Information for Advisors and Support People
There are various University processes that allow for the inclusion of an advisor or a support person. Typically, an advisor/support person is present during interviews, meetings, or hearings that are facilitated by a University staff person (or designee).
Who can serve as an advisor or support person?
This individual may be a parent/guardian, partner, lawyer, staff or faculty from the University, mental health provider, and/or friend.
Who cannot serve as an advisor or support person?
Someone that is considered a party to the case (ie, a witness, a referring party, or another impacted party).
Before the Meeting
- An advisor or support person is someone chosen by the student that is requested to attend particular meetings.
- An advisor or support person will not be provided to a student on their behalf.
- The individual is responsible to select an advisor or support person whose schedule allows attendance to the scheduled meetings.
- Inclusion of any individual other than the student(s) involved in the process and their advisor or support person is at the discretion of the facilitator.
- In compliance with FERPA, if you are requesting your advisor or support person receives documentation, you will need to sign a release of information.
During the Meeting
- A support person is not permitted to speak for, or on behalf of, the individual at any time.
- With permission from the meeting facilitator (ie, conduct educator, civil rights investigator, intake coordinator), an advisor or support person may make a statement and/or ask questions of the student to present relevant information that informs the process.
- The facilitator reserves the right to remove an advisor or support person at any time should the advisor or support person become disruptive to the process.
Please refer to the relevant policies and procedures. If you have further questions, please contact the appropriate offices.