Possible Consequences for Violations of the Butler Student Alcohol Policy

  • The University’s response starts with a conversation with a conduct officer. (A conversation with Excise Police or a University police officer may have preceded the conduct meeting. Anyone cited or arrested for a violation of the law will also participate in the criminal adjudication process and be responsible to meet the requirements established by the courts in addition to what the University requires.)
  • A conduct file is created; it exists until one graduates… and longer in more serious cases where suspension or dismissal comes into play. Some graduate programs and prospective employers inquire if one has a conduct record and requests the University to verify it contents. Butler will release conduct records to employer’s and/or graduate schools with the student’s written permission.
  • Parents may be notified for violations of the alcohol/drug policies. If circumstances warrant, this could be on a first offense.
  • Students on conduct probation, for whatever reason, may not participate in Greek recruitment or serve in campus leadership positions like Student Orientation Guide, Community Assistant, etc.
  • Students risk losing priority housing options like the ability to preference an apartment setting during the housing lottery.
  • Students may be asked to reflect and write about their choices and how they support one’s personal values and life goals.
  • Students could be assigned an online educational module or other research project.
  • Students might spend a early weekend morning participating in a structured campus or neighborhood clean up.
  • If a student seems to lack an understanding of how substances affect our bodies, they would be assigned to take an alcohol/drug class.
  • If a student seems challenged with decision-making they could be assigned to “Take the Challenge,” a three-hour workshop led by Butler challenge education staff.
  • A referral for a mandated assessment with an alcohol/drug counselor might be required. A student would be held to the recommendations that result from an assessment.
  • COPHS students, student-athletes, and student employees risk having their dean/coach/campus employer notified about behaviors that are not in line with program standards and expectations.
  • Students may be dismissed from Butler temporarily, or if warranted, for good.

Violations of Indiana Law

It is also possible that a student will have received a summons arrest from law enforcement as a result of the same incident. Refer to Indiana’s Enforcement of Alcohol Laws for an understanding of how this is addressed through the Marion County courts.

More information about the Butler University Student Alcohol Policy can be found within the Student Handbook.