An Open Letter to UNH Students and Parents

Dear Student and Parent:

The university experience at UNH is an exciting one, with a diverse array of great opportunities and challenges. If students take full advantage of the many learning opportunities available to them inside and outside of the classroom, they will benefit tremendously and create their own unique educational experience.

As new students arrive on campus each year, there is an atmosphere of excitement and great expectations. The possibility of a bright and successful future awaits students and parents. In order to achieve success in the university environment, students should take the time to learn about the new rights and responsibilities they have. Students have the right to expect to receive an excellent, well-rounded education, one that will help them grow as individuals, and prepare them to contribute positively to society throughout their personal and professional lives. The more a student knows about these rights, the more they can take an active role in creating their unique educational experience at UNH.

In addition to these new rights, students also have new responsibilities in our community. In order to create an environment where each student's learning and growth can be maximized, the University has a responsibility to inform students of these rights and responsibilities, and to hold them accountable when they violate these rights and responsibilities. In order to maintain safe and supportive living and learning communities, we hold students accountable for their actions which violate our Student Code of Conduct - inside and outside of the classroom - whether on university property or within our local community.

Our office provides resources, education, and services that help support the academic mission of the University and fosters a community where students can succeed academically, socially, and emotionally. We want to empower students to make healthy decisions and the best choices possible that will enable them to realize their full potential. 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.

We are excited for you and look forward to helping you make the most of your time at UNH. We hope that your experiences here will meet all of your expectations, and help you achieve your future goals. If there are stumbling blocks that sometimes get in the way, we also provide mediation services for students to help resolve roommate disputes and manage conflicts appropriately. If you have any questions, or want more information regarding student rights, rules, and responsibilities, and the mediation services our office provides, please visit our office or call us at 862-3377.

Best Wishes,

The UNH Judicial and Mediation Programs Staff