The Restorative Practices unit within the Office of Student Accountability & Restorative Practices guides individuals, organizations, and groups through intentional processes centered on community-building and conflict resolution by promoting empathy, accountability, and community well-being. 

Restorative Practices is derived from the larger theoretical framework of Restorative Justice. The philosophy behind Restorative Justice considers the importance of harms created during a conflict or violation, the needs of those impacted by the conflict, the obligations of the individual(s) who created the harm, and the engagement from community members who might be directly or indirectly affected by the harm. At JMU, OSARP uses Restorative Practices to address instances of conflict that arise in the community, but these practices may not always align with traditional Restorative Justice approaches.  

Restorative Practices offer participants the opportunity to take active accountability for their actions and work within the JMU, City of Harrisonburg, Rockingham County, or other communities to collaboratively address any harm created. This approach emphasizes community well-being and empowers participants to repair the harm that has occurred. 

Beneath the umbrella of Restorative Practices are a variety of Restorative Processes offered by OSARP. Restorative Practices can be requested by students, faculty/staff, recognized student organizations, student groups, community members, JMU Police, Harrisonburg Police Department, external entities, or be required as a result of an OSARP process or other university or external conduct process.  

For more details on Restorative Practices at JMU, visit the Restorative Practices section of the JMU Student Handbook. 

Email us at osarp-restorativepractices@jmu.edu or visit the "Contact Our Office" page to make a referral, request a training, or to volunteer.