North Central College, 30 North Brainard Street, Naperville, Illinois

2023-2024

North Central College, 30 North Brainard Street, Naperville, Illinois, 60540

The information in this document was the best available at the time of release. North Central College

endeavors to present an accurate overview of the policies, programs, facilities, and personnel of the

College in this document. However, North Central College reserves the right to alter, amend, or institute

interim policies regarding any information described in the document without notice or obligation

including teaching and learning methods, and locations. This document is updated regularly, and

published to the College website, through the Office of Student Affairs.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Introduction ..................................................................................................................................... 5

Mission Statement ............................................................................................................................. 5

Statement of Student Conduct ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………6

Responsibility to Ourselves ................................................................................................................ 6

Alcohol Policy .................................................................................................................................. 7

Drug Policy ..................................................................................................................................... 9

Consequences of Alcohol and Drug Violations…………………………………………………………………………..10

Medical Amnesty ............................................................................................................................ 12

Drug and Alcohol Use Education and Prevention ........................................................................... 12

Smoking and Tobacco Policy ........................................................................................................... 14

Health Insurance ............................................................................................................................. 16

Immunization Policy ....................................................................................................................... 16

Registration Confirmation .............................................................................................................. 17

Financial Responsibility .................................................................................................................. 18

Responsibility to the Integrity of One’s Education ..............................................................................19

Credit and Credit Hours Policies ..................................................................................................... 19

Syllabus ........................................................................................................................................... 20

Final Examinations ......................................................................................................................... 20

Class Attendance ............................................................................................................................. 20

Withdrawing for Financial Aid Recipients ....................................................................................... 23

Withdrawing for the Semester ....................................................................................................... 23

Academic Honesty .......................................................................................................................... 23

Grade Appeals ................................................................................................................................. 25

Responsibility to the College and its Members ...................................................................................26

Activities and Events ....................................................................................................................... 26

Bullying, Intimidation and Threats ................................................................................................. 26

Compliance .................................................................................................................................... 26

Conduct that Endangers ................................................................................................................. 27

Conduct Unbecoming .................................................................................................................... 27

Contract Policy ............................................................................................................................... 27

Damage and Vandalism ................................................................................................................. 27

Demonstration Guidelines ................................

............................................................................. 27

Discouraging Policy Violations ....................................................................................................... 30

Disruption ....................................................................................................................................... 30

E-mail ............................................................................................................................................. 31

Fires, Fire Alarms and Fire Equipment ........................................................................................... 31

Fire Safety ...................................................................................................................................... 32

Fraudulent Use of College Resources ............................................................................................ 32

Free Expression .............................................................................................................................. 32

Gambling ........................................................................................................................................ 32

Hazing ............................................................................................................................................. 33

Key Policy ....................................................................................................................................... 33

Laser Pointers ................................................................................................................................. 33

Littering .......................................................................................................................................... 34

Lockers ........................................................................................................................................... 34

Obstruction ..................................................................................................................................... 35

Parking and Vehicle Regulations .................................................................................................... 35

Parking Enforcement ...................................................................................................................... 38

Posting Policy ................................................................................................................................. 39

Pranks ............................................................................................................................................. 40

Public Gathering Spaces ................................................................................................................. 40

Retaliation ....................................................................................................................................... 41

Sales, Surveys and Solicitation ....................................................................................................... 41

Statement of Acceptable Use of Information Technologies .......................................................... 42

Statement of Acceptable Use of Campus Property ....................................................................... 47

Student Identification Cards (Cardinal Cards) ................................................................................ 48

Theft and Unauthorized Borrowing ............................................................................................... 48

Trespassing ..................................................................................................................................... 48

Truthfulness ................................................................................................................................... 49

Video and Audio Recording Policy .................................................................................................. 49

Weapons and Firearms Policy ........................................................................................................ 49

Residence Life and Housing Policies .............................................................................................. 51

The College’s Responsibility to Students ...........................................................................................59

Asbestos Management Plan .......................................................................................................... 59

Bias Incident Response Procedures…………………………………………………………………………………………….59

Camera Policy…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….60

Crime Statistics ............................................................................................................................... 66

Department of Campus Safety ....................................................................................................... 67

Directory Information .................................................................................................................... 67

Credentialing Policy for External Media ....................................................................................... ..67

Driver Certification ....................................................................................................................... ..68

Emergency Response Plan ........................................................................................................... ..68

Emergency Procedures ................................................................................................................ ..68

Emotional Support Animal Policy ................................................................................................. ..70

Service Animal Policy………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….72

Enrollment Verifications..................................................................................................................75

Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) …………………………………………………………………….75

Flag Policy…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..76

Filing a Formal Complaint ............................................................................................................ ..77

Hazard Communications Standard .............................................................................................. ..77

Housing Accommodations ........................................................................................................... ..79

Lock Outs ...................................................................................................................................... ..80

Lost and Found ............................................................................................................................. ..80

Mental Health Emergency Contact Policy .................................................................................... ..80

Pregnant and Parenting Policy……………………………………………………………………………………………………81

Privacy - Safeguard Rule ............................................................................................................... ..83

Student Record Retention ........................................................................................................... ..83

Office of Residence Life Staff ....................................................................................................... ..84

Unmanned Aircraft Systems (Drones) ......................................................................................... ..85

Voter Registration ........................................................................................................................ ..85

Daily Crime Log ............................................................................................................................. ..85

Weekly Safety Reports .. ............................................................................................................... ..86

Title IX and Sexual Misconduct Policy………………………………………………………………………………………………..87

Student Conduct Procedures .......................................................................................................... 164

Conduct Process Administration .................................................................................................. 164

Privacy………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………165

Preponderance of the Evidence ................................................................................................... 165

Hearings ....................................................................................................................................... 165

Administrative Hearings ............................................................................................................... 167

Hearing Panels ............................................................................................................................. 167

Student Rights .............................................................................................................................. 170

Sanctions ...................................................................................................................................... 172

Interim Sanctions ......................................................................................................................... 175

Appeals ......................................................................................................................................... 175

Felony Charges, Indictments or Convictions …………………………………………………………………………….176

Disciplinary Action for Off-Campus Behavior .............................................................................. 177

Cooperation with Local Law Enforcement ................................................................................... 177

Legal Proceedings Outside of the College .................................................................................... 177

Withdrawing from the College during Disciplinary Proceedings ................................................. 177

INTRODUCTION

Welcome Cardinals! As the 2023-2024 academic year begins there are a few important notes I’d

like to share regarding the North Central College Student Handbook.

The North Central College mission statement outlines two key points: acknowledging we are a

diverse community of learners, and that we are dedicated to preparing this diverse community of

learners to be curious, engaged, ethical and purposeful citizens in local, national and global

contexts.

I encourage each of you all to take full advantage of this diverse community of learners to ensure

you are positioned well for those local, national and global experiences that I know each of you

will enter.

The NCC staff, faculty, administration, and the city of Naperville are looking forward to helping

you make the most of your college experience, whatever your background or interests.

As a North Central College student, you have access to resources and opportunities to nurture

your talents and prepare you well for a productive future. First and foremost, take care of

yourself. Your mental health and wellbeing are important to us. We know you can only do your

best when you are at your best.

Moreover, I encourage you to take advantage of all that the College has to offer, both inside and

outside of the classroom.

This handbook provides you with the expectations that help strengthen our community and

contribute to the success of all students. In the pages that follow, you will also learn about

College processes and resources that may be of use to you. If ever I can be of help as you pursue

the best possible experience at North Central, I hope that you will let me know.

Wishing you a healthy and successful year,

Dr. Jessica Brown (Dr. JB) she/her

Vice President for Student Affairs and Athletics

MISSION STATEMENT

North Central College is a diverse community of learners dedicated to preparing students to be curious,

engaged, ethical, and purposeful citizens and leaders in local, national and global contexts.

STATEMENT OF STUDENT CONDUCT

North Central College is a diverse community of faculty, staff, and students representing numerous

ethnic, racial, cultural, and religious backgrounds. As a community, we share a common interest in

creating an environment that encourages the growth and development of all of our members. While

classroom learning is a pillar of the North Central College experience, the College seeks to offer a variety

of complementary personal development opportunities. To promote a rich and productive learning

environment, the College offers the following Statement of Student Conduct, as well as a set of policies

and procedures that each student accepts becoming a member of the College community. It should be

noted that the content of this Student Handbook and the policies herein supersede all previous student

handbooks and related content.

The North Central College Statement of Student Conduct is a simple one, and finds its origins in the need

any community has to promote – and at times enforce – respect among its members. This statement

does not seek to outline the minimally acceptable level of behavior; instead, the College hopes the

language and the spirit of this statement will encourage the development of a “community” in the full

sense of the word. When a student becomes a member of the North Central College community, that

student agrees to abide by all College policies and to accept four responsibilities: to self, to the integrity

of one’s education, to the College, and to the community. Students found in violation of any part of the

policy, written or implied, will be sanctioned appropriately. In return for students’ acceptance of this

code of conduct, the College also accepts its responsibility to provide for its students.

RESPONSIBILITY TO OURSELVES

The collegiate experience at North Central College invites students to become part of a diverse

community of learners who are curious, engaged, ethical, and purposeful citizens and leaders. North

Central College asks that students take personal ownership of the community into which the student

enters, and to understand that the community is built upon appropriate standards of behavior. These

standards of behavior should lead students to live in ways that exhibit leadership, ethics, and values in

students’ lives on campus and beyond.

Before students can fully pursue an education within the North Central College community, each

individual must commit to treating themselves with respect. Such self-respect is fundamentally a

commitment to personal integrity and individual wellness. Those who are committed to personal

integrity show a willingness to be accountable for their actions. Those who are committed to individual

wellness strive for comprehensive personal health. In doing so, they avoid practices which harm the

body and the mind, such as excessive consumption of alcohol, the recreational use of drugs, or other

self-destructive behaviors. These committed individuals conduct themselves honestly, thoughtfully, and

consistently with the values of the community.

As violations of the standards outlined below represent a lack of concern for the individual pillars of the

College community, significant violations of all subsequent policies could result in disciplinary action.

Items that are illegal, prohibited, or against College policy to possess and/or are used in activity that

violates policy may be subject to confiscation and/or disposal. For information about the College’s

Student Conduct Process, please review the final section of this handbook.

Alcohol Policy

North Central College recognizes that personal choices involving the use of alcohol have an impact on

both the individual and the community. The College’s alcohol policy, written in accordance with Illinois

State law, supports the mission of the institution and its academic and student development goals.

North Central College students are subject to all Federal, State, and Local laws pertaining to alcohol. In

the event prosecution occurs outside the College, violators also may be subject to the College’s Student

Conduct Process. Additionally, North Central College, as an educational institution, sets supplementary

community standards for its members that are over and above prescribed Federal, State, and Local laws.

