Frequently Asked Questions
We hope we can answer some of your questions with some of the frequently asked questions below:
What is Title IX and whom does it protect?
Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 requires all federally funded Universities to prohibit sex/gender-based discrimination on campuses. Title IX states, “No person in the United States shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any education program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance.” (TITLE IX OF THE EDUCATION AMENDMENTS OF 1972, 20 U.S.C. A§ 1681 ET. SEQ.)
Title IX protects everyone, regardless of, race/ethnicity, color, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, class, religion, citizenship, marriage status, pregnant or parenting status, or age as define by law, national origin, disability, or veteran status. Title IX applies to all students, staff and faculty, this includes female, male, transgender, and gender non-conforming Clark University community members.
What happens when the University finds out about an occurrence of conduct that might violate the Sexual Offense Policy?
After receiving a report of conduct that could fall under the Sexual Offense Policy, the Title IX Coordinator or their designee will take a number of initial steps. These initial steps are not an investigation. Rather, these initial steps will enable the University to assess the need to take any immediate action, to address the safety and health needs of the Complainant and the University community, and to determine the next steps for investigating the reported conduct and the need for any interim measures. The Title IX Coordinator will contact the Complainant and encourage them to meet to discuss the nature and circumstances of the reported conduct, review relevant documentation that is available, and address their immediate physical safety and emotional needs, including the need for any interim measures. Examples of interim measures may include:
- no-contact orders
- requests for academic adjustments
- changes to living, transportation and working situations,
- other actions to address the situations and concerns raised on an interim basis.
What is the difference between a “Complainant” and a “Respondent”?
In a Title IX context the “Complainant” is the person reporting a potential violation of the Sexual Offense Policy and the “Respondent” is the person accused of violating the Sexual Offense Policy.
Who can a student talk to if they have been accused of committing a Sexual Offense?
If you or someone you know has been accused of committing a Sexual Offense there are a few different resources. The student can speak to:
Brittany Rende
Title IX Coordinator
titleix@jdzruiran.com
she/her/hers
1-508-793-7194
How does the Title IX Process work if the Respondent is a faculty or staff member?
If a student is reporting a Title IX case where the Respondent is a faculty or staff member, the Title IX Procedure follows the guidelines set forth in the Faculty or Staff Sexual Offense Policy respectively. To learn more about that process follow this link http://utex.jdzruiran.com/offices/title-ix/policy-and-process/. To see the staff and faculty policies follow this link http://utex.jdzruiran.com/offices/title-ix/policy-and-process/.
Can I receive assistance and resources from the Title IX office even if I do not want to report an incident?
Yes. You may receive assistance and resources from the Title IX office even if you are not reporting an incident. These may include: housing changes, schedule changes, medical assistance or counseling services.
Can I bring someone with me to the Title IX office?
Yes. Both Complainants and Respondents are allowed to bring a support person, or advisor to the Title IX office with them. Complainants and Respondents are allowed an advisor for all parts of the Title IX process.
What kind of resources can Clark provide for me?
Clark can provide students resources such as, academic assistance, work assistance, housing changes, no contact orders, financial assistance, counseling services, and medical care. Clark University can also provide individual assistance depending on the circumstances.
If I was drinking underage or using drugs when the incident occurred will I be punished? Or if I was drinking or using drugs when I witnessed and reported an incident will I be punished?
No. Clark University has a Medical Amnesty Policy. Under this policy, Clark will not write you up for a drinking or drug conduct violation if you are experiencing a medical emergency, are reporting a possible sexual offense violation, or calling for someone else experiencing such action.
What is a no-contact order?
A no-contact order is an order issued by the University to protect a person’s safety and preserve a peaceful environment for all students to work, study and live on campus. If you have been issued a no-contact order it may limit communication in person, electronic, through social media or a third party. Violations of a university no-contact order may result in separation from the University.
What and who are Responsible Employees?
A Responsible Employee are employees of the University who are mandated by law to promptly report any information they encounter regarding a possible sexual offense to the Title IX Coordinator or their supervisor. Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 defines “responsible employees” as those employees who:
- have the authority to take action to redress harassment
- have the duty to report to appropriate school officials’ sexual harassment or any other misconduct by students or employees
- or who a student could reasonably believe has this authority or responsibility
At Clark University, all employees, including Teaching Assistants (TAs) and Resident Advisors (RAs), are responsible employees and are required to report information about a possible sexual offense. Responsible employees help connect students to their campus resources.
Title IX Office
Shaich Family Alumni and Student Engagement Center
Third Floor
939 Main St.
Worcester, MA 01610