The University of Alabama remains committed to promoting a safe and respectful campus environment. In light of recent federal regulations released under Title IX of the Education Amendments Act of 1972, the Office of Equal Opportunity and Title IX Programs has updated the Title IX and Sexual Misconduct Policy to reflect the new requirements.
The new regulations specify how postsecondary institutions must respond to certain allegations of sexual harassment consistent with Title IX’s prohibition against sex discrimination.
Important aspects of the updated Title IX and Sexual Misconduct Policy include:
- The University’s jurisdiction to address reports of prohibited conduct remains the same. The University will continue to address on-campus and off-campus prohibited conduct involving employees and students.
- All University employees and students are encouraged to report incidents of prohibited conduct. Certain University officials are required to report prohibited conduct to the Office of Equal Opportunity and Title IX Programs.
- The policy establishes two grievance processes: the Title IX Process addresses prohibited conduct based on the requirements of the Title IX regulations and the Sexual Misconduct Process addresses prohibited conduct which falls outside of the requirements of the new regulations.
- The grievance processes are initiated by either the complainant or Title IX coordinator signing a formal complaint.
- Informal resolution is available in many cases to resolve formal complaints of prohibited conduct.
Jessica Humber, who recently assumed the role of Title IX coordinator, will oversee the University’s compliance with Title IX, including implementation and enforcement of the Title IX and Sexual Misconduct Policy. Humber’s responsibilities include receiving reports of prohibited conduct, overseeing grievance processes, monitoring outcomes, addressing reporting patterns, overseeing supportive measures, and providing training and education to the campus community.
The University will continue to provide supportive measures to students and employees. For more information about available supportive measures, including confidential counseling services, see the Sexual Assault and Misconduct Services and Support website.
Additional informational and training opportunities are being planned. Questions or training session requests for a department or group may be directed to Beth Howard, executive director of the Office of Equal Opportunity and Title IX Programs or Humber.
For more information about the University’s policies, how to report incidents, and resources, visit the Title IX website.