University President Michael Adams announced he will hold the new policy that students must disclose arrests to the University until student input is considered.

Adams issued a statement Tuesday about the Code of Conduct revisions adopted at last week’s Cabinet meeting.

“I have spoken with Dr. [Rodney] Bennett, the vice president for student affairs, regarding the 72-hour disclosure policy. Although I commend him for bringing to the Cabinet a policy that would benefit our students, I join him in wishing he had engaged the student leadership more fully in the development of this policy,” Adams wrote.

“Since Cabinet action is advisory to the President, I am going to delay signing the approved policy and ask Dr. Bennett to engage student government leadership in discussion around the issue. He agrees with me that this is the best course.”

Amanda Ruckel, executive director of University Judiciary, said she hopes to work with the administration to “create a policy that truly benefits the student body.”

“Obviously, we’re very pleased Dr. Adams has decided to discuss this with students before signing it.”

Brad Valentine, president of the Interfraternity Council, said he hopes the council will be included in discussions.

“The Interfraternity Council is pleased with President Adams’ decision to gather student input regarding the new policy,” he said.

Tom Jackson, vice president for public affairs, said Bennett conducts regular meetings with student leaders and will “use those forums to get input.”

“People in the Student Affairs office work with Greeks to minority groups to every organization we have,” he said.

Adams said he has two

objectives by not signing the policy, which is set to be enacted Fall 2009.

“Primarily I want to encourage lawful, responsible and moderate behavior from the students who are a part of the University of Georgia community,” he wrote Monday. “But I also want our students to be an active part of that discussion and solution. I have confidence that we can achieve both going forward.”