol. It does not apply to any other prohibited behaviors resulting from the use of alcohol such as disorderly conduct; hazing; property damage; possession, consumption, distribution of drugs; etc.
A student who assisted the intoxicated student in the purchase, supply, or consumption of alcohol is not eligible for amnesty under this policy.
In situations where an intoxicated student seeks medical care for him/herself, the University may issue educational requirements, such as additional alcohol education and/or substance abuse assessment and counseling. Failure to complete the educational requirements will result in forfeiture of amnesty and action will be taken under the Code.
Amnesty for an intoxicated student who seeks medical care for him/herself is intended to encourage the student to make better choices in the future. The record of the alcohol incident resulting in amnesty will be used as evidence of a prior violation in the dispensation of any subsequent alcohol violation by the student.

Section 8.3: Arson & Fire Safety

The following behaviors/actions are not permitted and may result in students being charged with violating the Code of Conduct:

Intentionally or recklessly causing a fire that may result in damage to the premises.
Misuse of fire safety equipment, including transmittal of a false alarm or tampering with smoke/heat detection devices or with extinguishing equipment.
Failure to evacuate during a fire alarm.
Falsely reporting fires, bomb threats or other emergencies (either to LMU personnel or local 911/police force dispatch personnel), falsely setting off fire alarms, and the non-emergency use of emergency equipment.

Section 8.4: Bullying or Harassment

Forms of physical or mental harassment, abuse, threat, and/or intimidation. Any action which intentionally and unreasonably subjects another person to public ridicule. Including but not limited to creating and/or sharing:
1. Information regarding another individual without consent.
2. Digital or photographic image(s) that a reasonable person would find objectionable or obscene.
3. Media containing harassing, crude, intimidating, degrading or targeted content towards another individual.

Section 8.5: Drugs & Controlled Substances

Lincoln Memorial University is committed to providing a safe, healthy, and substance-free environment. The University complies with all applicable local, state, and federal laws regarding controlled substances. The following are strictly prohibited on University premises, during University-sponsored activities, and by all members of the University community and their guests:

The possession, use, manufacture, cultivation, sale, or distribution of any illegal drug, controlled substance, or synthetic compound intended to mimic the effects of illegal substances.
The inappropriate or unauthorized use of any prescription medication, including using a controlled prescription medication that has not been prescribed to you or sharing a controlled medication with others.
The misuse of prescription or over-the-counter medications.
The possession, use, or manufacture of any drug paraphernalia or devices commonly associated with drug consumption or preparation.
Being present during the illegal use, manufacture, or distribution of drugs or controlled substances.

The University prohibits all forms of cannabis and synthetic cannabinoids, regardless of medical authorization under state law. Individuals found to be in violation of this policy may face disciplinary action up to and including suspension or dismissal, as well as referral to appropriate legal authorities.

Drug & Controlled Substance Education Requirement

All incoming students must complete an online drug education module by the designated deadline. Students will be automatically enrolled and will receive an email at their LMU email address with instructions for completing the module.

Section 8.6: Damage to Property

The following is considered to constitute damage to property and may result in the student(s) being charged with violating the Code of Conduct:

Intentional or reckless damage to University property or someone’s personal property.

Section 8.7: Disorderly Conduct

The following actions/behaviors are considered to be disorderly conduct and may result in the student(s) being charged with violating the Code of Conduct:

Behavior that would be considered unbecoming or would tarnish the reputation of LMU and/or its constituents.
Behavior that is reckless, lewd, indecent, obscene, and/or disruptive to the educational learning environment.
Being compliant with, associated with, or present during an act by another that constitutes a violation of the Student Code of Conduct.
Being present but taking no action to confront, prevent, or report a violation of the Student Code of Conduct.

Section 8.8: Falsification

Providing false identification or information with intent to deceive. This includes, but is not limited to, lying, withholding information, forgery, falsification or misrepresentation of documents or instruments of identification, and the obstruction of the University’s student processing system.
Falsification of University documents of any kind.

