Again the data demonstrates that suspension is an infrequently used sanction. Judicial Affairs has wide discretion in dealing with student misconduct. In their response Judaical Affairs noted" If there is violence, drug dealing, or drinking and driving, or other behaviors that negatively affect the community that goes along with "a strike" a student can and often is suspended on a first or second violation." I appreciate that each case has individual circumstances that must be addressed but there seems to be a need for some standardized criteria like courts have "sentencing guidelines" that direct the consequences implemented for violations. I contend that increasing the number of suspensions will have the most impact on changing the negative alcohol culture at JMU. I see suspension as a way to increase accountability for student alcohol behavior misconduct. I believe JMU needs to increase the balance of "accountability" versus "education" and this may mean a paradigm shift in the Judicial Affairs office. The current mission of Judicial affairs is
- " We are committed to promoting student learning, civic responsibility and, through partnerships, developing the community necessary for the university to achieve its mission."
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