North Central College alcohol policies include:

A. Public Consumption: Public consumption of alcohol on College property is prohibited –

regardless of age – unless it is being offered as part of an official College program or event in a

specially designated location. While alcohol may be safely consumed in residence hall rooms by

students and guests who are 21 years of age or over, specific rules apply (see additional policies

below).

Note - Tailgating: Undergraduate students, regardless of age, are prohibited from tailgating

at sporting events or other functions on College property unless accompanied by a parent or

guardian.

B. Of-Age Alcohol Policy: Students who are 21 years of age or over may possess or consume

alcohol in residence hall rooms provided that all other individuals in a room, suite, or apartment

are of legal drinking age (see note below), and the door to the room is closed. Alcohol may not

be consumed in residence hall balconies, lounges or public areas within the residence hall or

apartment building. Please note, any alcohol present when College policies are being violated is

subject to confiscation and immediate disposal, even if one or more of the students involved in

the incident is 21 years of age or older.

1. Students of the legal age of 21 are prohibited from being present where alcohol is being

consumed by individuals under the age of 21. Presence is defined as being in the room,

suite, vehicle or other location proximal to the possession or use of alcohol.

2. Students who are 21 years of age or older who wish to transport alcohol on campus may

do so only if the alcohol is in an unopened, sealed container(s), and covered from open

view.

3. The atmosphere of a room in which there is possession and/or consumption of alcohol

must not create significant noise or disturbances, and the door of this room must be

closed.

4. Students who live off-campus at a local residence are expected to abide by all local laws

and ordinances related to alcohol. Of-age students who host underage students at an

off-campus gathering where alcohol is present may be found in violation of this policy.

C. Underage Alcohol Policy:

1. Students under the age of 21 are prohibited from possessing, distributing, or consuming

alcohol.

2. Students under the age of 21 are also prohibited from being present where alcohol is

being consumed, even if the individual(s) possessing or consuming the alcohol are of the

legal age of 21, and are following all other guidelines. Presence is defined as being in the

room, suite, vehicle, or other location proximal to the possession or use of alcohol.

3. It is expected that underage students abide by local laws and ordinances related to

alcohol, whether on or off campus. If it is determined that an underage student

consumed alcohol at an off-campus location, the student may be found in violation of

this policy.

Note: Presence of Underage Roommates. Underage students whose roommates,

apartment mates or suitemates are 21 years of age or older may be present when alcohol is

possessed or consumed in the student’s residence hall room, suite, or apartment. However,

underage roommates are not permitted to consume alcoholic beverages themselves. If

guests who are under the age of 21 are found anywhere in a room, suite, or apartment

where alcohol is being consumed, all of the individuals will be subject to disciplinary action

regardless of age.

Note: College Sponsored Events. Alcohol is occasionally served as part of an official College

program or event in a specifically designated location (for example: Homecoming in the

Residence Hall/Recreation Center). In situations like this, underage students may be present

where alcohol is being consumed by of-age students or guests, but may not consume

alcohol themselves.

D. Intoxication and Behavioral Responsibility: Students who choose to consume alcohol are

expected to do so responsibly. Intoxication itself is a violation of the North Central College

alcohol policy. In addition, students who are highly intoxicated, in the opinion of the College

staff member present at the time, will be transported to the hospital via ambulance at cost to

the student.

E. Substance Free Halls: A substance-free designation is given to any living environment where

alcohol and alcohol paraphernalia are prohibited. Any room in which all residents are under the

age of 21, in addition to all rooms in Geiger Hall, Seager Hall, and Rall Hall, are substance-free.

Additionally, rooms or floors in other residence halls may be designated as substance-free by

the Office of Residence Life.

Drinking Games

1. Games that are centered around alcohol, focused on drinking large quantities of alcohol,

or promote unsafe consumption are prohibited.

2. Drinking games played with non-alcoholic beverages are also prohibited.

3. Being in the presence of, or being in possession of any device or paraphernalia

commonly used to play drinking games is prohibited. These devices, including beer pong

supplies and “Beirut” tables, are also subject to confiscation and/or disposal.

Alcohol Containers and Paraphernalia:

1. Alcohol containers, regardless of the content, are prohibited in substance-free residence

halls and in rooms or suites where all roommates are underage.

2. Kegs and any other containers over two gallons in capacity – whether empty or full – are

prohibited anywhere on campus, and are subject to confiscation and disposal,

regardless of the age of the person(s) possessing them.

3. Alcohol paraphernalia including beer bongs, funnels and beer boots are not permitted

on campus and are subject to confiscation and disposal.

H. Powdered Alcohol:

The consumption, possession or distribution of any powder or crystalline substance containing

alcohol, as defined by state/local law, is prohibited by College policy and Illinois state law.

Drug Policy

North Central College recognizes that personal choices involving the use of drugs have an impact on

both the individual and the community. The College’s drug policy, written in accordance with Federal

law, is more restrictive than State law while supporting the mission of the institution and its academic

and student development goals.

Federal Law prohibits the possession and/or distribution of illegal drugs. Criminal controlled substances

penalties include fines, imprisonment, and, in certain cases, the seizure and forfeiture of the violator’s

property. Penalties are increased for second time offenses. In addition, financial aid (particularly Federal

aid) may be forfeited. North Central College students are subject to all Federal, State, and Local laws

pertaining to the use, possession, and presence of illegal drugs and controlled substances. The College

cooperates fully with law enforcement officials in the prosecution of cases involving illegal drugs and

controlled substances.

Additionally, North Central College sets additional and more restrictive rules regarding the use and

possession of legal and illegal drugs and/or controlled substances on campus than prescribed by Federal,

State, and/or Local laws. Violations of these policies may also subject the involved party to disciplinary

action through the College’s Student Conduct Process.

North Central College Drug Policy:

Students are prohibited from the unlawful use, possession, or distribution of any illegal drug or illegal

drug paraphernalia, whether on or off campus. Students are also prohibited from being in the presence

of illegal drugs or illegal drug paraphernalia. Presence is defined as being in the room, suite, vehicle, or

other location proximal to the possession or use of illegal substances, activities or paraphernalia. Illegal

drug and/or illegal drug paraphernalia may be subject to confiscation and/or disposal.

The North Central College drug policy covers illegal and illicit use of controlled substances, including

marijuana, stimulants, depressants, hallucinogens, opiates/narcotics, inhalants, synthetic drugs, or any

other intoxicating compound. The unauthorized possession or use of prescription drugs is also

prohibited. If a significant quantity of drugs, or items suggesting drug distribution are found (for

example: scale, small self-sealing baggies, etc.), the College may refer the case directly to the hearing

panel process to consider suspension or dismissal.

Recreational and Medical Marijuana:

North Central College prohibits the possession, use, or distribution of all cannabis, cannabis products, or

any substances containing THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) on campus, or at any College sponsored event or

activity off campus regardless of whether such use is allowed by law. The Cannabis Regulation and Tax

Act and the Compassionate Care Act, are Illinois laws that permits the recreational and medical use of

marijuana, respectively, and states: “Nothing in this Act shall prevent a university, college, or other

institution of post-secondary education from restricting or prohibiting the use of medical or recreational

cannabis on its property.” The Cannabis Regulation and Tax Act states, “Nothing in this Act shall require

an individual or business entity to violate the provisions of federal law, including colleges or universities

that must abide by the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act Amendments of 1989, that require

campuses to be drug free.” North Central College is required to certify that it complies with the Drug-

Free Schools and Communities Act (20 U.S.C. 1145g part 86 of the Drug and Alcohol Abuse Prevention

Regulations). The federal government regulates drugs through the Controlled Substances Act (21

U.S.C. A 811) which classifies marijuana as a Schedule I controlled substance. Thus to comply with the

Federal Drug-Free School and Communities Act, North Central College prohibits all cannabis use,

possession, manufacture or distribution.

Consequences of Alcohol and Drug Violations

All incidents involving drugs and alcohol will be processed through the College’s Student Conduct

Process. Students found in violation of alcohol and/or drug policies may be subject to sanctions deemed

appropriate by the College, such as counseling assessments, educational projects, fines, parental

notification, community service, campus engagement, reprimand, restitution, residence hall removal,

suspension, probation, or dismissal. Standard sanctions include:

Sample Illinois Sanctions for Violation of Alcohol Control Statutes

(See Illinois Compiled Statutes for more specific information)

It is a Class A Misdemeanor:

A. to possess or sell alcohol if you are under 21;

B. for any person under 21 years of age to consume alcohol;

C. to alter, or deface an identification card; use the identification card of another; carry or use a

false or forged identification card; or obtain an identification card by means of false information;

D. to sell, give, or deliver alcohol to individuals under 21 years of age.

Class A Misdemeanors are punishable with a fine of no less than $75 and up to $2,500 and less than one

year in the county jail. Local ordinances may also be enforced.

Class A Misdemeanors are punishable with a fine of $75 to $2,500 and up to 1 year in the county jail.

Federal statutes and penalties are separate and different than State penalties.

The possession and use of certain cannabis remains a violation of Federal law.

Sample Illinois Sanctions for Violation of Drug Control Statutes

(See Illinois Compiled Statutes for more specific information regarding civil and/or criminal penalties)

Possession of Cannabis - Under 21 Years of Age

A. It is a Civil Law Violation to possess from 0 to 9 grams of Cannabis. The civil law violation is

punishable by a minimum fine of $100 and a maximum fine of $200.

B. It is a Class B Misdemeanor to possess from 10 to 29 grams of Cannabis. For additional

sanctions, please see below.

Possession of Cannabis – 21 Years of Age and Older

An Illinois resident (21 years old and older) may possess up to 30 grams of cannabis, 5 grams of cannabis

concentrate or edibles containing up to 500 milligrams of THC. Non-residents (21 years old and older)

may possess only half of these amounts.

A. It is a Class A Misdemeanor to possess from 30 to 99 grams of Cannabis (first offense).

B. It is a Class 4 Felony to possess from 30 to 99 grams of Cannabis (subsequent offense).

C. It is a Class 4 Felony to possess 100 grams to 499 grams of Cannabis.

D. It is a Class 3 Felony to possess 500 grams to 1,999 grams of Cannabis.

E. It is a Class 2 Felony to possess 2,000 grams to 4,999 grams of Cannabis.

It is a Class 1 Felony to possess more than 5,000 grams of Cannabis.

