In any case involving dismissal for cause, the burden of proof is defined as more probable than not. The burden of proof that just cause exists shall be on the University. Proof of cause shall be by the record considered as a whole. Dismissal proceedings may be instituted on the following grounds:

1. failure to demonstrate, by way of the review processes detailed in Section 5, conformance to the University's standard of professional competence,
2. continued neglect of academic duties despite oral and written warnings,
3. serious personal misconduct,
4. deliberate and serious violation of the rights and/or freedom of fellow faculty members, administrators, or students,
5. conviction of a felony,
6. serious failure to follow the professional ethics of one's own discipline,
7. falsification of credentials and/or experience,
8. failure to follow standards of the University as described in this Handbook after oral and written warnings,
9. failure to follow standards of the University regarding harassment, discrimination, or behavior as specified in Sections 9.5, 9.6, 9.7, 9.8, or 12.8, and
10. behavior inconsistent with the Christian mission of the University.