University Code of Conduct

Abandoned Equipment or Vehicles

Any equipment or vehicles such as junk cars, motorcycles and bicycles that are abandoned on campus will be hauled away at owner's expense.

Arson

No student shall commit, or aid in the intentional commission of an act which results in a fire being ignited which causes damage, or is intended to cause damage, to the property of the university or to the property of another person.

Assault and Battery

No student shall threaten or cause bodily harm or discomfort to another which would constitute assault; nor shall any student commit, or aid in the intentional commission of, an act which causes bodily harm or discomfort to another person which would constitute battery.

Attendance in Classrooms by Children

While special circumstances may make it necessary for children to attend with their parents on special occasions (sickness of the regular sitter, etc.), regular attendance with the parents is not permitted. All parents of children who are preschoolers or homeschooled must make certain they have long-term care arrangements for their children. Attendance with the parents on a routine basis is not permitted.

Bad Checks

Students shall not make and/or deliver any check which is not supported by sufficient funds on deposit or is in any way worthless. Such a practice may lead to dismissal from the university.

Camping

Camping on campus is only permitted in designated areas. Students are prohibited from affixing hammocks or other such devices on campus to trees, permanent, or temporary structures; however, hammocks may be utilized on the hangers provided by the university.

Child Care

Providing regular childcare for anyone in a university-owned apartment for more than two days in any week is not permitted. Any student or student's spouse accepting the responsibility of childcare for off-campus children must go to that child's home or to another off-campus location.

University Keys

Possession of or making use of university keys for unauthorized purposes are prohibited. Making copies of keys without authorization is prohibited.

Complying with Official Requests

Students are required to comply with reasonable requests or orders by authorized university officials acting on behalf of the university. This requirement includes requests for students to meet appointments in administrative offices and for disciplinary investigations and hearings. Because these requests are often relayed to the student by way of the student mailbox, it is necessary for students to check their mailboxes several times each week. These requests can be made verbally, written, or by email.

Contracting or Representation in the Name of the University

Students are prohibited from contracting in the name of the university and may not claim to be official representatives of the university for any commercial purposes.

Crime Awareness and Campus Security Statement

In compliance with its duties under federal law, the university makes annual disclosure of campus crime statistics. These disclosures are made to current students, prospective students, and employees.

Damage or Destruction of Property

Vandalism, including misusing, defacing, destroying or damaging property belonging to BUF or to others, is prohibited. Accidental damage may also require restitution from the person(s) responsible for such damage.

Dating

Dating practices must be kept on a high level of Christian conduct and refinement and in harmony with the calling to Christian ministry. BUF expects students to set an example for the Christian community by maintaining the highest standards of behavior between male and female. Daniel Plaza, the Wellness Center, and the Student Center provide well-lit places for socializing during the evening hours.

Debts

No one is permitted to contract a debt for BUF unless authorized to do so by the Business Office. To preserve the good reputation of the institution and its entire family (faculty, staff, and students), all personal debts on and off campus should be satisfied completely, on or before the dates due. Failure to attend to one's financial obligations is not in keeping with the Christian principles of BUF and is grounds for dismissal.

Defamation and Threats and Extortion

Oral or written communication which unlawfully exposes any individual or group to hatred, contempt, or ridicule, and thereby injures the person, property, or reputation of another, is prohibited.

Oral or written communication which threatens another of a crime or offense, or threatens injury to the person, property, or reputation of another, or maliciously threatens to expose another to disgrace, with the intent to extort money or other advantage whatsoever, is prohibited.

Disorderly Conduct

Conduct that is annoying or offensive to others, or infringes on the rights of others, is prohibited. This also includes lewd, indecent, or obscene conduct or expression, either on or off campus.