Possession of Cocaine:

A. It is a Class 4 Felony to possess 0-14 grams

B. It is a Class 1 Felony to possess 15-99 grams.

C. It is a Class 1 Felony to possess 100-399 grams.

D. It is a Class 1 Felony to possess 400-899 grams.

E. It is a Class 1 Felony to possess 900+grams.

Possession of Heroin/LSD:

A. It is a Class 4 Felony to possess 0-14 grams

B. It is a Class 1 Felony to possess 15-99 grams.

C. It is a Class 1 Felony to possess 100-399 grams.

D. It is a Class 1 Felony to possess 400-899 grams.

E. It is a Class 1 Felony to possess 900+grams.

Class 4 Felony sentence may be from 1 to 3 years in a state penitentiary.

Class 3 Felony sentence may be from 2 to 5 years in a state penitentiary.

Class 2 Felony sentence may be from 3 to 7 years in a state penitentiary.

Class 1 Felony sentence may be from 4 to 15 years in a state penitentiary.

The fine for a Class 4 Felony Controlled Substance violation shall not be more than $25,000.

The fine for a Class 1 Felony Controlled Substance violation shall not be more than $200,000.

This is not an exhaustive list of narcotics and controlled substances that are subject to Illinois Compiled

Statutes and which may have local, state, and/or federal sentencing guidelines.

Federal Drug Possession Penalties (21 USC 844)

Persons convicted on Federal charges of possessing any controlled substance face penalties of up to 1

year in prison and a mandatory fine of no less than $1,000 up to a maximum of $100,000. Second

convictions are punishable by not less than 15 days but not more than 2 years in prison and a minimum

fine of $2,500. Subsequent convictions are punishable by not less than 90 days but not more than 3

years in prison and a minimum fine of $5,000. Possession of drug paraphernalia is punishable by a

minimum fine of $750.

Special sentencing provisions for possession of crack cocaine impose a mandatory prison term of not

less than 5 years but not more than 20 years and a fine up to $250,000, or both if:

A. It is a first conviction and the amount of crack possessed exceeds 5 grams;

B. It is a second conviction and the amount of crack possessed exceeds 3 grams;

C. It is a third or subsequent crack conviction and the amount exceeds 1 gram.

Civil penalties of up to $10,000 may also be imposed for possession of small amounts of controlled

substances, whether or not criminal prosecution is pursued.

Medical Amnesty

The safety and wellbeing of students is of primary importance to North Central College. Each student

plays an important role in creating a safe, healthy and responsible community. The College understands

that the potential for disciplinary action may be a deterrent to students who might seek emergency

medical assistance for themselves or others.

Because the College wants students to seek assistance promptly in the event of a health or safety

emergency involving alcohol or drug use, a policy of medical amnesty has been adopted as part of a

comprehensive approach to reduce the harmful effects of substance use.

A. If a student seeks help in a medical emergency (by calling 911 or Campus Safety at 630-637-

5911), the College will not take disciplinary action for possession, consumption, or being in the

presence of alcohol or drugs against:

• A student who initiates a request for medical assistance for oneself;

• A student who initiates a request for medical assistance for another student; and/or

• The student for whom medical assistance is sought.

B. Any student(s) afforded amnesty under this policy will be required to meet with staff from the

Office of Student Affairs or the Office of Residence Life for a formal review of the incident.

Failure to attend this required meeting will result in the revocation of the amnesty. The

outcome of this meeting may be a counseling or health assessment, or other educationally

appropriate interventions.

C. While no formal disciplinary action will be taken in cases that meet the conditions of this policy,

College staff will document the incident and follow up accordingly. Repeated incidents or

intentional abuse of this policy may result in parental notification and/or disciplinary action.

D. This policy does not preclude disciplinary action regarding other behaviors prohibited in the

Student Handbook and/or deemed to have considerable negative community impact, including

but not limited to sexual misconduct, hazing, conduct that endangers, damage, vandalism, and

the unlawful provision or distribution of alcohol or drugs.

Drug and Alcohol Use Education and Prevention

Through the Office of Student Affairs, the Dyson Wellness Center and Office of Human Resources as well

as other campus departments and offices, North Central College provides a variety of alcohol and drug

abuse prevention and intervention programs administered and designed to educate about, prevent and

reduce alcohol and other drug use/abuse at North Central College. A campus-community alcohol and

other drug coalition meets regularly to discuss current substance abuse related issues and trends. North

Central College’s policy is distributed to all students, staff and faculty on an annual basis. A

comprehensive review of the alcohol and drug programs is made biennially during even years. For more

information concerning current programs, interventions and policies, contact Tatiana Sifri, the Director

of the Dyson Wellness Center, at [email protected],

630-637-5550, Steve Weaver, Dean of Students at

sgweaver@noctrl.edu, 630-637-5993, or Sharon Merrill, Assistant Vice President for Human Resources

at [email protected]mailto:630-637-5718.

To see a list of commonly abused substances and possible health effects, go to:

https://nida.nih.gov/research-topics/commonly-used-drugs-charts

Counseling and Treatment

Students who would like more information on alcohol, drugs, and the affects thereof, are encouraged to

contact the staff in the Dyson Wellness Center. Students experiencing difficulties with alcohol or drug

use can talk with a staff member in Student Affairs, Residence Life, or the Dyson Wellness Center. Short

term alcohol and other drug counseling is available on campus to students through the Dyson Wellness

Center (630-637-5550). Students may be referred to other treatment programs for more intensive

treatment.

North Central College’s Office of Human Resources, through the College’s Employee Assistance Program

(EAP), Perspectives, LTD. (800-866-7556) Perspectives, LTD. offers employees additional education and

counseling, as well as appropriate referrals. The following is a list of resources and contact information

that may be utilized for support and care:

ON-CAMPUS RESOURCES/INFORMATION

Dyson Wellness Center (confidential medical,

counseling and advocacy services)

630-637-5550,

http://www.northcentralcollege.edu/dyson

Employee Assistance Program, MHN, A Health Net

Company

1-800-511-3920,

http://www.members.mhn.com

Dr. Jessica Brown, Vice President for Student Affairs

and Athletics

630-637-5151

Steve Weaver, Dean of Students

630-637-5151

Department of Campus Safety

630-637-5911

OFF-CAMPUS RESOURCES/INFORMATION

Naperville Police Department

911/ 630- 420- 6666

DuPage County Sheriff Department

501 N. County Farm Road, Wheaton, IL 60187

911/630-682-7256

DuPage County Health

Department 111 North County

Farm Rd. Wheaton, IL 60187

630-627-1700 (24 hours), Crisis Line

DuPage Mental Health Services

1776 South Naperville Road, Building B, Suite 203

Wheaton, IL 60189

630-690-2222

Linden Oaks Hospital at Edward

852 West Street, Naperville, IL 60540

630-305-5129 or 630-305-5500

Rosecrance

608 South Washington Street

Naperville, IL 60540

630-849-4295

Resurrection Behavioral Health, Addiction Services

2001 Butterfield Road, Suite

320 Downers Grove, IL 60515

847-493-3600

Central DuPage Hospital Behavioral Health

27W350 Highlake Rd

Winfield, IL 60190

630-933-4000

Serenity House

89155 Rohlwing Rd.

Addison, IL 60101

630-620-6616

Banyan Treatment Center

Naperville, IL 60540

630-528-1692

Gateway Foundation Alcohol & Drug Treatment

8 locations

877-321-7326

www.RecoverGateway.org

Timberline Knolls

(Residential treatment for young women)

40 Timberline Drive, Lemont, IL 60439

630-343-2326

Alexian Brothers (Behavior Health Hospital)

1650 Moon Lake Blvd. Hoffman Estates, IL

60194

847-882-1600

FAIR: Family & Adolescents in Recovery

2010 East Algonquin Rd.

Schaumburg, IL 60173

847-359-5192

http://faircounseling.com/contact/

DuPage County State’s Attorney’s

Office Judicial Office Facility - Annex

503 N. County Farm

Road Wheaton, IL 60187

630-407-8000

These agencies provide a variety of services which may include intake/evaluation, social setting

detoxification, intensive residential program, chemical dependency programs, adolescent and adult

outpatient services, DUI evaluations and remedial education. Interested individuals are encouraged to

contact each agency for additional information regarding specific services and costs.

Smoking and Tobacco Policy

To protect the health and safety of students, faculty, staff, and visitors on campus, and to create a

cleaner and more sustainable campus environment, all areas of the North Central College campus,

including both owned and leased buildings or grounds (collectively “College Areas”) are smoke and

tobacco-free areas.

A. Definitions:

• Smoking is defined as the use of smoke-producing products, including but not limited to

cigarettes, cigars, cigarillos, mini-cigars, e-cigarettes, tobacco alternative vapor or vaping

products and hookahs. All forms of smoking are prohibited and may be subject to

confiscation and/or disposal.

• Tobacco Use is defined as the use of any tobacco product including, but not limited to

cigarettes, cigars, cigarillos, mini-cigars, hookah, chewing tobacco, snuff, and other

smokeless tobacco products. All forms of tobacco use are prohibited and may be subject

to confiscation and/or disposal.

• E-Cigarette Use or Vaping is defined as the use of electronic smoking devices and/or

electronic nicotine delivery systems. These products and delivery systems are also

prohibited on any of the College Areas, even without the use of nicotine, and may be

subject to confiscation and/or disposal.

• FDA-Approved Tobacco/Nicotine Cessation Aids, such as nicotine patches and gum, are

not prohibited.

B. Scope of Policy:

The use of tobacco e-cigarettes and smokeless tobacco products (including cigarettes, e-

cigarettes, cigars, pipes, vaping and vapor devices, smokeless tobacco and all other tobacco

products of any type) by students, faculty, staff, guests, visitors, and contractors is prohibited on

all properties owned or leased by North Central College, including (but not limited to):

• all interior space on campus and/or property leased by the College, including remote

sites;

• all outside property or grounds owned or leased by the College, including areas such as

walkways (for example, the Sesquicentennial Walkway), breezeways, parking lots, and

patios;

• all vehicles leased or owned by the College;

• all personal vehicles while on college property;

• all indoor and outdoor athletic facilities.

In the event that community members are found to be or suspected of using tobacco products

on campus, the tobacco products present or in the possession of the community member are

subject to confiscation.

This prohibition of tobacco products does not apply to public rights-of-way (sidewalks/streets)

within the campus boundaries that are governed by City of Naperville. For a campus boundary

map that displays prohibited areas,

click here.

C. Compliance:

All College employees, students, visitors, guests and contractors are required to comply with

this policy. Refusal to comply may be cause for disciplinary actions in accordance with employee

and/or student conduct policies. Refusal to comply with the policy by visitors, guests and

contractors may be grounds for removal from campus. Reasonable enforcement efforts are

expected by the unit supervisor for each facility or area of campus, and all members of the

College community are encouraged to share the responsibility for bringing this policy to the

attention of visitors. Please note, all tobacco products, e-cigarettes and smokeless tobacco

products present at College activities are subject to confiscation. Confiscated property may be

retained for a period of at least 7 days, but no longer than 90 days from the date of

procurement and disposed of thereafter, at the College’s sole discretion.

