Informal resolution is a process overseen by the Title IX Coordinator, the primary goal of which is to end harassment, prevent the reoccurrence, and remedy any known impact on the campus community. The Title IX Coordinator will determine if informal resolution is appropriate, based on the willingness of the parties, the information gathered during the investigation, and the nature of the alleged conduct. Sanctions are generally not pursued as the result of an informal resolution process, though the parties may agree to appropriate remedies.
Anyone participating in the informal resolution process can stop that process at any time and request to continue through the formal resolution process. In addition, the University reserves the right to change an informal resolution process to a formal resolution process, if sufficient evidence suggests the need to do so. However, it is not necessary to pursue an informal resolution process first in order to initiate a formal resolution process.
A student wishing to bring formal sexual misconduct charges against another student has the right to use the University Judicial system. Anyone wishing to bring charges against another student should contact the Title IX Coordinator, who, along with the Dean of Students' office, will explain the formal conduct process. In addition, the Title IX Coordinator can initiate a formal hearing process if deemed appropriate. The formal resolution process, in addition to working toward ending harassment, preventing the reoccurrence, and providing remedies for any known impact(s) on the campus community, may also result in sanctions should the Hearing Board find that the respondent is in violation of the policy.
Due to the sensitive nature of sexual misconduct, a somewhat different procedure from the standard judicial process is used to hear these cases.
The complainant will be asked to write an account of the incident that will be used to generate a charge letter to the respondent and will be entered as evidence in the judicial hearing. If the complainant wants the University to impose a no-contact order on the respondent, they should request one at this time.
The respondent will receive a charge letter once charges have been determined by the Dean of Students or designee, and the complainant will be notified when this letter is delivered. The respondent will be offered a faculty/staff advocate and will be asked to respond to the complaint in writing within 72 hours of receiving it, and that response will be shared in writing with the complainant.
Any persons having specific knowledge of the matter may be called as witnesses by either the complainant or the respondent. Witness lists should be submitted in writing to the Dean of Students or designee at least 72 business hours before the hearing. Witness lists will then be shared in writing with all involved parties at least 48 hours before the hearing. Witnesses will be required to submit a statement in writing at least 72 business hours before the hearing to the Dean of Students or designee. No surprise witnesses and or guests will be permitted. Further, all documentary evidence that will be introduced to the hearing should be submitted to the Dean of Students or designee at least 72 business hours before the hearing so that it, too, may be shared with all involved parties at least 48 business hours before the hearing. No sexual history or character evidence about either party will be accepted.
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