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Sexual Violence and Title IX

Montclair State University is committed to creating a safe, respectful and inclusive environment for all students, faculty and staff. Sexual misconduct and discrimination have no place in our community, and resources are available to support you every step of the way.

We’re Here for You

No matter your situation, you are not alone. The University is committed to supporting you with care, respect and confidentiality while providing clear options for next steps.

 

 

What is Title IX?

Title IX is a federal law that prohibits discrimination based on sex or gender in education programs and activities. This includes protections against sexual harassment and sexual violence.

At Montclair State University, Title IX helps guide policies and procedures to prevent, address and respond to misconduct, ensuring all individuals have equal access to education and campus life.

Sexual misconduct is a broad term used to describe behaviors that violate University policy and federal law. This includes:

  • Sexual harassment
  • Non-consensual sexual contact or intercourse
  • Sexual exploitation
  • Dating or domestic violence
  • Stalking

These behaviors are not tolerated, and the University provides clear processes for reporting and support.

Understanding your rights empowers you to make informed decisions and access the support you need. Montclair State University provides policies and resources to ensure transparency, fairness, and protection for all students.

All individuals involved in a Title IX matter, including complainants and respondents, have the right to:

  • Be treated with respect, dignity, and sensitivity.
  • A prompt, fair, equitable, and impartial process.
  • Be informed of available supportive measures and resources.
  • Receive written notice of meetings, interviews, hearings, and outcomes.
  • Present information, including relevant evidence and witnesses.
  • Review relevant evidence prior to a determination.
  • Be accompanied by an advisor of their choice for support.
  • Be free from retaliation, intimidation, threats, or coercion.
  • Request recusal of any decision-maker or investigator based on bias or conflict of interest.
  • Receive regular updates regarding the status of the matter.
  • Preservation of privacy to the extent permitted by law.

These rights apply to students, faculty, and staff involved in Title IX matters.

Amnesty: Students who report sexual misconduct while under the influence of alcohol or drugs may be eligible for amnesty from University alcohol or drug policy violations related to the incident. This policy is intended to encourage reporting and does not protect against criminal or civil liability.

Retaliation against any individual for reporting concerns, participating in a Title IX process, or supporting another individual is strictly prohibited. Allegations of retaliation will be addressed promptly. 

When a formal complaint is filed, the University will conduct a prompt, thorough, and impartial investigation conducted by trained personnel.

Key elements of the process include:

  • Written notice of allegations.
  • Opportunity for both parties to present evidence and witnesses.
  • Review of relevant evidence prior to determination.
  • Application of the preponderance of the evidence standard.
  • Written determination issued simultaneously to both parties.

Sanctions, if imposed, are based on the specific circumstances of the case and may range from educational interventions to suspension, termination, or expulsion.

Supportive measures are non-disciplinary, non-punitive individualized services offered to restore or preserve access to the University's education programs and activities.

Supportive measures may be provided with or without the filing of a formal complaint.

Examples of supportive measures may include:

  • Academic adjustments or flexibility.
  • Excused absences.
  • Extensions of deadlines or rescheduled exams.
  • Changes to class, work, or housing arrangements.
  • Counseling or health referrals.
  • Mutual restrictions on contact.
  • Adjustments related to pregnancy, parenting, or lactation needs.

Supportive measures are coordinated through the Office of Title IX and provided at no cost to the parties.

Students and employees who are pregnant, parenting, or experiencing pregnancy-related conditions are entitled to reasonable adjustments to ensure equal access to education and employment.

These Protections Include, But Are Not Limited To:

  • Excused absences for pregnancy-related medical needs.
  • Reasonable academic or workplace adjustments.
  • Lactation accommodations, including access to clean, private, non-bathroom spaces.
  • Leave of absence with reinstatement to the same academic or employment status.

Medical documentation may only be requested if required of all individuals with temporary medical conditions.

Contact a Coordinator