May 7, 2020
Dear Students, Faculty and Staff:
Yesterday, May 6, 2020, the U.S. Department of Education (DOE) released its Final Rule under Title IX, which prescribes how colleges and universities address sexual misconduct under Title IX.
Our current policies comply with Title IX and prior DOE guidance; however, like all educational institutions receiving federal funding, SU will now be required to amend its current policies to implement the new regulations, which will carry the force and effect of law as of August 14, 2020.
We have begun reviewing the new regulations, outlined in a 2,033-page document, and examining the complex rules to determine how to best implement the new requirements for our campus community. As we move forward, we will be sharing implementation plans as well as engaging and seeking input from the campus community.
In the meantime, SU’s current sexual misconduct policies and procedures remain in effect, and we continue to provide emergency, medical and other support resources, as well as assistance with safety and support measures, to all community members who have experienced or been impacted by sexual misconduct, whether or not they pursue a formal complaint.
Please know that SU remains firmly committed to providing a safe and equitable learning, living and working environment, and to maintaining and continually improving upon our efforts to prevent and best respond to incidences of sexual misconduct impacting members of our community.
Again, you can anticipate further communication from the university as we continue to review DOE’s final rule.
Sincerely,
Andrea Herrera Katahira
Assistant Vice President for Institutional Equity
Title IX Coordinator
Alvin Sturdivant
Vice President for Student Development