Cases can be initiated in two ways. An individual can have a discussion with the Dean of Students, Erin Cannan, or through a written statement submitted to the SJB Chair (ap491@bard.edu). After the chair or Erin meets with the individual, they decide whether or not to bring the case to the SJB. If a case is initiated the first step is for all parties involved to submit written statements to the Board. See ‘how to write a statement’ for instructions. The board then reviews these statements in order to determine if there is an apparent violation of college regulations, and if the case warrants a hearing. Hearings are typically called for in order to gather more information, address questions that Board members may have, and to allow all parties to fully articulate themselves. The SJB may choose to forego a hearing if the relevant information is consistent throughout all of the statements, and/or if there is a clear admission of guilt.

If a hearing is called, a date will be set in consultation with the relevant parties. The chair will notify all parties of the date, time, and location of the hearing, as well as address additional questions that may arise. Both the community member bringing the case and the student involved in the case have the opportunity to call additional witnesses provided that they submit statements to the SJB 48 hours in advance. All members of the SJB will be present during the entirety of the hearing as will the individual bringing the case and the defendant. The SJB will first address questions to the plaintiff and defendant followed by the available witnesses. Both the plaintiff and defendant will have the opportunity to question witnesses following the questions of the SJB. When the questioning of witnesses concludes the plaintiff and defendant have the right to make closing statements to the Board. The board will then deliberate privately and issue a statement to the plaintiff(s) and defendant(s) within 72 hours. All decisions may be appealed to the President of the College within 48 hours.