UW looking into new student conduct policy changes, already raising concerns for students and staff
Sep 1, 2026, 6:03 AM
Masked activists and pro-Palestinian protestors took over and barricaded themselves in the university’s new Interdisciplinary Engineering Building last May. (Photo courtesy of KIRO 7)
(Photo courtesy of KIRO 7)
The University of Washington (UW) is considering changes to its student conduct policy heading into the new school year. Some of those changes are already sparking backlash and concerns from students and staff about how the university will address student-led protests.
Under the proposed rules, individuals who refuse to identify themselves to university officials or conceal their identity during protests could face disciplinary action. Additionally, liability for property damage could extend beyond individual perpetrators to anyone participating in the demonstration.
The university’s review follows past campus demonstrations, including a May 2025 incident in which protesters occupied the Interdisciplinary Engineering Building.
The school said that occupation resulted in an estimated $1 million in damage to the facility. Police arrested 31 protesters for the building takeover, though none were ultimately charged for the property damage.
“It was time for them to take a close look at how they continue to ensure transparency, fairness and accountability when it comes to student conduct in the modern university environment,” UW President Robert Jones said in November, right as the university and stakeholders looked at those policies.
Some students and staff members have raised concerns that the policy adjustments could suppress free speech and discourage campus participation.
Isaac, a graduated UW student, questioned the administration’s motivation behind the proposal.
“I think this is something that the university is intentionally trying to include to make people more scared to go out to protests or even participate in organizations that are trying to hold the university accountable,” Isaac said.
Other students expressed apprehension regarding the existing conduct system and how broader rules might be applied. Trevor, a UW student, shared his previous experience with the campus disciplinary system.
“I have personally dealt with the conduct process and seen it be abused. I have been hit with a number of cases that have been retaliatory,” Trevor said.
He emphasized that open dialogue remains critical to campus life.
“If we can’t talk about the issues, then the issues never get addressed. So, I think it’s very important, and these changes make it very hard,” Trevor said.
The UW Board of Regents is scheduled to vote on the proposed policy changes on Sept. 9.
