Respondent-Process Advisor (RPA)

Read the Respondent-Process Advisor (PDF) document to see frequently asked questions about the role.

The Office of Student Rights and Responsibilities provides training for employees interested in serving as Respondent Advisors. Our next in-person Respondent Advisor Training will be held on August 28, 2026. SSP 4s and MPPs who are interested should email srr@csuchico.edu for registration information.

To help you prepare, we also encourage all prospective Respondent Advisors to complete the CSU Student Conduct Process Advisor Training(opens in new window) prior to attending the in-person session. This self-paced online module provides an overview of the CSU Student Conduct Process, the role of an advisor, student rights, and key policies, helping participants arrive with a strong foundation before engaging in campus-specific training.

View the SRR Training Sessions Flyer (PDF) for more information.

In the conduct process, students can opt for an advisor during meetings and hearings. If they need help finding one, they can contact a trained Chico State staff or administrator from the Respondent Pool, available to support students facing serious Student Conduct Code violations, including sexual misconduct, harm to a person, high-level alcohol or drug offenses, and more.

• Meet prior to a meeting or hearing to assist with preparedness
• Answer questions
• Explain procedures
• Provide silent support during meetings and hearings
• Make sure the students expressed needs are being addressed during interviews and hearings
• Assist the student in accessing other available university resources
• To optionally process meetings and hearings one-on-one after they conclude

A Respondent Advisor is not a representative who will speak on behalf of the student in any investigator or adjudication process.