Title IX

Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 is a federal law prohibiting sex-based discrimination in any education program or activity that receives federal financial assistance. Title IX ensures that educational institutions, including colleges like those in the SUNY system, must have processes for responding to sexual harassment claims. The Title IX Coordinator at a college ensures the institution complies with Title IX, overseeing the investigation, resolution, and review of sexual misconduct reports.

The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) further expands on the Clery Act by requiring colleges and universities to:

1. Report incidents of dating violence, domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking.
2. Implement specific student discipline procedures, including notifying victims of their rights.
3. Adopt institutional policies and conduct training to prevent and address campus sexual violence.

The Title IX Coordinator plays a critical role in implementing all these regulations, ensuring the college remains compliant and that investigations and responses to sexual misconduct are handled according to legal requirements.

Definitions:

1. Dating Violence: Dating violence refers to acts of violence committed by someone who is or has been in a romantic or intimate relationship with the victim. The relationship is determined by the victim's statement, considering the relationship's type, length, and frequency of interaction. Casual acquaintances or business/social interactions do not qualify as romantic or intimate relationships.
2. Domestic Violence: Domestic violence includes violent crimes, whether felonies or misdemeanors, committed by a current or former spouse or intimate partner, a person sharing a child with the victim, or someone cohabiting with the victim as a spouse or intimate partner.
3. Sexual Assault: While New York State does not have a specific definition for sexual assault, the term generally refers to offenses that meet the definitions of rape, fondling, incest, or statutory rape as outlined by the FBI's Uniform Crime Reporting program.
4. Stalking: Stalking is the intentional act of engaging in a course of conduct directed at a specific person, which causes fear for safety or emotional distress. It includes following someone, committing acts that cause fear, or repeatedly communicating in a way that intimidates or alarms them.

These definitions serve as a foundation for understanding various forms of violence and misconduct, allowing institutions to recognize and respond appropriately to such incidents.

Statement of Victim Rights:

At Columbia-Greene Community College, we are fully committed to fostering a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment where all members of our campus community are free from discrimination, including gender-based violence. We take a firm stance against all forms of sexual misconduct, including sexual harassment, assault, violence, and any acts of coercion, intimidation, or exploitation for sexual purposes. Our goal is not only to educate our community about these critical issues but also to provide timely, supportive resources to those who are impacted by sexual violence.

If a sexual assault is reported, the College will conduct a thorough investigation into the allegations and take appropriate action to address the situation. We prioritize the privacy and confidentiality of the victim and will respect requests for anonymity whenever possible. However, in cases where the safety of the broader campus community is at risk, we may need to assess the request for confidentiality in light of factors such as the potential risk to others, prior incidents involving the accused, or other relevant circumstances. In all instances, we will take every necessary step to protect the victim's privacy as much as possible.

It is vital that victims receive the support they need for their healing journey. The College will provide information on available resources both on-campus and in the surrounding community, including medical care, counseling, and other support services, while respecting the victim's autonomy in choosing the resources and options that best fit their needs.

All members of the College community—whether administrators, faculty, staff, or students—are expected to uphold and support the following principles in responding to and assisting individuals affected by sexual assault or related incidents:

1. The Right to Human Dignity:

Victims are entitled to:

• Be treated with fairness, respect, and compassion.
• Have their privacy respected at all times.
• Not be coerced into reporting the assault to receive recognition of their rights or principles.
• Have their allegations of sexual assault taken seriously.
• Be free from any implication that they are responsible for the assault.
• Be protected from retaliation or any actions that may discourage reporting sexual misconduct.
• Be free from pressure by campus personnel to:
  • Report sexual assaults if they do not wish to.
  • Downplay the severity of the assault.
  • Refrain from reporting due to fears of unwanted publicity.

2. The Right to Resources On and Off Campus:

Victims are entitled to:

• Receive information about options for pursuing a criminal complaint, engaging in the College’s disciplinary process, or pursuing both.
• Be informed about available medical, counseling, mental health, and victim support services on and off campus, whether or not the assault is formally reported.
• Have access to campus counseling services.
• Be informed of their rights to confidential or anonymous testing for sexually transmitted infections, HIV, and pregnancy.
• Be made aware of their rights to preventive measures such as emergency contraception or HIV prophylaxis.
• Be informed about the availability of communicable disease test results from sexual assault suspects, if applicable.
• Be notified about potential victim assistance compensation through the New York State Crime Victims Board.

