Gender-Based Misconduct and Interim Title IX Policies and Procedures for Students
Gender-Based Misconduct and Interim Title IX Policies and Procedures for Students
Columbia University, Barnard College, and Teachers College are committed to fostering an environment that is free from gender-based discrimination and harassment, including sexual assault and all other forms of gender-based misconduct. The University recognizes its responsibility to increase awareness of such misconduct, prevent its occurrence, diligently investigate reports of misconduct, support students and others who experience gender-based misconduct, and respond fairly and firmly when students violate University policy. The University is also committed to supporting students accused of gender-based misconduct who go through the disciplinary process. In addressing issues of gender-based misconduct, all members of the University must respect and care for one another in a manner consistent with our deeply held academic and community values.
The Policies set out here reflect the University’s commitment to a safe and non-discriminatory educational environment, consistent with Title IX, the Violence Against Women Act (“VAWA”), and New York State Education Law 129-B. They define gender-based misconduct and explain Title IX, highlight available resources for students, and set procedures for addressing gender-based misconduct involving students.
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In May 2020, the U.S. Department of Education issued new regulations for colleges and universities that address sexual assault and other gender-based misconduct. These regulations cover certain specific forms of gender-based misconduct.
To comply with these regulations, the University has revised its existing policy for those types of misconduct (the “Title IX Policy”). In addition, the University maintains the “Gender-Based Misconduct Policy” for other types of gender-based misconduct that are not covered by the new regulations. Both policies are important to creating and supporting a University community that rejects all forms of gender-based misconduct.
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Under both the Gender-Based Misconduct Policy and the Interim Title IX Policy, the University remains committed to diligently investigating reports of misconduct, supporting students and others who experience gender-based misconduct, and responding fairly and firmly when students violate University policy.
The University’s Gender-Based Misconduct Policy and the Interim Title IX Policy and Procedures are administered by the Gender-Based Misconduct Office (“GBMO” or the “Office”) in partnership with the Title IX Coordinator.