A coordinated response

We recommend forming a Title IX team. Outline its roles and responsibilities and review first responder protocols. Articulate roles and responsibilities individually and collectively. Sequence the institutional response in advance of an incident, and draft internal operating procedures. Elements of an effective response include:

A strong Title IX coordinator with experience, independence and oversight,
Staff that is well-trained in student affairs, human resources, public safety and campus law enforcement,
A uniform policy addressing all forms of sexual harassment and violence, stalking and intimate partner violence,
Policy and practice that sets clear behavioral expectations for all,
Consistent messaging in education and training regarding prevention, bystander engagement and individual and community responsibility,
Integration and clarification of reporting responsibilities of employees,
Clear delineation between confidential resources and reporting options,
A centralized review process led by the Title IX coordinator and team,
Consideration of interim protective measures for victims, remedies and support services,
Integrated communication and coordination of information,
Separation of support and advocacy from the investigative functions,
Fair and impartial investigation and adjudication,
The inclusion of remedies-based responses, and,
Partnerships with local law enforcement and prosecutors as well as regional regulatory offices.

All of this must be supported by education for the entire community, an active effort to remove barriers to reporting and coordinated communication. Through commitment, competence, collaboration and coordination, administrators can exercise effective leadership and oversight of institutional responses.

Instant Insights /

Title IX: Responding to sexual harassment and violence incidents

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