Prohibition of Sex Discrimination and Sexual Misconduct
Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (TTUHSC) is committed to maintaining an educational, working and living environment free from sex discrimination and sexual misconduct.
In accordance with Title VII, Title IX, Violence against Women Act (VAWA), and other applicable federal and state laws, TTUHSC prohibits discrimination based on sex and prohibits all forms of sexual misconduct.
Scope of Prohibited Conduct
Sexual misconduct is a broad term that includes gender-based harassment, discrimination, and unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature. Prohibited conduct includes, but is not limited to:
- Sexual harassment
- Sexual assault
- Nonconsensual sexual contact or intercourse
- Sexual exploitation
- Stalking
- Interpersonal violence
- Public indecency
- Other misconduct based on sex
For detailed definitions and procedures, refer to HSC OP 51.02 and HSC OP 51.03.
Applicability
This policy applies to:
- All students and employees
- Applicants for admission or employment
- Visitors, guests, and University affiliates
- Individuals conducting business with the University
The policy applies to conduct occurring on campus and off campus when such conduct adversely affects the University’s educational or employment environment.
University Response and Process
TTUHSC will take reasonable steps to prevent recurrence of sexual misconduct and to remedy its effects when appropriate. All complaint investigations will be conducted in a prompt, fair, and impartial manner. Proceedings under this policy are administrative in nature and are not criminal investigations. The standard of proof used in determining responsibility is the preponderance of the evidence, meaning it is
more likely than not that a violation occurred.
Compliance and Accountability
All members of the University community are expected to comply with applicable laws and University policies. Violations may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment, expulsion from the University, or removal from university premises and events.
Mandatory Reporting
At TTUHSC, all employees, including student employees are deemed mandatory reporters. Employees who witness or receive information about sexual harassment, sexual assault, dating violence, domestic violence and/or stalking in the course and scope of their employment that involve a current student or employee must file a report with the Title IX Coordinator.
For more information or questions, contact the Title IX Coordinator at titleixcoordinator@ttuhsc.edu.
Mandatory Reporting Compliance Guide
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All employees, including student employees, who, in the course and scope of their employment, witness or receive information about a TTUHSC employee or student involved in:
- Sexual Harassment
- Sexual Assault
- Dating/Domestic Violence
- Stalking
Remember that TTUHSC's jurisdiction for addressing Sexual Misconduct is not limited to on-campus incidents. You should report any instance of Sexual Misconduct, regardless of location. Example: A student tells you "in confidence" that they were sexually assaulted while at home for the holidays. Example: You notice a bruise on a staff member's arm and they inform you that their partner hit them. Example: A faculty member tells you that they are being stalked on social media by a former student.
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When a report is made, the Office of Title IX will contact the employee or student who is experiencing potential misconduct via email to request a follow-up meeting to discuss the report. During this meeting, the Office of Title IX will discuss options in addressing the report and what supportive measures and resources are available. The Office of Title IX will not contact the Responding Party (the individual alleged) without first consulting with the employee or student experiencing the potential misconduct.
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Failure to report sexual harassment, sexual assault, dating/domestic violence or stalking under the TTU System Regulation 07.06 is a violation of state law that shall result in termination of employment and may result in criminal and/or civil penalties. (Note that this determination will be made following an investigation).
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- Actively listen, support, and respond with empathy.
- Let them know you want to get them connected with the Office of Title IX, and encourage them to respond to offers of assistance and support.
- You can say something like, “I am so glad you felt comfortable telling me. I want to get you in touch with someone that can help. As an employee, I do have to notify the Title IX Office to ensure that you know about the options and resources available to you. More than anything, I want to make sure you are not having to walk through this alone.”
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- Avoid interrupting or asking about specific details. You are only required to report the information given freely to you.
- Avoid giving your opinion on what they should or must do. Rather, ask how you can be supportive.
- Avoid making promises that TTUHSC will take a specific action.
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- Let them know that state law requires employees to notify the Office of Title IX to ensure they have immediate access to support and resources.
- Talk to them about to the reporting process and how the Office of Title IX can help.
- The TTUHSC Counseling Center is a resource where employees and students can confidentially disclose an incident of Sexual Misconduct.
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Everyone is required to submit a report.
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You are only required by law to report incidents that you witness or are made aware of in your scope of work. However, this can be a tough line to navigate. When in doubt, please contact the Title IX Coordinator for clarification.