3. The Right to Campus Judicial Proceedings:

Victims have the right to:

• Receive written and timely notice of a disciplinary hearing involving the accused individual(s).
• Present witnesses and evidence, and receive clear information about the process, including written notification of the outcome.
• Have an advocate or advisor accompany them during the disciplinary hearing (though the advisor cannot actively participate).
• Be present throughout the hearing, with alternative arrangements available for those who wish to avoid being in the same room as the accused.
• Provide testimony during the proceedings.
• Ensure that irrelevant past sexual history will not be discussed during the hearing.
• Submit a “victim impact statement” if the accused is found in violation of the Code of Conduct.
• Be informed of the hearing outcome within 60 calendar days.
• Appeal the outcome of the hearing if desired.

4. The Right to Law Enforcement and Campus Intervention:

Victims have the right to:

• Have their report of sexual assault investigated by the appropriate criminal and civil authorities.
• Receive prompt assistance from campus personnel in notifying the relevant authorities.
• Receive help in obtaining, securing, and maintaining evidence, including medical exams necessary for preserving assault evidence.
• Have “no contact” orders (e.g., Cease and Desist orders) issued promptly to all parties involved once a report is made.
• Expect campus personnel to take reasonable actions to prevent further contact between the victim and the alleged assailant.
• Be informed about and assisted with making changes to academic and living situations, when reasonably available, to ensure safety.

5. Statutory Mandates:

• The College will not restrict its legal obligations to report suspected offenses to law enforcement authorities. However, the College will maintain the victim's privacy to the extent allowed by law.
• The College may issue a Community Notice if a reported sexual assault poses a risk to the campus community, while ensuring the victim's identity is not disclosed.

By upholding these values, Columbia-Greene Community College seeks to ensure that all members of our campus feel supported, safe, and empowered to take the necessary steps toward healing and justice.

Resources Available for Support:

The College is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all students. In the aftermath of an incident involving sexual violence— including dating violence, domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking—students have access to a variety of protective measures and support resources.

Immediate Assistance

Students in crisis can access immediate support from trained on- and off-campus advocates who provide confidential assistance. The following resources are available for emergency response, law enforcement support, and crisis intervention:

• Confidential Support Services: The College recognizes that individuals may need time before deciding to report an incident. Confidential resources are available to provide guidance, assist in obtaining support services, and explain reporting options. These professionals are legally required to maintain confidentiality and will not share information without the individual’s explicit consent.
• Emergency Contacts: Students are encouraged to reach out to campus security, local law enforcement, or first responders for immediate safety concerns and emergency assistance.

The College encourages all members of the community to seek support and report incidents when they are ready. Assistance is available to help survivors navigate the process while ensuring their rights and privacy are respected.

Campus Resources: 

Columbia-Greene Community College is dedicated to providing a safe and supportive environment for all students, especially those affected by sexual violence, including dating violence, domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking. The College offers a range of resources to assist students in need.

Resources for Immediate Assistance

The following contacts provide trained advocates who can offer immediate, confidential support in crisis situations:

• Health Services Office: Located in the Main Building, Room 316. Director: Maria Ostrander, RN. Phone: 518-697-6303.
• Greener Pathways: Phone: 518-291-4500.
• Greene County Family Planning: Phone: 518-828-8500.
• Columbia County Department of Health: Phone: 518-828-3358.
• Greene County Department of Health: Phone: 518-719-3600.

The College provides several on-campus services to support students:

• Student Success Center (SSC): Offers tutoring, academic coaching, placement and make-up testing, and a laptop and calculator loan program. Services are available both in person and through the SSC area in Brightspace.
• Office of Accessibility Services (OAS): Committed to creating an inclusive environment for students with disabilities. Provides guidance on academic adjustments and support services. Located in Room 113Q of the Main Building. Email: oasweb@sunycgcc.edu. 

