University policies & procedures

The University has two policies covering sexual misconduct, the University Sexual Misconduct Policy (CS 20) and the University Title IX Policy (CS 27). Both policies include procedures for informal resolution (available with some exceptions) and formal complaint procedures. The informal resolution process does not involve any findings of responsibility, nor the imposition of sanctions. The formal process involves charging a respondent with a violation of university policy, an investigation, in certain cases a live hearing, a determination of responsibility, and, if found responsible, the imposition of sanctions. The formal process under both policies also has appeal procedures available to all parties, when certain criteria are met. The University uses the preponderance of evidence standard for determining responsibility, which means it is more likely than not that University policy has been violated.

In general, all parties have the right to:

  • A prompt, fair, and impartial process from the initial investigation to the final result (completed within the timeframes laid out by University policy in a manner that is transparent, provides timely notice of meetings and equal access to information to both the complainant and the respondent, and conducted by officials without a conflict of interest or bias for either party that receive annual training on how to conduct an investigation and hearing process that protects the safety of survivors and promotes accountability).
  • Have others present during any institutional disciplinary proceeding, including the opportunity to be accompanied to any related meeting or proceeding by an advisor of their choice.
  • Notification, in writing, of the result of any institutional disciplinary proceeding from their report of dating violence, domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking.
  • The institution’s procedures to appeal the results, if certain criteria are met.
  • Be notified of any change to the results.
  • Be notified when the result becomes final.

The University’s full policies and procedures regarding reports of sexual harassment, dating violence, domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking can be found at the following links: