Sexual harassment, stalking, and gender-based discrimination are violations of Title IX. If you're harassed, you have options: talk to a confidential advisor for support, report to your Title IX office for investigation, or involve campus police if you're in immediate danger. You're never alone.
Immediate Steps & Safety Planning
If you experience harassment, your first priority is safety. Remove yourself from the situation if possible, reach out to a trusted person, and access immediate support. You don't have to decide whether to report right away; focus on getting safe and supported.
- If in immediate danger, call campus police (campus number) or 911
- Reach out to a trusted friend, family member, or residence hall staff member for emotional support
- Consider contacting a campus counselor or Title IX confidential advisor to discuss options without triggering investigation
- Preserve evidence if possible: save threatening messages, document dates/times/locations of incidents, note witnesses
- Know that trauma responses vary; not reporting immediately is normal and doesn't invalidate your experience
Reporting Options: Confidential vs. Formal Investigation
You have control over the reporting pathway. Confidential reports provide support without institutional investigation; formal complaints initiate Title IX investigations. Understanding the difference allows you to choose what's right for you.
- Report to a counselor, chaplain, or victim advocate for confidential support and resource information (no investigation triggered)
- File a formal Title IX complaint with your Title IX Coordinator for institutional investigation and potential sanctions
- Report to campus police if you want law enforcement documentation or if the conduct involves a crime
- Use your college's online reporting portal for anonymous disclosure (investigation may be limited if reporter cannot provide follow-up)
- Request interim measures (no-contact order, schedule changes, housing reassignment) while investigation is pending—ask your Title IX office immediately
Investigation Process & Support Throughout
Title IX investigations follow a structured process. You'll be notified of allegations against the respondent, have opportunity to provide evidence and witness names, and participate in a hearing or live interview. Survivor advocates and advisors support you every step.
StageTimeframeYour RoleInitial report review3–5 daysProvide your account to Title IX officeInvestigation & interviews20–60 daysAttend investigator interview; suggest witnesses and evidenceNotice and response3–5 daysReview allegations and evidence; prepare for hearing or written decisionHearing or determination10–20 daysTestify if hearing held; answer questions from respondent/investigatorAppeals window14 daysAppeal on limited grounds if needed; separate reviewer decides
- Title IX office provides written notice of allegations, your rights, and investigation timeline within 3–5 days
- You participate in investigator interviews; bring an advisor or support person with you
- Request a live hearing where you can see and question the respondent (if allegations are denied)
- Receive written decision explaining whether a Title IX violation occurred, reasoning, and any sanctions imposed
- Appeal if new evidence emerges or if procedures were violated; appeals are reviewed by a separate decision-maker
Key Takeaways
- If harassed, prioritize your safety: reach out to a trusted person or counselor, and consider contacting your Title IX office or campus police.
- You can report confidentially (support only) or file a formal complaint (investigation); you control the reporting pathway and can change your mind.
- Title IX investigations follow a structured process: notice, interviews, evidence review, hearing, decision, and appeal—your Title IX office guides you throughout.
.svg)
