Dear Colleagues:
This is to announce that the U.S. Department of Education has released regarding Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 (Title IX), the law that prohibits sex-based discrimination and harassment at schools, colleges, and universities. Kent State has reviewed and revised its policies and procedures to ensure compliance and prepare for implementation of the new rules.
The regulations are effective August 14, 2020, and Kent State’s Title IX team, along with our many university partners, has worked not only to align its compliance process with these requirements, but also with the university’s mission and values.
Consistent with the new regulations, Kent State’s revised Administrative policy regarding complaints of Title IX sexual harassment Policy (5-16.2) outlines the procedures for filing and resolving complaints and how investigations must be adjudicated under the new Title IX regulations. The revised Administrative policy and grievance procedure regarding complaints of discrimination and harassment Policy (5-16.1) outlines procedures for adjudicating complaints of gender discrimination and harassment not addressed by Title IX regulations, as well as discrimination based on other protected categories.
Kent State is committed to an environment where every person learning, living, or working within our campus system feels secure and free from harassment. The university has zero tolerance for sexual misconduct and is focused on prevention of situations which violate its policies.
In light of the new regulations and policies, the Office of Compliance, Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action (EOAA) is planning to announce opportunities for members of the university community to be updated by participating in a listening session focused on our policies; and will also launch training workshops and other informational platforms.
At Kent State, we believe it is important that individuals are aware of their options in the event they feel that our policies have been violated. Anyone who believes they have experienced gender/sexual discrimination or harassment, or has any related questions or concerns, should contact the university’s Title IX Coordinator at 330.672.2038, or titleix@kent.edu.
Sincerely,
F. Jack Witt, JD
Vice President for Human Resources
Tiffany Murray, JD
Director, Gender Equity and Title IX Coordinator