Disruption

Disruption of the normal activities of the institution is prohibited. Disruption shall include, but not limited to:

• physical violence or abuse of any person on university-owned or controlled property, or at university-sponsored or supervised functions, or conduct which threatens or endangers the health or safety of any person.
• deliberate interference with academic freedom and freedom of speech, including not only disruption of a class, but also interference with the freedom of any speaker invited by a section of the university community to express his/her views (faculty are authorized to remove students from class, if warranted).
• forcible interference with the freedom of movement of any member or guest of the university.
• blocking of any entryway to buildings, rooms, or sections of buildings, or of hallways, or stairways, in such fashion that people find it difficult or impossible to pass.
• noise making or other physical behavior which is so distracting that it is difficult or impossible to conduct a class, meeting, or any other authorized event.
• congregating in such a fashion as to endanger life or property. Incitement to any of the above-mentioned actions, or to other violations of university policy which could result in such actions, whether orally or through written materials, or pictures.
• any disruption of teaching, research, administration, disciplinary proceedings, or other university activities.

Distribution or Sale of Literature or Goods

The distribution or sale of literature or goods must receive the approval of the university. Permission must be requested through the Business Office.

Domestic Violence

Domestic violence is defined as any physical or verbal expression that brings fear or the threat of harm. An outburst of anger is an example of domestic violence. Such acts are a threat to peace and health in a home and are also disruptive to neighbors. Domestic violence may lead to dismissal from the university.

Child or spouse abuse is not only illegal and punishable by law but can be cause for dismissal from BUF. The university defines abuse as any willful act that results in any physical, mental, or sexual injury that causes or is likely to cause the physical, mental, or emotional health of a child or spouse to be significantly impaired. Abuse also encompasses neglect—the willful disregard of emotional or physical needs such as food, clothing, shelter, and medical attention when that disregard is likely to cause physical, mental, or emotional health to be significantly impaired.

Dress Standards

• In keeping with Christian values and modesty, students should refrain from wearing clothing that is revealing, tight-fitting, or immodest in any way.
• Students should refrain from wearing clothing that shows undergarments, or clothing that is not consistent with institutional values.
• Midriff should remain covered.
• Shirts should be worn everywhere on campus, including the Wellness Center, but swim wear and halter tops are not appropriate on campus at any time.
• Sleepwear is appropriate in the dormitories, but not in public areas. It should not be worn in the classrooms or in chapel. Modest sleepwear may be worn on special occasions (such as midnight breakfast) by exception.
• While spandex and athletic sportswear is appropriate for exercise and related activities, it should be covered with loose fitting shorts/shirt.
• Footwear is required at all times on campus.

Realizing that these standards can be subjective, each student is expected to submit to the judgment of university officials regarding interpretation of dress and grooming standards. If a garment is deemed offensive or inappropriate by any university official, immediate cooperation is expected from the student. Some departments or programs may occasionally assign higher standards of dress in order to accomplish the goals of their programs.

Emergency Equipment and Misuse

Fire escapes, ground level fire doors, fire hoses, extinguishers, and alarm equipment are to be used only in emergencies. Tampering with or misusing these emergency devices, or blocking fire exits or other means of impeding traffic, is prohibited.

Facilities and Unauthorized Use or Access

The unauthorized use of, or entry into, any university facility (i.e. classrooms, athletic fields), whether or not by force, is prohibited. (See section 1.12.)

Fraud

To willfully or knowingly provide false information, either written or oral, is prohibited. This includes false statements made to any member of the university faculty, staff, or administration. This also includes the falsification of any university records by forgery or other means of deception.

Gambling

Gambling by BUF students in any form is prohibited. This includes playing at any game of chance for material gain or wagering for material gain on games played by others.

Garage or Yard or Porch Sales

Garage, yard, or porch sales are not permitted on campus or at any university- owned facility. Students having items for sale may post notices on student bulletin boards after having information approved in the Marketing Office.

Harassment

The university prohibits any harassment of any person, whether or not it is related to a person's race, sex, religion, national origin, age, or physical condition. Harassing conduct may take many forms, including verbal acts and name-calling; graphic and written statements, which may include use of cell phones or the internet; or other conduct that may be physically threatening, harmful, or humiliating. Harassment does not have to include intent to harm, be directed at a specific target, or involve repeated incidents. Harassment creates a hostile environment when the conduct is sufficiently severe, pervasive, or persistent so as to interfere with or limit a student’s ability to participate in or benefit from the services, activities, or opportunities offered by the university. When such harassment is based on race, color, national origin, sex, or disability, it violates federal civil rights laws.

