To the University Community:
The Office of Student Conduct periodically prepares reports to inform
the University Community about the character and extent of the work of the
Disciplinary System, including the nature of violations of University rules
and regulations and the sanctions imposed.
These reports are made, in part, to provide an accurate and informative
picture of the kinds of misconduct which are brought to the attention of
our office and the variety of ways in which these matters get resolved.
At the same time, we are mindful of our obligation under our Charter to
protect the confidentiality of individual students.
With respect to the report itself, please note the following: we have
separated "Type
of Incidents" of misconduct into broad, generally understood categories.
It is important to stress that the categories and accompanying numbers represent
the kinds of complaints received, not disciplinary charges filed nor individuals
ultimately found responsible for misconduct.
Further, please note that many incidents involve more than one student
which is why the number of respondents so far exceeds the number of cases.
Finally, we have, pursuant to the mandate of our Charter, increasingly
attempted to resolve disciplinary and other referrals through mediation
or other informal, constructive means. Those of you familiar with our previous
reports to the community will see a greater emphasis placed on these alternative
means of solving some disputes, where appropriate.
There is no substitute for student and faculty input, consultation and
participation in the disciplinary process. This report, while meant to be
informative, ideally should serve only as a catalyst for candid discussion
about conduct and academic integrity issues of concern to our community.
In that spirit, I welcome any comments or questions regarding this report
or any other aspect of our disciplinary process.
I can be reached at (215) 898-5651 or by e-mail at goldfarm@pobox.upenn.edu.
--Michele A. Goldfarb, Director, Office of Student Conduct |