In the wake of the Rules and Discipline Committee’s decision to suspend two Rose students for improper computer use, a petition drive has begun to call attention to the situation of one of the students.

The freshman whose case has been called into question was suspended for one year as punishment for violating federal law and the Policy for Responsible Use of Rose-Hulman Computing Facilities. The student set up an FTP site on his computer, which allowed outside parties to download copyrighted software.

He waived his right to an appeal because of a desire to return home to Texas to be with his family, according to Chris Repa, a junior chemical engineering major. Repa is currently circulating a petition which expresses his belief that the student’s punishment was too harsh. The petition asks that the Rules and Discipline Committee reconsider their decision and allow him to return to classes spring quarter.

“I was really concerned about Rose-Hulman not giving second chances [in this case],” said Repa. “He had no chance to test the waters here.”

Repa also expressed his concern about the committee’s timing and handling of the decision. “The school didn’t approach him and warn him [when they learned of the violations],” he commented. “They only notified him of the trial.”

“This offense happened before Thanksgiving, and he went to class for two weeks before the trial, not knowing what his future would be,” Repa explained.

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