Judicial and Mediation Programs Office
Mission and Philosophy Reflected in the Academic Plan

Related to our primary mission of human development and the 'bigger picture' we try to impact for individuals and the community, is how our processes, from hearings to sanctions, support the University's Academic Plan - the 'biggest and most important picture' of UNH.

We hold students accountable for their actions. To hold them accountable is to respect their dignity and worth as an individual and let them know that we care about their success at UNH. Fair hearings and just consequences should be used to develop their self understanding. Related to the Discovery element of the University's Academic Plan, a primary consideration in our hearings and sanctioning is giving students opportunities to acquire new knowledge, ways of thinking, and problem solving skills. In Hearings they are asked questions by all participants not only to determine what happened, but to get them to think about their actions. Sanctions are given to help students 'see themselves' and acquire new skills so they can be successful, including learning how to manage their emotions, gaining impulse control, and seeing how their actions affect people other than themselves. We also provide volunteer involvement opportunities for students that will enhance their communication and leadership skills and serve them well, regardless of their academic major or career aspirations.

Another element of the Academic Plan, Engagement is an important aspect of our process. Like all of us, students are fallible. We should treat them how we would reasonably expect a member of our family to be treated in similar circumstances. By engaging them on some level through challenge and support, it sends a positive message to the student that we are still committed to respecting their dignity and worth, even though they have made some poor decisions. Again, through informal meetings, hearings and sanctioning, students have opportunities to engage with members of the UNH community; students, faculty, and staff on many different levels. If sanctions like meeting with a professional staff member to discuss a reflection paper, or presenting a program in a hall are used effectively, then we are providing students with opportunities for engagement where they can develop beneficial relationships that will help them succeed at UNH.

Lastly, our office has an important role and stake in creating a civil, respectful Community. Our office provides resources, education, and services that help support the University's academic plan and foster a community where students can succeed academically, socially, and emotionally. We strive to balance our concern for the community with the welfare of the individual. It is a challenging task where we need to consider the impact of our process and what we do for both. We can help students become active participants in creating the kind of community that will help them realize their full potential. Students can become more responsible citizens at UNH and beyond if they are connected with the community more rather than less. Our mission is to educate the student while protecting the community, not simply to move them through an administrative process. When serious violations of our community expectations occur, such as illegal drug use or distribution, public disturbances, and sexual misconduct, where the nature of the violation has a real and destructive impact on the individual and the campus community, sanctions should be (and are) imposed that protect the community, and create a safer environment for everyone.