Sexual Misconduct, Sexual Harassment, Gender Discrimination Policy and Title IX Procedures

Pomona College (hereafter referred to as the “College”) is committed to providing a safe and non-discriminatory educational, working, and residential environment for the students, faculty, staff and other members of the Pomona College and the Claremont Colleges community.  In particular, the College aspires to provide members of its community with an environment that is free from sexual harassment, sexual assault, relationship violence, and stalking (collectively, “sexual misconduct”).  This conduct is disruptive of the living, learning and working environment of the Pomona College community and deprives students, employees and other community members of equal access to the College’s programs and activities. 

The College embraces its responsibility to increase awareness of sexual misconduct, prevent its occurrence, diligently investigate complaints of sexual misconduct and retaliation, support survivors, deal fairly with those accused of sexual misconduct and firmly with offenders, and comply with Title IX of the Higher Education Amendments of 1972 (“Title IX”); Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (“Title VII”); Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act of 2013 (“VAWA”); the Campus SaVE Act and the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act (“Clery Act”) as well as the California statutes.

The College’s Sexual Misconduct, Harassment, and Discrimination Policy (the “Policy” and these “Procedures”) confirms the College community’s commitment to gender equity required by federal and state law and the College’s own values. 

This Policy has the following goals:

• It identifies the conduct prohibited by the College.  If a person engages in such conduct, the College will take steps to determine the person’s responsibility and, if determined to be responsible, to impose appropriate sanctions against the person.  In addition, the Policy provides the College with the means to protect the College community from a person who the College reasonably believes, based upon evidence, presents a danger to members of the College community.

• It sets forth in reasonable detail the procedures that the College will follow in the event any member of the College community is or believes himself or herself to be the victim of sexual misconduct, harassment, or discrimination. The procedures are grouped into four categories: (i) reporting, (ii) intake and initial review, (iii) investigation, and (iv) hearings and sanctions. The procedures are designed to be fair and impartial and to resolve complaints promptly and equitably for the parties involved and the College community.  This description of the procedures are designed to provide members of the College community with information about what to expect if a report alleging a violation of this Policy is made to the College.

• It provides information about some of the medical, psychological and other resources available to persons who are the victims of sexual misconduct, discrimination or harassment. The College is committed to expanding resources, and a detailed list of the most current resources is maintained on the Pomona College website here. 

• It promotes prevention of sexual misconduct in the first instance as the best policy for the Pomona College Community. To that end, the College provides education and training for its students, faculty and staff on a regular basis, recognizing that there are things individuals can do to proactively reduce the risk of experiencing sexual violence. While the College recommends that all members of the Community review and follow that training to help prevent sexual misconduct, the College also recognizes that it is never a victim’s fault if someone else takes sexual advantage of that person.

Certain terms used in this Policy must be defined with as much precision as possible.  For example, the formal definitions of such terms as “Sexual Misconduct,” “Consent” and “Incapacitation” are critical to understanding the Policy. When those terms are used in the text of the Policy online, they are hyperlinked so that if the cursor is placed over the term, the definition appears in a popup box.

This Policy applies to all Pomona College faculty, staff, and students.  Students employed by the College will considered students for purposes of this Policy.  This Policy also applies to third parties (such as campus visitors or vendors) who may have contact with members of the College community either on the College’s campus or at other College events and programs.  If the alleged perpetrator (hereafter referred to as “Respondent”) is an employee or student from one of the other Claremont Colleges or the Claremont College Consortium, the College will investigate the matter and take steps to stop the conduct and remedy its affects to the extent reasonably possible.  

However, the relevant procedures related to any disciplinary action against the Respondent will be those of the Respondent’s home institution. Throughout the complaint, investigatory, hearing, appeal, and/or disciplinary process, the College will maintain its authority to take action to ensure campus safety.  In addition, as to Respondents who at any time were previously enrolled at the College, the College’s jurisdiction and disciplinary procedures extend to sexual misconduct, harassment and discrimination which occurs on Claremont colleges premises, at an activity sponsored by any of the Claremont Colleges, and conduct which occurs off campus, even if it occurs outside of an academic term or when the student is not currently enrolled at the College.

Moreover, the College retains the authority to administer this Policy with respect to any such conduct by a student Respondent (while a student) even if the student subsequently graduates, withdraws, takes leave, or is otherwise absent from the College, and even if the College does not learn of such conduct until after the student graduates, withdraws, takes leave, or is otherwise absent from the College. 

The procedures set forth in this Policy are administrative in nature and are separate and distinct from the criminal and civil legal systems.  Pursuing resolution through these procedures does not preclude survivors from pursuing legal action now or in the future.  If the conduct in question is alleged to be a violation of both College policy and public law, the College will proceed with its normal process, regardless of action or inaction by outside authorities.  Decisions made or sanctions imposed through these or other College procedures are not subject to change because criminal or civil charges arising from the same conduct are dismissed, reduced, or rejected in favor of or against the Respondent.

Summary

• This Policy prohibits Sexual Misconduct that is either Non-Consensual Sexual Contact or Non-Consensual Sexual Intercourse. 
• This Policy prohibits Dating Violence, Domestic Violence, Stalking and Hazing when any of those types of conduct is gender-based.
• This Policy prohibits Sexual Misconduct in the form of Sexual Exploitation.
• This Policy prohibits Discrimination on the basis of gender.
• This Policy prohibits Retaliation against any person who is exercising his or her rights under this Policy. 
• This Policy prohibits False Reporting of reports of violations of this Policy.

The obligations of this Policy require a clear understanding of the concept of consent. In order for individuals to engage in sexual activity of any type, there must be clear, knowing and voluntary Consent prior to and during sexual activity. 

Consent is positive permission to engage in the sexual activity. California law defines consent as “affirmative, conscious, and voluntary.” 

Persons are unable to give Consent if they Lack Capacity to give Consent including Incapacitation Due To Alcohol Or Drugs Or Other Reasons or if Consent was obtained through Force and Coercion.  A person who engages in any conduct prohibited by this Policy is not excused from responsibility owing to the person’s use of alcohol or drugs such that the person’s judgment was impaired.

Definitions of Prohibited Conduct

1. Sexual Misconduct

The College defines sexual misconduct as any of the following:

1. Non‐Consensual Sexual Contact (or attempts to commit same)

Non‐Consensual Sexual Contact is:

• any intentional sexual touching,
• however slight,
• with any object,
• by a person upon a person,
• that is without consent, with or without force.*

Sexual contact includes:  Intentional contact with the breasts, buttock, groin, or genitals, or touching another with any of these body parts, or making another touch you or themselves with or on any of these body parts; any intentional bodily contact in a sexual manner, though not involving contact with/of/by breasts, buttocks, groin, genitals, mouth or other orifice.

*The use of force is not “worse” than the subjective experience of violation of someone who has sex without consent.  However, the use of force will be a factor in increasing sanctions.

2. Non‐Consensual Sexual Intercourse (or attempts to commit same)

Non‐Consensual Sexual Intercourse is:

• any sexual intercourse however slight,
• with any object,
• by a person upon a person,
• that is without consent, and with or without force.

Intercourse includes:  vaginal penetration by a penis, object, tongue or finger, anal penetration by a penis, object, tongue, or finger, and oral copulation (mouth to genital contact or genital to mouth contact), no matter how slight the penetration or contact.

Nonconsensual sexual contact and nonconsensual sexual intercourse are often referred to as “sexual assault.” As defined by the federal Violence Against Women Act, sexual assault means an offense classified as a forcible or nonforcible sex offense under the uniform crime reporting system of the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  Generally, a sexual assault has been committed when an individual engages in sexual activity without the explicit consent of the other individual involved, including when the individual lacks capacity to consent.  In this Policy, sexual activity is any touching of a sexual or other intimate part of a person either for the purpose of asserting power or gratifying sexual desire of either party.  This includes coerced touching of the Respondent by the Complainant as well as the touching of the Complainant by the Respondent, whether directly or through clothing.  Accordingly, for purposes of the College’s policies, sexual assault falls within the College’s definition for sexual misconduct. 

2. Other Conduct When Gender-Based

The following alleged concute will be addressed through the Procedures outlined in this Policy when the conduct is gender-based:

1. Dating Violence

As defined by the VAWA, dating violence is violence committed by a person

1. who is or has been in a social relationship of a romantic or intimate nature with the victim; and
2. where the existence of such a relationship shall be determined based on a consideration of (1) the length of the relationship, (2) the type of the relationship, and (3) the frequency of interaction between the persons involved in the relationship.

2. Domestic Violence

As defined by the VAWA, domestic violence is the use of physical, sexual or emotional abuse or threats to control another person who is a current or former spouse or other intimate partner.  It includes felony or misdemeanor crimes of violence committed by a current or former spouse of the victim, by a person with whom the victim shares a child in common, by a person who is cohabitating with or has cohabitated with the victim as a spouse, by a person similarly situated to a spouse of the victim under the domestic or family violence laws of the jurisdiction receiving grant monies, or by any other person against an adult or youth victim who is protected from that person’s acts under the domestic or family violence laws of the jurisdiction.

1. Stalking as defined by the College Stalking Policy as set forth in the College’s Disciplinary Policies and Procedures and as also found in the College’s Student Code.
2. Hazing as defined by the College Hazing Policy as set forth in the College’s Disciplinary Policies and Procedures and as also found in the College’s Student Code.

3. Sexual Exploitation

Sexual exploitation is a form of sexual misconduct which occurs when a person takes non‐consensual or abusive sexual advantage of another for his/her own advantage or benefit, or to benefit or advantage anyone other than the one being exploited, and that behavior does not otherwise constitute one of the other sexual misconduct offenses. Examples of sexual exploitation include, but are not limited to:

• Invasion of sexual privacy;
• Prostituting another person;
• Non‐consensual video or audio‐taping of sexual activity;
• Going beyond the boundaries of consent (such as letting your friends hide in the closet to watch you having consensual sex);
• Engaging in voyeurism;
• Knowingly transmitting a sexually transmitted infection, a sexually transmitted disease, or HIV to another person;
• Exposing one’s genitals in non‐consensual circumstances; inducing another to expose their genitals;
• Sexually‐based stalking;
• Knowingly contributing to the incapacitation of another person where such incapacitation is a contributing factor to that person being subjected to another form of sexual misconduct.

