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Other Conduct of Concern

The CSU defines Other Conduct of Concern (OCC) as conduct that does not violate CSU policies or local, state, or federal laws and, therefore, does not warrant disciplinary action, but that nevertheless negatively affects the learning, living, or working environment of the university community. Though these situations may not result in formal investigations, they may warrant intervention to address the impact, curb the behavior, and prevent recurrence. Left unaddressed, OCC can jeopardize campus well-being and erode a culture of respect and inclusion.  

Why OCC Matters

The CSU is committed to fostering a culture of respect and professionalism in all aspects of work, residence, and education. OCC undermines this commitment by interfering with student success, employee well-being and productivity, and the integrity of the academic environment. Addressing OCC is part of our institutional responsibility to foster equity, inclusion, and accountability. CSU is committed to upholding and protecting the principles of free speech, expression, and academic freedom, but also acknowledges the potential harm these rights may have on members of our community. Addressing OCC is a shared responsibility鈥攕tudents, employees, supervisors, administrators, and professionals in human resources, faculty affairs, and student affairs all play vital roles in creating safe and inclusive environments where all CSU community members feel heard and supported. Through listening, addressing, support services, and education, we work together to reduce the occurrence of OCC and uphold a culture of care, consideration, and accountability. 

Examples

In some cases, behavior may rise beyond OCC and constitute 鈥渁busive conduct鈥� as defined in , or be considered unprofessional conduct subject to discipline under . In such instances, disciplinary action will be pursued in accordance with existing practices and in alignment with the relevant . 

How to Address OCC

Reporting

If you have a concern that may fall under OCC, you may report to Pamela L. Jackson, Director of Conflict Resolution.

FAQs

• What is considered Other Conduct of Concern (OCC)?

  OCC refers to behavior that may not violate university policy or law but still negatively affects the campus environment鈥攆or example, behavior that is disruptive, disrespectful, or undermines collaboration and inclusion.

• Is OCC a policy violation?

  OCC does not meet the threshold for a formal policy or legal violation, but rather was addressed in the CSU Systemwide Guidance on Other Conduct of Concern.

• Can students report faculty or staff behavior as OCC?

  Any member of the campus community may report behavior that they believe constitutes OCC, regardless of the individual's role.

• Can OCC reports be submitted anonymously?

  In most cases, yes. However, anonymous reports may limit the university鈥檚 ability to follow up or respond fully.

• Will the person I report know that I filed the report?

  While efforts are made to protect the identity of reporting parties, some situations may require disclosure for resolution efforts to proceed. This will be handled with care and in accordance with campus protocol. 

• What happens after I file a report?

  A designated administrator will review the report, determine the next steps, and route it to the appropriate office. You will typically be contacted for more information and informed when the matter is resolved, as applicable. 

• Will anyone be punished for OCC?

  Not usually. OCC does not involve formal discipline unless it overlaps with behavior that violates policy or law. Instead, interventions may include informal resolution, education, mediation, or supportive measures. 

• What should I do if I鈥檓 not comfortable confronting the person involved?

  You can go directly to a supervisor or administrator, or you may submit an OCC report. Direct interaction between parties is encouraged but only when it is safe and appropriate to do so. 

• Does OCC include protected speech?
  The CSU does not discipline legally protected speech, but we may still address the impact it has on others through education, awareness, and community response. 
• What if I鈥檓 unsure whether something qualifies as OCC?

  You can consult with a campus office (e.g., HR, Student Conduct, Equity & Inclusion) or submit a report. You are not required to categorize the behavior鈥� campus professionals will assist in determining the best response. 

• Additional Campus Resources
  • Campus Security
  • Student Health Services
  • Employee Assistance Program