Section 8.9: Hazing & Pre-Initiation Activities

A. Hazing is defined as any reckless or intentional act, whether occurring on- or off-University-controlled property, by one (1) or more students, which is directed against any other student or groups (regardless of their willingness to participate), that produces mental, emotional, or physical pain, discomfort, embarrassment, humiliation, or ridicule, that is required or expected for affiliation or initiation into a group or organization. This includes any activity, whether presented as optional or required, that places individuals in a position of servitude as a condition of affiliation or initiation.

B. Hazing is strictly prohibited by the University. Any individual or organization found responsible for hazing is subject to disciplinary action and/or criminal prosecution.

C. Retaliation against any person who reports or cooperates in the investigation of a hazing incident is strictly prohibited and will result in separate disciplinary action.

Reporting Hazing:

A. If you are aware of an incident of hazing, you are required to report the incident to the Office of Community Standards. Reports can be made confidentially or anonymously. Reports may be submitted by email to the Office of Community Standards (conduct@lmunet.edu), or through the University's online incident reporting form.

Public Disclosure of Hazing Incidents:

A. In compliance with federal law, the University will publicly report incidents of hazing annually on its website in the Annual Security Report, as well as, bi-annually in the Campus Hazing Transparency Report. The report will include the student organization name, a description of each incident, including whether the violation included the abuse or illegal use of alcohol or drugs, the findings of responsibility of any institutional investigations, and any sanctions imposed.

The Annual Security Report (ASR) and the Campus Hazing Transparency Report serve distinct purposes in promoting campus safety and accountability, but they focus on different types of conduct and reporting requirements:

Annual Security Report (ASR): Required by the federal Clery Act, this report provides detailed information on campus crime statistics, safety policies, and procedures related to emergencies, crime prevention, and victim support. Its primary purpose is to inform current and prospective students, employees, and the public about campus safety and security.

Campus Hazing Transparency Report: Mandated by state laws like the Stop Campus Hazing Act (if applicable), this report specifically discloses incidents of hazing reported to the institution, including dates, types of hazing, investigations, and outcomes. Its purpose is to increase public awareness and accountability regarding hazing incidents at colleges and universities.

Key Difference: The ASR covers a broad range of campus crime and safety information, while the Campus Hazing Transparency Report focuses solely on hazing incidents and their resolution.

Campus Wide Hazing Prevention Program

A. In compliance with federal law, the University implements a campus-wide, comprehensive Hazing Prevention Program. An overview of the Hazing Prevention Program, in addition to a comprehensive overview of how Hazing Incidents are reported, investigated, and sanctioned, can be found here.

Note: This policy complies with the requirements of the Stop Campus Hazing Act (P.L. 118-39).

Section 8.10: Identification

The following actions/behaviors are considered to violate the University’s identification policy, and may result in the student(s) being charged with violating the Student Code of Conduct:

Failure to obtain and wear an LMU ID Card. ID Cards should be worn while on any of LMU’s campuses and should be visible on the person.
Failure to visibly display their LMU ID
Failure to surrender their LMU ID if requested by a staff member of the institution (including Resident Assistants and Security).

Section 8.11: Noncompliance

Demonstrating insubordination by failing to comply with the directive of University officials, faculty, and/or staff (including Resident Assistants).

Section 8.12: Public Law

The following actions/behaviors are considered to violate the University’s public law policy, and may result in the student(s) being charged with violating the Student Code of Conduct:

Being charged with a violation of any local, state, or federal law after admission to and/or while enrolled in a program of study at Lincoln Memorial University

Section 8.13: Sexual Misconduct or Harassment

The following actions/behaviors are violations of the Railsplitter Community Standards Guide’s policy regarding sexual misconduct/harassment and may result in the student(s) being charged with violating the Student Code of Conduct:

An actual or attempted act of sexual misconduct, rape, sexual assault, sexual battery, sexual exploitation, sexual harassment, or other forms of non-consensual sexual activity.

Sexual misconduct or harassment that falls under the jurisdiction of the LMU Sexual Harassment/Title IX Policy and the University Grievance Process will be addressed by the Office of Institutional Compliance. This policy can be found at www.lmunet.edu/titleix.

Under the Railsplitter Community Standards Guide, Sexual Harassment is any unwelcome conduct of sexual nature including sexual attention, requests for sexual favors, or other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature directed at any individual that is so severe, pervasive, or persistent that it limits the individual’s ability to participate in or benefit from an educational program.

