Title IX Policy
SEX DISCRIMINATION AND HARASSMENT POLICY AND TITLE IX SEXUAL HARASSMENTGRIEVANCE PROCEDURES
2023-24
Eff. 11/12/2023
IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR INDIVIDUALS WHO MAY BE VICTIMS OF SEXUAL ASSAULT, DATING VIOLENCE, DOMESTIC VIOLENCE, OR STALKING:
If you or someone you know may have been a victim of the behaviors listed above or any other type of violence, you are strongly encouraged to seek immediate assistance.
ASSISTANCE CAN BE OBTAINED 24 HOURS A DAY, 7 DAYS A WEEK, FROM THE MISENHEIMER POLICE DEPARTMENT (LOCATED ON THE MISENHEIMER CAMPUS AND AVAILABLE BY PHONE AT 704-463-3000.)
During business hours (8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday), you are also strongly encouraged to contact one of the following individuals:
Ramanda Medlin, Title IX Coordinator
704-463-3067
ramanda.medlin@pfeiffer.edu
Administration Building Room 102
Misenheimer Campus
Ryan Reinhart, Deputy Title IX Coordinator
704-463-3401
ryan.reinhart@pfeiffer.edu
Stokes Student Center 鈥� Student Development Office
Misenheimer Campus
For additional information about seeking medical assistance and emotional support, as well as important contact information for local law enforcement agencies, hospitals, and other resources, see Exhibit A attached to this document.
SECTION I. SEX DISCRIMINATION AND HARASSMENT POLICY
1.01 Notice of Nondiscrimination
feiffer University (鈥淧feiffer鈥�), in compliance with and as required by Title IX of the Education Amendments Act of 1972 and its implementing regulations (鈥淭itle IX鈥�) and other civil rights laws, as well as in furtherance of its own values as a higher education institution, does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, disability, age, religion, veteran status, or any other characteristic or status protected by applicable local, state, or federal law in admission, treatment, access to, or employment in, its programs and activities.
Discrimination and harassment are antithetical to the values and standards of the Pfeiffer community; are incompatible with the safe, healthy environment that the Pfeiffer community expects and deserves and will not be tolerated. Pfeiffer is committed to providing programs, activities, and an education and work environment free from discrimination and harassment. Pfeiffer is also committed fostering a community that promotes prompt reporting and fair and timely resolution of those behaviors.
Inquiries concerning discrimination or harassment on the basis of sex may be referred to Pfeiffer鈥檚 Title IX Coordinator, Ramanda Medlin. Exhibit A to this document provides Ramanda Medlin鈥檚 contact information.
Inquiries concerning discrimination or harassment based on a protected characteristic or status other than sex may be referred to Ryan Reinhart, Associate Dean of Students (for students) or Ramanda Medlin, Director of Human Resources and Compliance (for employees). Exhibit A also provides their contact information.聽
Individuals may also make inquiries regarding discrimination or harassment to the U.S. Department of Education鈥檚 Office for Civil Rights by contacting the District of Columbia Office, , 400 Maryland Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20202-1475; Phone 800-421-3481; email: OCR@ed.gov.
1.02 Prohibition on Sex Discrimination and Harassment, Retaliation, and Providing False Information or Interfering with a Grievance Process
This Policy prohibits discrimination and harassment on the basis of sex. Pfeiffer strongly encourages the prompt reporting of, and is committed to timely and fair resolution of, complaints of sex discrimination and harassment.
Sexual Harassment, as defined by Title IX and herein,[3] is a specific type of sex discrimination/harassment that includes Sexual Assault, Dating Violence, Domestic Violence, and Stalking and that Pfeiffer addresses using its Title IX Sexual Harassment Grievance Procedures, as required by Title IX.
This Policy also prohibits Retaliation, as defined by Title IX and herein. Complaints alleging Retaliation may be filed with the Title IX Coordinator and, at the discretion of the Title IX Coordinator, may be addressed under Pfeiffer鈥檚 Title IX Sexual Harassment Grievance Procedures or other grievance procedures adopted by Pfeiffer.
Additionally, any individual who knowingly files a false Formal Complaint or who interferes with a Pfeiffer grievance process may be subject to disciplinary action. Interference with a grievance process may include, but is not limited to, attempting to coerce, compel, or prevent an individual from providing testimony or relevant information; removing, destroying, or altering documentation relevant to an investigation; or providing false or misleading information to Pfeiffer officials who are involved in the investigation and/or resolution of a Formal Complaint, or encouraging others to do so.
1.03 Reporting and Period of Limitations
Any person (whether or not alleged to be the victim) may report sex discrimination or harassment, including Sexual Harassment, in person, by mail, by telephone, or by electronic mail, using the contact information for the Title IX Coordinator listed in Exhibit A, or by any other means that results in the Title IX Coordinator receiving the person鈥檚 verbal or written report. Such a report may be made at any time (including during non-business hours).
Pfeiffer strongly encourages all employees and other members of the Pfeiffer community to promptly report concerns regarding suspected or known discrimination/harassment on the basis of sex to the Title IX Coordinator.
In addition to the Title IX Coordinator, Pfeiffer has designated the following employees as individuals with the authority to institute corrective measures on behalf of Pfeiffer: VP of Student Affairs, Provost, and VP of Human Resources. Accordingly, these employees are required to report discrimination and harassment on the basis of sex to the Title IX Coordinator.
Additionally, Pfeiffer has designated the following employees as confidential resources for students.
Misenheimer Counseling Services and Wellness Center
Stokes Student Center on Misenheimer Campus, Office 117a
(704) 463-3439 (Misenheimer)
Information about sex discrimination or harassment shared with these confidential resources typically will not be reported to other Pfeiffer personnel (including the Title IX Coordinator), to the Respondent, or to others, unless the disclosing individual gives their consent to the disclosure or the law requires it (as may be the case with abuse involving a minor or under conditions involving imminent physical harm, for example). (Confidential resources may report non-identifying statistical information to the Title IX Coordinator for recordkeeping and compliance purposes.)
Pfeiffer will address allegations of sex discrimination and harassment appropriately no matter the length of time that has passed since the alleged conduct. However, Pfeiffer strongly encourages prompt reporting to preserve evidence for a potential legal or disciplinary proceeding. Delay may compromise the ability to investigate, particularly if the individuals involved in the alleged conduct are no longer Pfeiffer students or employees.
1.04 Applicability of Policy and Grievance Procedures
This Policy applies to any allegation of sex discrimination or harassment made by or against a student or an employee of Pfeiffer or a third party, regardless of sex, sexual orientation, sexual identity, gender expression, or gender identity.
The Title IX Sexual Harassment Grievance Procedures apply only to allegations of Sexual Harassment in Pfeiffer鈥檚 Education Program or Activity (as defined herein).4
Pfeiffer will address allegations of other types of sexual harassment (i.e., that do not meet the definition of Title IX Sexual Harassment) by: (1) using other student and employee conduct disciplinary procedures deemed appropriate by the Title IX Coordinator in consultation with other Pfeiffer administrators; and/or (2) with Supportive Measures, which are defined and discussed in more detail herein.
1.05 Rights of Parents
When a student Complainant or Respondent is a minor or has a guardian appointed and their parent or guardian has the legal right to act on the student鈥檚 behalf, then the parent or guardian may file a Formal Complaint on behalf of the student, although the student would be the 鈥淐omplainant.鈥� In such a situation, the parent or guardian may exercise the rights granted to the student under this Policy, including requesting Supportive Measures and participating in a grievance process. Similarly, the parent or guardian may accompany the student to meetings, interviews, and hearings during a grievance process to exercise rights on behalf of the student, while the student鈥檚 Advisor of choice may be a different person from the parent or guardian. Whether or not a parent or guardian has the legal right to act on behalf of an individual would be determined by state law, court orders, child custody arrangements, or other sources granting legal rights to parents or guardians.