Hazing

Infliction of physical violence or harm on any person including any activity calculated to embarrass, harass, or impose physical, emotional, or mental strain is prohibited. Any activity that would in any way jeopardize the physical, moral, or scholastic well-being of any person is also considered hazing. To haze by way of initiation includes, but is not limited to, activities which involve forcible constraint or restraint (even if the person is willing to submit to the restraint) and kidnapping (even if conducted as a prank) is prohibited.

Housing Regulations

The university maintains campus housing for single and married students. Specific regulations are found in the housing contract. To obtain a copy of the residence hall contract or the married housing lease, contact the Housing Office.
Only dorm residents are allowed in the dorms. Overnight guests are not permitted.

Insubordination

Insubordination is defined as the student's disobedience of any university faculty member, administrator, or staff member, including any form or expression of disrespect. The professor or instructor of each class has full charge of that class and will convene, lead, and dismiss the class. If a student fails to fully cooperate with the professor, he/she will be in violation of this section.

Violation of Public Laws

Any act by a student which constitutes a charge of violation of a public law may establish cause for legal and/or disciplinary action by the university.

Marital Conflict and Divorce Policy

Students having marital difficulties during university days should consult the counselor on campus.

Peddling or Soliciting

BUF has a no solicitation policy on campus. Any group wishing to conduct fund raising activities for BUF events must be approved by the professor and the Office of Student Life.

Pets

Pets are not allowed on campus. The only exceptions are aquarium fish, approved emotional support animals, and registered service animals. Residents are not to feed or house stray animals. Stray animals on campus should be reported to the Office of Campus Safety so arrangements can be made to have them picked up. Violations may lead to eviction from housing and/or other discipline.

Pornography

Possession or use of any pornographic material in any form is contrary to preparation for Christian ministry and will lead to dismissal from the university. This includes any internet activities which involve viewing, downloading, or trading online pornography, or engaging in adult fantasy role-play chatrooms.

Violation of Probation

A student who is alleged to have violated the Code of Conduct while on disciplinary probation may be charged with the separate offense of violating disciplinary probation.

Search and Entry Policy

The university reserves the right to enter a student’s apartment or room to check conditions, perform repairs and maintenance, conduct pest control operations, and respond to emergencies. In addition, when the university believes there is sufficient reason, it may search a student’s room or apartment without notice for the purpose of (1) investigating suspected violations of the university code of conduct and/or city, state, or federal law, or (2) investigating circumstances which require immediate action. No search shall be carried out without prior approval of the President of the university. A witness shall accompany the official conducting the search.

Sexual Misconduct

General

Engagement in any sexual act outside of a monogamous heterosexual marriage is not in keeping with the ideals of Christianity or this institution. Such an act is grounds for dismissal.
Cohabitation and/or keeping company in a private place that leads to suspicion of illicit sexual activity is grounds for dismissal. Avoiding the appearance of evil is necessary to positive Christian witness.

 

Sexual Harassment

The university is committed to providing its students, faculty, and staff with an environment free from implicit and explicit coercive behavior used to control, influence, or affect the well-being of any member of the university community. Sexual harassment of any person is inappropriate, unacceptable, and contrary to the Christian standards of conduct expected of all members of the university community, students, staff, and faculty.

Students have the right to be free from sexual harassment. Students are prohibited from engaging in sexually harassing conduct towards any other person. Sexual harassment can include unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature when (1) submission to such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of an individual’s employment, (2) submission to or rejection of such conduct by an individual is used as the basis for employment decisions affecting such individual, or (3) such conduct has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with an individual’s work performance or of creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive working environment.

Sexual harassment directed towards students can include physical conduct or verbal innuendo of a sexual nature, imposed on the basis of sex by an employee or agent of the university, when (1) submission to such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of an individual’s status in a course, program, or activity; (2) submission to or rejection of such conduct by an individual is used as the basis for academic decisions affecting such individual, including, but not limited to, grades or academic progress; or (3) such conduct has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with an individual’s academic performance or of creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive educational environment.