4. Sexual Harassment

Sexual harassment may be either “quid pro quo” harassment, that is sexual advances or requests for sexual favors where submission is made an explicit or implicit term or condition of an individual’s employment or education or where submission or rejection is used as the basis for making employment or educational decisions affecting an individual; or “environmental ” harassment, where the individual is subjected to a hostile or intimidating environment, in which verbal or physical conduct, because of its severity and/or persistence, is likely to interfere with an individual’s work or education, or to affect adversely an individual’s living conditions. Occasional compliments that are generally accepted as not offensive or other generally accepted social behavior, on the other hand, do not constitute sexual harassment.

Examples of sexual harassment may include such conduct as:

• Direct or implied threats that submission to sexual advances will be a condition of employment, work status, promotion, grades, or letters of recommendations;
• Direct propositions of a sexual nature;
• Subtle pressure for sexual activity, an element of which may be repeated requests for private meetings without an academic and employment purpose;
• A pattern of conduct that would discomfort or humiliate, or both, a reasonable person at whom the conduct was directed that includes one or more of the following: (1) unnecessary touching, patting, hugging, or brushing against a person’s body; (2) remarks of a sexual nature about a person’s clothing or body, whether or not intended to be complimentary; (3) remarks about sexual activity or speculations about previous sexual experience; or (4) other comments of a sexual nature, including sexually explicit statements, questions, jokes or anecdotes;
• Certain visual displays of sexually-oriented images outside the educational context;
• Letters, notes or electronic mail containing comments, words or images as described in (e) above.

Sexual harassment includes harassment of women by men, of men by women, and same gender gender-based harassment.

5. Sex Discrimination

Sex discrimination involves treating someone unfavorably because of that person’s sex (gender).  Sex discrimination also can involve treating someone less favorably because of his or her connection with an organization or group that is generally associated with people of a certain sex.

Stalking Policy

Policy Statement

Pomona College strives to maintain a campus environment free of violence. Stalking can affect every aspect of an individual’s life, often beginning with phone calls, emails, social networking posts and/or letters, and can sometimes escalate to violence. Individuals of all genders, gender identities, races and ethnicities, religions, age, abilities, and sexual orientation can be the subject of stalking. Individuals who engage in stalking behaviors are subject to disciplinary action. Violations of this policy will result in disciplinary action up to and including expulsion for students and up to and including termination for employees. Stalking is a crime in California and is subject to criminal prosecution. Pursuing a complaint through the College does not preclude an individual from pursuing legal action as well.

Definition

Stalking is a course of conduct directed at a specific person that would cause a reasonable person to: (1) feel fear for their safety; or (2) the safety of others or suffer substantial emotional distress. Stalking includes behaviors or activities occurring on more than one occasion that collectively instill fear in a victim, and/or threaten their safety, mental health, or physical health. Such behaviors and activities may include, but are not limited to, the following:

Non-consensual communication, including face-to-face communications, telephone calls, voice messages, e-mails, texts, letters, notes, gifts, or any other communications that are undesired and place another person in fear

Use of online, electronic or digital technologies, including:

• Unauthorized posting of pictures, messages, and/or information about the complainant on websites, Internet sites, social networking sites, and/or bulletin boards or chat rooms.
• Sending unwanted/unsolicited email, texts, or talk requests
• Posting private or public messages on Internet sites, social networking sites, and/or bulletin boards
• Installing spyware on a victim’s computer
• Using Global Positioning Systems (GPS) to monitor victim
• Pursuing, following, waiting, or showing up uninvited at or near a residence, workplace, classroom, or other places frequented by the victim
• Surveillance or other types of observation, including staring or “peeping”
• Trespassing
• Vandalism
• Non-consensual touching
• Direct verbal or physical threats
• Gathering information about an individual from friends, family, and/or co-workers
• Threats to harm self or others
• Defamation - lying to others about the victim

Reporting Information

1. Off-Campus

Pomona College encourages individuals to report incidents of stalking to law enforcement authorities, and respects that whether or not to do so is a personal decision of the individual. Members of the Dean of Students staff are available to assist individuals in contacting the Claremont Police or other appropriate law enforcement agency. In some circumstances, a victim may wish to seek a legal order of protection against the alleged perpetrator. Victims may also request that the College restrict someone’s access to the College campus who is not a member of the Pomona College community.

In certain instances, Pomona College may need to report conduct to law enforcement authorities even when the subject of the conduct has not decided to do so. Such circumstances include incidents that warrant the undertaking of additional safety and security measures for the protection of the victim and the campus community or other situations in which there is clear and imminent danger, and when a weapon may be involved. The decision to report an incident to law enforcement will be shared with the victim and will take into account the safety concerns of the individual.

1. To the College

The College encourages individuals to report incidents of stalking to the College. Prompt reporting is encouraged, because facts often become more difficult to establish as times passes. However, the College will investigate and take appropriate action in response to all reports of stalking behavior regardless of when the alleged conduct occurred. The ability of the College to respond to the conduct is limited if the Respondent is no longer a member of the College community. If a College staff member, faculty member or student leaves the College with a pending complaint they will not be permitted to return to the College until the complaint is resolved through the College’s appropriate grievance or discipline process.

An individual who believes they have been the subject of stalking and who wishes for the details to remain completely confidential should speak with certain College officials who may maintain confidentiality and may not disclose information shared with them, except where required by law. These officials include: Monsour Counseling and Psychological Services staff, Student Health Services staff and members of the clergy including the McAlister Center chaplains.

Safety and Support Resources

Pomona College is committed to supporting victims of stalking by providing safety and support services. Due to the complex nature of stalking, an individual who has been a victim of stalking may need assistance in obtaining one or more of the following:

• College no-contact order
• Counseling support through Monsour Counseling and Psychological Services
• Change in an academic schedule
• Provision of alternative housing opportunities
• The imposition of an interim suspension on the alleged perpetrator
   

For assistance, please contact the Title IX Coordinator, Associate Dean of Students and College Title IX Coordinator, Sue McCarthy, at 909-621-8017. If safety is an immediate concern, contact Campus Safety at 909-607-2000 if you are on campus or the Claremont Police Department at 911 if you are off-campus.

 

Definition of “Consent”

These procedures govern the reporting, initial review, investigation, and resolution of complaints of alleged violations of this Policy when they involve Pomona College students, faculty, staff, and/or third-party Respondent.

Individuals who believe they have been subjected to sexual misconduct, harassment and/or discrimination are encouraged to report such conduct.  Any College faculty member, coach, student affairs professional staff and student resident assistant, as well as other College designated staff, who receives information of an alleged sexual misconduct, discrimination and/or harassment is obligated to file a report with one of the College representatives set forth below.

1. Reporting an Alleged Violation of this Policy
   1. Reporting to the College

Individuals who believe that they have been the subject of or have witnessed alleged sexual misconduct, discrimination and/or harassment are encouraged to contact any of the appropriate College representative listed below:

• Title IX Office
  • ​​Sue McCarthy, Associate Dean of Students and Title IX Coordinator / Clery Officer
    909-621-8017; Email: susan.mccarthy@pomona.edu;
    Office: Alexander Hall 113
  • Rita Shaw, Assistant Director, Campus Advocacy Resources Education and Support (CARES) 909-621-8017; Email: rita.shaw@pomona.edu; Office: Alexander Hall 113

 

• Deputy Title IX Coordinators:
  • David Tanenbaum, associate dean of the college and professor of physics and astronomy
    909-621-8722; Email: david.tanenbaum@pomona.edu
    Office: Alexander Hall, Dean of the College Office
  • Ellie Ash-Bala, Associate Dean of Campus Life, Student Affairs; Director, Smith Campus Center
    909-621-8611; Email: ellie.ash-bala@pomona.edu
    Office: Smith Campus Center, Suite 244
  • Brenda Rushforth, Assistant Vice President/CHRO
    909-607-1686; Email: brenda.rushforth@pomona.edu
    Office: Human Resources, Pendleton Building

​​Under no circumstances is an individual required to report sexual misconduct to a supervisor or academic instructor who is the alleged perpetrator.

• On-Call Administrator:

Students can always reach an on-call dean 24 hours a day by calling Campus Safety (909-607-2000) and having the on-call administrator contacted.

• Law Enforcement:

​The College encourages any member of the College community who experiences any form of sexual violence to immediately contact the Claremont Police Department (“CPD”) by contacting Campus Safety (909-607-2000) if they are on campus or by dialing 911 if they are off campus.

In addition, individuals may also directly report sexual violence at any time after an incident by contacting CPD: 570 West Bonita Avenue, 909-399-5411

2. Confidentiality of Reports to the College

One of the most significant concerns expressed by Complainants and witnesses when they come forward is a desire for confidentiality.  Respondents who deny responsibility for the wrongdoing also have expressed a strong desire for confidentiality until the matter has been resolved.  The College deeply respects these concerns, as cases involving sexual discrimination, harassment, and assault are particularly sensitive and demand special attention to issues of privacy. 

The College will make all reasonable efforts to maintain the confidentiality of the parties involved in an investigation and/or hearing for a complaint as well as the confidentiality of the details of an investigation, any hearing, and except where permitted by law, the sanctions imposed.  This includes redacting private, confidential (including but not limited to medical) information unrelated to the facts and circumstances of the case pursuant to FERPA and other federal and state, privacy protections, as well as the College’s Policy.  The College will inform in writing all individuals involved in the investigation and/or hearing process of the critical importance and expectation that, while the processes are ongoing, they maintain the confidentiality of the process and any information shared with them as a result of their participation.  Further, all documents provided in preparation for or related to the hearing proceedings may not be disclosed to any other party under FERPA as such documents constitute education records which may not be disclosed outside of the proceedings, except as may be required or authorized by law.  All hearing proceedings will be confidential and will not be discussed outside the process; this includes any witnesses and advisors/support persons.  

Complainants and Respondents are not prohibited from sharing details of complaints with family/partner, counsel, or a support person/advisor below, who may support or assist the parties in presenting their case. Those persons are also expected to maintain the same level of confidentiality as Complainants and Respondents and the College will provide a writing regarding confidentiality to Complainants and Respondents so that they can deliver it to such persons.

Following resolution of an investigation and any related hearing, the College does not impose any restrictions on the parties regarding re-disclosure of the following: the name of the student (Respondent or Complainant), the findings of the hearing, any sanctions imposed by the College, and the rationale for the findings and sanctions. 

