While RSOs are considered independent entities from the University (see Section 1.2), they are still responsible for conducting themselves in alignment with University policies, state and federal law, and local community standards. RSOs are expected to operate with integrity, accountability, and respect for the rights of individuals. When concerns arise, the University addresses them through the appropriate conduct processes overseen by designated offices.
5.1 RSO Accountability & University Offices
The University utilizes a multi-office approach to reviewing and resolving issues involving RSOs. Depending on the type of alleged conduct, several University offices may be involved in a misconduct review process.
- The Office of Community Standards (OCS) handles violations of The Student Code, including incidents such as, but not limited to, hazing, endangerment, alcohol and/or drug violations, discrimination; or other forms of organizational misconduct that may fall under The Student Code.
- The Office of Inclusion & Civil Rights (OICR) is responsible for reviewing allegations involving Title VI: discrimination based on race or national origin; and Title IX: sexual harassment, sexual assault, or gender-based discrimination.
Note: When the parties involved in a referral are enrolled UConn students, OCS will oversee the investigation. OCS will coordinate with OICR to investigate and address the matter through the student conduct process.
All other RSO operational issues or concerns that do not rise to the level of a code violation will be managed by the Department of Student Activities (DSA), or respective campus staff member.
PLEASE NOTE: RSOs and RSO Advisors are not investigative bodies and may not conduct internal investigations involving serious allegations like harassment, discrimination, or violations of The Student Code. These concerns must be referred to the appropriate offices. See Section 5.2 & Section 5.4 for more information.
Any outcomes and sanctions resulting from any internal review process undertaken by affiliated
recognized student organizations’ regional/national/international organizations, or Club Sports
(and their governing bodies) shall not negate but stand in addition to the outcomes of the
below processes.
5.2 Designated Offices & Responsible Employees
All members of the campus community, including RSO members and student leaders are encouraged to report any conduct which they become aware of and which they believe in good faith have been in violation of University policy or The Student Code. Below are some of the University designated offices or employees that are responsible for making certain reports or responding to reports.
- Responsible Employee(s) - The vast majority of UConn employees - including but not limited to: faculty, staff, Graduate Assistants and Resident Assistants - are designated as Responsible Employees. They must report any disclosure of sexual assault, intimate partner violence, or stalking involving students.
- University Title IX Team – Responsible for ensuring the university proactively prevents, and responds appropriately to reports of, sexual misconduct.
- University Title VI Team – Responsible for ensuring full compliance with responding appropriately to reports of discrimination based on race, color, national origin, sex, age, disability, income level or Limited English Proficiency.
5.3 Reporting Forms & Reporting Resources
RSOs are expected to create inclusive, respectful spaces and report any known or suspected misconduct connected to organizational activities. Further, any students, staff, advisor, or community member may report suspected misconduct involving a student organization.
All Reporting Forms can be found at is a tool to help the UConn community navigate the reporting process and support available for a variety of incidents including bias, harassment, safety concerns, and other types of misconduct.
The Student Code
Allegations related to The Student Code can be reported directly to the Office of Community Standards (OCS).
- Submit report here: Community Standards Referral Form
- Email: community@uconn.edu
- Phone: 860-486-8402
RSO Misconduct & Hazing
Allegations regarding RSO violations of The Student Code such as hazing, disruptive behavior, alcohol, drugs and more, can be reported directly to the Office of Community Standards (OCS).
- Submit report here: Registered Student Organization Conduct Referral
- Allegations regarding Hazing: Hazing Referral Form
Sexual Harassment, Discrimination, and Related Interpersonal Violence
Allegations related to potential discrimination, harassment, or sexual misconduct can be reported directly to the Office of Community Standards (OCS) or the Office of Inclusion & Civil Rights (OICR).
- Submit report here: Sexual Discrimination, Sexual Harassment, and Related Interpersonal Violence Referral Form
- Email: titleix@uconn.edu
- Phone: 860-486-2943
Care Team & Students of Concern
RSOs concerned about member’s or other University community members who they perceive to be threatening, harming or disruptive to themselves or those around them can report concerns directly to the Office of Student Care and Concern.
- Submit report here: Care Team Referral
- Email: oscc@uconn.edu
- Phone: 860-486-8777
In complex cases, offices may coordinate a shared response. The appropriate conduct process is determined based on the nature, scope, and potential impact of the concern.
5.4 RSOs Processes & University Process
RSOs are encouraged to establish and follow their own fair, transparent processes for membership, leadership, and organizational operations. However, there are important limits to what an RSO may handle on their own.
Outside Governing Bodies
If an RSO is affiliated with a regional, national, or international organization, that organization may choose to conduct its own review of organizational concerns in addition to the University’s process. While these reviews may run in parallel, University decisions take precedence and are not replaced, modified, or influenced by outside outcomes.
Respective RSO Processes
RSOs are not permitted to conduct their own investigations into allegations of sexual misconduct, discrimination, hazing, or other violations of The Student Code. These matters must be reported directly to the University and will be reviewed by the appropriate office, such as the Office of Community Standards (OCS) or the Office of Inclusion & Civil Rights (OICR).
Instead of investigating, RSOs are expected to focus on supporting their individual members, following their constitution and bylaws, and seeking guidance from their RSO Advisor or SA Staff when needed. This ensures that organizational processes remain fair, educational, and consistent with University policy.
5.5 Student Organization Conduct Process – OCS
The Student Organization Conduct Process is managed by the Office of Community Standards (OCS).
For an overview of the process see Appendix B or visit: https://community.uconn.edu/
Information about the University’s hazing policy and related procedures is available at: https://community.uconn.edu/hazing-policy/
5.6 Non-Student Code Violations– SA
Restorative Measures Administered by SA:
Restorative measures administered by a SA Office are designed to promote accountability, rebuild trust, and support the learning and development of student organizations. These outcomes are proportionate to the nature and severity of the violation and are intended to strengthen the organization’s alignment with community expectations.
Possible restorative measures may include:
- Educational workshops, or policy trainings;
- Facilitated dialogues or reflection assignments; or
- Required changes to leadership structure or advisor engagement, governing documents.
RSOs that fail to complete assigned restorative measures may face further restrictions.
5.7 Inactive Status & RSO Re-Registration
A group of students wishing to register an RSO previously removed or sanctioned by the University must complete all sanctions issued prior to seeking registration. Once sanctions or suspension have been met, a group must then follow the registration requirements outlined under SOLID.
RSOs recognized under the Club Sports program or by the Center for Fraternity and Sorority Development (CFSD) must also follow re-registration, sanction review, or reinstatement processes specific to their respective departments, in addition to registration requirements mentioned above.
Note for Nationally Affiliated RSOs: If a national, regional, or external organization is seeking to register an RSO that was suspended through the University, they must follow the same review process and procedures outlined above. No external approvals override UConn's decision-making process regarding RSO status.