Additionally, FERPA and its implementing regulations address the circumstances under which a parent or guardian is permitted to inspect and review a student鈥檚 education records. However, in circumstances in which FERPA would not grant a party the opportunity to inspect and review evidence in connection with a grievance process, pursuant to Title IX and its implementing regulations, the student has an opportunity to do so, and a parent or guardian who has a legal right to act on behalf of the student has the same opportunity.
1.06 Definitions Applicable to Policy and Grievance Procedures
Capitalized terms used herein are defined as follows.
鈥淎ctual Knowledge鈥� means notice of Sexual Harassment or allegations of Sexual Harassment to Pfeiffer鈥檚 Title IX Coordinator, Vice President of Student Affairs, Provost or VP of Human Resources.
鈥�Notice鈥� as used in this paragraph includes, but is not limited to, a report of Sexual Harassment to the Title IX Coordinator.5
鈥淐lery Act鈥� refers to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act, which is a federal statute codified at 20 U.S.C. 搂 1092(f), with implementing regulations in the U.S. Code of Federal Regulations at 34 C.F.R. 搂 668.46. The Clery Act requires all colleges and universities that participate in federal financial aid programs to keep and disclose information about crime on and near their respective campuses.
鈥淐辞尘辫濒补颈苍补苍迟鈥� means an individual who is alleged to be the victim of conduct that could constitute Sexual Harassment, irrespective of whether a Formal Complaint has been filed.
鈥淐辞苍蝉别苍迟鈥� is informed, freely and actively given, mutually understandable words or actions that indicate a willingness and readiness to participate in mutually agreed upon sexual activity. Consent is mutually understandable when a reasonable person would consider the words or actions of the parties to have manifested a clear and unambiguous agreement between them to engage in certain conduct with each other. Consent cannot be gained by ignoring or acting in spite of the objections of another.
Consent cannot be inferred from: silence, passivity, or lack of resistance alone; a current or previous dating or sexual relationship alone (or the existence of such a relationship with anyone else); attire; the buying of dinner or the spending of money on a date; or Consent previously given (i.e., Consenting to one sexual act does not imply Consent to another sexual act).
Consent is not effective if it is obtained through the use of physical force, violence, duress, deception, intimidation, coercion, or the threat, expressed or implied, of bodily injury. Whether a party used any of these means to obtain Consent will be determined by reference to the perception of a reasonable person found in the same or similar circumstances.
Consent may never be given by the following individuals: minors, even if the other participant did not know the minor鈥檚 age; mentally disabled persons, if their disability was reasonably knowable to a person who is not mentally disabled; or persons who are Incapacitated. The use of alcohol or drugs does not diminish one’s responsibility to obtain Consent and does not excuse conduct that constitutes Sexual Harassment.
If at any time during a sexual act any confusion or ambiguity is or should reasonably be apparent on the issue of Consent, it is incumbent upon each individual involved in the activity to stop and clarify the other’s willingness and readiness to continue and capacity to Consent. Neither party should make assumptions about the other鈥檚 willingness and readiness to continue.
鈥凄补测鈥� means a business day, unless otherwise specified.
鈥淓ducation Program or Activity鈥� means all of Pfeiffer鈥檚 operations and includes (1) locations, events, or circumstances over which Pfeiffer exercised substantial control over both the Respondent and the context in which the alleged Sexual Harassment occurred; and (2) any building owned or controlled by a student organization that is officially recognized by Pfeiffer.
鈥淓ducation Record鈥� has the meaning assigned to it under FERPA.
鈥淔贰搁笔础鈥� is the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act, a federal statute codified at 20 U.S.C. 搂 1232g, with implementing regulations at 34 C.F.R. 搂 99. FERPA protects the privacy of student Education Records. FERPA grants to eligible students the right to access, inspect, and review Education Records, the right to challenge the content of Education Records, and the right to consent to the disclosure of Education Records.
鈥淔ormal Complaint鈥� means a document filed by a Complainant or signed by the Title IX Coordinator alleging Sexual Harassment against a Respondent and requesting that Pfeiffer investigate the allegation of Sexual Harassment. At the time of filing a Formal Complaint, a Complainant must be participating in or attempting to participate in Pfeiffer鈥檚 Education Program or Activity. A Formal Complaint may be filed with the Title IX Coordinator in person, by mail, or by electronic mail by using the contact information listed for the Title IX Coordinator in Exhibit A. As used in this paragraph, the phrase 鈥渄ocument filed by a Complainant鈥� means a document or electronic submission that contains the Complainant鈥檚 physical or digital signature, or otherwise indicates that the Complainant is the person filing the Formal Complaint.
鈥泪苍肠补辫补肠颈迟补迟别诲鈥� means lacking the physical and/or mental ability to make informed, rational judgments. A person may be Incapacitated for a variety of reasons, including but not limited to being asleep or unconscious, having consumed alcohol or taken drugs, or experiencing blackouts or flashbacks.
鈥凌别蝉辫辞苍诲别苍迟鈥� means an individual who has been reported to be the perpetrator of conduct alleged to constitute Sexual Harassment.
鈥凌别迟补濒颈补迟颈辞苍鈥� means (1) any adverse action (including direct and indirect intimidation, threats, coercion, discrimination, or harassment (including charges for conduct violations that do not involve sex discrimination or harassment or Sexual Harassment but that arise out of the same facts or circumstances as a report or complaint of sex discrimination or harassment or a report or Formal Complaint of Sexual Harassment) that is (2) threatened or taken against a person (a) for the purpose of interfering with any right or privilege secured by Title IX; or (b) because the person has made a report or Formal Complaint, testified, assisted, or participated or refused to participate in any manner in an investigation, proceeding, or hearing related to Title IX. 6
鈥淪exual Harassment鈥� means conduct on the basis of sex that satisfies one or more of the following:
(1) an employee of the Pfeiffer conditioning the provision of an aid, benefit, or service on an individual鈥檚 participation in unwelcome sexual conduct. (commonly referred to quid pro quo harassment);
(2) unwelcome conduct determined by a reasonable person to be so severe, pervasive, and objectively offensive that it effectively denies a person equal access to Pfeiffer鈥檚 Education Program or Activity; or
(3) 鈥�Sexual Assault,鈥� as defined in 20 U.S.C. 搂 1092(f)(6)(A)(v): an offense classified as a forcible or nonforcible sex offense under the uniform crime reporting system of the Federal Bureau of Investigation;
鈥淒ating Violence,鈥� as defined in 34 U.S.C. 搂 12291(a)(10): violence committed by a person鈥�(A) who is or has been in a social relationship of a romantic or intimate nature with the victim; and (B) where the existence of such a relationship shall be determined based on a consideration of the following factors: (i) the length of the relationship; (ii) the type of relationship; and (iii) the frequency of interaction between the persons involved in the relationship;
鈥淒omestic Violence,鈥� as defined in 34 U.S.C. 搂 12291(a)(8): felony or misdemeanor crimes of violence committed by a current or former spouse or intimate partner 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 or intimate partner, 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鈥檚 acts under the domestic or family violence laws of the jurisdiction; or
鈥沦迟补濒办颈苍驳,鈥� as defined in 34 U.S.C. 搂 12291(a)(30): engaging in a course of conduct directed at a specific person that would cause a reasonable person to (A) fear for their safety or the safety of others; or (B) suffer substantial emotional distress.
鈥淪upportive Measures鈥� are non-disciplinary, non-punitive, individualized services offered as appropriate, as reasonably available, and without fee or charge to a Complainant and/or a Respondent before or after the filing of a Formal Complaint or where no Formal Complaint has been filed. Such measures are designed to restore or preserve equal access to Pfeiffer鈥檚 Education Program or Activity without unreasonably burdening the other party, including measures designed to protect the safety of all parties or Pfeiffer鈥檚 educational environment or deter Sexual Harassment.