Allegations of sexual misconduct or harassment made against students and do not fall under the LMU Sexual Harassment/Title IX Policy and Grievance Process will be addressed by the Office of Community Standard’s Railsplitter Community Standards Guide. The Title IX Coordinator/Institutional Compliance Officer reviews all reports of sexual misconduct or harassment to determine the appropriate jurisdiction.

Section 8.14: Solicitation

Unpermitted solicitation of funds or services. See Approval Request for Fundraising in the Student Organizations Handbook.

Section 8.15: Theft

Theft of University property or of someone's personal property is strictly prohibited.

Section 8.16: Tobacco Usage

Smoking (and all other tobacco usage) is prohibited on and in all University buildings/grounds, LMU-affiliated off-campus locations and clinics, and any buildings owned, leased or rented by LMU in all other areas. Tobacco usage includes but is not limited to:
1. the personal use of any tobacco product, whether intended to be lit or not, which shall include smoking tobacco or other substances that are lit and smoked as well as the use of: cigarettes, cigars, cigarillos, pipes, hookahs, electronic cigarettes, or any other nicotine delivery through vapor devices; chewing tobacco; smokeless pouches; any form of loose-leaf, smokeless tobacco; and the use of unlit cigarettes, cigars, and pipe tobacco.

Section 8.17: Unauthorized Entry

The following actions/behaviors are considered unauthorized entry and may result in the student(s) being charged with violating the Student Code of Conduct:

Entering another student's room, faculty or staff offices, or any other campus facility without permission. This includes unauthorized entry into any facility outside of regular working hours.
Use of another’s keys to enter a space without permission.
Duplication or improper use of keys to any University premises.

Section 8.18: Weapons, Firearms, or Dangerous Materials

Possession, sale, storage, or use of guns, ammunition, explosives, weapons, or potentially dangerous and unauthorized recreational equipment (including but not limited to archery equipment, Tasers, air-soft guns, or paintball guns) are prohibited.
Possession, sale, or use of firecrackers, fireworks and other flammable materials or chemicals which are disruptive, explosive, or corrosive are prohibited.
Possession, sale, or use of bladed items over three inches long are prohibited.
Hunting on campus and surrounding parklands or farmlands owned by the University are prohibited.

Section 8.19.1: Unauthorized Use of a Restroom or Changing Facility (Florida-Specific)

Willfully entering a restroom or changing facility designated for use by the opposite sex is prohibited. Sex, for the purposes of this section of the Railsplitter Community Standards Guide, is defined as the "classification of a person as either female or male based on the organization of the body of such person for a specific reproductive role, as indicated by the person's sex chromosomes, naturally occurring sex hormones, and external genitalia present at birth," as outlined under Fla. Stat. § 553.865.

Any person has the right to file a complaint with the Office of the Attorney General of the State of Florida regarding but not limited to alleged violations of this policy, allegedly non-compliant institutional policies related to restroom and changing facility use, and/or other matters related to restroom and changing facilities at the following link: https://www.myfloridalegal.com/how-to-contact-us/file-a-complaint.

Section 8.19.2: Non-Compliance - Unauthorized Use of a Restroom or Changing Facility (Florida-Specific)

Refusing to vacate a restroom or changing facility when asked to do so by any LMU administrative personnel, faculty member, security personnel, or law enforcement is also prohibited.

Any person has the right to file a complaint with the Office of the Attorney General of the State of Florida regarding but not limited to alleged violations of this policy, allegedly non-compliant institutional policies related to restroom and changing facility use, and/or other matters related to restroom and changing facilities at the following link: https://www.myfloridalegal.com/how-to-contact-us/file-a-complaint.

Section 8.20: Unauthorized Presence of Dependents in University Learning Environments

Dependents under the age of 16 are not permitted within classrooms, laboratories, libraries, study spaces, or any designated learning environments during instructional times, study sessions, or any official academic activities.

In the case of emergency situations where a student cannot make alternative care arrangements, temporary exceptions may be granted on a case-by-case basis by the appropriate College/School Dean, or designee, provided that it does not disrupt the learning environment or compromise safety.