These resources are designed to offer support and assistance to students, ensuring their well-being and academic success.

Community Resources: These resources located off-campus offer intervention services and counseling.

The College is dedicated to providing a safe and supportive environment for all students, especially those affected by sexual misconduct. In line with Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, the College offers a range of resources and accommodations to support victims/survivors.

Academic Accommodations:

Students who have experienced sexual misconduct may request reasonable academic accommodations to support their continued education. These accommodations can include:

• Adjustments to class schedules or work assignments
• Withdrawal from or retaking a course without penalty
• Access to academic support services, such as tutoring

The College is committed to providing appropriate and reasonable accommodations to ensure the safety and well-being of the victim/survivor. 

Interim Measures:

Pending the outcome of an investigation, the College may implement interim measures to protect the victim/survivor. These measures can include:

• Issuance of no-contact orders
• Changes to the accused individual's course schedule
• Suspension or restricted access to campus for the accused

These steps are taken to ensure the safety and well-being of the victim/survivor and the broader campus community.

Reporting Policies & Procedures:

Columbia-Greene Community College is dedicated to fostering a safe and respectful environment, free from sex-based discrimination. The College takes a firm stance against all forms of sexual misconduct, including harassment, assault, violence, and any form of coercion or exploitation. We are committed to educating our community on these critical issues and providing timely support to those affected.

Upon receiving a report of sexual misconduct, the College will conduct a thorough investigation and take appropriate action to the fullest extent possible. We respect the victim's right to privacy and will honor requests for anonymity while balancing the obligation to ensure the safety of the broader community. For instance, if an assault must be reported, the request for anonymity will be weighed against factors such as whether the accused has other complaints against them. In such cases, every effort will be made to protect the victim's identity.

It is essential that victims receive full support as they determine their best course of action. The College will provide information about available campus and community medical and counseling resources and uphold the victim's right to choose among these options.

All members of the College community, including officers, administrators, faculty, staff, employees, and students, are expected to adhere to the following principles regarding victims of campus-related sexual assaults:

A student who is not satisfied with the College’s handling of a complaint, may also file a complaint with federal and state agencies :

1. New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services 

Alfred E. Smith State Office Building 

80 South Swan St. 

Albany, New York 12210 

E-Mail Address: InfoDCJS@dcjs.ny.gov   

Phone: 518-457-5837 or 1-800-262-3257 

2. U.S. Department of Justice Office on Violence against Women (OVW) 

145 N Street, NE, Suite 10W.121 

Washington, D.C. 20530 

Phone: 202-307-6026 

Correspondence by e-mail may be sent to ovw.info@usdoj.gov   

3. Office for Civil Rights 

OCR National Headquarters/U. S. Department of Education/ Office of Civil Rights 

Lyndon Baines Johnson Department of Education Building 

400 Maryland Avenue, S.W. 

Washington, D. C. 20202-1100 

Telephone: 1-800-421-3481 

Email: OCR@ed.gov   

4. Office for Civil Rights 

New York Office – US Department of Education 

32 Old Slip, 26th Floor 

New York, New York 10005-2500 

Telephone: 646-428-3900 

5. New York State Domestic and Sexual Violence Hotline at 1-800-942-6906 

In addition, the complainant may file a complaint with the appropriate State or Federal agency at any point during the process. See Appendix A for a list of External Enforcement Agencies.

Role of the Title IX Coordinator in the Complaint Process:

The Title IX Coordinator plays an essential role in managing complaints of sexual misconduct at Columbia-Greene Community College. Their primary duties revolve around ensuring that the institution upholds Title IX standards and responds appropriately to allegations of sexual harassment, assault, and other forms of sexual violence. Below are the key responsibilities of the Title IX Coordinator:

1. Policy Implementation and Oversight: The Title IX Coordinator ensures that the College's policies and procedures related to sexual misconduct are effectively implemented and adhered to. They oversee the institution’s compliance with Title IX regulations and are responsible for addressing any systemic issues or gaps in the handling of sexual misconduct complaints.
2. Complaint Management: Upon receiving a report of sexual misconduct, the Title IX Coordinator assesses the nature of the complaint, determines the appropriate procedures for investigation, and ensures that the investigation is conducted in a timely, fair, and impartial manner. They may oversee the investigation or delegate it to trained personnel, ensuring that all steps align with institutional policies and Title IX standards.
3. Interim Measures and Accommodations: The Coordinator works to protect the well-being of the complainant during the investigation by facilitating interim measures such as academic accommodations, housing changes, or no-contact orders. These measures aim to ensure the safety of the complainant and prevent retaliation or further harm while the investigation is ongoing.
4. Training and Education: The Title IX Coordinator is responsible for educating the campus community about Title IX rights and obligations. This includes providing training for faculty, staff, and students on how to recognize, respond to, and report sexual misconduct. The Coordinator also helps the College promote awareness and prevention programs to address sexual violence and misconduct proactively.
5. Record-Keeping and Reporting: The Title IX Coordinator maintains detailed and confidential records of all complaints, investigations, and resolutions. These records are critical for ensuring transparency, accountability, and compliance with federal regulations. The Coordinator also ensures that proper reporting is conducted in accordance with Clery Act requirements and other applicable laws.

By fulfilling these responsibilities, the Title IX Coordinator helps ensure that Columbia-Greene Community College responds promptly, fairly, and effectively to allegations of sexual misconduct, while upholding the rights of both the complainant and the respondent. The role is central in fostering a safe, supportive, and nondiscriminatory educational environment.

No Personally Identifying Information:

At Columbia-Greene Community College, students seeking confidential support can reach out to the following resources:

Health Services Center:

• Location: Room 703 in the Professional Academic Center (PAC)
• Phone: 518-828-6319
• Email: healthservices@sunycgcc.edu

REACH Center:

• Address: 713 Union St, Hudson, NY 12534
• Phone: 518-828-4619

These centers offer confidential assistance to students affected by sexual misconduct, including sexual harassment, sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, stalking, and cyber-stalking. They provide support without initiating a formal College investigation, unless the student chooses to report the incident. While maintaining confidentiality, these professionals may share non-identifying information with the Title IX Coordinator to help assess the campus climate and enhance safety measures.

For more information on available resources and support services, please visit the Counseling and Transfer Services page on the College's website.

Reporting to Responsible Employees:

At Columbia-Greene Community College, the Title IX Coordinator plays a pivotal role in overseeing the institution's response to reports of sexual misconduct, including sexual harassment, assault, domestic violence, dating violence, stalking, and cyber-stalking. The Title IX Coordinator ensures compliance with Title IX regulations, monitors the implementation of supportive measures, and manages the grievance procedures to address complaints promptly and equitably.

Title IX Coordinator Contact Information:

• Name: Andrew Ledoux
• Position: Dean of Students / Title IX Coordinator
• Phone: 518-697-6320
• Office Location: Main Building, Room 302

When a complaint is filed, the Title IX Coordinator collaborates with various campus offices to ensure a thorough and impartial investigation. This collaboration may involve Campus Security, the Dean of Students Office, and the Office of Human Resources, depending on the nature of the complaint.

The grievance procedures at the College are designed to provide a fair and timely resolution of complaints. These procedures outline the steps involved in filing a formal complaint, the investigation process, and the potential outcomes based on the findings. The College is committed to maintaining a safe and inclusive environment for all students and employees, ensuring that all reports of sexual misconduct are addressed with the utmost seriousness and confidentiality.

For detailed information on the grievance procedures, including the rights of the complainant and respondent, supportive measures available, and the investigation process, please refer to the 2024 Title IX Final Rule Grievance Procedure for Complaints of Sex Discrimination.

If you have any questions or need further assistance regarding Title IX policies and procedures, please contact the Title IX Coordinator directly.

Requesting Confidentiality:

At Columbia-Greene Community College, protecting the confidentiality of individuals involved in reports of sexual misconduct is a top priority. The College is committed to respecting the privacy of all parties involved to the fullest extent possible, while adhering to its legal obligations.