Supportive Measures may include, but are not limited to, counseling, extensions of deadlines or other course-related adjustments, modifications of work or class schedules, campus escort services, mutual restrictions on contact between the parties, changes in work or housing locations, leaves of absence, increased security, and monitoring of certain areas of the campus. Pfeiffer will maintain as confidential any Supportive Measures provided to a Complainant or a Respondent, to the extent that maintaining such confidentiality would not impair Pfeiffer鈥檚 ability to provide the Supportive Measures. The Title IX Coordinator is responsible for coordinating the effective implementation of Supportive Measures.
SECTION II. TITLE IX SEXUAL HARASSMENT GRIEVANCE PROCEDURES
A. APPLICABILITY, COMPLAINT INTAKE, AND OVERARCHING PROVISIONS
2A.01 Applicability of Grievance Procedures
As noted above, these Grievance Procedures apply to allegations of Sexual Harassment in Pfeiffer鈥檚 Education Program or Activity (and to related Retaliation, at the discretion of the Title IX Coordinator). Pfeiffer treats Complainants and Respondents equitably by providing remedies to a Complainant where Pfeiffer makes a determination of responsibility for Sexual Harassment against a Respondent under these Grievance Procedures and also by following these Grievance Procedures before imposing any disciplinary sanctions against a Respondent for Sexual Harassment.
2A.02 Obligation to Respond and Initial Outreach to Complainant
When Pfeiffer has Actual Knowledge of Sexual Harassment (or allegations thereof) against a person in the United States in its Education Program or Activity , Pfeiffer is obligated to respond and to follow Title IX鈥檚 specific requirements, which are addressed and incorporated in these Grievance Procedures.
Promptly upon receiving allegations of Sexual Harassment against a person in the United States in Pfeiffer鈥檚 Education Program or Activity, the Title IX Coordinator will contact the Complainant to discuss the availability of Supportive Measures with or without the filing of a Formal Complaint and to explain to the Complainant the process for filing a Formal Complaint.
2A.03 Filing of a Formal Complaint
As noted in the Definitions section above, a Formal Complaint means a document filed by a Complainant or signed by the Title IX Coordinator alleging Sexual Harassment against a Respondent and requesting that Pfeiffer investigate the allegation(s) of Sexual Harassment. At the time of filing a Formal Complaint, a Complainant must be participating in or attempting to participate in Pfeiffer鈥檚 Education Program or Activity. A Formal Complaint may be filed with the Title IX Coordinator in person, by mail, or by electronic mail, by using the contact information listed in Exhibit A and the Formal Complaint Form listed in Exhibit B. As used in this paragraph, the phrase 鈥渄ocument filed by a Complainant鈥� means a document or electronic submission that contains the Complainant鈥檚 physical or digital signature or otherwise indicates that the Complainant is the person filing the Formal Complaint.
When the Title IX Coordinator believes that, with or without the Complainant鈥檚 desire to participate in a grievance process, a non-deliberately indifferent response to the allegations requires an investigation, the Title IX Coordinator has the discretion to initiate the grievance process by signing a Formal Complaint. Where the Title IX Coordinator signs a Formal Complaint, the Title IX Coordinator is not a Complainant or otherwise a party under these Grievance Procedures. Furthermore, initiation of a Formal Complaint by the Title IX Coordinator is not sufficient alone to imply bias or that the Title IX Coordinator is taking a position adverse to the Respondent.
Once a Formal Complaint is initiated, an alleged victim will be referred to as a 鈥淐omplainant,鈥� and an alleged perpetrator will be referred to as a 鈥淩espondent.鈥�
2A.04 Notice of Allegations
Upon receipt of a Formal Complaint, the Title IX Coordinator will provide the Complainant and any known Respondent written notice of these Grievance Procedures and of the allegations of conduct potentially constituting Sexual Harassment, including sufficient details known at the time and with at least five days to prepare a response before any initial interview. Sufficient details include the identities of the parties involved in the incident, if known, the conduct allegedly constituting Sexual Harassment, and the date and location of the alleged incident, if known.
The written notice will include a statement that the Respondent is presumed not responsible for the alleged conduct and that a determination regarding responsibility is made at the conclusion of the grievance process. The written notice also will inform the parties that they may have an advisor of their choice, who may be, but is not required to be, an attorney and that at appropriate junctures the parties and their advisors may review and inspect evidence collected during the investigation. Additionally, the written notice will inform the parties of Pfeiffer鈥檚 prohibition on knowingly making false statements or knowingly submitting false information during the grievance process.
If, in the course of an investigation, Pfeiffer decides to investigate allegations of Sexual Harassment involving the Complainant or Respondent that are not included in the original written notice of allegations, Pfeiffer will provide notice of the additional allegations to the parties whose identities are known.
2A.05 Dismissal
Pfeiffer will investigate the allegations in a Formal Complaint; however, Pfeiffer will dismiss a Formal Complaint or a portion of the allegations therein if (1) the conduct alleged in the Formal Complaint, even if substantiated, would not constitute Sexual Harassment; (2) at the time of filing the Formal Complaint the Complainant was not participating in or attempting to participate in Pfeiffer鈥檚 Education Program or Activity; (3) the conduct alleged in the Formal Complaint did not occur in Pfeiffer 鈥檚 Education Program or Activity; or (4) the conduct alleged in the Formal Complaint did not occur against an individual in the United States. Such a dismissal may take place at the conclusion of the investigation or at any time prior to the conclusion of the investigation.
Additionally, Pfeiffer may dismiss a Formal Complaint or a portion of the allegations therein if (1) the Complainant notifies the Title IX Coordinator in writing that the Complainant would like to withdraw the Formal Complaint or any allegations therein; (2) the Respondent is no longer enrolled or employed at Pfeiffer; or (3) despite efforts to do so, Pfeiffer is unable to gather evidence sufficient to reach a determination as to the Formal Complaint or allegations therein.
In the event the Title IX Coordinator determines that dismissal of a Formal Complaint or a portion of the allegations is appropriate, the Title IX Coordinator will promptly notify the parties in writing of the dismissal and the reasons for it. Dismissal does not impair Pfeiffer鈥檚 ability to proceed with any appropriate investigatory or disciplinary actions under the Sex Discrimination and Harassment Policy or another Pfeiffer policy or procedure and/or to provide Supportive Measures to the parties.
Either party may appeal a decision to dismiss a Formal Complaint or a portion of the allegations on the following grounds by submitting a written appeal to the Title IX Coordinator within five days of the issuance of the written notice of the dismissal: (1) procedural irregularity that affected the decision to dismiss; (2) new evidence that was not reasonably available at the time of dismissal and that could affect the outcome of the matter; or (3) the Title IX Coordinator or other participant in the dismissal having a conflict of interest or bias for or against Complainants or Respondents generally or the individual Complainant or Respondent that affected the decision to dismiss.
The Title IX Coordinator will promptly notify the other party of the appeal, and the non-appealing party may submit a response to the appeal within three days of notification of the appeal.
The Title IX Coordinator will appoint an appeal officer and will contemporaneously share the appeal officer鈥檚 name and contact information with the Complainant and the Respondent.
Within two days of such appointment, the Complainant, or the Respondent may identify to the Title IX Coordinator in writing alleged conflicts of interest or bias on the part of the appeal officer. The Title IX Coordinator will consider such statements and will promptly assign a different appeal officer if the Title IX Coordinator determines that a material conflict of interest or material bias exists.
The Title IX Coordinator will forward the Formal Complaint and any documents upon which the dismissal decision was based, as well as the appeal and any response to the appeal to the appeal officer.
