Western University students who participate in rowdy off-campus events, like fake homecoming, could now face repercussions in their academic life.
The university's board of governors approved an amendment Thursday to the code of student conduct that extends the institution's jurisdiction to include unsanctioned events that, due to their nature or the number of students involved, become associated with the university.
The move is an attempt by the university to rein in bad behaviour by its students during illegal street parties like the massive annual fake homecoming or "FOCO" celebration in the fall.
“This change to the code is just one of a number of initiatives aiming to put an end to this illegal party,” said Jennifer Massey, Western’s Associate Vice-President of Student Experience. “The size of these street parties presents a complex problem that requires a well-coordinated response from Western, London Police, the City, and student leaders.”
Until now, the code of conduct only applied to student behaviour on-campus or at university sanctioned events.
The changes were brought forward by an ad hoc committee formed by the associate vice-president of student experience last month and with the advice of legal experts.
Sanctions for violating the school's code of conduct range from written warnings to loss of financial assistance to expulsion.
When deciding whether to exercise jurisdiction over off-campus conduct, the seriousness of the alleged conduct, the risk of harm involved, and whether the off-campus conduct is part of a series of actions that occurred both on and off the premises will be considered.
“I am pleased to see this change to Western’s code of student conduct. While not the sole solution to ending this dangerous event, it is a sign that we can make progress on this when the University, University Students’ Council, the City, and Police are working in tandem,” said London Mayor Ed Holder. “I know more solutions are in the works and I expect we will see further progress in the weeks and months ahead.”
Last year's student-led party on Broughdale Avenue drew more than 20,000 revelers to the north London street and caused immense strain on emergency services throughout the city. The cost for policing the unsanctioned event was more than $100,000. The day ended with 134 charges being laid against 132 party-goers, more than 3,100 warnings, and more than 50 people treated at hospital. The London Fire Department also found fire code violations at 30 residences.