D. Exceptions:

• The use of tobacco products may be permitted in laboratory and classroom

instruction/experiments. Tobacco use for any such research or educational purposes

must be approved in advance by the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs or

a designee. Reasonable advance notice is required for the approval of any exception to

the general prohibition.

• Specific activities used in connection with the practice of cultural activities by American

Indians that are in accordance with the American Indian Religious Freedom Act, 42

U.S.C. sections 1996 and 1996a allow for the use of ceremonial tobacco. All ceremonial

use exceptions must be approved in advance by a Vice President of the College or other

designee.

• Vaping and vapor devices may be used in College-sponsored theatrical productions, but

are only permitted for use without nicotine.

Cessation Programs:

The Dyson Wellness Center provides access to resources for those who are interested in quitting

the use of tobacco products. These resources include nicotine replacement products, and

referrals to local cessation programs. For more information, contact the Dyson Wellness Center

at 630-637-5550.

For more information on North Central College’s Tobacco-Free Initiative, visit:

www.noctrl.edu/SmokeFreeNC

Health Insurance

All full-time students are required to carry health insurance coverage while attending North Central

College. Health insurance information should be kept on file and up to date. All students may submit

the student’s insurance information by logging into the student’s Merlin accounts and selecting the link

for “Medical Insurance and Emergency Contact Information.”

Immunization Policy

A. Required Vaccinations:

The College Immunization code for the State of Illinois requires all students, attending classes on

campus at North Central College, to provide evidence that the following vaccinations have been

received unless appropriate evidence of a statutory exemption is filed with the College.

• Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis: Students shall provide dates of any combination of three

or more doses of Diphtheria, Tetanus and Pertussis containing vaccine. One dose must

be a Tdap vaccine. The last dose of vaccine (DPT, DTap, DT or Tdap) must be within 10

years prior to the term of current enrollment.

• Measles, Mumps, Rubella: Students shall provide documentation of receipt of two

doses of the MMR (Measles, Mumps and Rubella) live vaccine. The first dose must be on

or after their first birthday. The minimum time interval between each dose must be at

least 28 days.

If a combined MMR vaccine was NOT administered, you must provide proof that you

received the three components separately:

• Two doses of the live measles virus vaccine, the first being on or after your first

birthday. The minimum time interval between each dose must have been 28 days.

• Two doses of the live mumps virus vaccine, the first dose being on or after your first

birthday. The minimum time interval between each dose must have been 28 days.

• Two doses of the live rubella virus vaccine, the first dose being on or after your first

birthday. The minimum time interval between each dose must have been 28 days.

Students who cannot provide proof of immunization for the MMR vaccines may have a

blood test drawn that tests for immunity to the measles, mumps and rubella. It must

prove that you are immune to all three components. If you are not immune to all three

components, you will need to receive the vaccines.

• Meningococcal: Students under the age of 22 shall provide proof of at least one dose of

meningococcal conjugate vaccine on or after their 16

birthday.

For additional information and resources, please refer to the following links:

https://hub.northcentralcollege.edu/sites/dyson-wellness-

enter/SitePageModern/12813/immunizations

http://www.ilga.gov/commission/jcar/admincode/077/07700694sections.html

B. TB Screening Questionnaire:

In keeping with recommendations made by the American College Health Association (ACHA)

in February 2021, North Central College is screening all new students for tuberculosis (TB)

prior to each semester. The TB screening form needs to be completed by all new incoming

students and submitted to the Dyson Wellness Center prior to the start of classes.

C. Immunization Exemptions:

Occasionally the College is asked to exempt a particular student from its immunization

requirements. Because the College believes that the entire campus population is best-

served when every student is immunized, it does not favor exemptions. The College will,

however, consider a request for exemption, only under the following circumstances.

• Medical Risk to the Student: The College may exempt a student from one or more of

the required immunizations based on a written statement by a physician that describes

the nature and probable duration of a medical condition or circumstance that

contraindicates such immunizations(s) and that identifies the specific immunization(s)

that could be detrimental to the student's health.

• Medical Risk to an Unborn Fetus: Students may be granted temporary exemption from

immunization against measles, mumps, and rubella if pregnancy or suspected pregnancy

is certified by a physician's written statement.

• Immunizations Scheduled, but Not Yet Completed: If a student is on an approved

schedule to receive all necessary doses of the required vaccines, the student may be

granted temporary medical exemption for the duration of the approved schedule.

• Religious Objection: The College will consider granting an exemption based on a written

statement by the student stating the specific religious belief on which the opposition to

the required vaccinations is based and the theological basis for such belief. General

philosophical or moral reluctance to allow immunizations will not provide a sufficient

basis for an exception to statutory requirements.

Registration Confirmation

Registration confirmation occurs on the first official day of each semester. At this time, students have

the responsibility to verify their class schedule for the semester, assume responsibility for payment for

tuition and fees generated from registration, and purchase parking stickers. Students receiving financial

aid are responsible for understanding what type of aid they are receiving and the requirements. For

questions regarding registration confirmation, students should contact their Success Coach. For

questions regarding financial aid and respective requirements, students should contact the Office of

Financial Aid.

Financial Responsibility

All students are bound by the College Student Financial Responsibility Statement upon course

registration. The Statement outlines the financial terms and conditions associated with your registration.

By registering for classes, you assume financial responsibility and agree to the terms of the Statement.

Tuition, fees, room, board, and other associated costs assessed as a result of registration and/or receipt

of services are due and payable to the College by the specified due date and are the student’s

responsibility to pay as a result of registration or other activity incurred. A payment plan option is

available for students unable to pay the student’s balance in full by the due date. Contact Student

Accounts at studentaccounts@noctrl.edu

for more information on payment plans.

Failure to make satisfactory financial arrangements can result in delay of graduation, denial of

registration privileges, removal from classes/residence halls, withholding of transcripts, assessment of

late fees, and/or referral to a collection agency.

RESPONSIBILITY TO THE INTEGRITY OF ONE’S EDUCATION

NOTE: This section of the Student Handbook should be considered a supplement to the information

found in the North Central College Catalog. Students are encouraged to regularly review the Catalog,

and to consult it for information on academic policies and procedures.

To acquire an education that is complete and authentic, individuals must treat the academic pursuit

with respect. All members of the North Central College community are obligated to maintain an

atmosphere conducive to academic work so that the educational mission of the College will not be

hindered.

Academic life at North Central College is full of challenges, and meeting those challenges should be a

student’s primary objective. The College offers students the support the student may need along the

way. Faculty members are organized in academic departments and three undergraduate

college/schools. Questions or concerns about a course should first be addressed to the instructor, and

then if necessary, to the instructor’s department chair or Academic Dean. Additionally, while North

Central College encourages students to tutor and assist each other, and provides many opportunities for

them to do so, students remain responsible for submitting work that is genuinely the student’s. True

learning cannot be accomplished if one steals the work of others, or dishonestly prepares course work.

Consequently, the College requires students to adhere to the following policies in order to ensure the

honesty and integrity of the student’s academic performance. Violation of these policies can include, but

are not limited to, any of the following situations described below. Students found in violation of any

part of the policy, written or implied, may be subject to the Student Conduct Process and/or Academic

Integrity Process.

Credit and Credit Hour Policies

Credit Unit

The unit of credit at North Central is the credit hour, which is equivalent to one semester hour of credit

or one and one half hours of credit under quarter plans. Previous academic work by transfer students is

evaluated and translated into credit hours. Official evaluations are completed only in the Office of the

Registrar.

Definition and Assignment of Credit Hours

In accordance with federal regulations, state guidelines, and Higher Learning Commission standards,

North Central College defines a credit hour as the amount of work that approximates one hour of

classroom or direct faculty instruction and two hours of out-of-class work per week for a semester, or an

equivalent amount of work for a shorter time period.

The course workload, represented by the assessment of intended learning outcomes and evidence of

student achievement will be the same regardless of mode of instruction (traditional classroom, blended,

online). At minimum, an equivalent amount of work will be expected for all other academic activities

established by the institution including laboratory work, independent study, practical, internships,

studio courses that result in the awarding of academic credit.

The assignment of credit hours for a course is determined during the course approval process and

monitored by the Academic Programs and Policies Committee (APPC) or the College Graduate Studies

Council (CGSC).

Syllabus

Instructors are expected to make available a syllabus during the first week of the semester. In addition

to describing goals and content, the syllabus should include statements of the attendance and grading

policies.

Final Examinations

The last four days of each semester are scheduled for final examinations in semester long

undergraduate courses. Each faculty member is required to meet each class during the two-hour period

designated for the examination, whether or not a test is given. Final examinations for Session I, Session

II, graduate courses, and summer courses are given at the last regular class meeting. All final

examinations are administered in the regular class meeting room unless a change is announced by the

instructor. Students should not request changes in the designated final examination schedule

Class Attendance

Regular class attendance is expected of all students. The instructor of a course sets the attendance

standard for that course. A student who is absent from class for any reason should contact the

instructor. In general, the College expects attendance on the first and last days of a semester, as well as

the class days immediately preceding and following College holidays. If there is a wait list for a course,

the instructor may remove from the course roster any student who is absent the first day, unless the

student has notified the instructor in advance of the student’s absence. An absence from a class does

not constitute withdrawal from a course.

In certain scenarios, students may request an excused absence and receive special accommodations and

help making up missed work.

A. Medical Emergencies

When an emergency medical situation occurs in the midst of an academic semester, a student

may request special consideration. A medical emergency is defined as a serious and unexpected

injury to oneself, or a serious and sudden illness. This does not include minor sickness, common

conditions or routine medical appointments. As soon as possible, the student or the student’s

designee (parent, guardian, etc.) should notify both the instructor(s) and the Office of Student

Affairs (630-637-5151). Following a medical emergency, students can receive support from

Student Success (630-637-5266) and work with the student’s instructors to make up as much

missed content as is reasonably possible. When a student is transported to an emergency room,

a health facility, or any other care facility, the student is encouraged to schedule a support

meeting upon the student’s return to the College (see Support Meeting section).

B. Prolonged Illness

Students unavoidably absent from classes because of illness should keep in touch with the

student’s success coach and instructors. Students who must be absent from classes longer than

three weeks may be advised to withdraw from some or all courses. The usual criteria for

withdrawal is applied except that the date of withdrawal is calculated as the date on which

illness first prevented attendance in classes.

C. Mental Health Emergencies:

In instances where the Dyson Wellness Center staff or the Behavioral Intervention Team has

reason to believe a student may be dangerous or life-threatening to themselves or others, the

College may require the student be evaluated by appropriate medical/mental health

professionals, typically off-campus, to ensure the student’s safety. If the student refuses to be

evaluated, the student may be sent involuntarily for an assessment to ensure the student’s

safety and/or be subject to the student conduct process given the student’s failure to comply

with a College official. The student’s parent/guardian/emergency contact person will be advised

the student is in a potentially dangerous situation in order to allow them to assist. Local

authorities may also be contacted to ensure safety, or as required by law.

