Philosophy

Linfield University advances a vision of learning, life and community that:

• Promotes intellectual challenge and creativity
• Values both theoretical and practical knowledge
• Engages thoughtful dialogue in a climate of mutual respect
• Honors the rich texture of diverse cultures and varied ways of understanding
• Piques curiosity for a lifetime of inquiry
• And inspires the courage to live by moral and spiritual principle and to defend freedom of conscience

In the broadest sense, Linfield exists to create a special environment for learning and pursuits of knowledge. It is an instrument for the development of the intellectual resources of its constituents. The University may be both a quiet sanctuary for contemplation and research and a forum for free discussion of contemporary issues. It is a place where the human spirit may be propelled toward a new discovery and deeper knowledge. Students, faculty members, administrators, staff, trustees, and alumni all share in the obligation to protect the integrity and promote the continuous growth of the University. All who benefit from it are indebted to it; differences lie only in the frequency and intimacy of contact with it.

The entire concept of discipline in an educational institution is meaningful only when it is relevant to the purposes and functions of that institution. As an institution of higher learning, Linfield engages in conduct actions and processes which are vital to its basic concerns and for what it is designed.

The relationship of the University with the student, therefore, is in the essential nature of a contract involving a set of rights and obligations, reflecting both the purposes of the University and those of the students in attendance.  

The University, therefore, exercises its authority over students in terms of the mutual interests of both parties and in terms of their contract with each other.

Student Code of Conduct

Students are expected to engage in behavior that is in accordance with the rules and regulations of the University. Students, like all members of the University – trustees, faculty, administration, and staff members – assume the responsibility to conduct themselves in compliance with the objectives and standards of conduct established by the University. These standards apply virtually and in-person, on- and off-campus at both McMinnville and Portland properties.

By enrolling in the University, students accept the responsibility to become fully acquainted with the University’s policies and student code of conduct and to comply with the University’s authority. The University expects students to maintain standards of personal integrity that are in harmony with the educational goals of the institution; to respect the rights, privileges, and property of others; and to observe national, state, and local laws and University policies.

Definitions

Student: The term “student” includes all persons taking courses at Linfield, either full-time, part-time or online. Persons who withdraw after allegedly violating the Student Code of Conduct, who are not officially enrolled for a particular term but who have a continuing relationship with Linfield, or who have been notified of their acceptance for admission are considered “students,” as are persons who are living in Linfield University Housing, although not enrolled in Linfield.

University Jurisdiction

Students are subject to all local, state, and federal laws. Conduct, whether on or off-campus which adversely affects the University’s mission and purpose and/or potentially violates the Student Code of Conduct will be subject to an action through the University Student Conduct Process and, if warranted, careful consideration will be given to University disciplinary action in addition to whatever action civil authorities might pursue.  The University may institute disciplinary proceedings against students whose conduct is prohibited by state, federal, or local laws and which occurs on or off campus, when such conduct is also a violation of the Student Code of Conduct, or University policies and regulations.