If a victim requests confidentiality or asks that no investigation or disciplinary action be pursued, the College must balance this request with its duty to ensure a safe and non-discriminatory environment for all students. While the College strives to honor such requests, there may be exceptional cases where confidentiality cannot be maintained. This is particularly true if the safety of the broader campus community is at risk, or if legal or regulatory obligations require action.

In instances where confidentiality cannot be upheld, the College will make every effort to limit the disclosure of sensitive information. The College will also inform the victim before any information is shared with other parties, ensuring transparency and respect for their privacy as much as possible.

Confidential Resources:

Certain campus professionals can offer confidential support and are not required to report personally identifying information without consent. These individuals include those working in the on-campus Health Services Center and REACH Center. They can provide assistance without triggering a College investigation. While they may report the nature, date, time, and general location of an incident to the Title IX Coordinator, they will do so without revealing personally identifying details, unless given permission by the victim. This practice ensures that the College remains informed about the prevalence of sexual violence and can respond appropriately.

Responsible Employees:

"Responsible employees" are College staff members who have the authority to address sexual violence, are obligated to report incidents, or whom students might reasonably believe have such authority or duty. When a victim discloses an incident to a responsible employee, that employee must report all relevant details to the Title IX Coordinator, including the identities of the victim and accused, witnesses, and any other pertinent information. This reporting enables the College to take immediate and appropriate action. Responsible employees are expected to inform victims of their reporting obligations and direct them to confidential resources if they wish to maintain confidentiality.

If you have further questions or need assistance, please contact the Title IX Coordinator/Dean of Students at 518-697-6320.

When a victim discloses an incident of sexual violence to a responsible employee but requests confidentiality or asks that no investigation or disciplinary action be pursued, the College must balance this request against its obligation to maintain a safe, non-discriminatory environment for all students. Factors considered in this decision include:

• Increased Risk of Further Violence: Assessing whether the accused has a history of sexual violence complaints, prior arrests, or records indicating a history of violence; whether there have been threats of further violence; or if multiple perpetrators were involved.
• Use of Weapons: Determining if a weapon was used during the incident.
• Victim's Age: Considering if the victim is a minor.
• Pattern of Behavior: Evaluating whether the report reveals a pattern of perpetration, such as the use of drugs or alcohol to facilitate sexual violence, at a specific location or by a particular group.
• Availability of Other Evidence: Considering whether the College can obtain relevant evidence through other means, such as security footage or physical evidence.

The presence of one or more of these factors may compel the College to initiate an investigation and, if appropriate, pursue disciplinary action. If none of these factors are present, the College is more likely to honor the victim's request for confidentiality. In cases where the College cannot maintain confidentiality, it will inform the victim prior to commencing an investigation and will limit information sharing to individuals responsible for handling the College's response. The College remains committed to protecting the victim from retaliation and will take necessary steps to ensure the victim's safety and well-being.

Additionally, the College will assist the victim in accessing available support services, such as victim advocacy, academic support, counseling, health or mental health services, and legal assistance, both on and off campus. Other supportive measures may include issuing no-contact orders, arranging changes to living or working arrangements, modifying course schedules, or providing adjustments for assignments or tests. The victim will also be informed of the right to report the incident to campus or local law enforcement, with assistance provided if the victim chooses to do so.

The College will not require a victim to participate in any investigation or disciplinary proceeding. However, reports of sexual violence, including non-identifying reports, may prompt the College to consider broader remedial actions, such as increased monitoring or security in certain areas, enhanced education and prevention efforts, climate assessments, and policy reviews. If the College honors a victim's request for confidentiality, it will still take immediate action as necessary to protect and assist the victim.

These procedures align with guidance from the U.S. Department of Education's Office for Civil Rights, which outlines factors schools should consider when a student requests confidentiality in cases of sexual violence. 

Other Confidential Avenues:

Columbia-Greene Community College offers multiple avenues for individuals to report incidents of sexual misconduct, including options for those who wish to maintain confidentiality.