When a student is experiencing an emergency that threatens the student’s life or the life of

others and agrees to be evaluated, the Dyson Wellness Center staff, when possible, will provide

information to the student about the process for assessment and/or hospitalization and

transportation for evaluation/treatment. The staff will assist the student navigating missed

classes and in scheduling a Support Meeting to discuss the student’s return to campus. When a

student is transported to an emergency room, a mental health facility, or any other care facility,

the student is encouraged to schedule a Support Meeting upon the student’s return to the

College (see Support Meeting section).

F. Faculty Notification:

The Dyson Wellness Center staff will work with the Office of Student Affairs to provide an

absence verification notice for classes missed while a student is being treated for a medical or

mental health emergency. To respect privacy, this notification only includes basic details

regarding the missing of classes due to hospitalization. If a student wishes to share additional

details with instructors, the student may do so. This notification does not formally excuse a

student from missing the course and only acts as formal verification of the reason for a student’s

absence.

G. Support Meeting:

After a student has been treated for a medical or mental health emergency, a Support Meeting

will be offered by the college to assist the student in navigating the student’s needs when

coming back to campus. Support Meetings are an opportunity to ensure that proper support

structures (academic, health, etc.) are in place and allow the student an easier transition back

into classes and/or the residence halls following the student’s emergency assessment and/or

hospitalization. A parent, family member and/or guardian is encouraged to accompany the

student to this meeting for the purpose of transparency and coordination of care. Prior to this

meeting, students should consider the following steps to help make the process of returning to

classes/residence halls successful.

1. Seeing a care provider (i.e. medical doctor, therapist, or psychiatrist) who will act as a

continued care provider(s) to offer support, treatment and advice to the student as the

student returns to campus. Medical services offered at the Dyson Wellness Center

(DWC) include evaluation and treatment of acute illnesses and injuries; medical

consultation and referral to community resources. The DWC medical providers do not

routinely provide assessment and management of chronic health conditions. Mental

health services at the DWC include short-term counseling; sport and health psychology

services; risk assessment and referral; advocacy and collaboration for care (case

management); and referral to resources for appropriate level of care. Referrals to an

off-campus provider for longer-term care, and/or more specialized care, are often

provided depending on the client’s needs.

2. Receive a letter from the care provider outlining a plan of return that will reduce

potential escalations in behaviors and identify helpful support mechanisms to best

ensure academic success. It is recommended that the outlined plan provided by the

care-provider be followed after returning to campus.

3. Complete and sign a release of information (ROI) that will allow the Dyson Wellness

Center staff to communicate with a care provider and/or the Office of Student Affairs,

ensuring quality support and follow-up with efforts to increase the likelihood of the

student’s successful return to the academic environment.

A list of local care providers can be found at:

https://hub.northcentralcollege.edu/sites/dyson-wellness-center/SitePageModern/9684/dyson-

resources. The staff at the Dyson Wellness Center can help with a referral and/or in navigating

insurance-related issues. Please call the Dyson Wellness Center with any questions: (630) 637-

5550.

H. College Sponsored Activities:

North Central College is committed to ensuring that students are able to gain the full range of

experiences that constitute a North Central College education, including participation in co-

curricular and extracurricular activities. On occasion these activities may conflict with class

meeting times.

Students who miss classes due to participation in College-sponsored activities are responsible

for arranging make-up assignments with the student’s faculty instructors prior to missing class.

Examples of College-sponsored activities include intercollegiate athletic competitions, academic

competitions (such as: Forensics, Mock Trial, Model United Nations, ENACTUS, etc.) and other

activities that enhance student learning – such as field trips – that are required for other

courses. When participation in College-sponsored activities results in absence from class,

students will be given a reasonable opportunity to make up the work missed. It should be

understood, however, that in some cases, due to the nature of the missed activity (i.e., lab,

group discussion, or quiz), the make-up work may not be identical to the work completed by

students who attended the class session. If students fulfill their responsibilities to communicate

with the student’s instructors, and to make up their work in a timely way, the student’s grades

will not be penalized. In the semesters where participation in College-sponsored activities is

particularly heavy, students should consult with their success coaches regarding course

workload and scheduling. Students are strongly encouraged to meet with the student’s

instructors prior to the start of the semester.

Faculty and staff who coach or direct College-sponsored activities that may involve students

missing classes have been requested to communicate information about absences at least one

week before each event. Information about the event should include the names of students

participating, and the anticipated starting time and ending time of the scheduled activities. If

unforeseen circumstances arise that require a change in the schedule, the coach or director will

promptly inform the faculty. Normally, students will not be excused from class in order to

participate in practices and rehearsals. Additionally, faculty have been requested to avoid

scheduling field trips during the period when many midterm exams are scheduled, as well as

during the last week of the semester, and during finals week.

Even though coaches and directors may be communicating with faculty about College-

sponsored events which conflict with classes, it is the student’s responsibility to contact

instructors prior to missing classes to arrange to make up work. The collaborative effort of all

parties will ensure that students can take full advantage of the educational opportunities made

available at North Central College within and outside of the classroom.

Withdrawing for Financial Aid Recipients

Federal regulations require that North Central College have a written policy for the refund and

repayment of federal aid (Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant, TEACH Grant, Pell Grant, Iraq &

Afghanistan Grant, Federal Direct Student Loans, Federal Direct Graduate PLUS Loans, and Federal

Direct Parent PLUS Loans) received by students who withdraws during a semester for which payment

has been received. This policy is effective only for those students who cease attendance (i.e. cancel

registration, stop attending all coursework, withdraw or are dismissed) before completing 60% of the

enrollment period for the semester.

The North Central College Financial Aid Withdrawal and Refund policy and the requirements for the

return of grant or loan assistance are available on the Financial Aid website:

https://www.northcentralcollege.edu/aid-costs/financial-aid-policies

. For more information, contact the

Office of Financial Aid at (630) 637-5600.

Withdrawing for the Semester

Students wishing to withdraw from the College for the entire semester should begin the withdrawal

process with the Student Success Team in the Oesterle Library, or by calling (630) 637-5111.

Academic Honesty

Students are expected to maintain the highest standards of integrity with respect to the student’s

academic pursuits. Academic dishonesty typically falls into one of two categories: cheating and

plagiarism.

A. Cheating

All work submitted for evaluation must be the student’s own. Attempts to obtain credit for work

other than one’s own constitutes cheating, as does aiding another student in such an attempt.

Cheating includes, but is not limited to:

• Copying another student’s work and submitting it for evaluation

• Submitting the same or similar work for more than one course without notifying the

instructors

• Communicating with anyone in any form during an in-class examination

• Having notes, books, or electronic devices present during an in-class examination unless

explicitly permitted by the instructor

• Submitting online assignments that are not one’s own work

• Falsification of academic paperwork

B. Plagiarism

The following policy was enacted by the College Senate on May 11, 1977:

1. Plagiarism: Plagiarism means offering of someone else's words, ideas, or conceptions as

if they were one's own. Students are indeed encouraged to draw upon the information

and wisdom of others, but in the spirit of scholarship the student is always expected to

state such indebtedness so that a) the student’s own creativity can be justly appreciated

and b) the student’s use of sources, like a scientist's experiment, can be verified by

others. Plagiarism differs from this productive use of sources in that the similarity of the

original and the borrowings are very close; it is acknowledged inexactly or not at all; and

it shows little or no creative application by the borrower. Plagiarism is a prime

intellectual offense in that the borrower is faking the learning process. No learning

community can thrive if its members counterfeit their achievements, deceive their

teachers, and take unfair advantage of their fellow students. Since the integrity of the

whole academic community is thus at stake, the penalties are high.

To establish the occurrence of plagiarism it is not necessary to prove intent. All students

are responsible for knowing or learning what academic honesty is. At North Central

College, plagiarism will be deemed to have occurred when one or more of the following

external evidences is present:

i. The writing of a student includes word-for-word passages taken without explicit

and accurate acknowledgment from a source written by another, provided that

the cumulative borrowing includes at least ten words. "Explicit and accurate

acknowledgment" means the use of quotation marks and a verifiable citation of

source, either in parentheses or by footnote, at the point of indebtedness. (The

mere listing of the source in the bibliography is not sufficient acknowledgment

by itself.)

ii. The writing of a student closely resembles another source in thought, order, or

diction (including synonyms) for a cumulative resemblance of three or more

sentences, without explicit and accurate acknowledgment as defined in 1)

above.

iii. Two or more papers or exams, submitted at the same time, contain

resemblances in factual or stylistic detail which are decidedly outside normal

probabilities of coincidence. The likelihood of plagiarism will be deemed even

higher a) if the students were known to be in close physical proximity at the

time of writing, and b) if the factual details involve unusual error. In the event of

such resemblances, all parties involved will be judged responsible.

iv. A paper or exam contains terminology or information which the student, on

questioning, cannot explain.

v. A paper or exam contains unusually detailed data for which the student does

not produce a verifiable source.

vi. These same principles hold for the inclusion of borrowed diagrams,

mathematical statements, tables, and pictures.

2. Citations: In citing any sources, the student implicitly guarantees the accuracy and

fullness of acknowledgment.

i. The instructor may properly request the student to bring in those sources so

that such guarantee may be confirmed. Such a request, made routinely in many

schools, carries no implied criticism.

ii. If students are unsure about whether the student’s writing has sufficiently

acknowledged outside sources, students should consult with either the

student’s course instructor or the Writing Center before submitting the final

copy.

Sanctions: Determination of an infraction of the Academic Honesty policy is solely at the

discretion of the instructor. Any instructor who has assembled evidence of academic dishonesty

will first offer the student a chance to provide an alternate explanation of the evidence or to

admit fault. If the inference of academic dishonesty remains, the instructor will consult with the

academic dean and inform the student of the sanction. The sanction will be related to the

student’s previous record of academic honesty. Typically, a first offense will result in a zero for

the assignment, a second offense will result in failure of the course, and a third attempt can

result in dismissal from the institution.

Any sanction beyond reprimanding the student will be

reported to the academic dean for notation in the student's file. Notation of the incident will not

appear on a student’s academic transcript, but will be included in a student’s permanent file.

Grade Appeals

College faculty enjoy academic freedom to craft courses and grade work in a manner consistent with the

faculty member’s expertise and college policies. A faculty member’s professional judgment is presumed

to be accurate. Except for clerical errors or miscalculation, grades will be changed only in extremely rare

instances.

