Sex Discrimination and Other Forms of Sexual Misconduct
Our Policy
Hesston College is committed to providing a learning, working and living environment that promotes personal integrity, civility and mutual respect in an environment free of discrimination on the basis of sex. Sex discrimination violates an individual’s fundamental rights and personal dignity. Hesston College considers sex discrimination in all its forms, referred to in this policy as “sexual misconduct,” to be a serious offense.
Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 prohibits discrimination based on sex in educational programs and activities receiving federal financial assistance. To ensure compliance with Title IX and other federal and state civil rights laws, Hesston College developed policies and procedures (specified below) prohibiting sexual misconduct in all of its forms. This policy applies to all persons who participate in the college’s educational programs and activities, including students, administrators, faculty, staff and those who come onto campus, including visitors, alumni, vendors, guests and prospective students. As such, the term utilized throughout this policy to refer to those covered is “individual.”
In situations where this policy is violated, Hesston College strives to stop the behavior, appropriately remedy what occurred and work to prevent future occurrences. A reporting and investigation process is in place to provide appropriate action for policy violations.
Think you or someone you know has been assaulted?
- Listen with openness and empathy.
- Believe them. Be gentle and patient. Ask them if they feel safe right now.
- Process with them.
- Assess any physical injuries and encourage them to seek emergency medical care if needed.
- Provide them resources to call for additional assistance.
- Know your limits.
- Recognize what you can and cannot handle. Get help if you feel you are in over your head.
If you are not comfortable talking to this person about their concern, inform them that you feel you are not suited to talk through their concern, but you would like to connect them to someone who can. With the persons’ permission, attempt to get in touch with one of our listed resources.
Safety
Do you fear for your safety?
Your safety comes first. Get yourself to a safe place, away from your assailant, where you can call for help. Call 911, a friend, a family member or someone on the Talk list below.
