What’s my responsibility with Title IX? 3Qs with Michele Reed

What is Title IX? As an employee, what’s my responsibility with Title IX? How does the university address complaints of sexual misconduct, like assault or harassment?

Augusta University’s new Title IX coordinator addresses these questions and other common misconceptions associated with Title IX, the state and federal mandate that requires us as a university to educate, train and clearly define a reporting structure for all allegations of sexual misconduct, dating violence, domestic violence and stalking.

Questions about Title IX are also addressed on a new website, launched today, with information about Title IX. This new online hub (augusta.edu/prevention) includes information about the university’s sexual misconduct prevention and education efforts, and campus resources including a guide for students, guide for employees, and events and programming. The site also allows anyone who may be a victim of sexual misconduct to file a report online or call for assistance.

Today is also the final day for employees to complete a new Title IX training that aims to help employees understand their rights and responsibilities under Title IX. This required training, emailed on or before Sept. 1, must be completed by Sept. 30.

“We know people have questions. In my role, I’m here to have conversations with employees and students, everyone really, about how we can work together to put effective prevention strategies in place and respond appropriately to incidents, so that we as a university are creating a safe, respectful and appropriate environment for everyone,” Reed said.

Reed and university administrators will take questions and discuss Title IX, how to report a possible violation, and the role of employees at a Title IX Sexual Misconduct Open Forum from 3 to 4 p.m. Oct. 18 at the Lee Auditorium on the Health Sciences campus. Additional information sessions are scheduled for employees who cannot attend the open forum. Dates for Title IX Sexual Misconduct Information Sessions include:

Summerville Campus

• 3:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 4, University Hall, room 131
• 4 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 12, Jaguar Student Activities Center Coffeehouse
• 2 p.m. Friday, Oct. 28, University Hall, room 170
• 4 p.m. Monday, Nov. 14, Jaguar Student Activities Center Coffeehouse

Health Sciences Campus

• 4 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 6, Health Sciences Building 2210
• 3 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 26, Health Sciences Building 1218
• 2 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 8, Education Commons Building 1110-C

For more information, see augusta.edu/prevention or contact the university’s Title IX coordinator, Michele Reed, at micreed@augusta.edu or 706-721-0901.