A student who believes that the final grade received in a course does not reflect the quality of the work

performed has the right to meet with the instructor of the course and be given a review of the manner

in which the grade was determined. Either the student or the instructor or both may bring a peer or a

third party to this meeting. If the student is not satisfied with the outcome of the meeting, the student

may appeal the instructor's decision to the department chairperson who supervises the instructor

concerned. The chairperson will consult with the instructor and determine whether a grade change is

appropriate or a basis for appeal. Bases for appeal are 1) deviation from the course syllabus in a way

that disadvantages the student, and 2) evidence of capricious assessment or implementation of class

policy. The department chairperson may recommend a grade change to the academic dean. A student

who disagrees with the chairperson about whether the two criteria have been met may subsequently

appeal to the dean.

Appeal of a grade issued in a course taught by a department chairperson will be made directly to the

dean. Appeal of a grade issued in a course taught by a dean will be made to Provost and Vice President

for Academic Affairs or their designee.

Grade appeals must be made within a ninety (90) day period following the last day of the semester in

which the grade was received and include the following items:

• A brief explanation of the circumstances, rooted in one of the two criteria for appeal noted

above,

• A copy of the course syllabus, and

• Copies of relevant materials such as graded work or email correspondence with the instructor

RESPONSIBILITY TO THE COLLEGE AND ITS MEMBERS

To allow oneself and others to engage fully in the pursuit of their education, individuals must treat the

College campus, College resources, and other members of the College community with respect. To do so

requires a personal commitment not only to refrain from conduct that harms, but also to engage in

conduct that makes the community a better place for all to live and learn. Individuals should

demonstrate stewardship of community assets through responsible use, and should refrain from

damaging or misusing College facilities and resources. In line with these goals, the College created the

following policies to guide student conduct within the College community:

Activities and Events

It is assumed that non-performance activities and events held on the North Central campus, and

sponsored by North Central organizations, are primarily for the enjoyment and benefit of students, staff,

and faculty. Non-performance activities and events such as dances and parties which encourage

attendance and participation from individuals outside of the North Central Community must be

approved by the Dean of Students in advance of any planning and publicity. Unless otherwise stipulated

and pre-approved, the College adheres to a one-guest-per-student policy for non-performance student

events, activities, and programs.

Bullying, Intimidation and Threats

No student may bully, intimidate or threaten another person. Such conduct may include, but is not

limited to: repeated infliction of verbal abuse, such as the use of derogatory remarks, insults, and

epithets; written communication or physical conduct of a hostile or humiliating nature; the sabotage or

undermining of an individual’s work or academic performance; or attempts to exploit an individual’s

known psychological or physical vulnerability. Acts and/or actions that a reasonable person would find

distressing based on the severity, nature or frequency of the conduct, or have the purpose or effect of

substantially interfering with an individual's work, study, or living environment are prohibited. A single

severe and egregious act may constitute unpermitted conduct. Repeated excessive and unwanted

contact also likely meets the standard for unpermitted conduct.

Bullying, intimidation and threats may be perpetrated in person, via email, phone, text messaging, social

networking sites or other electronic means—any of which are a violation of College policy. Bullying,

intimidation and threats based on race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, physical ability, and ethnic

or cultural origins are particularly reprehensible and prohibited. Expression that is harassing,

discriminatory, or that creates a hostile environment based on a protected class or social identity is not

protected and will be addressed under the Discrimination, Harassment, and Sexual Misconduct and

Retaliation policy.

Compliance

Students must comply with the reasonable directions of any person employed by, or acting for, the

College and given the responsibility to enforce the rules and regulations of the College. Students also

must comply with the regulations and policies of College offices and departments.

A. Students must comply with a request to participate in an investigation as a witness, to attend a

hearing as a respondent or as a witness, and to provide complete and truthful information at all

times.

B. Students are required to participate in mandated assessments as directed by the Behavioral

Intervention Team. Mandated assessments allow the Behavioral Intervention Team the ability to

better determine a person’s functioning and the context of potentially concerning behavior, and

to offer essential consultation to the decision-makers at the institution. This process can involve

a psychological evaluation, a threat assessment, or both. Students who fail to comply with a

mandated assessment as directed by the Behavioral Intervention Team may be referred to the

College’s student conduct process.

C. Students must comply with the request to open or unlock a personal safe or other locked

container when asked by a staff member who suspects a violation of a rule or policy. It is

expected that students will produce a key to a locked safe/container in a timely manner.

Conduct that Endangers

No student may engage in conduct or action that injures, threatens to injure or has the potential to

endanger the physical safety, health or wellbeing of oneself or others, through direct action or negligent

inaction. Conduct or action that endangers, threatens or injures another person on the basis of race,

gender, sexual orientation, religion, physical ability, and ethnic or cultural origins is particularly

reprehensible and prohibited, and will be reported to governmental authorities as required by law.

Conduct Unbecoming

North Central College holds high standards of behavior for students. Unbecoming conduct refers to

those acts that may not be specifically identified by other policies but that could reasonably be regarded

as so improper or inappropriate by their nature and in their context that they are harmful to the

reputation of both the student and/or the College. Students will be held accountable for actions or

activities that are inconsistent or incompatible with the spirit of the community standards set forth in

the Student Handbook, whether such actions take place on or off campus.

Contract Policy

In order to protect North Central College and the various student organizations from financial problems

arising from contracts, all contracts for student-sponsored events should be processed through the

Office of Student Involvement. The original copy will be returned to the individual or the agency, and the

duplicate will be placed on file in the Office of Student Involvement.

Damage and Vandalism

A. Damage: Destruction, damage, or abuse of any property, public or private, is prohibited.

B. Vandalism: Deliberate attempts to deface any property, public or private, is prohibited.

Demonstration Guidelines

A. Fundamental Principles:

North Central College is a community of learners. As such, we recognize and affirm the

importance of free expression and the right of all members of the College community to speak

in favor of issues that they support, and to criticize issues with which they disagree.

The purpose of these demonstration guidelines is to provide guidance for the process in which

the College can best support community members’ ability to demonstrate in conditions that are

safe and support them feeling heard. Freedom of expression on the North Central College

campus necessitates the ability of students, faculty, and staff to engage in

demonstrations/peaceful protests. At the same time, all community members share with the

College a responsibility to help insure a campus climate where intimidation, hostility, or

demeaning actions directed toward a specific individual or group are not tolerated. Freedom of

expression does not include the right to engage in conduct that threatens safety, is unlawful,

incites imminent violence, suppresses others’ right to speech, disrupts the education of North

Central students, or is otherwise against College policy. Campus administrators and/or Campus

Safety will have a presence at demonstrations.

Demonstrations/Peaceful protests are interpreted to include nonviolent conduct such as

speeches, marches, picketing, public assemblies, rallies, and celebrations. Non-peaceful

demonstrations/protests which include, but are not limited to, civil disobedience such as sit-

down blockades that obstruct entrances, programs, or functions, that have not been pre-

approved or are in violation of applicable laws or College policies, may result in legal or

administrative consequences to the participants.

B. Planning and Accountability:

To ensure that demonstrations do not threaten the safety of others, suppress others’ right to

speech, or disrupt the education of students, North Central College community members

(current students, faculty, and staff) are asked to notify the College via the Office of Student

Affairs, the Office of Academic Affairs, and/or the Office of Human Resources at least two days

in advance of a demonstration, unless such prior notice is not possible. In the event North

Central College community members are coordinating with external individuals or organizations,

notification to the College must occur at least 7 business days in advance of a demonstration

The College will respond to the demonstration organizers with respect to reasonable time,

place, and manner considerations within 24 business hours of notification.

There may be circumstances in which it is not possible to meet the two-day prior notice

requirement, for example, in the case of a spontaneous demonstration or a demonstration held

in response to an unanticipated event. In such cases, organizers are responsible for ensuring

that the demonstration complies with all other policies and are asked to contact the College via

the offices mentioned above as soon as possible. No exceptions will be made, to the two-day

prior notice expectation, for demonstrations involving external individuals or organizations.

Demonstration organizers are asked to provide the following information when notifying the

College:

1. Nature of the demonstration (i.e. march, gathering, die in, poster campaign or other).

2. Goals of the demonstration (i.e. disruption, informational or other).

3. Location of the demonstration.

4. Expected attendance.

5. Security needs of the demonstration.

6. Anticipated cost. i.e. additional staff and/or materials.

7. Time of the demonstration.

8. Plans for managing disruptive behavior, should it occur.

9. Any other necessary considerations. For example, if the demonstration opposes or

otherwise relates to another approved North Central event, the location of a resultant

demonstration will be discussed with organizers to allow them to be as proximate to the

other event as is deemed safe and reasonable.

10. Contact information for demonstration organizers, including information for any

individuals or organizations involved from outside of the North Central College

community.

11.

C. Considerations of Time, Place, and Manner:

Demonstrations for which the required advance notification is provided will normally be

approved if reasonable considerations of time, place, security needs and the manner of

demonstration have been addressed. The College reserves the right to modify the time, place,

or manner of a demonstration when there is a reasonable expectation that it may threaten

safety, suppress others’ right to speech, or disrupt the education of students, such as by

interfering with the ability of others to see, hear, or participate in another event, class or

academic activity.

Some but not all examples of conduct that will require modification of time, place, or manner of

demonstration which (if they do occur) may constitute violations of applicable law or College

policy include (College policy included in parenthesis):

1. Blocking access to campus facilities, campus walkways, activities or impeding traffic,

including to the venue in which another event is being held (Obstruction Policy).

2. Utilizing signs constructed of hard materials other than cloth or cardboard (Weapons

and Firearms Policy).

3. Using bullhorns or other loud or amplified sound-making devices inside of buildings

(Disruption Policy).

Examples of Conduct that is Expressly Prohibited by other College Policies:

1. Introducing torches or other dangerous or hazardous items or weapons on campus

(Weapons and Firearms Policy).

2. Using spray paint on campus property or otherwise causing damage to any structures

(Posting Policy and Damage and Vandalism Policy).

3. Engaging in theft, vandalism, property damage, or conduct that endangers individuals

(Theft and Unauthorized Borrowing Policy, Damage and Vandalism Policy, Conduct that

Endangers Policy).

4. Using intimidating tactics or unwelcome physical contact between demonstrators,

counterdemonstrators, audience members, speakers or performers, or College officials

(Employee Code of Conduct and Ethics, Conduct that Endangers Policy, Bulling

Intimidation and Threats Policy).

D. Response to Potential Violations of Policy

If there is conduct that potentially violates College policy, demonstration organizers/participants

will be advised to cease the conduct. A designated College official (e.g. in the case of a student

demonstration, the Dean of Students, or their designee) will inform the organizers of the need

to address the conduct. Behavior that continues to be in violation of College policy, or becomes

a violation after a warning(s), will be addressed by the appropriate College office (i.e. Campus

Safety, Student Affairs, Human Resources, Academic Affairs, etc.). Demonstration organizers

should be aware that the use of public streets and walkways for special events or

demonstrations is subject to City of Naperville ordinances and may require a special event

and/or amplifier permit. The organizers are solely responsible for compliance with all applicable

laws.

