Noorda-COM is committed to academic freedom, civil discourse, open inquiry and the exchange of ideas, free from coercion or retaliation. This commitment is vital to Noorda- COM’s educational mission to “empower our students with the essential personal and professional skills need to be competent, confident, and compassionate osteopathic physicians dedicated to meeting the healthcare challenges of the communities in which they serve.” Noorda-COM encourages constructive dialogue around issues and may provide resources to facilitate discussions on topics that impact or align with Noorda- COM’s mission and values.
As a private institution, College Property is not a public forum. To maintain an environment conducive to learning, to protect the safety of the campus community and visitors, and to preserve College Property, Demonstrations and Disruptive Conduct are not permitted on or within College Property. Further, College Units may not sponsor, support with college resources, or promote Demonstrations or Disruptive Conduct.
This policy does not apply to non-College Property, including public sidewalks and property adjacent to College Property. For activities outside of College Property, demonstrators should consult with local authorities about applicable regulations.
Definitions
Demonstration means an event that occurs on University Property that is not sponsored by Noorda-COM or any College Unit in which two or more people gather to raise awareness about, or express a viewpoint on, an issue or cause. Demonstrations include, but are not limited to, events such as assemblies, memorials, protests, leafletting, signature gathering, rallies, and sit-ins. Demonstrations also include counter-demonstrations.
Disruptive Conduct means conduct by any member of the college community that substantially obstructs, impairs, or interferes with
- teaching, study, research, or administration of the College;
- the authorized and other permissible use of College Property, including meetings of students, faculty, staff, administrators, and/or guests; or
- the rights and privileges of other members of the college community.
College Property means all real property, building, and facilities owned or controlled by Noorda-COM.
College Units means Noorda-COM departments and student clubs and associations.
Prohibited Behaviors
To maintain an environment conducive to learning, to protect the safety of the campus community and visitors, and to preserve College Property, Disruptive Conduct includes, but is not limited to, the following prohibited behaviors
- Preventing, disrupting, or interrupting college functions or activities, such as classes, lectures, meetings, ceremonies, performances, or other events, or the conduct of college business on College Property
- Occupying College Property that is closed or locked
- Obstructing the legitimate movement of any person or vehicle on College Property or access to or exit from any College Property
- Constructing, assembling, or placing temporary structures on College Property
- Tampering with College Property or affixing signs and banners to interiors or exteriors of buildings
- Defacing or damaging College Property or personal property in a manner that
requires escorts to return the property to its previous condition
Enforcement
Current Noorda-COM students, faculty, and staff who violate this policy may be subject to the college’s disciplinary processes and sanctions. Those who violate federal or state laws or local ordinances may be subject to arrest.
After being directed to leave by authorized college personnel or law enforcement, current Noorda-COM students, faculty, and staff participating in a Demonstration or Disruptive Conduct in violation of this policy who do not immediately depart may be subject to the college’s disciplinary processes and arrest for trespassing. After being directed to leave by authorized college personnel or law enforcement, individuals who are not currently enrolled or employed by Noorda-COM and who participate in a Demonstration or Disruptive Conduct in violation of this policy may be banned from College Property or subject to arrest for trespassing.
This policy was reviewed and revised February 2026. To view the full policy please see the Catalog/Student Handbook. For assistance with policies and procedures, please contact Alexa Levine (alexa.levine@noorda.edu).
