May 22, 2023

The Rensselaer Handbook of Student Rights and Responsibilities reflects the values, beliefs, and expectations we have as a community of scholars. It is the responsibility of each Rensselaer student to understand and comply with the rules and regulations set forth in the Handbook, as well as with the requirements set forth in other Institute policies and rules. 

Updates Included in the Rensselaer Handbook of Student Rights and Responsibilities (Revised May 22, 2023):

Article II of the Alcohol and Other Drug Policy
Taking into account that there is a broad spectrum of circumstances which can occur in each unique case when alcohol has been served to underage individuals, the policy has been updated to allow for the flexibility, when appropriate, of the Hearing Officer to issue a sanction beyond the previously mandated sanction of a two-year suspension.

Article IV of the Alcohol and Other Drug Policy, Section D
Descriptive wording has been added to elaborate on what elements the Institute may consider when determining if an organization or team will be held responsible for an activity or event.

Article X of the Alcohol and Other Drug Policy
The Good Samaritan Policy has been updated to clarify how the policy mitigates judicial action in situations in which students have contacted the appropriate authorities (Public Safety, RPI Ambulance, 911, etc.) when seeking help for a student due to alcohol or drug consumption. Students, or organizations represented by those seeking help, will not face punitive judicial action.

Article VII: Procedural Standards in Disciplinary Proceedings, Section E
The policy concerning Interim Suspension has been clarified. While this process is rarely used, the updated wording helps students better understand their rights.

Judicial Inquiry and Appeals
The wording of these two sections has been updated to reflect our current process and add clarity to the appeals process. In addition, wording has been added to clarify the point at which the issued sanction(s) go into effect.

Sexual Harassment and Sexual Misconduct
The Sexual Harassment and Sexual Misconduct section of the Handbook has been updated to maintain consistent terminology across all policies and direct students to campus resources.

Exotic Dancers
The wording of this section has been updated to clarify our regular and historic application of the policy.
 

It is the responsibility of each Rensselaer student to understand and comply with these policies, protocols, and requirements, and all other health-related requirements set forth in Institute policies.

If you or someone you know is in need of care and support services, please contact any of the resources below:

Department of Public Safety
(518) 276-6611
publicsafety.rpi.edu

Student Health Center
(518) 276-6287
studenthealth.rpi.edu

Student Counseling Services
(518) 276-6479
studenthealth.rpi.edu/counseling

Dean of Students Office
(518) 276-6266
info.rpi.edu/dean-of-students