Within seven days of receipt of those materials, the appeal officer will determine whether any of the grounds for appeal warrant overturning or modifying the dismissal. The decision by the appeal officer is final.
2A.06 Advisors
The Complainant and the Respondent may be accompanied to any meeting or proceeding under these Grievance Procedures by the advisor of their choice, who may be, but is not required to be, an attorney. Pfeiffer will not limit the choice or presence of the advisor for either the Complainant or the Respondent in any meeting or grievance proceeding. Advisors, however, are not allowed to disrupt any such meeting or proceeding or to speak on behalf of the Complainant or the Respondent, with the exception of cross-examination during any hearing conducted under these Grievance Procedures, which must be conducted by an advisor and never personally by the Complainant or the Respondent.
Parties must provide the name and contact of their advisor to the Title IX Coordinator in writing as soon as reasonably possible and must provide updated information if their advisor changes. All advisors will be required to assent to Pfeiffer鈥檚 Expectations for Advisors.
If a party does not have an advisor present at the hearing, Pfeiffer will provide, without any charge to that party, an advisor of Pfeiffer鈥檚 choice who may be, but is not required to be, an attorney, to conduct cross-examination on behalf of that party.
Absent accommodation for a disability, the Complainant and the Respondent typically may not be accompanied by more than one advisor or by other individuals during meetings or proceedings under these Grievance Procedures.
2A.07 Amnesty
Pfeiffer considers the reporting and adjudication of Sexual Harassment to be of paramount importance. Pfeiffer does not condone underage drinking or the use of illegal drugs; however, Pfeiffer may extend amnesty to Complainants, Respondents, witnesses, and others involved in a grievance process from punitive sanctioning for illegal use of drugs and/or alcohol when evidence of such use is discovered or submitted in the course of a grievance process. Similarly, Pfeiffer may, in its discretion, provide amnesty for other conduct code violations that are discovered in the course of a grievance process.
2A.08 Timing
Pfeiffer will make every reasonable effort to ensure that the investigation and resolution of a Formal Complaint occurs in as timely and efficient a manner as possible. The timelines set forth in these Grievance
Procedures are guidelines and may be altered for good cause with written notice to the Complainant and the Respondent of any delay or extension and the reasons for the action. Good cause may include considerations such as the absence of a party, a party鈥檚 advisor, or a witness; concurrent law enforcement activity; natural disasters, pandemic restrictions, and similar occurrences; or the need for language assistance or accommodation of disabilities.
Pfeiffer will strive to complete its investigation and resolution of a Formal Complaint (not including an appeal, if applicable) within 90 days of the receipt of the Formal Complaint, absent extenuating circumstances. Hearings generally will take place within 20 days of the conclusion of the investigation. Within seven days of the conclusion of the hearing, both the Complainant and the Respondent will receive a final outcome letter.
Either party may request an extension of any deadline by providing the Title IX Coordinator with a written request for an extension that includes reference to the duration of the proposed extension and the basis for the request. The Title IX Coordinator will review the request and will make a determination with regard to the request within three days.
2A.09 Written Notice of Meetings
Pfeiffer will provide, to a party whose participation is invited or expected, written notice of the date, time, location, participants, and purpose of all hearings, investigative interviews, or other meetings with sufficient time for the party to prepare to participate.
2A.10 Effect of Corollary Criminal Investigation
Pfeiffer鈥檚 investigation may be delayed temporarily while criminal investigators are gathering evidence. In the event of such a delay, Pfeiffer will implement any appropriate Supportive Measures and will evaluate the need for other actions necessary to assist or protect the Complainant, the Respondent, and/or the Pfeiffer community.
Neither the results of a criminal investigation nor the decision of law enforcement to investigate or decline to investigate a matter is determinative of whether Sexual Harassment has occurred in the eyes of Pfeiffer.
2A.11 Emergency Removal and Administrative Leave
Pfeiffer may remove a Respondent from Pfeiffer鈥檚 Education Program or Activity on an emergency basis, provided that Pfeiffer first undertakes an individualized safety and risk analysis, determines that an immediate threat to the physical health or safety of any student or other individual arising from the allegations of Sexual Harassment justifies removal, provides the Respondent with notice and an opportunity to challenge the decision immediately following the removal, and does so in accordance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and the Americans with Disabilities Act, as applicable.
Additionally, Pfeiffer may place a non-student employee Respondent on administrative leave during the pendency of Pfeiffer鈥檚 response to allegations of Sexual Harassment provided that it does so in accordance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act.
2A.12 Effect of Respondent Withdrawal, Graduation, or Resignation During Grievance Process
At the discretion of Pfeiffer, a Respondent who withdraws or resigns from Pfeiffer during the pendency of a grievance process under these Grievance Procedures may be barred from Pfeiffer property and Pfeiffer activities and events and may be ineligible for re-enrollment or to be re-hired. If a Respondent completes
all requirements to graduate during the grievance process, Pfeiffer may hold the Respondent鈥檚 diploma until full resolution of the Formal Complaint.
2A.13 Privacy and Disclosure
Except as may be permitted by FERPA or as required by law or to carry out any investigation or resolution of sex discrimination or harassment allegations, Pfeiffer will keep private the identity of any individual who has made a report or complaint of sex discrimination or harassment (including any individual who has made a report or filed a Formal Complaint of Sexual Harassment,), any Complainant, any Respondent, and any witness.
Pfeiffer may report alleged Sexual Harassment to local law enforcement if warranted by the nature of the allegations at issue, and Pfeiffer administrators will share information regarding alleged Sexual Harassment, as appropriate and necessary, in order to address and resolve the allegation(s) at issue, prevent the recurrence of similar Sexual Harassment, and address the effects of the Sexual Harassment. Additionally, information regarding alleged Sexual Harassment may be used as a statistical, anonymous report for data collection purposes under the Clery Act.
To comply with FERPA, Title IX, and other applicable laws and to provide an orderly process for the presentation and consideration of relevant information without undue intimidation or pressure, grievance processes carried out under these Grievance Procedures are not open to the general public. Accordingly, documents prepared in connection with such processes; documents, statements, or other information introduced in interviews, meetings, and proceedings; and the final outcome letter may not be disclosed outside of those processes except as may be required or authorized by law.
As permitted by and subject to the limitations of FERPA, Pfeiffer reserves the right to notify parent(s) or guardian(s) of a student Respondent of the outcome of any investigation involving that Respondent, redacting names of any other students who do not consent to the disclosure of their information. At the written request of a party, Pfeiffer may include a party鈥檚 advisor on communications and share access to documents, including the investigation report. This access is subject to the advisor鈥檚 acknowledgment and agreement to maintain the confidentiality of the documents. While Pfeiffer strongly encourages parties to maintain privacy in connection with a grievance process, Pfeiffer does not prohibit parties from discussing the allegations under investigation or in any way inhibit the parties from gathering or presenting relevant evidence. In addition, Pfeiffer鈥檚 policy does not prohibit disclosure of the final outcome letter by either the Complainant or the Respondent.
2A.14 Conflicts of Interest, Bias, and Training
Pfeiffer will ensure that any individual designated by Pfeiffer as a Title IX Coordinator, investigator, decision-maker, or informal resolution facilitator under these Grievance Procedures does not have a conflict of interest or bias for or against Complainants or Respondents generally or an individual Complainant or Respondent.
If any employee designated to participate in the investigation or resolution of a Formal Complaint is the Respondent or a relevant witness, then the Title IX Coordinator will appoint another employee to perform their duties. (If the Title IX Coordinator is the Respondent, then the President will appoint another employee to perform their duties.)
