Special Campus Memo: Title IX

Sept. 22, 2017

Today the U.S. Department of Education (DOE) issued a notice to inform colleges and universities that the department has rescinded two pieces of Title IX guidance and has replaced them with new interim guidance. While the interim guidance gives colleges the discretion to use a "clear and convincing" standard of evidence, Grinnell will continue to use our "preponderance of the evidence" or more-likely-than-not standard as defined in the Grinnell College Policy, Procedures and Guide to Preventing, Reporting, and Responding to Sexual Misconduct and Other Forms of Interpersonal Violence.

The work the College has done to prevent and respond to reports of sexual misconduct or sexual harassment has positioned us well for the future. We remain committed to responding promptly and equitably when we learn of possible sexual misconduct or sexual harassment. We will continue to use an outside investigator and a third-party adjudicator for student cases. We also will continue to provide remedies and support measures for both complainants and respondents. The new guidance states that colleges may facilitate informal resolutions, including mediation, and we are looking into the implications of this change. At this time we do not believe the announcement will affect our policies and procedures. Should any changes be required by the DOE, we will inform the campus community. Meanwhile, we have more work to do and our Title IX work will continue. We are grateful for the many, many individuals who work to support our community and foster a safe learning environment for all Grinnellians.

Grinnell's Sexual Respect website provides information about the Title IX policies, procedures, and resources available to our community.

As always, we encourage College community members to contact the Title IX Office (titleix@grinnell.edu or call 641-269-4999) if you have questions or concerns, or are seeking support.

Title IX Office