Anonymous Reporting:

• Office of the Dean of Students: Students can anonymously discuss incidents and explore available options by calling 518-697-6320. When contacting the office, students should indicate their preference to remain anonymous. They can choose to disclose as much or as little information as they feel comfortable. Additionally, students have the option to complete a Sexual Assault Anonymous Report. 

Confidential Resources:

• On-Campus Health Services Center and REACH Center: Professionals and volunteers in these centers can provide support without revealing any personally identifying information to the College. While maintaining confidentiality, they may report non-identifying details such as the nature, date, time, and general location of an incident to the Title IX Coordinator. This limited reporting helps the College monitor patterns and enhance campus safety. Before any information is shared, these individuals will consult with the victim to ensure no personally identifying details are disclosed. 

Public Awareness Events:

• Take Back the Night and Similar Events: Disclosures made during public events like "Take Back the Night," candlelight vigils, protests, or forums are not considered formal reports that would trigger an investigation. However, the College may use the information shared to inform and enhance education and prevention efforts. 

Off-Campus Counselors and Advocates:

• Crisis Services and Healthcare Providers: Off-campus professionals typically maintain confidentiality unless a student provides written consent. They can offer support and guidance without the obligation to report details to the College. 

It's important to note that while the College takes all reports seriously, its ability to act on anonymous reports may be limited based on the information provided. Campus safety remains a top priority, and individuals are encouraged to utilize the reporting method that best aligns with their comfort level and needs. 

Off-Campus Counselors and Advocates:

Off-campus counselors and advocates, such as those at crisis services offices, generally maintain strict confidentiality. They will not disclose any information about the incident to law enforcement or college officials without your consent, except in cases of extreme circumstances such as health and/or safety emergencies. This ensures that you can seek support and guidance in a confidential environment, giving you control over what information is shared and when, based on your personal choice.

Timely Warnings and Emergency Notifications – see Page 68 of the Student Handbook:

Columbia-Greene Community College is committed to maintaining a safe environment for all students. In compliance with the Clery Act, the College has established protocols for issuing Timely Warnings and Emergency Notifications to inform the campus community about significant safety threats.

Timely Warnings are issued when:

• A Clery Act crime is reported to the Dean of Students or a local police agency.
• The crime is considered to represent a serious or continuing threat to students and employees.
• The incident has occurred within the College’s Clery Geography.

These warnings aim to provide prompt information to the campus community, enabling individuals to take necessary precautions. Depending on the circumstances, a timely warning may be sent to the entire campus community or to a specific segment if technology allows. 

Emergency Notifications/Campus Alerts are issued when:

• A significant emergency or dangerous situation poses an immediate threat to the health or safety of students or employees on campus.

The College will promptly notify the campus community upon confirmation of such emergencies, ensuring that individuals receive critical information as quickly as possible. 

For detailed information on these procedures, please refer to page 68 of the Columbia-Greene Community College Student Handbook. 

By adhering to these protocols, the College strives to keep its community informed and safe.

Procedures for Victims of Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, Sexual Violence, Sexual Assault or Stalking:

 Columbia-Greene Community College is committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for all students. If you have experienced domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, or stalking, the College has established procedures to assist and support you:

Evidence Preservation:

• To preserve crucial evidence, avoid activities such as showering, changing clothes, eating, drinking, or altering your physical appearance until after a medical examination.

Reporting Options:

• Title IX Coordinator: You can report incidents to the Title IX Coordinator, Andrew Ledoux, located in Room 302. He can be reached at Andrew.ledoux@sunycgcc.edu or 518-697-6320.
• Law Enforcement: You have the right to notify law enforcement authorities. The College can assist you in contacting them if you choose. You also have the option to decline notifying authorities.

Available Support Services:

• On-Campus Resources: The College offers access to victim advocacy, academic support, counseling, health services, and assistance with changes to living, working, or course schedules.
• Off-Campus Resources: Local organizations, such as the Columbia Greene Domestic Violence Program, provide services ranging from emergency shelter and crisis intervention to aftercare and transitional housing. All services are free and confidential. More information is available at Columbia Greene Domestic Violence Program.