Pfeiffer also ensures that Title IX Coordinators, investigators, decision-makers, advisors, and informal resolution facilitators receive training, as applicable, on the definition of Sexual Harassment; the scope of Pfeiffer鈥檚 Education Program or Activity; how to conduct an investigation and grievance process, including hearings, appeals, and informal resolution processes; and how to serve impartially, including by avoiding prejudgment of the facts at issue, conflicts of interest, and bias.
Pfeiffer further ensures that decision-makers receive training on issues of relevance of questions and evidence, including when questions and evidence about the Complainant鈥檚 sexual predisposition or prior sexual behavior are not relevant, and that investigators receive training on issues of relevance to create an investigative report that fairly summarizes relevant evidence. Additionally, Pfeiffer ensures that decision-makers receive training on any technology to be used at live hearings.
Materials used to train Title IX Coordinators, investigators, decision-makers, advisors, and informal resolution facilitators will not rely on sex stereotypes and promote impartial investigations and adjudications of Formal Complaints of Sexual Harassment.
2A.15 Burden of Proof
At all times, the burden of proof and the burden of gathering evidence sufficient to reach a determination regarding responsibility rest on Pfeiffer, not on either of the parties.
2A.16 Presumption of No Responsibility until Determination
Respondents are presumed to be not responsible for alleged Sexual Harassment until Pfeiffer makes a determination regarding responsibility pursuant to these Grievance Procedures.
2A.17 Objective Evaluation of All Relevant Evidence; Credibility Determinations
The investigators and decision-makers under these Grievance Procedures will objectively evaluate all relevant evidence, including both inculpatory and exculpatory evidence, and will not make any credibility determinations based on a person鈥檚 status as a Complainant, Respondent, or witness.
2A.18 Academic Freedom
Pfeiffer affirms its commitment to academic freedom but notes that academic freedom does not allow any form of Sexual Harassment. Pfeiffer recognizes that an essential function of education is a probing of opinions and an exploration of ideas, some of which, because they are controversial, may cause students and others discomfort. This discomfort, as a product of free academic inquiry within a faculty member鈥檚 area(s) of expertise, shall in no way be considered or construed to constitute Sexual Harassment. Academic inquiry may involve teaching, research and extramural speech. Furthermore, nothing in this document shall be interpreted to prohibit bona fide academic requirements for a specific Pfeiffer program or activity. When investigating complaints that a party or the Title IX Coordinator believes may involve issues of academic freedom, the Title IX Coordinator will consult with the Vice President for Academic Affairs with respect to contemporary academic practices and standards.
2A.19 Documentation
Pfeiffer will retain documentation (including but not limited to any Formal Complaint, notifications, recording or transcripts of interviews, investigative report, written findings of fact, petitions for appeal, notifications of decisions (including the final outcome letter), audio recordings of hearings, and written communication with the Complainant and Respondent), for no less than seven years.
2A.20 Consolidation of Formal Complaints
Pfeiffer may consolidate Formal Complaints as to allegations of Sexual Harassment against more than one Respondent, by more than one Complainant against one or more Respondents, or by one party against the other party where the allegations of Sexual Harassment arise out of the same facts or circumstances. Where a grievance process involves more than one Complainant or more than one Respondent, references in these Grievance Procedures to the singular 鈥減arty,鈥� 鈥淐omplainant,鈥� or 鈥凌别蝉辫辞苍诲别苍迟鈥� include the plural, as applicable.
2A.21 Individuals with Disabilities
Pfeiffer will make arrangements to ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided appropriate accommodations, to the extent necessary and available, to participate in Pfeiffer鈥檚 grievance processes. Student requests for accommodation must be made to the VP of Student Affairs or The Learning Center. All other requests for accommodation must be made to the Office of Human Resources.
B. THE INVESTIGATION
2B.01 Appointment of Investigators and Challenging of the Same
Unless a Formal Complaint is dismissed or the parties elect to participate in informal resolution, the Title IX Coordinator will promptly appoint one or more investigators. These investigators may be Pfeiffer employees, non-employees, or a combination of the two. The Title IX Coordinator will contemporaneously share their names and contact information with the Complainant and Respondent and also will forward a copy of the Formal Complaint to the investigators.
Within two days of such appointment, the Complainant or the Respondent may identify to the Title IX Coordinator in writing any alleged conflicts of interest or bias on the part of the assigned investigators. The Title IX Coordinator will consider such statements and will promptly assign different investigators if the Title IX Coordinator determines that a material conflict of interest or material bias exists.
2B.02 The Investigators鈥� Activities
Upon receipt of the Formal Complaint, the investigators will promptly begin their investigation, taking such steps as interviewing the Complainant, the Respondent, and witnesses (including expert witnesses, where applicable); summarizing such interviews in writing; collecting and reviewing relevant documents; visiting, inspecting, and taking or reviewing photographs of relevant sites; and collecting and reviewing other relevant evidence.
2B.03 The Investigative Report and Evidence Review
The investigators will prepare a written investigative report that fairly summarizes relevant evidence and includes items such as the Formal Complaint, written statements of position, summaries or transcripts of all interviews conducted, photographs, descriptions of relevant evidence, and summaries or copies of relevant electronic records.
Prior to the completion of the investigative report, the investigators will send to each party and the party鈥檚 advisor, if any, an electronic or hard copy of any evidence obtained during the investigation that is directly related to the allegations raised in the Formal Complaint, including (1) any evidence upon which Pfeiffer does not intend to rely in reaching a determination regarding responsibility; and (2) both inculpatory and exculpatory evidence.
The parties have ten days from the time that the evidence is provided to submit to the investigators a written response to the evidence. In the response, the parties may address the relevancy of any evidence that the parties believe should be included in or excluded from the investigative report and may also address any further investigation activities or questions that they believe are necessary. If a party wishes to submit additional evidence at this stage, they should explain how the evidence is relevant and why it was not previously provided.
The investigators will review and consider the parties鈥� written submissions and may conduct additional investigative activities as appropriate prior to finalizing the investigative report. The need for additional investigative activities may result in a delay or extension to the timelines set forth in these Grievance Procedures.
At least ten days prior to the hearing, the investigators will send an electronic or hard copy of the investigative report to each party and the party鈥檚 advisor, if any. Any response a party wishes to make to the investigative report may be included in that party鈥檚 pre-hearing statement, which is discussed more below in Section 2C.05.
Due to the sensitive nature of the investigative report, neither the parties nor their advisors may copy, publish, photograph, print, image, record or in any other manner duplicate the report. Parties who violate these restrictions may be disciplined, and advisors who violate these restrictions may be disciplined and/or be barred from further participation in the grievance process.
Nothing in this document restricts the ability of either party to discuss the allegations under investigation or to gather, preserve, and/or present relevant evidence.
2B.04 Submission of Evidence; Expert Witnesses
Any evidence that the parties wish for the hearing officer to consider should be presented to the investigators as early as possible during the investigation process. Evidence that is not submitted in a timely manner and prior to finalization of the investigative report may be excluded from the hearing at the discretion of the hearing officer.
Similarly, all relevant witnesses should be identified to the investigators as early as possible during the investigation. The hearing officer generally will not call or consider written statements from witnesses who were not identified to investigators and interviewed during the investigation. However, in their discretion and for good cause, the hearing officer may choose to consider information from witnesses who were not interviewed during the investigation.
Any party who wishes to present testimony from an expert witness should identify that witness by providing the witness鈥檚 name, contact information and a summary of (1) the witness鈥檚 qualifications to offer expert testimony; and (2) any opinions the witness expects to offer related to the allegations or evidence. Any evidence upon which the witness relies must be provided to the investigators and will be made available to the other party and their advisor, as well as to any expert witness the other party has identified. This information must be provided as early as possible in the investigation and in no event later than finalization of the investigative report. The parties must make any expert witnesses available to be interviewed by investigators and to testify at the hearing. If an expert witness is not available to provide live testimony at the hearing, the hearing officer must disregard any information submitted by that expert.