If at any point the Complainant requests confidentiality with respect to the Respondent and/or decides not to pursue action by the College, the College will make all reasonable attempts to comply with this request.  In these situations, the College’s ability to investigate and respond to the conduct may be limited.  The College is required to weigh the Complainant’s request for confidentiality with the College’s commitment to provide a reasonably safe and non-discriminatory environment.  If the College cannot maintain a Complainant’s confidentiality, the Complainant will be notified by the Title IX Coordinator.

3. Confidential Resources at the College and in the Community

An individual who wishes for the details of the incident to remain completely confidential may speak with certain designated College employees who, by law, shall maintain confidentiality and may not disclose the details of an incident, subject to certain exceptions in the law (e.g., child abuse).  If an individual makes a report to these confidential resources but not to the persons or entities identified in section IV.A.1 above, then the College will not be in a position to take action because it will not have notice of the incident. These resources are listed below:

• Project Sister Rape Crisis Counselor at the Claremont Colleges, EmPOWER Center

The EmPOWER Center (1030 Dartmouth Ave
909-607-0690) has limited counseling hours; call the number below or check the Pomona College Sexual Assault: Pomona College Processes & Resources website.

• Monsour Counseling and Psychological Services staff
  Tranquada Student Services Center, 1st floor
  757 College Way
  909-621-8202, 909-607-2000 (after-hours emergency)
• Student Health Services staff
  Tranquada Student Services Center, 1st floor
  757 College Way
  909-621-8222, 909-607-2000 (after-hours emergency)
• Members of the Clergy including the McAlister Center chaplains.
  McAlister Center for Religious Activities
  919 North Columbia Avenue
  909-621-8685
• Pomona College Ombuds Office: Conchita Serri
  Harvard Building/McCarthy Building Suite 103
  Campus Email: conchita.serri@pomona.edu
  Private/Secure Email: PomonaCollegeOmbuds@hotmail.com
  909-621-2328​

4. Community Resources

Individuals who have experienced sexual misconduct, including sexual assault may also seek confidential support from a local or national groups, including:

• Project Sister Sexual Assault 24/7 Crisis Hotline (Claremont, CA)
  909-626-HELP (909-626-4357)
• House of Ruth (24/7 Crisis Hotline for Domestic violence support)
  877-988-5559
• National Sexual Assault 24/7 Crisis Hotline (RAINN)
  800-656-HOPE

B. Retaliation Policy

Retaliation is defined as the taking of an adverse action by any student, faculty or staff member against another individual as a result of that individual’s exercise of a right under this Policy, including participation in the reporting, investigation or hearing as provided in this Policy.  Retaliation includes adverse actions intended to improperly deter involvement of another in these procedures set forth in this Policy, and may involve actions intended either to intimidate or to penalize individuals for their participation. Retaliation is strictly prohibited by law and this Policy; any person who is found to have engaged in retaliation shall be subject to disciplinary action.  Persons who believe that they have been retaliated against for making a complaint/report or for cooperating in an investigation or hearing should immediately contact the Title IX Coordinator.  A complaint filed in good faith under this Policy shall not constitute retaliation.

3. False Reporting Policy

It is a violation of College policy to file a knowingly false complaint under this Policy of alleged discrimination, harassment and/or sexual misconduct.  A complaint by an individual against another based on the filing of a knowingly false complaint may be pursued using the steps followed for sexual misconduct harassment, and discrimination, harassment, and sexual misconduct related complaints as outlined in this Policy and may be filed only after there is completion of the underlying complaint.  A complaint filed in good faith under this provision shall not constitute a false report. A finding of no responsibility is not, by itself, evidence that the underlying complaint was not filed in good faith.

4. The Title IX Coordinator’s Initial Review of A Report

1. Title IX Coordinator and Title IX Coordinator’s Team

The purpose of the Title IX Coordinator is to promote and protect gender equity at Pomona College as required by Title IX and related federal and state laws. The Title IX Coordinator does not favor Complainants over Respondents or Respondents over Complainants. The Title IX Coordinator does not promote the College’s interests other than its interest in gender equity as evidenced in this Policy and provided by law. The Title IX Coordinator’s primary jobs are to administer the procedures in this Policy in order (i) to make appropriate support and resources available to Complainants, other persons who have experienced sexual harassment, discrimination or misconduct, and Respondents; (ii) to provide equitable and prompt resolution of complaints; (iii) uphold the College’s sexual harassment, discrimination and misconduct processes and procedures; and (iv) to support ongoing prevention, education and outreach efforts related to sexual misconduct, harassment and discrimination.

Although a report may come in through many sources, the College is committed to ensuring that all reports of sexual misconduct, harassment, and discrimination are referred to the Title IX Coordinator, which ensures consistent application of this Policy.

The Title IX Coordinator may enlist the Title IX Coordinator’s Team to assist in the review, investigation, and/or resolution of the report. Members of this team include the Title IX Coordinator, deputy Title IX coordinators, and the associate deans of students. At any point during the process, from initial intake through the appeal, the Title IX Coordinator and the Title IX Coordinator’s Team may consult with an expert on trauma-informed response and sexual assault response or with the College’s legal counsel.

Depending on the relationship of the Complainant and the Respondent to the College (student, staff, faculty, or other) and the nature of the report, additional Title IX Coordinator’s Team members may include representatives from other Pomona or TCCS offices as necessary, such as Campus Safety, Dean of the College, or College’s Office of Human Resources. The members of this Team oversee the resolution of the reported harassment or misconduct through the College’s resolution procedures.

2. The Title IX Coordinator’s Intake and Initial Review

Upon receipt of a report, the Title IX Coordinator or its designee will provide resources and support information and will conduct an Initial Review. The first step of the Initial Review will typically include an initial meeting between the Complainant and the Title IX Coordinator or a member of the Title IX Coordinator’s Team. The purpose of the meeting is to gain a basic understanding of the nature and circumstances of the report; it is not intended to be a full investigation interview. At this meeting, the Complainant will be provided with information about resources, procedural options, and interim remedies.

During and following this meeting, the Title IX Coordinator or, when appropriate, the designated Title IX Coordinator’s Team member, will make a reasonable assessment of the safety of the individual and of the campus community and will determine whether the College has sufficient information to determine the appropriate interim measures, if any.

The Title IX Coordinator or, when appropriate, the designated Title IX Coordinator’s Team member, will also consider the interest of the Complainant and the Complainant’s expressed preference for the manner of resolution (e.g., in a harassment case, for example, there might be an initial preference for mediation efforts that does not impact the ultimate decision to be made regarding whether a violation of policy occurred).  Where appropriate, and as warranted by an assessment of the facts and circumstances, the College will seek action consistent with the Complainant’s request. Mediation is not an option for resolution in cases involving allegations of sexual assault.

The Title IX Coordinator Team will make use of a checklist of tasks that shall be completed by the Title IX Coordinator and/or the Title IX Coordinator Team in connection with the intake and initial review.  A sample of the checklist, which may be modified from time to time, is set forth as Appendix A below.

The Title IX Coordinator also will promptly inform the Respondent of any action(s) (including any interim protective measures) that will directly impact the Respondent, and provide appropriate opportunities for the Respondent to respond to such action(s) as set forth in this Policy. 

3. Support Person/Advisor

The Complainant and Respondent may each have a support person of their choosing present with them at all meetings and any hearing associated with a complaint and in which the respective individual is participating. The support person can be the advisor of choice of the student, and can include a current member of the Claremont Colleges community or an external support person, including a lawyer. The support person cannot have involvement in the underlying case. The support person may attend, but shall not participate in, meetings or the hearing.  Because this is an administrative process, any legal counsel present as the party’s support person during any related proceedings, including, but not limited to, investigatory interviews, hearing, or any other related discussion or meeting, shall be permitted only in a non-participatory advisory role.

In addition, at least three days (72 hours) prior to any hearing, the Complainant and Respondent may each notify the Title IX Coordinator that both a support person and advisor/lawyer will be present during the hearing (no more than two individuals in total); the request should be in writing and should identify the persons the Complainant or Respondent wishes to be present during the hearing. Again, both the support person and advisor/lawyer shall be permitted only in a non-participatory advisory role.    

4. Case Manager

The Complainant and Respondent will each be assigned by the Title IX Coordinator, or its designee, a separate College-appointed, trained Case Manager. The Case Manager, usually a staff or faculty member, can help the party to whom they are assigned to navigate through this Policy and related procedures, and support the party in accessing resources, accommodations, and other kinds of support. At the discretion of the party, their assigned Case Manager may accompany them to any meeting/hearing related to these procedures. The Case Manager is expected to be a silent and non-participating observer in any meetings/hearings. The Title IX Coordinator will assign the Case Manager from a pool of trained individuals after the initial intake usually within seven (7) days.

5. Interim Measures and Support Resources

The College may take whatever measures it deems necessary in response to an allegation in order to protect an individual’s rights and personal safety, the safety of the College community, or if determined to be necessary to ensure the integrity of the investigation or adjudication process.  

Determinations regarding interim measures are made by the Title IX Coordinator or, when appropriate, the designated Title IX Coordinator’s Team member, on a case-by-case basis. Such measures include, but are not limited to, an interim suspension (immediate, temporary suspension pending the outcome of investigation and/or hearing process), a “no contact” letter (an order that an individual refrain from direct or indirect contact with another person or persons), restrictions on access to campus or areas of campus, and/or appropriate changes in academic schedule. Interim measures may include reporting the matter to the local police.

A Complainant or Respondent may request a “no-contact” letter or other protection. Not all of the measures listed in this section will be necessary in every case. If an individual identifies an interim measure that is not already provided by the College, the College will consider whether the request can be granted. In those instances where interim measures affect both a Complainant and Respondent, the College will minimize the burden on the Complainant wherever appropriate. 

Failure by any individual to adhere to the parameters of any interim measure is a violation of College policy and may lead to disciplinary action. Individuals are encouraged to report such failures by another party to the Title IX Coordinator. Depending on timing and other circumstances, allegations that an individual has violated any interim measure may be investigated and/or adjudicated (where appropriate) separately from or as part of an ongoing matter.

