Hendricks Chapel Policies

The Ethical Framework for Religious Life at Syracuse University

Chaplains, Religious Group Directors and their staff, Religious Group Advisors, and recognized student religious groups and chaplaincies function within The Ethical Framework for Religious Life at Syracuse University. Within each of these categories, their status on campus requires adherence to the specified conduct norms indicated throughout by italics. Violations of these conduct norms places the person or group at risk of de-certification/loss of status, as determined by the Dean of Hendricks Chapel and specified below. Beyond those conduct norms indicated through italics, it is hoped that all participants within the religious life of the University will identify with the broad aspirations and spirit articulated below.

The Framework has been endorsed by the Senior Vice President and Dean of Student Affairs, the Hendricks Chapel Advisory Board, and the Chaplains Council. It has been reviewed by the Chancellor, Vice Chancellor and Provost, University Senate, University's general counsel, Director's Plus, and Academic Coordinating Council. It stands in congruence with other University statements of mission, policy, and procedure.

Departures from The Ethical Framework will initially be handled through discussion with the Dean of Hendricks Chapel and, if appropriate, other relevant university personnel. In the case of egregious or continuing violations by a religious leader the person will be asked to cease his/her campus ministry/program at Syracuse University and asked to relinquish the Syracuse University identification card which he/she gained through the Office of the Dean of Hendricks Chapel. Before termination stage is reached, the Dean will confer with the religious supervisor(s) within the sponsoring organization or denomination and/or, as appropriate, the Senior Vice President and Dean of Student Affairs. In the case of egregious or continuing violation by a student organization, recognition will be withdrawn, as determined by the Dean of Hendricks Chapel.

View Hendricks Chapel Ethical Framework (pdf)