2B.05 Treatment Records
Pfeiffer will not access, consider, disclose, or otherwise use in a grievance process any party鈥檚 treatment records that are maintained by a physician, psychiatrist, psychologist or other recognized professional or paraprofessional acting in their professional/paraprofessional capacity unless the party provides voluntary, written consent.
C. HEARING AND APPEALS
2C.01 The Formal Resolution Process
Unless a Formal Complaint is dismissed or the parties elect to participate in informal resolution pursuant to section 2.D.01 below, following the investigation the appointed hearing officer will conduct a hearing in which they may question the Complainant, the Respondent, and any witnesses whose testimony the hearing officer deems relevant. During the hearing, the hearing officer and the parties may also question the investigators as necessary to clarify information provided in the investigative report.
2C.02 Appointment of the Hearing Officer and Challenging of the Same
The Title IX Coordinator will appoint a hearing officer, who will administer the hearing, serve as the decision-maker regarding responsibility, and (as applicable) recommend sanctions. The hearing officer may be a Pfeiffer employee or non-employee. The Title IX Coordinator will contemporaneously share the hearing officer鈥檚 name and contact information with the Complainant and the Respondent. The Title IX Coordinator will provide to the hearing officer the Formal Complaint, all evidence directly related to the allegations, the parties鈥� written responses to the evidence, and the investigative report.
Within two days of such appointment, the Complainant or the Respondent may identify to the Title IX Coordinator in writing any alleged conflicts of interest or bias on the part of the hearing officer. The Title IX Coordinator will carefully consider such statements and will promptly assign a different hearing officer if the Title IX Coordinator determines that a material conflict of interest or material bias exists.
2C.03 Notice of the Hearing
Promptly after the appointment of the hearing officer and no less than seven days prior to the hearing, the hearing officer will provide concurrent written notice to the Complainant and the Respondent setting forth the date, time, and location of the hearing. Any modifications to the hearing date, time, or location will be provided in writing to both parties prior to the date of the hearing.
2C.04 Pre-Hearing Submissions
Each party may submit a written statement to the hearing officer that includes any response the party wishes to make to the investigative report. Each party鈥檚 pre-hearing statement must be submitted at least five days prior to the hearing. The hearing officer will share the statement with the other party, who may submit a response within two days.
2C.05 Failure to Appear
If any party, advisor, or witness fails to appear at the hearing after having been provided proper notice of the hearing as set forth above, then absent extenuating circumstances, the hearing officer will proceed with the hearing and issuance of their responsibility determination and, as applicable, sanction recommendation. Pfeiffer will provide an advisor to any party who attends the hearing unaccompanied.
2C.06 Evidentiary Matters
A Title IX hearing does not take place within a court of law and is not bound by formal rules of evidence.
Evidence of and questions about the Complainant鈥檚 sexual predisposition or prior sexual behavior are not relevant and will not be permitted at the hearing, with the following exceptions: (1) if the questions and evidence about the Complainant鈥檚 prior sexual behavior are offered to prove that someone other than the
Respondent committed the conduct alleged by the Complainant; or (2) if the questions and evidence concern specific incidents of the Complainant鈥檚 prior sexual behavior with respect to the Respondent and are offered to prove Consent.
Evidence regarding the past sexual activity of the Respondent (regardless of whether the Respondent was formally investigated or found responsible for such conduct) may be permitted to show that the Respondent has engaged in a pattern of behavior similar to the alleged Sexual Harassment at issue before the hearing officer, provided that the Respondent has not been found 鈥渘ot responsible鈥� by Pfeiffer in a proceeding related to such conduct.
Pfeiffer will not access, consider, disclose, or otherwise use in a grievance process any party鈥檚 treatment records that are maintained by a physician, psychiatrist, psychologist or other recognized professional or paraprofessional acting in their professional/paraprofessional capacity unless the party provides voluntary, written consent. Questions and/or evidence that constitute or seek disclosure of information protected under a legally recognized privilege are not permitted, unless the person holding the privilege has waived the privilege in writing.
Pfeiffer will make the evidence that the investigators provided to the parties for their review and inspection prior to finalization of the investigative report available at the hearing to give each party equal opportunity to refer to such evidence during the hearing, including for purposes of cross-examination.
2C.08 Conduct of the Hearing and Questioning of Witnesses and Parties
The hearing will be conducted with parties in separate rooms, using technology to ensure that each party can see and hear any party or witness answering questions. At the discretion of the hearing officer, the hearing may be conducted partially or entirely remotely, with any or all participants participating virtually.
The Complainant and the Respondent will have equal opportunity to address the hearing officer, if desired, and both the hearing officer and the parties鈥� advisors will have the opportunity to question the other party and any witnesses, including investigators and expert witnesses. The hearing officer will first ask any questions of each party and each witness through direct examination. After the hearing officer has completed direct examination, the advisor for each party will have an opportunity to conduct a cross-examination of the other party and/or the witnesses. Any questions that a party has for a witness or the other party must be posed by the party鈥檚 advisor. A party鈥檚 advisor will not have the opportunity to question the party for whom they serve as advisor.
Before a party or witness answers a cross-examination question, the hearing officer will determine whether the question is relevant and allowed under these Grievance Procedures. For example, the hearing officer may exclude as not relevant duplicative questions or questions posed solely to harass a witness or the other party. The hearing officer will explain any decision to exclude a question.
If a party does not have an advisor present at the hearing, Pfeiffer will provide an advisor, at no cost to the party, to conduct cross-examination on behalf of that party.
2C.09 Unavailability or Refusal to Testify or Submit to Cross-Examination
The Respondent and/or the Complainant may choose not to testify at the hearing; however, the exercise of that option will not preclude the hearing officer from making their responsibility determination and, as applicable, sanction recommendation regarding the Formal Complaint. Also, if a party or witness does not submit to cross-examination at the hearing, the hearing officer will/may still rely on any statement of that party or witness in reaching a determination regarding responsibility or, as applicable, recommendation regarding sanctions. The hearing officer will not draw an inference regarding responsibility or sanctions based solely on a party’s or witness’ absence from the hearing or refusal to testify or submit to cross-examination.
2C.10 Recording
Pfeiffer will record the hearing. This recording will be the only recording permitted of the proceedings and will be the property of Pfeiffer. The parties and the appeal officer may use the recording as part of the appeal process. Reasonable care will be taken to ensure a quality recording; however, technological problems that result in no recording or in an inaudible one will not affect the validity of the outcome of a hearing.
2C.11 The Determination of the Hearing Officer Regarding Responsibility
Following the hearing, the hearing officer will determine whether the evidence establishes that it is more likely than not7 that the Respondent committed Sexual Harassment. The hearing officer will render a finding of 鈥淩esponsible鈥� or 鈥淣ot Responsible鈥� and will provide the rationale for the decision. If the Respondent is found 鈥淩esponsible,鈥� the hearing officer will specify the specific type(s) of Sexual Harassment for which the Respondent is found 鈥淩esponsible鈥� (for example, Sexual Assault, Stalking, etc.). When feasible, the hearing officer will orally communicate the finding of 鈥淩esponsible鈥� or 鈥淣ot Responsible鈥� to the parties on the day of or day following the hearing. Additional information regarding the decision, including the rationale and sanctions (if applicable) will be communicated in the final outcome letter (as described below).
2C.12 The Recommendation of the Hearing Officer Regarding Sanctions
If the hearing officer determines that the Respondent is 鈥淩esponsible,鈥� they will recommend appropriate sanctions to be imposed on the Respondent.
