Know the Code

Kiana Arellano grew up in Colorado. Kiana was described as a "smart, fun-loving girl with an incredible sense of humor". In 2013 Kiana started struggling with anxiety and depression related to being cyberbullied. On May 19, 2013 Kiana attempted to end her life. The attempt caused a brain injury that left Kiana paralyzed and unable to speak. Kiana and her family experienced the devastating impact of cyberbullying and chose to take action. 

In 2015, Colorado Legislators approved House Bill 1072 and "Kiana Arellano's Law" was passed, C.R.S. § 18-9-111. Kiana has left a lasting legacy on the State of Colorado as it relates to preventing and responding to incidents of cyberbullying. As a State we are committed to kindness and respect to one another and Kiana's Law codifies this.

You can learn more about this Colorado Law at: https://law.justia.com/codes/colorado/title-18/article-9/part-1/section-18-9-111/

There are two forms of Disruption that the SCCS assist with addressing: 

1. Disruptive Student Behavior: This type of misconduct relates to the academic environment specifically. Behavior that the faculty member is responsible to intervene or is disruptive to other students is likely to be considered disruptive. Follow this link to learn more about the Disruptive Student Behavior Policy.
2. The Student Code of Conduct also defines Disruptive behavior. In short, behavior that materially and substantially interferes with, obstructs, or disrupts a normal University of Auraria Campus activity could be considered disruptive.

Appendix B- Anti-Hazing Policy

In 2024 the U.S. Department of Education made legislative changes as it relates to hazing. The legislation has tasked CU Denver with three actions:

1. Prevention and Education: CU Denver is committed to educating its students on appropriate behavior to prevent incidents of hazing.
2. Addressing Concerns of Hazing: The SCCS is responsible for addressing concerns of hazing through the Student or Organizational Conduct process as described in the Code.
3. Disclosing incidents of Hazing
   a. Reported incidents of Hazing are to be included in the Annual Security Report, per the Clery Act. The Annual Security Report can be found at this link: https://www.ucdenver.edu/emergencymanagement/clery-act/annual-security-and-fire-safety-reports
   b. Findings of Hazing (ie, when an Organization is found Responsible for Hazing), this will be posted on CU Denver's website. The Campus Hazing Transparency Report can found at this link: https://cm.maxient.com/chtr.php?UnivofColoradoDenver

In May 2024, Colorado Governor Jared Polis signed a law making it a misdemeanor to knowingly carry a firearm onto certain sensitive areas, which includes school grounds. The law took effect July 1, 2024 and includes the open and concealed carry of firearms on University and College Campuses. Those carrying out the duties of university employment requiring the use of a firearm (e.g., state certified police officers) are an exception to this change. On June 21, 2024, members of the Board of Regents resolved to amend weapons policies to align with State law.

Please review CU Regent Policy 14.E for more information.

For more information about the Colorado Law, please review C.R.S. § 18-12-105.5.