MBKU is committed to promoting an inclusive campus culture and fostering a learning environment where free inquiry is celebrated. Dissent, disagreement, a difference of opinion, or thinking differently from others is an aspect of expression in higher education, whether it manifests itself in a new and differing theory in quantum mechanics, a personal disagreement with a current foreign policy, opposition to a position taken by the University itself, or by some other means. The University recognizes the crucial importance of maintaining open communication and dialogue in the process of identifying and resolving problems that may arise in the dynamics of life in a university community.

Related Policies

In addition to the information included below certain existing policies under other categories within this handbook also address issues related to expression, assembly, and forums including the Student & University Expectations, University Student Code of Conduct, Student Association Handbook, Title IX: Sexual Harassment and Non-Discrimination Policy, Drug & Alcohol Abuse, and Classroom Behavior & Professional Standards of Dress. Additionally, each Program has its own Professionalism policies located in the Program Handbook. Familiarity with these policies is extremely important as it relates to expectations of professionalism in clinical settings.

MBKU has published policies and procedures regarding hosting events on campus found in the Student Organization Handbook on the Portal. Certain events (i.e., guest lectures, fundraisers, etc.) have a longer approval process than others to ensure a reasonably safe and professional learning environment is maintained.

By choosing to attend MBKU, students give their informed consent to follow University guidelines on professionalism and expectations of behavior. As a graduate health care institution, MBKU has extremely high standards of professional conduct which these policies and processes support.

Forums

As a private university, MBKU is not considered an acting arm of the state and therefore not directly bound by the First Amendment or the California Constitution (which only limits government action). University-owned spaces, including clinics, are private property and therefore not considered public forums. These spaces are also not available for use by people or groups unaffiliated with MBKU.

Certain locations on campus are not available for events or meetings unless an exemption is granted. These include:

1. Private offices, research laboratories, and clinical facilities (not including designated meeting rooms)
2. Facilities with sensitive materials, equipment, or records such as some offices and the library
3. Classrooms or meeting spaces where classes or other activities are already being held or have been reserved for that specific date/time

​Expression

Expression can take many forms, though at MBKU they will most often occur as meetings and scheduled events. Regardless of the form, expressive activities should not:

1. Disrupt normal University operations
2. Block access to campus buildings
3. Obstruct free movement on campus
4. Disrupt classes or other educational activities
5. Disrupt patient care, delivery of health care, and other clinic-related services and/or education

What Is Not Considered Free Expression?

Students may be found in violation of University policy if they engage in the following actions or behaviors:

1. Unreasonably infringing on others’ rights to free expression at authorized demonstrations, events, or programs
2. Violate the law
3. Enter a restricted area without authorization

For more information on planning an event, please refer to the Student Association Handbook.