Philosophy of Discipline
One of the distinctions of Christian higher education is the pursuit of a community that follows the example of Jesus Christ and the teachings of the Bible. Having such a community requires establishment of standards that reflect our institutional mission and provide a framework for student behavior. The intent in working with students in disciplinary matters is to enhance their growth in various areas, including those of developing responsibility for their own behavior and accountability for their actions.
It is assumed that individuals who join the University community will strive to deepen their spiritual commitment and understanding of the Bible, develop their moral character, expand their intellectual abilities, participate constructively in community life, and observe and adhere to the rules and regulations of the University, on or off campus, as long as they are Trevecca students.
Discipline within the Christian university context is intended to be redemptive. We seek to assist the student to make changes in lifestyle in order to be a contributing member of the community. Justice is tempered with mercy as the University deals with those who violate the rules. The rules and regulations of the University are carefully set forth. These may be found in: "Application for Admission," the University Catalog, and in the "Community Living Guidelines" in this Handbook. They are in harmony with the position of the Church of the Nazarene.
Our goal is to confront students as quickly as possible where there is a known violation of the rules and to make a disposition of the problem.
To establish wrongdoing, a witness who produces a signed statement is required, unless there is a confession, or unless such wrongdoing is adequately established by all of the surrounding facts and circumstances.
Law and order is everybody's business. Administrators, faculty, and staff are expected to do something about violation of rules which they observe. This responsibility may involve immediate action if there is an emergency, personally confronting the person(s) involved, and/or reporting it to the appropriate administrator.
One is presumed innocent until proven guilty of an offense. The procedure for student appeals is outlined elsewhere in this Handbook.