The Dean of Students Office is responsible for the administration of the Student Conduct System. The goals of the Student Conduct System are to:
- Promote a safe living and learning environment consistent with the mission of Santa Clara University, and
- Promote the personal growth of those who commit a violation by focusing on accountability, awareness, concern, commitment, and contrition.
The Student Conduct System engages students in reflection about their behavior and its impact on self, others, and the community as a whole, challenging students to ask themselves how their choices are consistent with being the person they want to be now and in the future.
Our document, The Ignatian Approach: Pedagogical Paradigm and the Student Conduct Process, guides hearing officers in their work with each student who has a conduct hearing. Through the conduct process, hearing officers consider:
- The context of the situation for the persons involved (including any victims),
- The experience of the student through the conduct process,
- The means to engage the student in reflection about the misconduct,
- Actions that can be taken to motivate the student to repair any harms and commit themselves to behave differently in the future, and
- How to promote an awareness of personal growth on behalf of the student.
The fundamental question asked of each student is “Quo Vadis?” (Where are you going?) - How are your current decisions promoting or hindering your ability to achieve your goals?
University Discipline Council (UDC)
The University Discipline Council (UDC) is a unique opportunity for students to take an active role in maintaining the integrity and values of the SCU community. As members of the UDC, students work alongside faculty and staff to review conduct cases and help ensure a fair and thoughtful resolution process.
Serving on the UDC allows students to contribute their perspectives as peers—bringing empathy, insight, and accountability to the process. This peer involvement is essential, both for those on the council and for the students who appear before it. It creates space for reflection, learning, and personal growth rooted in our shared values.
UDC members are trained to understand and uphold the Student Conduct Code and to promote restorative practices that support student development. Through this role, students gain valuable skills in critical thinking, communication, decision-making, and community leadership.
Being part of the UDC is not only a way to serve your campus community—it’s a chance to grow as a person and a leader.