Any student who engages in sexual harassment will be subject to disciplinary action ranging from a warning to expulsion. Those who have a complaint regarding sexual harassment should contact the Director of Campus Safety.

 

Complaint Procedure for Harassment and Discrimination

If you suspect that your rights under any of the above-stated policies on discrimination have been violated, you may register your complaint with the Director of Campus Safety. Upon receipt of a complaint which alleges a violation of these policies, the Director of Campus Safety shall begin an investigation of the charge(s). An investigation shall include an interview with the person filing the complaint, the person(s) accused of violating the nondiscrimination and anti- harassment policies and any person designated by either of the principal parties as witnesses to the incident in question.

The investigation shall be completed within 30 days of the receipt of the complaint. The matter shall then be presented to the University Hearing Officer in the form of written recommendations. At discretion, he/she may accept the recommendations, interview the persons involved, direct further investigation by the university and/or hold formal hearings on the matter. If formal hearings are ordered, each party shall be given equal opportunity to select an advisor of the party’s choice (who may be, but does not need to be, an attorney). This process shall be completed and shall make a final decision on the merits of the complaint within 60 days of receipt of the complaint by the university. The decision of the University Hearing Officer shall be final. Throughout this process the identities of the complaining party and accused will be kept confidential and disclosed only on a need-to-know basis.

 

Sexual Assault

Baptist University of Florida will not tolerate sexual assault in any form, including acquaintance rape. Rape is generally defined as, but not limited to, forced sexual intercourse perpetrated against the will of the victim. This applies regardless of whether the assailant is a stranger or an acquaintance of the victim and applies to all members of the BUF community. The type of force may involve physical violence, the threat of harm to the victim or sexual exploitation of a person who is physically unable to resist or who is unconscious. This policy also applies to any other sex-related assault or offense including any form of sexual battery.

Many forms of sexual assault are a violation of the criminal statues of the State of Florida and may subject the perpetrator to criminal penalties. The university will make no attempt to shield members of the BUF community from the law, nor will it intervene in legal proceedings against a member of the BUF community. In addition to criminal prosecution, BUF will pursue strong disciplinary action through its own channels when there is reason to believe that the university's regulations against sexual assault have been violated. Thus, a member of the BUF community may be prosecuted by the state and disciplined by the university, and even if criminal authorities choose not to prosecute, the university may pursue disciplinary action.

 

Emergency Reporting

BUF encourages victims of sexual assault to report the incident in order to deter these assaults and to ensure that victims receive counseling, advice, and support. Reports of sexual assault should be made immediately to the Director of Campus Safety. Once the Director of Campus Safety learns of a sexual assault on the campus, the office will assist with referral to a professional Christian counselor in the area.

In reported cases of rape, acquaintance rape, or other cases of violent sexual assault, the university will:

• encourage the victim to receive rape crisis counseling and medical attention.
• encourage the victim to report the incident to local police.
• assist the victim in receiving counseling and guidance by referral to a professional Christian counselor.

The university must report the incident, without the name of the victim, to the appropriate law enforcement authorities. Unless specifically requested by the victim not to do so, the university will report the incident and the name of the victim to the Rape Victim Advocate in the State Attorney's Office.

 

Disciplinary Action

Any person electing to initiate a disciplinary action against a student for allegedly violating the rules of the university must inform the Director of Campus Safety as soon as practical, and said action will proceed in accordance with the formal procedure adopted by the university and stated in this handbook. Once disciplinary proceedings have been concluded, the victim is entitled to the results of the proceedings.

Social Media Policy

Social media are defined as media designed for the purpose of social interaction using highly accessible communication techniques, such as web-based and mobile technologies to communicate and begin interactive dialogues.

One category of social media refers to what is traditionally acknowledged as social networking sites (e.g. Facebook, X, LinkedIn, Snapchat, Instagram, TikTok), which allows users to utilize a website to create a personalized profile from which they can share information about themselves, interact with other users, and network with both friends and new acquaintances.

A second type of social media includes websites known as content sharing sites (e.g. YouTube, Flickr, iTunesU, Vimeo, Ustream). These sites, unlike social networking sites, do not emphasize the personal profile, but rather easy and wide distribution of digital content, including photos, videos, audio clips, etc.