Other interim measures and available support services may include:

• Campus Safety escort to ensure safe movement on campus;
• referral to medical or emergency services;
•  counseling services;
• assistance with identifying off-campus resources;
• assistance with transportation, parking, and/or travel needs;
• assistance in obtaining a court-issued restraining order;
• varied forms of academic assistance, including academic support services, tutoring, alternative course completion options, rescheduling of exams and assignments, changing class schedules, transferring course sections or withdrawing from a course without penalty;
• change of work schedules, job assignments, and worksite location;
• voluntary leave of absence;
• and/or any other remedy that can be tailored to the involved individuals to achieve the goals of this Policy.

Interim measures assume no determination of responsibility.  Both parties will receive a document setting forth the interim measures that have been deemed appropriate.  The Title IX Coordinator reserves the right to increase, reduce or otherwise adjust interim measures as appropriate based on feedback from Complainants and Respondents.

6. How Complainant Requests for Confidentiality Impact the Title IX Process

The Title IX Coordinator and Title IX Coordinator’s Team will take all reasonable steps to respond to a complaint consistent with a Complainant’s requests for confidentiality. However, the team’s ability to do so may be limited based on the nature of a Complainant’s request. For example if a Complainant requests that the Complainant’s name or other identifiable information not be shared with the Respondent or that no formal action be taken, the College may be limited in its ability to fully respond to the complaint. The College will balance the Complainant’s requests with its responsibility to provide a safe and non-discriminatory environment for all College community members and to afford a Respondent fundamental fairness.

In the event that a Complainant does not wish to proceed with formal action, the Title IX Coordinator, in consultation with the Title IX Coordinator’s Team, as appropriate, will decide, based on the available information, whether additional steps are required. In making this decision, the Title IX Coordinator’s Team will consider following factors: whether the Complainant has requested confidentiality; whether the Complainant wants to participate in additional steps; the severity and impact of the sexual misconduct; the respective ages of the parties, including whether the Complainant is a minor under the age of 18; whether the College can undertake any action without the participation of the Complainant; whether the Respondent has a pattern of committing sexual misconduct; the existence of independent evidence; the extent of prior remedial methods taken with the Respondent; and any legal obligation to proceed based on the nature of the conduct.

7. Conclusion of the Initial Review

At the completion of the Initial Review, the Title IX Coordinator, in collaboration as appropriate with the Title IX Coordinator’s Team, will determine whether to refer the report for further investigation.  An investigation will not necessarily result in a hearing. The facts developed by the investigator may not warrant a hearing or the Complainant may decide not to go forward with a hearing after the investigation is complete.  However, even if a hearing is not pursued, the College has the discretion to take interim measures that ensure campus safety.

The Title IX Coordinator or a member of the Title IX Coordinator’s Team will discuss the determination with the Complainant and provide information to assist in understanding available resources and procedural options, which will be communicated to the Complainant in writing.

The Title IX Coordinator will separately inform the Complainant and the Respondent that retaliation is prohibited by law under the VAWA, Title VII, and California state law (Fair Employment and Housing Act, as well as College policy.  The College will take strong responsive action to protect the safety of any individual.

The Title IX Coordinator will document each report or request for assistance in resolving a case involving charges of sexual misconduct, gender discrimination or other violations of this Policy, whether by the Complainant or a third party, and will review and retain copies of all reports generated as a result of investigations. These records will be kept confidential to the extent permitted by law.

5. Time Frames for Resolution

The College seeks to resolve all reports of violations of this Policy, especially those involving sexual misconduct, within sixty (60) calendar days of the initial intake of the complaint by the Title IX Coordinator or its designee.  The College seeks to complete the investigation phase, including the Investigation Report, in thirty (30) calendar days, and the post-investigation response and hearing process, though not including the appeals processes, in thirty (30) calendar days. The Policy also includes other specific deadlines which fall within the 60 day time frame.  The College seeks to complete any appeals processes within forty (40) calendar days. While all time frames expressed in this Policy are not rigid requirements, they are meant to be followed except upon showing of good cause.  Circumstances may arise that require the extension of time frames. 

Circumstances that may require the extension of time frames include the complexity of the allegations, the number of witnesses involved, the effect of a concurrent criminal investigation, any intervening school break or vacation, or other unforeseen circumstances. The College will seek, if possible, to continue investigations or scheduling of hearings during breaks, or if the student is on leave or off-campus due to study abroad or other reasons.  Due to the time frame expectations for these kinds of cases, the College acknowledges that academic deadlines, and curricular and/or co-curricular commitments may have to be delayed or not met; they do not constitute bases or rationales for delay. As the College recognizes that the investigation and adjudicative processes take precedence over academic deadlines and/or commitments, the College will provide academic accommodations, including reduction of course loads and other accommodations.

In the event that the investigation and/or resolution processes described in this Policy are anticipated to exceed this time frame, the Title IX Coordinator will notify all parties of the reason for the delay in writing and the expected adjustment in time frames.

Student Respondents will not be eligible to be considered for graduation until the completion of the entire proceedings, including any appeals process. In such circumstances, fair and reasonable efforts will be made to expedite the process, including seeking the cooperation of all parties.

6. Reporting Options Outside of the College: State and Federal Enforcement Agencies and the Claremont Police Department

The College’s internal procedures are administrative in nature and are separate and distinct from the criminal and civil legal systems. Pursuing resolution through these procedures does not preclude someone from pursuing legal action now or in the future.

1. Reporting Potential Criminal Violations to Claremont Police Department (“CPD”)

In cases involving potential criminal misconduct, individuals are encouraged to file a report with the CPD by calling 911 or contacting CPD directly: 570 West Bonita Avenue, 909-399-5411

The College’s procedures and the legal system work independently from one another and the College will proceed with its process, regardless of action or inaction by outside authorities. Decisions made or sanctions imposed through these procedures are not subject to change because criminal or civil charges arising from the same conduct are dismissed, reduced, or rejected in favor of or against the Respondent.

2. Compliance with California Education Code Section 67383

In certain circumstances as defined under the California Education Code, the College shall be required to forward information concerning reports of violent crimes, including reports of sexual assaults, to the CPD. The report shall be forwarded to the CPD without identification of the Complainant and Respondent, unless explicit consent is provided by the Complainant allowing for the sharing of personally identifying information.

3. Prohibited Sexual Harassment and Discrimination in Employment-Reporting to State and Federal Enforcement Agencies

In addition to the College’s internal remedies, employees and students should also be aware that the Federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (“EEOC”) and the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (“DFEH”) investigate and prosecute complaints of prohibited harassment and discrimination in employment.  These agencies may be contacted at the addresses listed below:

• EEOC Los Angeles District Office
  255 East Temple Street, 4th Floor
  Los Angeles, CA 90012
  (213) 894-1000
   
• DFEH Los Angeles Office
  611 W. Sixth Street, Suite 1500
  Los Angeles, CA 90017
  (213) 439-6799

Students also have the right to file a formal complaint with the United States Department of Education:

• Office for Civil Rights (OCR)
  400 Maryland Avenue, SW
  Washington, DC 20202-1100
  Customer Service Hotline #: (800) 421-3481
  Facsimile: (202) 453-6012
  TDD#: (877) 521-2172
  Email: OCR@ed.gov
  Office of Civil Rights (OCR) Website

7. Truthfulness

All participants in an investigation and/or hearing are expected to cooperate fully and provide only truthful statements and responses in all meetings and/or hearings related to these procedures. Individuals may be hesitant to report conduct which they have experienced or witnessed or participate in an investigation and/or hearing because they fear that they themselves may be charged with a policy violation, such as underage drinking at the time of the incident. To encourage truthfulness and reporting, the College pursues a policy of offering Complainants and witnesses limited immunity from being charged for policy violations related to an alleged incident which is reported in good faith.  See the Good Samaritan Policy below for more information about the College’s consideration of related alcohol and drug policy violations. While violations other than those covered by the Good Samaritan Policy cannot be completely overlooked, the College will provide educational rather than punitive responses, in such cases.

8. Investigation Procedures

When a determination has been made by the Title IX Coordinator to proceed with an investigation, the following steps are initiated by the Title IX Coordinator or Title IX Coordinator’s Team designee.

1. ​​Complaints Involving Allegations of Sexual Misconduct, including Sexual Assault Against Student Respondents

a. Appointment of Investigators

The Title IX Coordinator will select one external investigator, and may select one internal investigator employed by Pomona College, both chosen from a pool of investigators trained in the College’s policies and procedures, trauma-informed response, Title IX investigations, and the dynamics of sexual harassment and sexual violence; however, where one of the involved parties is from a different Claremont College, a single external investigator may be selected. The Investigator(s) will meet with the Complainant to review the complaint, related policies, and these procedures.

The Title IX Coordinator will promptly notify the parties of the identity of the Investigator(s).  If a party objects to the proposed Investigator’s involvement based upon an actual or perceived conflict of interest, the party must provide written notice to the Title IX Coordinator within three (3) calendar days from the notification explaining the conflict of interest.  A conflict of interest occurs where an individual’s personal interests or relationships conflict with their ability to be a neutral fact finder in a particular case.  For example, if a member has also served as an advisor for a party to a complaint or has a close personal relationship with one of the parties, there may be a conflict of interest.  The Title IX Coordinator will promptly rule on the objection and provide notice to the parties.  If a conflict of interest is found, the Title IX Coordinator will expedite selection of another Investigator(s), and shall promptly notify the parties of the selection.b.

b. Appointment of External Adjudicator

In those matters moving forward to investigation and involving a Respondent from the College, the Title IX Coordinator will also select an External Adjudicator who will preside over any hearing of the matter to determine responsibility under this Policy, including (in consultation with the Title IX Coordinator) the determination of sanctions pursuant to Policy’s guidelines. The External Adjudicator will also review and evaluate any pre-hearing concerns raised by the parties with respect to improper investigative procedures. The External Adjudicator will be a neutral party from outside of the College, typically a retired civil jurist, experienced attorney or seasoned student conduct administrator experienced in these matters, who is trained and experienced in dispute resolution, Title IX and trauma-informed response to complaints of sexual harassment and sexual violence, the dynamics of sexual misconduct, and the College’s policies and procedures, including applicable confidentiality requirements.

The Title IX Coordinator will promptly notify the parties of the identity of the External Adjudicator.  If a party objects to the proposed External Adjudicator’s involvement based upon a conflict of interest, the party must provide written notice to the Title IX Coordinator within three (3) calendar days from the notification explaining the conflict of interest.  The Title IX Coordinator will promptly rule on the objection and provide notice to the parties.  If a conflict of interest is found, the Title IX Coordinator will expedite selection of another External Adjudicator, and shall promptly notify the parties of the selection.