For conduct in violation of applicable laws demonstration organizers/participants should also be

aware that Naperville Police may be contacted by the College or a third party to respond to

complaints or concerns regarding a demonstration and/or a gathering and follow-up

accordingly. Naperville Police have the authority to respond to threats of violence and acts of

violence without first contacting demonstration organizers or College Staff or administrators.

Demonstration organizers should also expect College Campus Safety and/or administrators to

attend a demonstration taking place on College property to ensure a safe environment in which

to practice the freedom of expression.

Enforcement of other policies within the Student Handbook, the Employee Policy Guide, and

other campus policies may also apply to instances of violation of this policy.

E. Demonstrations Involving Members of the Public

North Central College is a private institution, and as such may require members of the public

who are not current faculty, staff, or students to leave College property. Failure to comply may

result in arrest for unlawful trespass or other criminal violations. Members of the North Central

College community who invite members of the public onto the campus are responsible for the

conduct of their guests.

NOTE: North Central College’s Protest and Demonstration Guidelines borrow heavily from

Wellesley College’s policy on Demonstrations and Free Expression.

Discouraging Policy Violations

Students have a responsibility to discourage the student’s peers from violating the Statement of Student

Conduct and/or the Policies of the College.

Disruption

No student may substantially disrupt or unreasonably interfere, whether intentionally or

unintentionally, with another person’s ability to attend class, receive instruction, learn, read, study,

sleep, or participate in the general life of a college student (“Student Life”). No student may

substantially disrupt or unreasonably interfere, whether intentionally or unintentionally, with a faculty's

ability to provide classroom instruction, research, mentoring or other faculty function (“Faculty

Functions”). No student may substantially disrupt or unreasonably interfere, whether intentionally or

unintentionally, with any administrative functions of the College (“Administrative Functions”). A student

who is substantially disrupting Student Life, Faculty Functions or Administrative Functions, may be asked

to leave a particular area of the College. Disruptions that are found to be substantial or unreasonably

interfere with any aspect of the educational environment, whether intentionally or unintentionally may

be addressed through the student conduct process.

A. Robust discussion and debate are fundamental to the life of the College. This Disruption Policy is

not meant to inhibit open discussion, academic debate, expressive activity, and expression of

personal opinion, in the classroom and within academic forums. Expression that is harassing,

discriminatory, or that creates a hostile environment based on a protected class or social

identity is not permitted and will be addressed under the Discrimination, Harassment, and

Sexual Misconduct and Retaliation policy.

B. Students with Service and/or Emotional Support Animals are expected to maintain control over

the student’s animals and are covered under this Disruption Policy. If a student cannot prevent a

Service and/or Emotional Support Animal from substantially disrupting or unreasonably

interfering with the study, learning and teaching atmosphere, or administration of the College,

the matter may be referred to the student conduct process. The student conduct process could

determine that a student is responsible for violating this policy and that a particular Service or

Emotional Support animal is unable to meet the College’s requirements for maintaining an

atmosphere for others that is free of unreasonable interference or disruptions.

E-mail

E-mail is an official means for communication within North Central College.

A. E-mail Information: Information Technology Services (ITS) will assign all faculty, staff and

students an official College e-mail address. This address will be the one listed in all directories

and the one used by the College for official business and communications.

B. Campus E-mail Access: The College’s e-mail system can be accessed on- and off-campus via any

browser.

C. Outside E-mail Service Providers: The College recommends that faculty, staff, and students use

the College’s e-mail system. Individuals having their e-mail electronically redirected to another

e-mail address do so at their own risk. The College will not be responsible for the handling of e-

mail by outside providers. Redirecting e-mail does not absolve an individual from the

responsibilities associated with communication sent to their official e-mail address.

D. E-mail as a Method of Communication: The College has the right to communicate with

students, faculty, and staff members through e-mail, and the right to expect that those

communications will be read in a timely fashion. Students, faculty, and staff members are

expected to check their official e-mail address on a frequent basis in order to stay current with

College communications.

Fires, Fire Alarms and Fire Equipment

In case of fire, immediately sound the fire alarm for the building, evacuate to a safe location, and call

911.

A. Residence Halls: If you are in a Residence Hall, please notify a Residence Life staff member

and/or the Department of Campus Safety immediately.

B. Campus Buildings: If you are in any other building on campus, please notify the Department of

Campus Safety immediately.

C. Evacuation: When a fire alarm is sounded, building occupants must evacuate the building

immediately. Failure to evacuate a building during an alarm is a serious offence and may result

in fines and/or referral to the Student Conduct Process.

D. Tampering: Tampering with fire equipment or sounding a false alarm is a serious offense, and

may result in criminal prosecution, costly fines, and referral to the College’s Student Conduct

Process.

Fire Safety

A. Fireworks, flammable liquids, explosives, candles, incense, incense burners, halogen lamps,

bomb-making (or similar) materials, or open-coil/exposed-coil appliances such as, space heaters,

toasters, rotating pizza makers, and hot plates, are not permitted on College owned or leased

properties.

B. To comply with fire codes, no interior hallway doors may be propped open.

C. Sprinkler heads need to be kept free from obstruction so that they can operate properly. Items

may not be stored within 18 inches of any sprinkler head. Hanging anything from a sprinkler

head is prohibited.

Fraudulent Use of College Resources

The College prohibits the direct or indirect unauthorized or fraudulent use of the College’s facilities,

telephone system, e-mail system, mail system, computer system, keys or College identification cards, or

the use of any of the above for any illegal or unethical act.

Free Expression

The College affirms its belief in the importance of free expression and the right of all members of the

College community to speak in favor of issues that the community member supports, and to criticize

issues with which the community member disagrees. At the same time, students, faculty, and non-

faculty employees share with the College a responsibility to help insure a campus climate of civility—one

where intimidation, hostility, or demeaning actions directed toward a specific individual or group are

not tolerated. Gatherings or protests that obstruct the educational process or create a risk of harm,

regardless of duration, are not permitted. The College recognizes that no definition of “obstructive” can

describe all possible situations, but as a general guideline defines obstructive demonstrations as those

at which there is disruption of access to education or to College facilities or activities relevant to the

College’s mission.

Additionally, College community members are expected to take ownership of the community member’s

expression. Therefore, all letters, posters or electronic forms of communication distributed to the

campus community regarding any issue will identify the author(s), so that dialogue and understanding

may be achieved. All College community members, including faculty, staff, students, guests, and visitors,

must adhere to College posting regulations at all times.

Gambling

Illegal wagering, bookmaking or unauthorized games or contests of chance are prohibited on College

property.

Hazing

Hazing of any kind is not permitted at North Central College.

A. Definition: A person commits hazing when that person requires the performance of any

unpleasant act by a student, prospective student, or other person in the College for the purpose

of admission, induction, acceptance, or continued participation in any group, organization,

sport, or society associated with the institution. This excludes activities associated with initiation

ceremonies sanctioned by the College for officially recognized clubs, organizations, and honor

societies.

B. Intent: The intent of the act, or the consent or cooperation of the hazing recipient, does not

constitute a defense.

C. Jurisdiction: The College, or the hazing recipient, may charge an individual or individuals with

responsibility for the hazing act(s) whether the act(s) took place on-campus or off.

D. Examples: Hazing includes, but is not limited to, any act or activity which may, or does, cause:

1. Fear or intimidation

2. Embarrassment or ridicule

3. Physical exhaustion

4. Endangerment, harm, mutilation, or alteration of any part(s) of the body

5. Mental fatigue, harassment, or duress

6. Forced or excessive consumption of food, alcohol, drugs or other substances

7. Defacement, removal, damage, or destruction of property

Key Policy

Room and building keys are officially issued by the College to an individual solely for that individual’s

possession and use only.

A. Using an unauthorized key or loaning keys to another individual is strictly prohibited.

Duplication of any key(s) issued by the College is strictly prohibited.

B. If a key is lost, a written report must be made with the Department of Campus Safety. If the lost

key is not found within 24 hours the affected locks must be changed for the safety of the

personnel and property housed in campus buildings. A minimum charge of $100.00 per lock and

$5.00 per key is assessed for the lock change.

C. For safety reasons, on-campus residents and individuals who work in campus buildings are

encouraged to lock the doors to their rooms and offices at all times, particularly when sleeping

in a residence hall room or when away from the room or office.

Laser Pointers

Due to the potentially hazardous effects of laser pointers, students are not allowed to own, possess,

store, or use laser pointers on campus, except when explicitly granted permission by a faculty member

or instructor for limited use in a classroom setting and for a limited time period. Laser pointers may be

subject to confiscation and/or disposal.

Littering

Littering is prohibited. North Central College seeks to be a litter-free environment. Students are

expected to put all trash and recycling materials in the bins provided around campus.

Lockers

All lockers on College property made available for student use are the sole property of North Central

College. Students are assigned lockers for convenience and temporary use only. At no time does the

College relinquish its exclusive control of lockers. Students’ use of the lockers is limited exclusively to

school-related purposes.

• Only locks provided to students by the College should be on lockers. Lockers that have a fixed

combination lock shall not be tampered with or changed in any way.

• Students will assume the cost of a lock if it is necessary to cut a lock off for access to a locker.

• Lockers are for use only by an individual and at an individual’s sole risk. Lockers are only

accessible during regular building hours during the academic terms.

• The student assigned to or using the locker is solely responsible for all of the contents of the

locker.

• All perishable food and beverages and all opened nonperishable food and beverages must be

removed from lockers on a daily basis. Only nonperishable foods and beverages, in unopened

original packaging or containers, are allowed to be kept in lockers overnight.

• Knives, guns, ammunition, weapons of any kind, explosives, prohibited drugs, pornography,

illegal or illicit items or substances, or other items deemed by the college to be harmful or

inappropriate will not be stored in lockers.

• North Central College is not responsible for a locker’s contents or liable for the loss of or

damage to items stored in lockers. Any loss should be reported immediately to the

Department of Campus Safety.

Students acknowledge that there is no expectation of privacy in or to the contents of a North Central

College locker. North Central College retains the right to inspect lockers, without notifying

users in

advance, in case of situations arising from suspected unauthorized or unpermitted use, violation of

locker policies and regulations, or in emergencies when safety and security is in question.

• North Central College will attempt to notify students (via NCC email and/or a phone

number provided by the students at the time of locker registration) to be present when

lockers are to be inspected in non-emergency situations.