BUF employs the use of more traditional websites as its official web presence, including the main website (www.buf.edu), its subdomains (WFBU, Expository Preaching, etc.), Facebook, Vimeo, Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube, X, and the MyBUF web portal, powered by Jenzabar. The Marketing Office is responsible for the creation and maintenance of all BUF social media accounts. Only the President can authorize the creation of a social media account representing the university. Any other account which is established by any individual identifying one’s self as a representative of the university is against the stated policy.

The communication paradigm of social media allows for more freedom of information exchange, allowing spontaneous and instantaneous communication. However, all individuals must adhere to the stated policy guidelines listed. Any social media account established other than the official site will be considered a direct misrepresentation of the university and appropriate disciplinary action will be taken.

Anyone using social media outlets for the purpose of cyber-bullying, expressing disrespect toward university faculty or administration, or using language that demeans another individual is strictly forbidden. Any language or comments which are not in keeping with the university’s Christian values may result in disciplinary action against the person responsible for those comments or posts.

Stalking

Stalking, as defined by Florida Statute, is willfully, maliciously, or repeatedly following or harassing a person. Stalking may lead to dismissal from the university.

Recognition of Student Groups

To be classified as an official student organization or group, established procedures must be met and approved by the administration of the university. (See section 2.4.3.)

Unauthorized Use of or Access to Telecommunications Equipment

Any unauthorized use of or access to campus telecommunications equipment, such as computers, facsimile machines, telephone equipment or lines to such equipment, is prohibited. This includes any form of tampering with such equipment to gain such access.

Theft and Unauthorized Possession or Sale of Property

Students involved in theft, unauthorized possession, and/or sale of property not belonging to them are subject to university disciplinary action as well as to arrest and prosecution by legal authorities.

Students in unauthorized possession of property owned or controlled by the university or any of its departments (such as the library) are subject to university disciplinary action as well as arrest and prosecution by legal authorities.

Traffic Safety

All students are expected to drive with care, especially around children. The speed limit is 10 miles per hour on campus. The penalty for students who violate this section will be loss of driving and parking privileges on campus. Other discipline may also be imposed.

Use of Electronic Devices in Classrooms

Though the use of laptop computers for note taking is encouraged, the use of electronic devices, such as laptops, cell phones, etc., for any reason other than coursework for the class in which the student is in attendance or in a manner that causes distraction or disturbance to other students, or the professor is prohibited. Any student in violation will be subject to academic penalty as outlined below. Repeated violation may be referred to the Executive Vice-President of Academic Affairs as needed for disciplinary disposition.

 

First Offense	Verbal warning
Second Offense	Daily grade of "zero"
Third Offense	Drop one letter grade on final grade
Fourth Offense	Referred to the Executive Vice President of Academic Affairs

Weapons and Firearms and Fireworks and Explosives

No students, except law enforcement officers, may have weapons in their possession at any time on university property. Weapons are defined as firearms, knives, explosives, inflammable materials, or any other item that may cause bodily injury or damage to property. Possession is defined as including possession within the student's car while parked on campus.

Restroom and Changing Facility Policy

In accordance with the Florida Department of Education policy 6E-7.001, all restrooms and changing facilities at the Baptist University of Florida are designated for exclusive use by males or females, based on biological sex at birth, or are designated “unisex.” Students are required to use the appropriate facilities based on their biological sex at birth. Failure to do so will result in disciplinary procedures.

Introduction

Alcohol and Drugs and Narcotics and Tobacco

Tobacco

Students are not to use tobacco in any form or amount at any time. Additionally, the practice of using electronic vapor devices and the practice commonly referred to as “vaping” is prohibited

Alcohol and Drugs

The use, possession, or distribution of alcoholic beverages and/or illicit drugs is prohibited. Students attending establishments where alcohol is the primary service, such as bars and clubs, gives the appearance that the student is involved in such behaviors. Whether the student is actually involved in drinking or not, it is still inconsistent with the beliefs and practices of this institution. Since the Scripture cautions Christians to abstain from the appearance of evil, students are warned that attendance at such establishments is grounds for dismissal from the university. In addition, violation of this standard of conduct may result in severe criminal penalties under local, state, and federal law. These penalties are described in compliance with federal law.