3. Expert Consultation(s)

The Investigator and External Adjudicator may consult medical, psychological, forensic, technological or other experts when expertise on a topic is needed in order to achieve a fuller understanding of the issues under investigation and/or before the External Adjudicator during a hearing.

4. Investigation Overview

Every complaint alleging sexual misconduct, discrimination and/or harassment that the College submits to an Investigator will be investigated promptly and thoroughly.  In conducting an investigation, the Investigators will be particularly sensitive to concerns regarding retaliation relating to an individual’s participation in the process as a party or witness.  The Investigators will conduct interviews as needed with all appropriate individuals, including the Complainant and Respondent, and will gather any pertinent evidentiary materials.

After concluding their investigation, the Investigators will draft an Investigation Report summarizing witnesses interviewed, evidentiary materials gathered, and conclusions concerning any violations of College policy.  The Investigation Report shall identify the evidence considered material to the Investigators’ recommendation that the case should or should not move forward to a hearing, and will provide explanation of the Investigators’ characterization of evidence for purposes of reaching their conclusion.  The Investigators will normally complete their investigation and deliver the Investigation Report to the Title IX Coordinator within 30 calendar days.

The Investigators will then provide their report to the Title IX Coordinator.  The Title IX Coordinator will review the report to determine if there is sufficient information for the College to believe that it is more likely than not that a College policy violation occurred.  The Title IX Coordinator may refer back to the Investigators any questions that the Title IX Coordinator has concerning the report’s contents or conclusions.  After the Investigators successfully answer or resolve the Title IX Coordinator’s questions or concerns, if any, and the Title IX Coordinator has completed its review, the Title IX Coordinator will either: (1) prepare a Statement of Alleged Policy Violations which will summarize why the College believes it is more likely than not that the alleged conduct did occur and that the Respondent is responsible for violating College policy; or (2) will prepare a Results Notification Memorandum which will summarize why the College believes it is more likely than not that the alleged conduct did not occur and that the Respondent is not responsible for violating College policy.

5. Post-Investigation Meetings with Parties

The Title IX Coordinator will then meet with the Complainant and Respondent, separately, to discuss the content of the Statement of Alleged Policy Violations or the Results Notification Memorandum and to provide them with copies of the document along with copies of the Investigators’ report.  To protect the integrity of the College’s various investigatory and/or hearing processes, these documents shall be kept confidential by the parties involved and not shared with witnesses or persons not involved in the matter.  However, Complainants and Respondents are not prohibited from sharing these documents with family, counsel, or a support person/advisor.  Neither the Complainant nor the Respondent are required to meet with the Title IX Coordinator, and may decline to do so.

6. Response by the Parties to the Statement of Alleged Policy Violation or Results Notification Memorandum and Review by External Adjudicator

After meeting with the Title IX Coordinator to review the conclusions of the investigation, and/or after receiving either the Statement of Alleged Policy Violation or Results Notification Memorandum, each party may submit a written response to the Title IX Coordinator for review by the External Adjudicator.  Such written responses, if any, must be submitted within seven (7) calendar days after receipt of either the Statement of Alleged Policy Violation or Results Notification Memorandum.  Exceptions to the seven-day period will be limited and rare. 

Through this written response, either party may request the External Adjudicator to overturn the determination of the Title IX Coordinator’s assessment based on improper investigative procedures and/or the discovery of new evidence that was not reasonably available at the time of the investigation interviews.  Any party asserting improper investigative procedures should outline additional steps that party believes are necessary for a proper investigation, including:

• Posing any follow-up issues or questions for any witness, the Complainant or Respondent;
• Requesting a follow-up interview with the Investigators to clarify or provide any additional information that such party believes is relevant to the investigation or to seek clarification from the Investigator on aspects of the Investigation Report;

​Any party asserting new evidence should clearly identify that evidence, including:

• Identifying any new witnesses who should be interviewed (including a description of what topics/issues the witness should be asked to address and why this is necessary for the investigation); and
• Explaining any additional new evidentiary materials that should be collected and reviewed to the extent that such items are reasonably available (e.g., emails, text messages, social media postings, etc.), understanding that the Investigator lacks the power to subpoena evidence.

​Any response to the Statement of Alleged Policy Violations or the Results Notification Memorandum and/or Investigation Report shall not exceed 5,000 words (approximately 20 pages, double-spaced).  The Title IX Coordinator will also ensure that each of the parties will receive any response submitted by the other party.  Late submissions will not be accepted.

The External Adjudicator has seven (7) calendar days to review these submitted responses and related documents and make a determination of whether there were improper investigative procedures and/or whether there is new evidence, as defined in this section of the Policy, that should be admitted for purposes of the hearing.  In the event the External Adjudicator makes a determination of either improper investigative procedures or the existence of new, necessary evidence, the External Adjudicator shall direct that the appropriate additional steps be taken in response.  The decision of the External Adjudicator under this provision may not be appealed, and any further appeals by either party may not be based on the ground of improper investigative procedures.

7. Respondent Takes Responsibility: Overview

If the Respondent takes responsibility, then the Title IX Coordinator will forward the documents to the External Adjudicator for a determination of sanctions.  The External Adjudicator will determine sanctions in consultation with the Title IX Coordinator and in conformity with this Policy.  The Complainant will be informed of the Respondent’s decision to take responsibility, and has the opportunity to submit an Impact Statement for consideration by the External Adjudicator.  Similarly, the Respondent has the opportunity to submit a Mitigation Statement following their decision to take responsibility for the violation(s).  The Impact and Mitigation Statements, each no longer than 1,500 words, must be submitted within three (3) calendar days.

The Title IX Coordinator will ensure that each of the parties has an opportunity to review any statement submitted by the other party, and within three (3) calendar days, submit any further statement, no longer than 1,500 words.

All submissions should be sent to the Title IX Coordinator.  The Title IX Coordinator will provide any statement(s) to the External Adjudicator.  The External Adjudicator will then have ten (10) calendar days to reach a determination of sanctions.

8. Appeal of Results Notification Memorandum

In response to a Results Notification Memorandum, the Complainant may appeal the Title IX Investigators’ determination to the External Adjudicator.  Any written response to the Results Notification Memorandum will be forwarded by the Title IX Coordinator to the External Adjudicator for review and analysis, along with the Investigation Report and supporting evidence.  As above, the External Adjudicator has seven (7) calendar days to review these documents and make any of the following decisions: (i) determine that the complaint should proceed to hearing; (ii) send the case back to Title IX Coordinator for further investigation; or (iii) review and reject claims of improper investigative procedure/new evidence.  The decision of the External Adjudicator may not be appealed, and any further appeals by either party may not be based on the ground of improper investigative procedures.

2. Complaints Involving Allegations of Sexual Misconduct, including Sexual Assault, Against Faculty and Staff Respondents

1. Appointment of Investigators

The Title IX Coordinator will select one external investigator, and may select one internal investigator employed by Pomona College, both chosen from a pool of investigators trained in the College’s policies and procedures, trauma-informed response, Title IX investigations, and the dynamics of sexual harassment and sexual violence; however, where one of the involved parties is from a different Claremont College, a single external investigator may be selected.  The Investigator(s) will meet with the Complainant to review the complaint, related policies, and these procedures.

The Title IX Coordinator will promptly notify the parties of the identity of the Investigator(s).  If a party objects to the proposed Investigator’s involvement based upon an actual or perceived conflict of interest, the party must provide written notice to the Title IX Coordinator within three (3) calendar days from the notification explaining the conflict of interest.  A conflict of interest occurs where an individual’s personal interests or relationships conflict with their ability to be a neutral fact finder in a particular case.  For example, if a member has also served as an advisor for a party to a complaint or has a close personal relationship with one of the parties, there may be a conflict of interest.  The Title IX Coordinator will promptly rule on the objection and provide notice to the parties.  If a conflict of interest is found, the Title IX Coordinator will expedite selection of another Investigator(s), and shall promptly notify the parties of the selection.

2. Expert Consultation(s)

​The Investigator(s) and External Adjudicator may consult medical, psychological, forensic, technological or other experts when expertise on a topic is needed in order to achieve a fuller understanding of the issues under investigation and/or before the External Adjudicator conducts a post-investigation review.

3. Investigation Overview

Every complaint alleging sexual misconduct, discrimination and harassment that the College submits to Investigator(s) will be investigated promptly and thoroughly.  In conducting an investigation, the Investigator(s) will be particularly sensitive to concerns regarding retaliation relating to an individual’s participation in the process as a party or witness.  The Investigator(s) will conduct interviews as needed with all appropriate individuals, including the Complainant and Respondent, and will gather any pertinent evidentiary materials.

After concluding their investigation, the Investigator(s) will draft an Investigation Report summarizing witnesses interviewed, evidentiary materials gathered, and conclusions concerning any violations of College policy.  The Investigation Report shall identify the evidence considered material to the Investigators’ conclusion that it is more likely than not or less likely than not that a College policy violation occurred, and will provide explanation of the Investigators’ characterization of evidence for purposes of reaching their conclusion.  The Investigator(s) will normally complete their investigation and deliver the Investigation Report to the Title IX Coordinator within 30 calendar days.

The Investigator(s) will then provide their report to the Title IX Coordinator.  The Title IX Coordinator will review the report to determine if there is sufficient information for the College to believe that it is more likely than not that a College policy violation occurred.  The Title IX Coordinator may refer back to the Investigators any questions that the Title IX Coordinator has concerning the report’s contents or conclusions.  After the Investigator(s) successfully answer or resolve the Title IX Coordinator’s questions or concerns, if any, and the Title IX Coordinator has completed its review, or if the Title IX Coordinator agrees with the Investigators’ conclusions, the Title IX Coordinator will either: (1) prepare a Statement of Alleged Policy Violations which will summarize why the College believes it is more likely than not that the alleged conduct did occur and the Respondent is responsible for violating College policy; or (2) will prepare a Results Notification Memorandum which will summarize why the College believes it is more likely than not that the alleged conduct did not occur and the Respondent is not responsible for violating College policy.

4. Post-Investigation Meetings with Parties

In cases involving faculty respondent(s), as well as cases involving staff respondents that also implicate a student as a complainant or respondent, the Title IX Coordinator will then meet with the Complainant and Respondent, separately, to discuss the content of the Statement of Policy Violations or the Results Notification Memorandum and to provide them with copies of the document along with copies of the Investigators’ report (redacted if appropriate).

