The Policy on Non-Academic Misconduct [1]exists to ensure a safe and respectful environment for all students at the University of Guelph. Apologies are an expression of remorse and the willingness to take responsibility for your actions. Written apologies may be utilized in the non-academic misconduct process to provide students with an opportunity to take responsibility for actions, express feelings of remorse, and begin to rebuild trust with an individual or community. A written apology should be sincere, taken seriously, and meet an acceptable standard in order to be accepted by Student Judicial Services.
Below are some guidelines for written apologies:
In accordance with the Judicial Committee, you are to write a letter of apology to the people that were affected by your actions as referenced in your hearing or decision letter. Your letter should be addressed to these individuals and be genuine and respectful. Your letter must be submitted to Student Judicial Services at judicial@uoguelph.ca [2] for review and approval. Student Judicial Services will then forward your apology to the harmed party or parties.
As you write your apology letter, please consider the following guidelines:
1- Your Role in What Happened
Demonstrate that you understand the harm caused by your actions. Do not deny or minimize your responsibility for the harm caused. Instead, demonstrate that you are taking responsibility for your actions.
2- How You Feel
Express sentiments of regret and explain why you have these regrets.
3- What You Will Do
A statement of commitment to make amends or repair the harms that you have caused.
4- What you Will Not Do
Discuss what behaviors you will avoid in the future in order to avoid causing further harm.
Format: Apology letters should be typed and an appropriate length.
Deadline: Please submit your letter of apology to judicial@uoguelph.ca [3] by 11:59pm on the deadline outlined in your decision letter. Should you have any questions please contact Student Judicial Services at judicial@uoguelph.ca [2].