Rights and Accommodations:

• You will receive written information about your rights and the College's responsibilities regarding no-contact orders, orders of protection, and other applicable options.
• The College will assist in accessing necessary protections and support, including academic accommodations and safety planning.

Remember, you are not alone, and support is available to help you through this process.

Procedures for Institutional Disciplinary Procedures in Cases of Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, Sexual Assault, and Stalking:

Columbia-Greene Community College is committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for all students. The College has established comprehensive procedures to address incidents of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking, ensuring a fair, prompt, and impartial process from investigation to resolution.

Reporting Procedures:

• Title IX Coordinator: Victims are encouraged to report incidents to the Title IX Coordinator, Andrew Ledoux, located in Room 302. He can be reached at 518-697-6320 or via email at Andrew.ledoux@sunycgcc.edu.
• Law Enforcement: Victims have the right to notify law enforcement authorities. The College can assist in this process if the victim chooses. Alternatively, victims may decline to notify authorities.

Evidence Preservation:

To preserve evidence, victims are advised to avoid activities such as showering, changing clothes, or consuming food and beverages until after a physical examination has been completed.

Institutional Disciplinary Procedures:

The College's disciplinary process includes the following steps:

1. Referral: The case is referred to the Dean of Students or a designated judicial officer for administrative review.
2. Resolution: An administrative resolution is sought through an informal disciplinary conference or a formal hearing.
3. Off-Campus Services: Referral to external services may be provided as needed.
4. Appeal: Parties have the right to appeal to the President or request a formal hearing before an ad hoc judicial board appointed by the President.

Throughout the process, both parties are entitled to have an advisor or advocate of their choice present at hearings and related meetings. They will be informed simultaneously in writing of the outcome, available appeal procedures, and when results become final after any appeals.

Sanctions:

Sanctions for violations may include suspension, expulsion, or other appropriate disciplinary actions, depending on the severity of the offense.

Support Services:

The College provides written notifications to victims about available counseling, health, mental health, victim advocacy, legal assistance, and other services both on campus and in the community. Additionally, information regarding rights and options, including protective measures like no-contact orders and adjustments to academic or living situations, is provided.

Timeline for Disciplinary Procedure and Appeals:

Columbia-Greene Community College is committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for all students, especially those affected by domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, or stalking. The College has established comprehensive procedures to ensure fair, prompt, and impartial disciplinary processes in such cases.

Disciplinary Procedures:

1. Initiation of the Process:

• Upon receiving a report of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, or stalking, the case is referred to the Dean of Students or a designated judicial officer for administrative review.

2. Administrative Resolution:

• The case may be resolved through an informal disciplinary conference or an administrative review process.

3. Formal Hearing:

• If necessary, the case can be escalated to a formal hearing before an "ad hoc" judicial board appointed by the President.

4. Referral to Off-Campus Services:

• The College may refer victims to external services for additional support.

5. Appeals Process:

• Parties have the right to appeal decisions to the President or request a formal hearing before the appointed judicial board.

Standard of Evidence:

The College utilizes the "preponderance of the evidence" standard in these cases, meaning that a finding is based on whether it is more likely than not that the alleged conduct occurred.

Protective Measures:

Pending the outcome of an investigation, the College may implement protective measures, including:

• Issuance of no-contact orders.
• Adjustments to living arrangements, academic schedules, or work situations.

Advisor/Advocate Participation:

Both parties are entitled to have an advisor or advocate of their choice present during any hearings and related meetings.

Notification of Outcomes:

The College ensures that both parties are simultaneously informed in writing of:

• The outcome of the disciplinary process.
• Available appeal procedures.
• When the results become final after any appeals.

Sanctions:

Following a final determination, the College may impose sanctions or protective measures, such as:

• Suspension.
• Expulsion.
• Educational programs.
• Campus bans.
• Disciplinary probation.
• No-contact orders.

Support Services:

The College provides written notifications to students, employees, and victims about available counseling, health, mental health, victim advocacy, legal assistance, and other services both on campus and in the community. The College also informs victims of their rights and options, including assistance with changing academic, living, transportation, and working situations, regardless of whether they choose to report the crime to law enforcement.