Georgia College & State University is committed to creating/maintaining an environment free from all forms of sexual violence, and providing fair & equitable support and processes in which all students, faculty, and staff can learn, work, thrive and succeed. Whether you have experienced or been accused of perpetrating harm, are a Responsible Employee, or are simply looking for information on how to support a friend we have resources available to help.
What is Title IX?
Title IX is a federal civil rights law passed as part of the Education Amendments of 1972. This law protects people from discrimination based on sex in education programs or activities that receive Federal financial assistance. Title IX states that:
“No person in the United States shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any education program or activity receiving federal financial assistance.”
Sexual discrimination includes, but is not limited to, sexual harassment and acts of sexual violence such as sexual assault (including rape), sexual battery, sexual exploitation, physical abuse (dating violence and domestic violence), and stalking.
Role of the TITLe IX Office
- Reporting
- Referrals
- Adjudication
- Supportive Measures
Role of Faculty and Staff
Faculty and Staff members are considered responsible employees and so, if information regarding an incident of sexual misconduct is shared with you, you are required to report the incident to the Title IX Coordinator as soon as possible after receiving the report (ideally within 24 hours).
Examples of sex-based discrimination prohibited by Title IX:
Sexual Harrassment
Sexual harassment includes unwanted comments or actions about another person’s body or gender, which can make that person feel uncomfortable, scared, or embarrassed. It can include things like teasing, rude jokes, touching without permission, or sharing inappropriate pictures or messages.
Sex-Based Discrimination
Unequal treatment because of a person’s sex. This could include unequal treatment that is on purpose (disparate treatment) or by rules or policies that seem neutral, but actually adversely impacts someone because of their sex.
Inequities within Athletics
Unequal treatment of student athletes because of their sex. This includes (but is not limited to) participation in intercollegiate sports, the distribution of athletic scholarship awards, and access to coaches and training facilities.
Sexual Exploitation
Taking sexual advantage of someone for your own benefit. This could include (but is not limited to) sharing explicit photos without consent, sex-based bullying, or invasion of sexual privacy.
Sexual Misconduct
Sexual Misconduct includes sexual assault, dating and domestic violence, and stalking.
Pregnancy and Parenting Discrimination
Being treated unfairly or denied opportunities because of a pregnancy, recently giving birth, or caring for a newborn.
Our Commitment to you
Title IX regulations guide how colleges and universities, including Georgia College & State University, must respond to sexual harassment and other sexual misconduct through appropriate grievance procedures, supportive measures, and related policies. At GCSU, our policies and procedures ensure that we not only follow the requirements of Title IX regulations, but expand beyond them to also address behaviors that are not inline with our values of Reason, Respect, and Responsibility.
Our goal is to create a safe learning and working environment, free of discrimination, harassment, and violence, that supports the academic and professional growth of students, staff, and faculty.