Dear Members of the Monmouth University Community:
Monmouth University has implemented a new Title IX Sexual Harassment policy in response to new federal Title IX regulations. In May of 2020, the U.S. Department of Education issued new regulations mandating how colleges and universities must investigate and adjudicate sexual harassment cases under Title IX, the federal law prohibiting discrimination on the basis of sex in educational programs or activities. As a result, like all educational institutions that receive federal funding, Monmouth was required to amend its policies related to sexual misconduct by August 14, 2020.
The new policy was developed with input from various stakeholders including students, faculty, and staff. The policy has been added to the Sexual Misconduct & Title IX website and additional information will continue to be added to the website.
The previous university policies prohibiting sexual misconduct, discrimination, and harassment all remain in effect. Conduct of a sexual nature that previously constituted a violation of University policy will continue to constitute a violation of University policy. The conduct may now be adjudicated under the new Title IX Sexual Harassment policy if it meets certain criteria such as specific jurisdictional requirements. Conduct that does not meet the criteria to be adjudicated under the new policy will continue to be adjudicated under the existing university polices against sexual misconduct, discrimination, and harassment.
Some important features of the new Title IX Sexual Harassment policy include:
- Live hearings with the option of different locations and the use of remote technology;
- Live cross examination conducted by parties’ advisors;
- Parties who do not wish to participate in the University’s formal disciplinary process may choose to participate in a voluntary informal resolution process; and
- Applies to incidents that occur on-campus or during a university program or activity within the U.S.
Most features of the University’s previous policies related to sexual misconduct will remain the same, including:
- University policies continue to apply to off-campus sexual misconduct between members of the University community or on University-sponsored programs or activities (including study abroad or conferences);
- The preponderance of the evidence (more likely than not) standard continues to apply; and
- Individuals may still access supportive measures (such as Letters of No Contact, academic support, or housing changes) with or without participating in a formal investigation or adjudication.
The Office of Equity and Diversity is open and is functioning remotely during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Anyone impacted by sexual misconduct of any type is encouraged to contact the Title IX Coordinator, Nina Anderson, at nanderso@monmouth.edu or (732) 571-7577 to make a report and/or obtain information or assistance. The office is located in The Great Hall, Room 304. Alternatively, you may send an email to TitleIX@monmouth.edu.
Monmouth University is committed to creating an environment where all individuals feel safe and supported.
Sincerely,
Dr. Patrick F. Leahy
President