Sanctions following a finding of responsibility depend upon the nature and gravity of the misconduct, any record of prior discipline, or both. Sanctions for employees may include, but are not limited to, withholding a promotion or pay increase, reassigning employment, terminating employment, temporary suspension without pay, and compensation adjustments.
Sanctions for students may include, but are not limited to, expulsion or suspension from Pfeiffer, disciplinary probation, social restrictions, expulsion or suspension from campus housing, suspension or revocation of admission, suspension or revocation of degree
Other potential sanctions for Respondents may include, but are not limited to, written warning, mandated counseling, completion of an intervention program, completion of violence risk assessment, parental notification, and/or education sanctions (such as community service, reflection paper(s), and/or fines) as deemed appropriate by the hearing officer.
In recommending sanctions, the hearing officer will consider whether a sanction will bring an end to, prevent a recurrence of, and remedy the effects of the Sexual Harassment. The hearing officer also will consider the impact of separating a student from their education. The appropriate sanctions for Sexual Assault generally will include at a minimum a period of separation from Pfeiffer.
2C.13 Review of Sanctions
The hearing officer will forward their sanctions recommendation to the Title IX Coordinator, who will share it with the Vice President of Student Affairs (in cases involving student Respondents), Provost (in cases involving faculty Respondents), or Human Resources (in cases involving staff Respondents). These individuals will consider the recommendation in the context of the sanctioning guidelines, the Respondent鈥檚 disciplinary history, the institution鈥檚 handling of similar cases, and other relevant factors.
2C.14 Implementation of Sanctions
Sanctions generally are effective immediately upon issuance of the final outcome letter described below. However, if necessary to protect the welfare of the Complainant, Respondent, or Pfeiffer community, the hearing officer may recommend and/or the Title IX Coordinator may determine that any sanctions are effective at any time after the conclusion of the hearing and continue in effect until the issuance of the final outcome letter.
2C.15 Final Outcome Letter
Within seven days after the hearing, the hearing officer will issue a final outcome letter through the Title IX Coordinator to the Respondent and Complainant simultaneously.
The final outcome letter will (1) name the Respondent; (2) identify the allegations potentially constituting Sexual Harassment; (3) describe procedural steps taken from the filing of the Formal Complainant through the determination; (4) provide findings of fact in support of the hearing officer鈥檚 determination; and (5) provide a statement of rationale for the result as to each allegation, including the responsibility determination and any sanctions.
2C.16 Appeals
The Complainant or the Respondent may appeal the decision of the hearing officer regarding responsibility and/or the sanction(s) imposed on the Respondent.
The following are the only permissible grounds for an appeal of the hearing officer鈥檚 responsibility determination: (1) procedural irregularity that affected the outcome; (2) new evidence that was not reasonably available at the time of the determination and that could affect the outcome; and (3) the Title IX Coordinator, an investigator, or the hearing officer had a conflict of interest or bias that affected the outcome.
Sanctions may only be appealed on the ground that the severity is incommensurate to the gravity of the Sexual Harassment for which the Respondent was found responsible.
Appeals must be submitted in writing to the Title IX Coordinator within five days from the date of the final outcome letter. The other party will have three days from such notification to submit a written response to the appeal.
2C.17 Appointment of the Appeal Officer and Challenging of the Same
Upon receipt of an appeal, the Title IX Coordinator, in consultation with the Vice President of Student Affairs (if the Formal Complaint involves students), the Provost(if the Formal Complaint involves staff) and/or Human Resources (if the Formal Complaint involves faculty) will appoint an appeal officer.
Within two days of such appointment, the Complainant or the Respondent may identify to the Title IX Coordinator in writing alleged conflicts of interest or bias posed by assigning that appeal officer. The Title IX Coordinator will carefully consider such statements and will promptly assign a different appeal officer if the Title IX Coordinator determines that a material conflict of interest or material bias exists.
2C.18 Appellate Review
The Title IX Coordinator will share the Formal Complaint, the investigative report, the hearing recording, all statements introduced at the hearing, any other evidence considered by the hearing officer, the hearing officer鈥檚 written findings, and the written appeal submissions with the appeal officer. In addition, if an appeal raises procedural issues, the Title IX Coordinator may provide the appeal officer additional information relevant to those issues.
Within ten days of the receipt of the appeal the appeal officer will determine (a) that the decision of the hearing officer should stand; or (b) that the decision of the hearing officer should be overturned and will issue a written explanation of that result and the rationale behind it.
In the event that the appeal officer determines that the decision of the hearing officer should be overturned, the appeal officer will specify, after consultation with the Title IX Coordinator and other Pfeiffer administrators as necessary, the appropriate steps to be taken to come to a final resolution of the Formal Complaint (which may include another hearing before the same hearing officer or a different one).
D. INFORMAL RESOLUTION
2D.01 Determination of Formal Versus Informal Resolution
At any time before the issuance of the hearing officer鈥檚 responsibility determination, the parties may elect to resolve the Formal Complaint through the informal resolution process, provided that (1) the parties both voluntarily consent in writing to such resolution; (2) both parties are students or employees of Pfeiffer; and (3) the Title IX Coordinator determines that informal resolution is an appropriate mechanism for resolving that specific Formal Complaint. Otherwise, a Formal Complaint that is not dismissed will proceed to a hearing. Informal resolution is not an appropriate mechanism for resolving a Formal Complaint by a student against an employee.
Informal resolution may not be selected for less than all of the misconduct alleged in the Formal Complaint. If the parties agree to informal resolution (and informal resolution is appropriate for all of the allegations at issue), then all of the allegations must be resolved according to the informal resolution process.
Either party has the right to terminate the informal resolution process at any time and proceed with formal resolution (i.e., a full investigation and hearing). Furthermore, the Title IX Coordinator may, where appropriate, terminate informal resolution and proceed with the formal resolution process instead.
2D.02 Notice of Allegations and Notice of Informal Resolution and Facilitator
The Title IX Coordinator will provide the parties a written notice disclosing the Formal Complaint鈥檚 allegations and the requirements of the informal resolution process, including any circumstances under which Pfeiffer would preclude the parties from resuming a Formal Complaint arising from the same allegations.
When the Formal Complaint is to be resolved according to the informal resolution process, the Title IX Coordinator will designate a trained individual to serve as the informal resolution facilitator. The Title IX Coordinator will contemporaneously share the name of the informal resolution facilitator with the Complainant and the Respondent.
Within two days of such notification, the Complainant or Respondent may identify to the Title IX Coordinator in writing alleged conflicts of interest or bias posed by assigning that facilitator. The Title IX Coordinator will carefully consider such statements and will promptly assign a different facilitator if the Title IX Coordinator determines that a material conflict of interest or material bias exists.
2D.03 Facilitated Resolution
The informal resolution facilitator will meet separately with each party to review the informal resolution process and the allegations in the Formal Complaint and to identify the outcome that each party seeks from the informal resolution process. If the facilitator determines that it would be productive for both parties to attend a resolution meeting, the facilitator will provide written notice to the Complainant and the Respondent setting forth the date, time, and location of that meeting. At the request of either party or at the discretion of the informal resolution facilitator, the meeting may occur with the parties in different locations or meetings with parties may take place on different dates.
Both the Complainant and the Respondent are expected to participate in the informal resolution process. If either party fails to participate, the Title IX Coordinator may direct that the Formal Complaint be resolved using a full investigation and hearing or may reschedule the meeting.
During informal resolution, the parties may: (1) engage one another in the presence of, and/or facilitated by, the informal resolution facilitator; (2) communicate their feelings and perceptions regarding the incident and the impact of the incident (either by communicating directly with one another or by communicating indirectly through the informal resolution facilitator); (3) relay their wishes and expectations regarding the future; and/or (4) come to an agreed-upon resolution of the allegations in the Formal Complaint.