Disciplinary Sanctions

Any student found to be in violation of this policy shall be subject to one or more of the disciplinary sanctions as described in section 6.4. The university reserves the right to exercise total discretion in the imposition of disciplinary sanctions. The use, possession, or distribution of alcoholic beverages or illicit drugs may result in required participation in a drug or alcohol treatment or rehabilitation program, and/or result in other disciplinary action including dismissal. In addition, illegal activity involving drugs and alcohol may be referred to law enforcement officials for criminal prosecution.

Criminal Sanctions

Though the City of Graceville has not passed ordinances that govern sale, use, and distribution of controlled or illegal substances and alcohol, it does enforce the laws imposed by the State of Florida addressing these matters. According to the state, it is illegal to possess, distribute, sell, or use prohibited drugs and other controlled substances. Depending on the specific drug offense, the charge may range from a third to a first-degree felony. Punishment may range from a $500 fine to confinement in a state prison facility. It is illegal for minors (under age 21) to possess, use, or sell alcohol. Further, it is unlawful for a person to sell, give, or serve alcoholic beverages to a person under age 21. It is illegal to misrepresent one’s age or that of another to induce a licensee to serve alcoholic beverages to persons under 21. Charges may range from a second degree to a first-degree misdemeanor. In addition to other penalties, the courts may suspend the driving privileges of those convicted.

Health Risks Associated with Drug or Alcohol Use

Narcotics such as opium, morphine, and heroin can cause euphoria, drowsiness, respiratory depression, constricted pupils, and nausea. The symptoms of an overdose of narcotics are slow and shallow breathing, clammy skin, convulsions, coma, and possible death. Persons experiencing withdrawal from addiction to narcotics can experience watery eyes, runny nose, yawning, loss of appetite, irritability, tremors, panic cramps, nausea, chills, and sweating.

Depressants such as barbiturates and Quaaludes can cause slurred speech, disorientation, and drunken behavior. An overdose of a depressant results in shallow respiration, clammy skin, dilated pupils, weak and rapid pulse, coma, and possible death. Withdrawal symptoms include anxiety, tremors, delirium, convulsions and possible death.

Stimulants such as cocaine and crack can cause increased alertness or euphoria, an increased pulse rate and blood pressure, insomnia, and loss of appetite. An overdose of stimulants results in agitation, an increase in body temperature, hallucinations, convulsions, and possible death. Withdrawal symptoms include apathy, extended periods of sleep, irritability, depression, and disorientation.

Hallucinogens such as LSD and amphetamines cause illusions and hallucinations, and poor perception of time and distance. The effects of an overdose include psychosis and possible death.

Marijuana and hashish can cause euphoria, increased appetite, relaxed inhibitions, and disoriented behavior. The effects of an overdose include fatigue, paranoia, and possible psychosis. Withdrawal symptoms include insomnia, hyperactivity, and decreased appetite.

Alcohol consumption causes a number of marked changes in behavior. Even low doses significantly impair the judgment and coordination required to drive a car safely, increasing the likelihood that the driver will be involved in an accident. Moderate to high doses of alcohol cause marked impairments in higher mental functions, severely altering a person’s ability to learn and remember information. Very high doses cause respiratory depression and death. If combined with other depressants of the central nervous system, much lower doses of alcohol will produce the effects just described.

Repeated use of alcohol can lead to dependence. Sudden cessation of alcohol intake is likely to produce withdrawal symptoms, including severe anxiety, tremors, hallucinations, and convulsions. Alcohol withdrawal can be life- threatening. Long-term consumption of large quantities of alcohol, particularly when combined with poor nutrition, can also lead to permanent damage to vital organs such as the brain and the liver.

Treatment, Re-entry or Rehabilitation Programs

Though the university provides no counseling or rehabilitation programs for drug or alcohol abusers on campus, students or employees may contact the Executive Director of Student Life (263-3261 ext. 415) for information on referral. The following agencies offer counseling and help:

Alcoholics' Anonymous (850) 526-3948
Southeast Alabama Medical Center (334) 793-8194

The financial responsibility for any treatment or rehabilitation program remains solely the responsibility of the individual. The university in no way endorses or affirms the competency or effectiveness of the services offered by these agencies.