In all other cases involving staff respondents, once the Investigation Report is completed, the Title IX Coordinator reserves the right to prepare an Investigation Summary, which summarizes the Investigation Report, and provide only the Investigation Summary to the Complainant and Respondent along with the relevant Statement of Policy Violations or the Results Notification Memorandum.

To protect the integrity of the College’s various investigatory and/or hearing processes, these documents shall be kept confidential by the parties involved and not shared with witnesses or persons not involved in the matter.  However, Complainants and Respondents are not prohibited from sharing these documents with family, counsel, or a support person/advisor.  Neither the Complainant nor the Respondent are required to meet with the Title IX Coordinator, and may decline to do so.

5. Response by the Parties to the Statement of Policy Violation or Results Notification Memorandum and Review by External Adjudicator

After meeting with the Title IX Coordinator to review the conclusions of the investigation, and/or after receiving either the Statement of Policy Violation or Results Notification Memorandum, either party may submit a written response to the Title IX Coordinator for review by the College’s External Adjudicator to request that the External Adjudicator to overturn the determination of the Title IX Coordinator’s assessment based on (i) improper investigative procedures and/or (ii) the discovery of new evidence that was not reasonably available at the time of the investigation interviews.

Such written responses, if any, must be submitted within seven (7) calendar days after receipt of either the Statement of Policy Violation or Results Notification Memorandum.  Exceptions to the seven-day period will be limited and rare.  Any party asserting improper investigative procedures should outline additional steps that party believes are necessary for a proper investigation, including:

• Posing any follow-up issues or questions for any witness, the Complainant or Respondent;
• Requesting a follow-up interview with the Investigators to clarify or provide any additional information that such party believes is relevant to the investigation or to seek clarification from the Investigator on aspects of the Investigation Report;

​Any party asserting new evidence should clearly identify that evidence, including:

• Identifying any new witnesses who should be interviewed (including a description of what topics/issues the witness should be asked to address and why this is necessary for the investigation); and
• Explaining any additional new evidentiary materials that should be collected and reviewed to the extent that such items are reasonably available (e.g., emails, text messages, social media postings, etc.), understanding that the Investigator lacks the power to subpoena evidence.

​Any response to the Statement of Policy Violations or the Results Notification Memorandum and/or Investigation Report/Investigation Summary shall not exceed 5,000 words (approximately 20 pages, double-spaced).  The Title IX Coordinator will also ensure that each of the parties will receive any response submitted by the other party.  Late submissions will not be accepted.

Upon receipt of a written response from either party, the Title IX Coordinator will promptly notify the parties of the identity of the External Adjudicator.  If a party objects to the proposed External Adjudicator’s involvement based upon a conflict of interest, the party must provide written notice to the Title IX Coordinator within three (3) calendar days from the notification explaining the conflict of interest.  The Title IX Coordinator will promptly rule on the objection and provide notice to the parties.  If a conflict of interest is found, the Title IX Coordinator will expedite selection of another External Adjudicator, and shall promptly notify the parties of the selection.

The External Adjudicator has seven (7) calendar days from the date of its appointment and receipt of these documents to review these submitted responses and related documents and make a determination of whether there were improper investigative procedures and/or whether there is new evidence, as defined in this section of the Policy, that should be admitted for purposes of the hearing.  In the event the External Adjudicator makes a determination of either improper investigative procedures or the existence of necessary, new evidence, the External Adjudicator shall direct that the appropriate additional steps be taken in response.  The decision of the External Adjudicator under this provision may not be appealed, and any further appeals by either party may not be based on the ground of improper investigative procedures.

6. Respondent Takes Responsibility: Overview

If the Respondent takes responsibility, then the Title IX Coordinator will forward the documents to the appropriate Vice President for a determination of sanctions.  The Vice President will determine sanctions in consultation with the Title IX Coordinator and/or the College’s Office of Human Resources and in conformity with this Policy.  In so doing, the Respondent’s prior conduct shall be taken into account when determining a sanction.

The Complainant will be informed of the Respondent’s decision to take responsibility, and has the opportunity to submit an Impact Statement for consideration by the Vice President.  Similarly, the Respondent has the opportunity to submit a Mitigation Statement following their decision to take responsibility for the violation(s).  The Impact and Mitigation Statements, each no longer than 1,500 words, must be submitted within three (3) calendar days.

The Title IX Coordinator will ensure that each of the parties has an opportunity to review any statement submitted by the other party, and within three (3) calendar days, submit any further statement, no longer than 1,500 words.

All submissions should be sent to the Title IX Coordinator.  The Title IX Coordinator will provide any statement(s) to the appropriate Vice President.  The Vice President will then have fourteen (14) calendar days to reach a determination of sanctions.

7. Appeal of Results Notification Memorandum

In response to a Results Notification Memorandum, the Complainant may appeal the Title IX Investigators’ determination to the External Adjudicator.  Any written response to the Results Notification Memorandum will be forwarded by the Title IX Coordinator to the External Adjudicator for review and analysis, along with the Investigation Report and supporting evidence.  As above, the External Adjudicator has seven (7) calendar days from its appointment and receipt of these documents to review these documents and make any of the following decisions: (i) if the underlying Investigation Report had concluded that it was more likely than not that a policy violation had occurred and the Title IX Coordinator disagreed and had issued a Results Notification Memorandum, the External Adjudicator may affirm the Investigator’s conclusion that it was more likely than not that a policy violation occurred and forward the underlying complaint and Investigation Report to the appropriate Vice President for a determination of sanctions; (ii) if the underlying Investigation Report had concluded that it was less likely than not that a policy violation had occurred, and the Title IX Coordinator agreed, the External Adjudicator may disagree and send the matter back for further investigation; or (iii)  review and reject claims of improper investigative procedure/new evidence.  The decision of the External Adjudicator may not be appealed, and any further appeals by either party in any other internal process may not be based on the ground of improper investigative procedures.

8. Response by the Parties to the Statement of Policy Violation and Review by appropriate Vice President

After meeting with the Title IX Coordinator to review the conclusions of the investigation, and/or after receiving the Statement of Policy Violation (following resolution of an appeal to the External Adjudicator (if any), each party may submit a separate Impact or Mitigation statement, no longer than 1,500 words, to the Title IX Coordinator for review by the appropriate Vice President for a determination of sanctions.  The Impact Statement is a written statement describing the impact of the Respondent’s conduct on the Complainant and expressing a preference about the sanction(s) to be imposed.  The Mitigation Statement is a written statement explaining any factors that the Respondent believes should mitigate or otherwise be considered in determining the sanctions(s) imposed.

Sanctions for a violation of these policies by faculty, staff and third-party respondents may range from a warning, suspension, campus ban(s), or termination, as appropriate.  Nothing in this Policy alters an employee’s at will employment status.  Intermediate sanctions may include suspension or required attendance at training courses and seminars, among other things.  In appropriate cases, the relevant Vice President may temporarily suspend an individual (with or without pay, if the individual is a member of the College’s staff) accused of violating this policy pending an investigation.  Other interim steps, such as separating the Complainant and Respondent or modifying work schedules, may also be employed while the investigation is in progress.  The College will also take steps to prevent recurrence of any discrimination or harassing conduct and will also take steps to correct any discriminatory effects on the Complainant(s) or other students, faculty, staff, or contractors, if appropriate.

In addition, the Respondent’s prior conduct shall be taken into account when recommending a sanction.  For staff and faculty respondents, the appropriate Vice President may consult with the College’s Office of Human Resources if appropriate to ensure consistency of sanctions/discipline and will have access to the complete record of the case in order to determine any sanctions to be imposed or corrective action to be taken.  The Vice President may consider any or all of the following in determining sanctions to be imposed on the violator:

1. the impact of the conduct on the Complainant;
2. the impact of the conduct on the community, its members, or its property;
3. the Respondent’s prior discipline history;
4. how the College has sanctioned similar incidents in the past;
5. the nature and violence of the conduct at issue;
6. whether the Respondent has accepted responsibility;
7. whether the Respondent is reasonably likely to engage in the conduct in the future based on pattern and practice evidence heard and considered by the investigator;
8. the need to deter similar conduct by others; and
9. any other mitigating or aggravating circumstances, including the College’s values.

The appropriate Vice President will communicate the decision to the Title IX Coordinator and the parties within two weeks.  The Complainant’s copy of the report of the details of the sanction(s) imposed on Respondent, if any, may be limited in the copy of the panel’s report given to Complainant due to Respondent’s FERPA or other applicable rights to privacy concerning educational or work records.  The relevant Vice President will also enter the decision into the Respondent’s file.  It is the College’s intent that the sanction(s) imposed will be implemented immediately; however, any decision rendered may be subject to applicable grievance and arbitration procedures of any applicable collective bargaining agreement.

Pursuant to the Faculty Handbook, termination of a tenured appointment, or of a term appointment before its expiration occurs only for adequate cause.  For faculty respondents, if the Vice President for Academic Affairs/Dean of the College determines that dismissal is appropriate, he/she will consult the procedures of the “Pomona College Dismissal Policy” found in the Faculty Handbook, and initiate related proceedings as appropriate.  In applying these procedures, the finding that the policy has been violated will not be revisited.  The sole decision is whether the specific policy violation constitutes acts sufficient to support adequate cause for termination or dismissal.

If the Respondent is a member of the executive staff of the President, the President will serve as the disciplinary authority to determine sanctions. If the President is the Respondent, the Chair of the Board of Trustees will serve as the disciplinary authority to determine sanctions.

3. Complaints Involving Gender-Based Discrimination/Harassment and No Allegations of Sexual Misconduct

1. ​Initial Intake of Complaint

Upon receipt of a complaint of gender-based discrimination/harassment with no allegations of sexual misconduct, the Title IX Coordinator or its designee will consult with the Complainant.  The Title IX Coordinator or its designee will obtain consent from the Complainant before beginning an investigation.

2. Initial Determinations by Title IX Coordinator

The Title IX Coordinator, or its designee, may, after speaking with Complainant, determine that the conduct complained about clearly does not constitute sexual harassment or sex discrimination and so inform the Complainant.  The Title IX Coordinator or its designee may also determine that although the conduct does not constitute sexual harassment or sex discrimination, if left unchecked, it could develop into sexual harassment or sex discrimination.  In this case, the Title IX Coordinator or its designee will speak with the individual(s) engaging in this conduct and/or take other steps to prevent such harassment or discrimination from occurring.