Participation in the informal resolution process is completely voluntary, and either party, the informal resolution facilitator, or the Title IX Coordinator may terminate the process at any time.
2D.04 Resolution
The informal resolution facilitator will attempt to facilitate the parties鈥� resolution of the Formal Complaint. If this process results in a resolution between the parties and the Title IX Coordinator finds the resolution to be appropriate under the circumstances (giving consideration to factors including the extent to which the resolution will protect the safety of the Complainant and the entire Pfeiffer community), the resolution will be reduced to writing, which will conclude the process and close the Formal Complaint.
2D.05 Written Resolution Agreement
To be effective, any agreement reached during the informal resolution process must be memorialized in writing and signed by the parties, the informal resolution facilitator, and the Title IX Coordinator. If a Respondent completes all measures agreed to in the written resolution agreement, no further process is available with regard to the allegations in the Formal Complaint.
Measures that parties agree to in the informal resolution process may include (but are not limited to):
1) Alcohol education classes for the Respondent;
2) Completion of online sexual harassment training;
3) Completion of an intervention program;
4) Regular meetings with an appropriate individual, unit or resource;
5) Permanent or temporary no contact order;
6) Restrictions for participation in certain activities, organizations, programs or classes;
7) Change in residential assignment or restrictions on access to certain residence halls or apartments;
8) Restriction of participation in certain events;
9) Reflection paper or written apology;
10) Counseling sessions; and/or
11) The Respondent鈥檚 completion of an educational or behavioral plan.
2D.06 Termination of Informal Resolution Process
At any time prior to completing a written resolution agreement, any party has the right to withdraw from the informal resolution process and resume the grievance process with respect to the Formal Complaint. If either party terminates the informal resolution process or Pfeiffer determines that the informal resolution process is no longer appropriate, the formal resolution process outlined above will promptly resume.
2D.07 Confidentiality of Information Shared
Any information that the parties share during the informal resolution process may not be used in any other investigation or proceeding at Pfeiffer.
2D.08 Timeframe
The informal resolution process generally will be completed within 20 days of the parties鈥� agreement to the informal resolution process.
2D.09 Appeal
A resolution reached pursuant to the informal resolution process is final and not subject to appeal.
2D.10 Records
A resolution reached through the informal resolution process will not be included in a student Respondent鈥檚 student conduct record or in an employee Respondent鈥檚 personnel record, unless the inclusion of such information is agreed to as part of the informal resolution of the matter. The Title IX Coordinator will retain a record of the written resolution agreement for no less than seven years.
D. INFORMAL RESOLUTION
Suggested Actions for People Who Have Experienced Sexual Harassment
If you have experienced Sexual Harassment, Pfeiffer鈥檚 first priority is to help you take steps to address your safety, medical needs and emotional well鈥恇eing. You are encouraged to take the following actions, as applicable, regardless of whether you have made a decision about whether to pursue a criminal or Pfeiffer complaint.
1. Ensure Your Physical Safety
You may seek help from local law enforcement agencies or by contacting the Pfeiffer Police Department. The Pfeiffer Police Department can assist you with contacting local law enforcement and can help you obtain transportation to the local law enforcement office. Officers are on duty at the Pfeiffer Police Department 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
2. Seek Medical Assistance and Treatment
Local options for medical care include [Student Health Services, Atrium Health Stanly, and Stanly County Department of Health]. It is crucial that you obtain medical attention as soon as possible after a sexual assault, for example, to determine the extent of physical injury and to prevent or treat sexually transmitted diseases (such as HIV). Medical facilities can also screen for the presence of sedative drugs such as Rohypnol or GHB (date鈥恟ape drugs).
Employees at the _Student Health Center can help you obtain transportation to a local hospital and can help you contact a support person, such as a family member, a friend, or a roommate.
If you choose to have an evidence collection kit (or 鈥渞ape kit鈥�) completed, it is important to do so within 120 hours.
Even if you have not decided whether to file charges, it is advisable to have the evidence collection kit completed so that you can better preserve the options of obtaining a protective order and/or filing criminal charges at a later date.
It is advisable to avoid showering, bathing, going to the bathroom, or brushing your teeth before an evidence collection kit is completed. You should also wear (or take with you in a paper 鈥� not plastic 鈥� bag) to the hospital the same clothing that you were wearing during the assault. An evidence collection kit can still be completed even if you have showered or bathed.
3. Obtain Emotional Support
The Counseling Center can help students sort through their feelings and begin the recovery process. The professionals at the Counseling Center are trained to provide crisis intervention on short鈥恡erm and emergency issues. The Counseling Center can also provide referral services for outside providers and law enforcement. Counseling is free of charge to all students. In some instances, the law may require the disclosure of information shared by students with counselors. However, absent a legal mandate to the contrary, counseling services are strictly confidential, are not part of students鈥� records, and will not be reported to other Pfeiffer personnel.
Employees may contact the Employee Assistance Program to obtain emotional support (available at: USAble Life 鈥� New Directions EAP www.ndbh.com). If you are enrolled in the employee medical, you can contact Teladoc.com/Therapy.
4. Obtain Information/Report Misconduct
You are encouraged to report incidents of sexual assault to 秋葵视频鈥檚 Title IX Coordinator (even if you have filed a report directly with law enforcement). The Title IX Coordinator can help you access resources and can provide you with support and information, including information on 秋葵视频鈥檚 procedures for investigating and addressing instances of sexual assault.
Important Contact Information
Resources for Parties
Office of Human Resources
Ramanda Medlin, Title IX Coordinator
704-463-3067
ramanda.medlin@pfeiffer.edu
Jerry and Evon Jordan Hall Administration Building Room 102
Misenheimer Campus
University Police Department
Police 3000 or (704) 463-3000
Markus Lambert, Chief of Police
markus.lambert@pfeiffer.edu
(704) 463-3001
Student Health Center
[704]-463-3625
Mon. 鈥� Fri. 8:30 a.m. -2:30 p.m.
Division of Student Life
Ryan Reinhart, Dean of Students
704-463-3401
ryan.reinhart@pfeiffer.edu
Stokes Student Center 鈥� Student Development Office
Misenheimer Campus
Campus, Office 102
Misenheimer Counseling Services and Wellness Center
Stokes Student Center, Misenheimer
Campus, Office 117a
(704) 463-3439 (Misenheimer)
Important Contact Information
Community Resources
Atrium Health Stanly
(980) 323-4000
Stanly County Department of Health
(704) 982-9171
[1] As used herein, 鈥渟ex鈥� includes birth/biological sex, gender, gender identify and expression, and sexual orientation.
[2] As defined by Title IX of the Education Amendments Act of 1972 and its implementing regulations (鈥淭itle IX鈥�) and herein, Sexual Harassment includes Sexual Assault, Dating Violence, Domestic Violence, and Stalking,
[3] Capitalized terms used herein are defined in Section 1.06.
[4] And, at the discretion of the Title Coordinator, to related allegations of Retaliation.
[5] This standard is not met through imputation of knowledge based solely on vicarious liability or constructive notice. This standard also is not met when the only individual with Actual Knowledge is the Respondent. The mere ability or obligation to report Sexual Harassment or to inform a student about how to report Sexual Harassment, or having been trained to do so, does not qualify an individual as one to whom notice of Sexual Harassment or allegations of Sexual Harassment constitutes Actual Knowledge.
[6] Retaliation does not include (1) the exercise of rights protected under the First Amendment; (2) charging an individual with making a materially false statement in bad faith in the course of a grievance proceeding (provided, however, that a determination regarding responsibility alone is not sufficient to conclude that an individual made a materially false statement in bad faith); or (3) good faith actions lawfully pursued in response to a report of prohibited conduct.
[7] In other words, the standard of proof will be the preponderance of the evidence standard.