Reports by Pell Grant Recipients

In accordance with the Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988, any student who receives a Federal Pell Grant and who is convicted of a criminal drug offense that occurred during the period of enrollment covered by the Pell Grant must report the conviction in writing to the Director, Grants and Contracts Service, U.S. Department of Education, 400 Maryland Avenue, S.W., Room 3124, GSA Regional Service Building No. 3, Washington, D.C. 20202-4571. This report must be made within ten calendar days of the conviction. Failure to report such a conviction may subject the student to suspension or termination of the Pell Grant, and ineligibility for other types of federal financial assistance.

Academic Dishonesty or Complicity

Dishonesty

Cheating, plagiarism, and any other misrepresentation of work are prohibited. In the instance of papers written outside of class, academic dishonesty includes plagiarism.

Plagiarism Statement

Plagiarism will not be tolerated. According to The College Writer: A Guide to Thinking, Writing, and Researching (Van Rys et.al., 2018, p. 434), plagiarism is defined as “using someone else’s words, ideas, or images (what’s called intellectual property) so they appear to be your own. When you plagiarize, you use source material—whether published in print or online—without acknowledging the source.” In essence, plagiarism is using any type of intellectual work—intentionally or unintentionally—as one’s own creative thought or work. The most common form of plagiarism is when a student reproduces or submits another person’s words or sentences as his or her own without citing the original author. Even if the words are changed and are not verbatim, if the context and thought of the structure of the words remain the same, it still constitutes plagiarism. Plagiarism may also include self-plagiarism: that is, when a student submits for course credit a version of his or her work that has been submitted for a previous class or assignment without explicit permission from the course professor. A specific form of plagiarism is the use of any form of Generative Artificial Intelligence, commonly called AI. See AI policy below.

University policy includes three steps or levels of discipline during a student’s academic career. First offense: professor/student conference and resubmission of the assignment; second offense: failure of the assignment; third offense: failure of the course and referral to the Provost. A record is maintained.

Academic dishonesty also includes obtaining or referring to a copy of an examination before it has been distributed by the professor. During examinations, academic dishonesty includes referring to written information without the approval of the professor, or receiving written or oral information from a fellow student.

A student who assists another in the forms of dishonesty mentioned above is also guilty of dishonesty. A faculty member may impose academic penalty on the student who violates this section in his/her class, and/or may report the student to the Executive Vice-President of Academic Affairs.

Academic dishonesty may result in dismissal.

 

Artificial Intelligence (AI) Policy Statement

Baptist University of Florida is committed to working from and equipping students to work from a biblical/Christian worldview. Use of AI tools (e.g., ChatGPT, Grammarly, and other AI writing or generative tools) and work generated by AI is considered academic dishonesty and may result in disciplinary actions, including failure of the assignment or course and referral for further disciplinary proceedings. A student should not submit AI-generated text as his/her own original work. AI-generated content must not replace critical thinking, original research, or analytical tasks assigned in the course. Academic research must provide a primary, academic, and original source that is properly cited.

University policy includes three steps or levels of discipline during a student’s academic career. First offense: professor/student conference and resubmission of the assignment; second offense: failure of the assignment; third offense: failure of the course and referral to the Provost. A record is maintained.

While AI detection tools are useful, it is understood that there are instances in which a false detection may occur. For this reason, students may appeal any decision within fourteen (14) days of receiving notification. To appeal: submit a written request to the Appeals Committee (tgardner@buf.edu) clearly stating the grounds for appeal. Include any supporting evidence or context (drafts, writing process documentation, etc.). The Appeals Committee will review the submitted documentation within seven (7) business days. The student will be notified of the decision. Decision upheld: initial consequences stand. Decision overturned: grade/content is reinstated.

 

Complicity

If a student gives permission, approval, or assistance to another student to violate any section of the Code of Conduct, he/she may be charged with complicity. If a student witnesses any violation of the Code of Conduct, he/she must report the incident to the proper authority.