3. Expert Consultation(s)

The Investigator and External Adjudicator may consult medical, psychological, forensic, technological or other experts when expertise on a topic is needed in order to achieve a fuller understanding of the issues under investigation and/or before the External Adjudicator during a hearing.

4. Informal Resolution by Title IX Coordinator or Mediator

In some circumstances, where both parties are amenable, the College may choose informal resolution as an alternative to the hearing process provided in this Policy.  This alternative process will adhere to Title IX standards.

If the Title IX Coordinator or Deputy Coordinator determines that such an informal process is appropriate under the facts and circumstances of the case, one or more of the following, or similar, methods may be utilized:

1. A meeting of the Title IX Coordinator or Deputy Title IX Coordinator, the Complainant, and the Respondent; and/or
2. A meeting between the Title IX Coordinator or Deputy Title IX Coordinator and the Respondent; and/or
3. A recommendation of training courses or seminars for either principal; and/or
4. Referral of the case to a mediator who has both legal and/or personnel relations experience.  The mediator will discuss the issues with both principals and seek appropriate actions by the principals involved to reach an acceptable resolution.

None of the informal resolution alternatives above are options for resolution in cases involving allegations of sexual assault.  This informal procedure is intended to resolve actual or perceived instances of harassment and discrimination through agreement and mutual understanding between the parties involved without the need for more formal action by the College.  Mediation will normally be completed within four weeks although it may take longer.

At the conclusion of an informal procedure which results in the parties and the Title IX Coordinator or deputy Title IX Coordinator agreeing the charge has been successfully resolved, each party will be asked to sign an acknowledgment that the informal procedure was performed with their agreement and resulted in a resolution of the charge that was satisfactory to her or him.

The details of any conditions agreed to by either party (e.g., counseling, the avoidance of a particular behavior) may be included in this agreement.  Signing the acknowledgment form is the final step in the informal resolution process, and is entirely voluntary.  There will be no adverse consequences for anyone who declines to participate in the informal resolution procedure or who participates in an informal resolution procedure and then subsequently declines to sign the acknowledgment of resolution.  The signed acknowledgment will be kept in the confidential files of the Office of Student Affairs and available to its Title IX and Deputy Title IX Coordinators.

If either party declines to sign the acknowledgment, the informal procedure will be deemed unsuccessful.

5. Investigation and Hearing Process Before External Adjudicator

In all cases where informal resolution attempts are not made or have failed, and where there are disputes to resolve, the Title IX Coordinator will refer the case to investigation and, where appropriate, set the case for hearing before the External Adjudicator for student respondents as set forth in this Policy.  For faculty, staff and third-party respondents, the Title IX Coordinator will refer cases to investigation, and, where appropriate, forward the case for a determination of sanctions/further proceedings as set forth in this Policy.  For student respondents, the procedure for formal hearings will normally be completed within 60 calendar days of receipt of the Complainant’s written statement or a written statement by the Title IX Coordinator, although the process may sometimes take longer.

1. Hearings Before External Adjudicator: Overview

The External Adjudicator shall hear all claims of sexual misconduct, harassment, and discrimination involving student Respondents pursuant to the procedures set forth in this Policy.  The External Adjudicator will determine responsibility and decide sanctions, if appropriate, after a finding of responsibility.  In cases brought under the Policy, the evidentiary standard of preponderance of evidence will be used for the sexual misconduct-related violations.  In addition, if a student Respondent admits responsibility, the External Adjudicator will decide sanctions.  In matters involving alleged violations for which a student Respondent has accepted responsibility for along with alleged violations that are proceeding to a hearing, the External Adjudicator will delay making all sanction recommendations until reaching a determination as to responsibility for the alleged violations proceeding to hearing.

2. Role of Title IX Coordinator

The Title IX Coordinator will refer the written complaint, if any, the Statement of Alleged Policy Violations, the Investigation Report, and the response, if any, to the External Adjudicator.  The External Adjudicator is supported by the Title IX Coordinator, who will be present during the hearing, to serve as a resource for the External Adjudicator on issues of policy and procedure, and to see that policy and procedure are appropriately followed throughout the hearing.  In that role, the Title IX Coordinator may request that the College’s legal counsel be present during any meeting or hearing.  If the External Adjudicator determines, by a preponderance of the evidence, that the Respondent has violated the Policy, the External Adjudicator, in consultation with the Title IX Coordinator, will determine the appropriate sanction.

3. Scope of Hearing

The External Adjudicator may only find responsibility for claims or supporting allegations that appear on the Statement of Alleged Policy Violations prepared by the Title IX Coordinator.  In cases involving complaints against students where related complaints are submitted to the Title IX Coordinator and the Dean of Students Office pursuant to the Student Code, the investigation and/or hearing of both the sexual misconduct, harassment and/or discrimination complaint and the Student Code violation(s) will be decided by the External Adjudicator, as discussed herein.

4. Hearing Protocols

1. Timing

The External Adjudicator will conduct a prompt, thorough, and unbiased hearing.  Hearings will be held as soon as practicable, normally within two weeks of circulation of the Investigation Report, including between semesters due to the availability of witnesses, etc.  The parties will receive notice of any delay of convening a hearing.

2. Review and Consideration of Evidence

The External Adjudicator will base its determination whether behavior constitutes sexual misconduct, harassment, and/or discrimination under this Policy on the evidence presented.  With respect to other violations of the Student Code, the External Adjudicator will consult with the student dean advising the Judicial Council.  The External Adjudicator will invite the Complainant and Respondent to appear before it, and will hear and question witnesses, if there are any.  The Complainant and Respondent may be present at the hearing if they choose or they may choose to participate in the hearing remotely.  However, neither party shall be allowed to directly question or cross-examine the other during the hearing.  Five (5) calendar days prior to the hearing, questions, if any, shall be submitted to the External Adjudicator by both parties in writing, who will then decide whether those questions are relevant to the matter and in compliance with Title IX requirements; this does not preclude either party from submitting additional written questions during the hearing for the External Adjudicator’s consideration.

In addition, five (5) calendar days prior to the hearing, the parties shall, for the External Adjudicator’s consideration, the names of any material witnesses, if any, they suggest be called and a summary of information each witness would provide through his/her testimony.  (Character witnesses are not permitted.)  Names of witnesses provided by the complainant/respondent will be shared with the other party.  Further, the Complainant shall be offered the opportunity to participate in the hearing without being in the presence of the Respondent, or accommodations can be made so the Complainant may participate in the hearing without facing the Respondent.  The External Adjudicator will conduct a hearing and will review whatever information it deems necessary to assist it in reaching a determination as to the merits of the charge, including information obtained by the Investigators during the investigation.

3. Review and Consideration of “New” Evidence

If the External Adjudicator determines that “new” evidence that did not come to light during the investigation has been presented during the hearing, the External Adjudicator may adjourn the hearing for a period that the External Adjudicator deems appropriate to enable the Complainant and/or Respondent to respond to such evidence.  Evidence is considered “new” only if the External Adjudicator finds the evidence is relevant and important and could not with a reasonable effort have been discovered earlier by the party and provided to the investigator.

4. Confidentiality of Proceedings

The hearings will be closed, except to the Complainant and the Respondent, their respective advisor/support person and their respective Case Manager.  The advisor/support person may consult with the party during the hearing but may not address the External Adjudicator.  Once the hearings have ended and the process of deliberation has begun, the meeting will be closed to all but the External Adjudicator and the Title IX Coordinator.

5. Impact and Mitigation Statements

Within two (2) calendar days of the close of the hearing, either party may submit a separate Impact or Mitigation statement, no longer than 1,500 words, that will only be read and considered by the External Adjudicator upon a finding of responsibility.  These statements should be sent to the Title IX Coordinator, who will forward the submissions to the External Adjudicator upon a finding a responsibility.  Upon a finding of responsibility, the Title IX Coordinator will also ensure that each of the parties will receive any statement submitted by the other party. 

The Impact Statement is a written statement describing the impact of the Respondent’s conduct on the Complainant and expressing a preference about the sanction(s) to be imposed. The Mitigation Statement is a written statement explaining any factors that the Respondent believes should mitigate or otherwise be considered in determining the sanctions(s) imposed.

6. Decisions by External Adjudicator

Decisions of the External Adjudicator following the hearing will be limited to the following issues: (i) whether a violation of this Policy has occurred; and (ii) upon a finding of responsibility, an appropriate sanction.  As soon as a decision on the case is reached, it will be summarized in a writing containing factual findings and the basis for the conclusion, prepared by the External Adjudicator within 10 calendar days of the hearing.

7. Determination of Sanctions by External Adjudicator

The External Adjudicator, upon a finding of responsibility, shall determine sanctions for student Respondents.  The sanctions may include remedial or corrective actions as warranted (including, but not limited to, extension of or expansion or any interim measures already in place).  In general:

• Expulsion is the expected sanction for any student who is determined to have committed sexual assault involving sexual penetration and force and/or incapacity.
• Any determination of responsibility for committing sexual assault involving sexual penetration without force or incapacitation may result in a sanction ranging from suspension of no less than one-year or the Complainant’s remaining tenure on campus (whichever is longer) to expulsion.
• Any determination of responsibility for committing sexual assault involving sexual contact may result in a sanction ranging from conduct probation up to expulsion.
• Any determination of responsibility for engaging in any other prohibited form of conduct may result in a sanction ranging from conduct warning to expulsion.

The External Adjudicator will not deviate from the range of recommended outcomes unless compelling justification exists to do so.  The External Adjudicator may issue a single sanction or a combination of sanctions.  In considering the appropriate sanction within the recommended outcomes, the External Adjudicator will consider the following factors:

1. the impact of the conduct on the Complainant;
2. the impact of the conduct on the community, its members, or its property;
3. the Respondent’s prior discipline history;
4. how the College has sanctioned similar incidents in the past;
5. the nature and violence of the conduct at issue;
6. whether the Respondent has accepted responsibility;
7. whether the Respondent is reasonably likely to engage in the conduct in the future based on pattern and practice evidence heard and considered by the investigator and/or External Adjudicator;
8. the need to deter similar conduct by others; and
9. any other mitigating or aggravating circumstances, including the College’s values.

