Please note UMUC's Confidential Employee is designated to discuss incidents of sexual misconduct in confidence, unless there appears to be an imminent risk of serious harm or where maintaining that confidentiality would result in the violation of a legal requirement.
You will not be found responsible for engaging in sexual misconduct unless it is determined so based upon a preponderance of the evidence.
A determination of responsibility will be made through the UMUC investigative and adjudicative process based upon a preponderance of the evidence (more likely than not that the sexual misconduct occurred). UMUC may determine, prior to the completion of an investigation, a need to take immediate action, and may proceed to implement interim measures. The interim measures may include, but are not limited to: you being placed on interim suspension/administrative leave; having a class/housing/work assignment changed; or you being issued a stay-away order prohibiting you from contacting the complainant. The imposition of the interim measures does not mean that you have been found responsible for engaging in sexual misconduct. These measures are taken as a means to ensure the well-being and safety of all parties and the university community during the investigative and adjudicative process.
You have the right to have your name and all information related to the alleged offense kept as confidential as reasonably possible.
When a report of sexual misconduct is received, the university only discloses information about the incident to individuals who are responsible for handling the university's response to the incident. During an investigation, all reasonable efforts are made to protect your privacy and confidentiality. Absolute confidentiality may not be maintained in all circumstances, especially when the university needs to act to protect the safety of others.
You have the right to have an advisor of your choice provide support and assistance to you throughout the university's investigation process.
You may choose someone to serve as your advisor to assist you as you go through the internal university investigation process. UMUC is able to limit the role that your advisor is able to play during the investigation process. However, your advisor can provide assistance such as: providing emotional support; helping you understand the investigation process; helping you prepare for interviews; and attending interviews with you. Your advisor is not able to speak for you during interviews. You and/or your advisor should speak with the Title IX Coordinator to discuss any concerns regarding the role of the advisor during the process.
You have the right to receive information about the status of the internal university investigation.
The Title IX Coordinator will provide you with updates regarding the status of the investigative and adjudicative process. You will also receive written notification regarding the outcome of the investigation, any sanctions/disciplinary action imposed, and any appeal rights that may be available to you.
It is important to know that UMUC's internal investigation is not a legal proceeding. It is an investigation to determine if our Sexual Misconduct Policy has been violated. UMUC has an obligation to proceed with our internal investigation regardless of whether a criminal investigation/proceeding may be occurring related to the same incident.
You have the right to be free from retaliation and must not engage in any retaliation against another individual.
Retaliation by a member of the UMUC community against an individual who makes a complaint of sexual misconduct, participates in an investigation of a complaint, supports a complaint, or testifies concerning a complaint is expressly prohibited by this policy. Any UMUC faculty, staff, or student who encounters retaliation is strongly encouraged to immediately report such conduct to the Title IX Team. Any employee who is found to have retaliated is subject to disciplinary action, up to and including termination. A student who is found to have retaliated is subject to disciplinary action up to and including expulsion.
You may contact the University's Title IX Coordinator if you have any questions or concerns regarding the process or the information provided on this page.