Absent compelling justifications, if the Respondent has previously been found responsible under College policy to have engaged in the same or similar conduct in the past, the sanction will be expulsion.

The following list of sanctions is illustrative rather than exhaustive, and the College reserves the right to impose other reasonable sanctions or to combine sanctions as it deems appropriate:

• Conduct Warning

A written notification that a violation of the Student Code occurred and that any further responsible finding of misconduct may result in more severe disciplinary action. Warnings are typically recorded for internal purposes only and are not considered part of a student’s permanent student conduct record.  Though disclosed with a student’s signed consent, a student who receives a warning is still considered in good standing at the College.

• Conduct Probation

A written notification that indicates a serious and active response to a violation of the Student Code.  Probation is for a designated period of time and includes the probability of more severe sanctions, if found responsible for additional violations of the Student Code, including suspension or expulsion from the College.  Notification of probation is considered a change in status and will normally be sent to parents.  Probation may also include restrictions from certain activities, such as registered parties, or all activities with alcohol.

• Loss of Privileges

Denial of the use of certain College facilities or the right to participate in certain activities or to exercise certain privileges for a designated period of time. 

• Residential Relocation or Suspension from Housing

Relocation is the reassignment of a student from one living space to another. Residential Suspension is the removal of a student from on-campus housing.  Relocation and Residential Suspension are typically accompanied by the loss of privileges regarding the visitation to specific residential areas for a specified period of time. The College may take such action for remedial, rather than disciplinary purposes.  These actions may also be part of interim measures.

• Educational Requirements/Referrals

The College reserves the right to impose counseling or substance assessments or other required educational sanctions.

• College Suspension

The separation of a student from the College for a specified period of time, after which the student is eligible to return.  Conditions for re-enrollment may be required and will be included in the notification of suspension.

During the period of suspension, the student may not participate in College academic, co-curricular, or extra-curricular activities; may be banned from all property owned or operated by the College, as well as the other Claremont Colleges.  Students who are suspended may not be on campus without specific, written permission of the Dean of Students or designee.

Suspension is for a designated period of time and includes the probability of more severe sanctions, including expulsion, if found responsible for violations of the Student Code.  Notification of suspension will normally be sent to parents, as it results in a change of status.

• Expulsion

Expulsion is the permanent separation of the student from the College.  Students who have been expelled may not be on campus without specific, written permission from the dean of students or designee.  Notification of expulsion will normally be sent to parents, as it results in a change of status.

8. Other Remedial Decisions by External Adjudicator

The External Adjudicator should also consider other remedial actions that may be taken to address and resolve any incident of discrimination or harassment and to prevent the recurrence of any discrimination, including strategies to protect the Complainant and any witnesses from retaliation; provide counseling for the Complainant; other steps to address any impact on the Complainant, any witnesses, and the broader student body; and any other necessary steps reasonably calculated to prevent future occurrences of harassment.

9. Transmission of External Adjudicator’s Decision and Report

In the case of student Respondents, the External Adjudicator will communicate their decision and hearing report in writing to the Title IX Coordinator within 10 calendar days.  The External Adjudicator and Title IX Coordinator may communicate during this period if there any outstanding issues that require clarification or explication.  Once the decision and report by the External Adjudicator is received by the Title IX Coordinator, the Title IX Coordinator will inform each of the parties simultaneously and provide in writing the decision and hearing report.  The Complainant’s copy of the decision, report and details of the sanction(s) imposed on the Respondent, if any, may be limited in the copy of the External Adjudicator’s report given to Complainant due to Respondent’s FERPA or other applicable privacy rights.  A copy of the decision and report will also be provided to the Vice President for Student Affairs/Dean of Students who will also enter the decision into the Respondent’s record and will be placed in permanent confidential records in the Dean of Students office and available to the Title IX Coordinator and External Adjudicators.

The sanction(s) imposed will be implemented immediately and will be in effect pending the outcome of any appeal.

Appeal Procedures Involving Student Respondents

Either party may appeal the determination of responsibility or sanction(s) by the External Adjudicator in writing to the Vice President for Student Affairs/Dean of Students or its designee.  The appeal must be filed within 10 calendar days of receiving the written notice of outcome. 

Special Provisions

1. Attempted Violations:

In most circumstances, the College will treat attempted conduct as if that conduct had been completed.

2. College as Complainant:

As necessary, the College reserves the right to initiate a complaint, to serve as Complainant, and to initiate proceedings without a formal complaint by the subject of the misconduct.

3. Alcohol and substance use:

The use of alcohol or other drugs will never function as a defense for any behavior that violates College policy.

4. Good Samaritan Policy:

Sanctions related to alcohol or drug policy violations will not be imposed on individuals cooperating in an investigation or hearing.

5. Past Sexual History:

The past sexual history of a party will generally not be admissible by the other party in an investigation or hearing unless such information is determined to be highly relevant by the Title IX Coordinator.  If the party believes the past sexual history of the other party is relevant to the investigation and/or hearing they must submit a written request to the Title IX Coordinator explaining the nature of the information and why the information is relevant to the investigation and/or hearing.  The External Adjudicator, in consultation with the Title IX Coordinator, will review the request and render a decision.

6. Respondent’s Prior Conduct History:

Generally, any previous College policy violation(s) by the Respondent are generally not admissible as information about the present allegation.  However, the Title IX Coordinator may supply information about previous behavior and/or complaints to the Investigator(s) or the External Adjudicator if:

1. The Respondent was previously found to be responsible for a similar violation; or
2. The information indicates a pattern of behavior by the Respondent and substantial conformity with the present allegation.

A Respondent’s prior conduct will be taken into consideration by the External Adjudicator or appropriate vice president (when applicable) when determining what sanction(s) to recommend or impose.  See the section on Sanctions.

7. Recording of Proceedings

The College will audio record the hearing, but will not record any related deliberations by the External Adjudicator.  The College will maintain a copy of that recording and will provide the parties with a copy of that recording, as well as a transcript of that recording, upon request.  The recording and any related transcript are subject to the same protections as other documents related to the hearing and may not be shared or disclosed outside of the parties and their support persons.  The parties and any support persons present are not permitted to record the proceedings under any circumstances.

8. Record Retention

The Title IX Coordinator will review and retain copies of all reports generated as result of investigations.  These records will be kept confidential to the extent permitted by law.  Records of investigations and hearings are maintained by the College for five (5) years as indicated below.

If the Respondent is a student, the records will be maintained for five (5) years past the student’s graduation or if the student leaves the College before graduation, for five (5) years past their original expected graduation date.

Rights of Parties Involved in a Proceeding Under These Policies

1. Complainants are afforded the following rights:

   1. To be treated with respect, dignity, and sensitivity throughout the process.
   2. To be advised and informed of the support services available from the College, including, but not limited to, the Case Manager, and those provided by the Project Sister rape crisis counselor, Monsour Counseling and Psychological Services.
   3. For student Complainants, to confidentiality and protection under the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). For all Complainants, the College will make all reasonable efforts to ensure the preservation of privacy, restricting access to information to those with a legitimate need to know.
   4. To be informed of the College’s Policy and procedures related to discrimination, harassment, and sexual misconduct.
   5. To a prompt and thorough investigation of the allegation(s).
   6. To challenge the appointment of the Investigator(s) or the External Adjudicator if a conflict of interest is present.
   7. To participate or decline to participate in the process related to a discrimination, harassment, and/or sexual misconduct complaint with the understanding that the process may continue without their involvement and that the Investigator and/or External Adjudicator will determine an outcome with the information available to it.
   8. To appeal the decisions and/or sanctions made pursuant to this Policy.
   9. To be notified, in writing, of the case resolution – including the outcome of any appeal.
   10. To report the incident to law enforcement or civil authorities if one wishes to do so.
   11. To understand that information collected in this process may/could be subpoenaed for a criminal or civil proceeding.
   12. To have a support person/advisor.
   13. To have a Case Manager.
2. Respondents are afforded the following rights:
   1. To be treated with respect, dignity, and sensitivity throughout the process.
   2. To seek support services through the College, including, but not limited to, the Case Manager and those through Monsour Counseling and Psychological Services.
   3. For student Respondents, to confidentiality and protection under the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). For all Respondents, the College will make all reasonable efforts to ensure the preservation of privacy, restricting access to information to those with a legitimate need to know.
   4. To be informed of the College’s Policy and procedures related to discrimination, harassment, and sexual misconduct.
   5. To a prompt and thorough investigation of the allegation(s).
   6. To challenge the appointment of the Investigator(s) or the External Adjudicator if a conflict of interest is present.
   7. To participate or decline to participate in the review procedure, with the understanding that the process will continue regardless and the Investigator and/or External Adjudicator will determine an outcome with the information available to it.
   8. For student and faculty Respondents, to appeal the decision and/or sanctions made pursuant to this Policy.
   9. To be notified, in writing, of the case resolution – including the outcome of the appeal.
   10. To understand that information collected in this process may be subpoenaed in criminal or civil proceedings.
   11. To have a support person/advisor.
   12. To have a Case Manager.

The College’s External Reporting Obligations

1. The Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act ( the “Clery Act”)
   1. Statistical Reporting:

Certain College officials have a duty to report certain misconduct for federal statistical reporting purposes.  All personally identifiable information is kept confidential, but statistical information must be passed along to campus law enforcement regarding the type of incident and its general location (on or off‐campus, in the surrounding area, but no addresses are given) for publication in the annual Campus Security Report.  This report helps to provide the community with a clear picture of the extent and nature of campus crime, to ensure greater community safety. Mandated federal reporters include: student/conduct affairs, campus law enforcement, local police, coaches, athletic directors, residence life staff, student activities staff, human resources staff, advisors to student organizations and any other official with significant responsibility for student and campus activities.  The information to be shared includes the date, the location of the incident (using Clery location categories) and the Clery crime category.  This reporting protects the identity of the victim and may be done anonymously.

2. Timely Warning:

Complainants should also be aware that College administrators must issue immediate timely warnings for incidents reported to them that are confirmed to pose a substantial threat of bodily harm or danger to members of the campus community.  For purposes of the Timely Warning requirement, the College will not disclose a Complaint’s name.  However, the College will provide enough information for community members to make safety decisions in light of the danger.  The reporters for timely warning purposes are exactly the same as detailed in the paragraph above.