• In the event that North Central College inspects lockers without prior notice and/or

removes

property from lockers during the course of an inspection, students will be notified in writing

(via NCC email). During an inspection, a Campus Safety Officer, a NCC staff member, or a staff

member from the Office of Student Involvement must be present.

• The personal possessions of students within a college locker may be searched when there is

reasonable suspicion that the search will uncover evidence of a violation of state or federal

law, or college policy.

• North Central College may seize, from any locker, any items that are illegal, are in violation of

North Central College policy, are deemed unauthorized, or are reasonably determined to be a

potential threat to the safety or security of others.

Obstruction

No student may intentionally interfere with and/or interrupt any function on-campus, or College activity

off-campus. No student may occupy any facility on campus beyond a time reasonably fixed and

announced by the College, when the effect of the occupation is to interfere with any College activity.

Furthermore, no student may willfully obstruct entry into, or exit from, any building, walkway or

roadway by any form of a blockade.

Parking and Vehicle Regulations

Parking enforcement on North Central College’s Campus is overseen by the Department of Campus

Safety. North Central College has established the following regulations to govern parking and traffic

movement within the College community. Permission to park or operate a motor vehicle or personal

travel device (including bicycles, hover boards, motorcycles, scooters and other motorized alternative

vehicles) on North Central College property is governed by these policies. Parking is a privilege granted

by the College. The College does not guarantee the regular availability of a parking space. Authorized

parking areas on the North Central College campus are specifically and clearly designated. The

responsibility of finding a legal parking space rests solely on the driver. A legal parking space is defined

to be a space between two designated, painted lines. Vehicles must be parked so as to occupy only one

space or stall, as designated.

A. General Information about Parking Permits: The North Central College parking permit is a self-

adhesive sticker which is affixed to the vehicle in the upper left corner of the rear window or a

hangtag that is displayed on the rear view mirror of the vehicle. Vehicles displaying their permits

improperly are subject to citation. Permits must be displayed 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

All vehicles parked on campus must display a valid permit issued by the Department of Campus

Safety. A valid permit is either a current parking permit issued to employees and students of

North Central College that is properly registered and displayed in accordance with these

policies, or a temporary or visitor permit authorized by the Department of Campus Safety.

B. Commuter Parking Permits: Designated parking spaces for vehicles displaying a Commuter

Parking Permit are available for daytime and evening parking until midnight during the academic

year, but may not be used for overnight parking except by direct permission from the Director of

Campus Safety, or their designee. Vehicles with a Commuter Permit are authorized to park in

commuter parking spaces only. Commuter Permits should not be used to park and walk to the

train or downtown Naperville. These permits should be used only when attending classes,

official College events or when utilizing College facilities.

C. Accessible Permits: Accessible parking spaces are provided in College parking lots in accordance

with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Vehicles parked in these spaces must display a

valid accessible/ADA permit. A College issued parking permit is not required to be displayed.

Accessible permits may be obtained from the Illinois Secretary of State Office. Under Federal

law, these spaces may be ticketed by campus, state, local, and federal enforcement officials,

including campus safety officers.

D. Permit Cancellation or Renewal: The College may, without prior notice, revoke or refuse to

issue a parking permit. All outstanding parking violations or penalties must be satisfactorily

settled before a parking permit may be issued or renewed. Parking permits may be revoked for

non-payment of parking fines, other violation of the Parking Regulations, and failure to abide by

City of Naperville parking regulations. The Director of Campus Safety or their designee will notify

the permit holder of any suspension of parking privileges, and the reason for the suspension, via

campus e-mail, mail or the U.S. Postal Service.

E. Remote Parking Permits: All first year on-campus residents wishing to bring a vehicle to campus

are required to park in the College’s Remote Parking Lot. The Remote Lot is located

approximately one mile from campus at the All Saints Catholic Academy, 1155 Aurora Avenue in

Naperville. The remote lot permit may not be used in any on-campus parking lot. When the

parking pavilion opens in 2024, the Remote Lot will close. At that time students with a Remote

Lot permit will receive instructions from Campus Safety with the specified campus parking lot

available for these vehicles. For additional information and policies governing the remote lot,

please contact the Department of Campus Safety.

F. Reserved Parking Permits: Designated parking spaces for the President and selected officers of

the College are reserved 24 hours a day, seven days a week, unless otherwise specified.

G. Resident Parking Permits: Designated parking spaces for vehicles displaying a resident parking

permit are available 24 hours per day, seven days a week, during the academic year. Vehicles

with a resident permit must park only in residential parking spaces.

H. Temporary Permits for Students: Temporary permits may be issued to an individual that does

not have a valid resident, commuter, or remote permit. The temporary permit allows a current

student to park the student’s vehicle in a designated parking lot. A student is allowed to utilize a

temporary permit seven (7) days per semester. If a student needs to exceed the seven (7) days

limitation, the student must contact the Assistant Director of Campus Safety or their designee

for approval. In the event a student has a valid resident, commuter, or remote permit but will be

using another vehicle for a short period of time the student may obtain a temporary permit not

to exceed seven (7) days per semester. Temporary permits must be visibly displayed facing

outward on the rear view mirror.

I. Visitor Permits: All visitors parking overnight – including alumni, parents, and others in personal

vehicles, must display a visitor permit issued by the Department of Campus Safety. Visitor

permits are distributed as a courtesy to overnight guests. A student housing a visitor is

responsible for the any parking violations the visitor receives while on College property. Visitor

permits must be visibly displayed facing outward on the rear view mirror.

J. Electric Vehicle Charging: Current students, faculty and staff with a valid parking permit may

charge their registered electric vehicle at one of the College’s Charge Point stations by creating a

Charge Point account using the North Central College code. The code may be obtained on the

Campus Safety Hub page:

https://hub.northcentralcollege.edu/sites/campus-

safety/news/26050/electric-vehicle-charging-stations Approved vehicles may charge at no cost

for up to four (4) hours. After four (4) hours, owners will have a one (1) hour grace period to

move their vehicle to a parking space designated for their parking permit. Any vehicle still

charging or parked in the charging space after the grace period will be assessed a fee through

Charge Point of $2 per hour, up to $10 per charging session. Vehicles excessively parked in a

charging space may also be given a citation by Campus Safety.

K. Wheeled Personal Travel Devices (WPTD): For the safety of all students, faculty, staff, guests

and visitors, the use of rollerblades, skateboards, scooters, motorized standing scooters, hover

boards, sky walkers, Segway’s, or similar devices is prohibited inside of all campus buildings.

Appropriate steps also should be taken to ensure personal and community safety around

campus when a WPTD is used in permitted areas.

1. Pending revised guidance from the Consumer Product Safety Commission, hover boards

or other motorized WPTDs may not be stored in any North Central College owned or

operated residence hall.

2. Students utilizing WPTDs for transportation must behave responsibly with the student’s

own safety and the safety of the community in mind. This includes operating the WPTD

at a speed which minimizes or eliminates potential hazards with other vehicles and

pedestrian traffic. Extra caution should be used at intersections and crossings. The use

of helmets and other safety equipment is strongly encouraged.

3. Students wishing to utilize WPTDs must discontinue the use before entering campus

buildings, and may not resume use until after fully exiting campus buildings.

4. Extra care should be taken to avoid damage to campus and public facilities, properties,

and infrastructure. Using WPTDs to “grind” on seating walls, curbs, stairs, or other

structures is prohibited. Damage caused by WPTDs to any College property such as

floors, walls, or sidewalks will be the sole responsibility of the operator.

5. The safe operation, storage and charging of WPTDs is the sole responsibility of the

owner and/or operator. Damage to people or property will be the responsibility of the

owner of the WPTD.

L. Motorized Alternative Vehicles: Motorized Alternative Vehicles (“MAV”) (except wheelchairs

and designated College vehicles), including, but not limited to, motorcycles, mopeds, motorized

seated scooters, and gas-powered bicycles are not to be operated or parked on the grass,

sidewalks, or pedestrian walkways of the campus at any time. MAVs are subject to the same

regulations as automobiles, and must be registered with and permitted by the Department of

Campus Safety. The riding of any MAV inside any campus building is strictly prohibited.

1. Vehicle Code: All bicycles, mopeds, and MAVs must be operated according to the State

of Illinois Vehicle Code.

2. Safety: Students utilizing MAVs for transportation must use the MAV responsibly, with

the student’s own safety, and the safety of the community in mind. This includes, but is

not limited to, adapting speed with regard to potential hazards, pedestrian traffic, and

exercising additional caution at intersections and crossings. The use of helmets and

other safety equipment is strongly encouraged.

3. Parking: All MAVs on College property must be parked in a designated parking space,

and should not be parked, stored, or left in such a manner as to impede normal

entrance to, or exit from, any building on campus. MAVs are subject to citations for

parking violations, and can be towed at the owner’s expense, in accordance with the

Campus Safety Towing Policy. Parking permits for MAVs are required and may be

obtained through Campus Safety.

M. Bicycles: Students utilizing bicycles are expected to behave responsibly with the student’s own

safety and the safety of the community in mind. This includes adapting speed with regard to

potential hazards and pedestrian traffic, and exercising additional caution at intersections and

crossings. The use of helmets, bells, horns, lights, and other safety equipment is strongly

encouraged.

1. Vehicle Code: All bicycles must be operated according to the provision set forth by the

State of Illinois Vehicle Code.

2. Parking: No person may park, store, or leave a bicycle in such a manner as to impede

normal entrance to, or exit from, any building or facility on campus. All bicycles on

College property must be parked or secured to a designated bicycle rack, and may not

be left unattended and unsecured on any College property. North Central College is not

responsible for any lost or stolen bicycles or related equipment.

3. Relocation of Bicycles: Bicycles secured to public infrastructure, such as railings, light

posts, fire hydrants, parking signs, benches, stairwells, ramps, or trees will be removed

and stored by the Department of Campus Safety for a period not to exceed one year. If a

bicycle is found abandoned or inoperable at the end of the academic year, the bicycle

will be removed and stored by the Department of Campus Safety, at the department’s

discretion, for a period of at least 30 days but not to exceed one year.

i. To retrieve a relocated bicycle, the owner of the bicycle will be required to

provide proof of ownership (e.g. serial number) prior to receiving the bicycle.

ii. Confiscated, found, or seized bicycles will be retained for a period of at least 30

days, but no longer than 1 year, from the date of procurement and disposed of

thereafter at the College’s sole discretion.

iii. If a bicycle must be relocated, North Central College is not responsible for

reimbursement or costs associated with locks or chains.

4. Personal Bicycle Registration: Students are strongly encouraged to register the

student’s personal bicycle with Campus Safety. Bicycle registration forms are accessible

at the Department of Campus Safety.

Parking Enforcement

A. Citation and Service of Citations: When there is cause to believe that a violation of policy has

occurred, an appropriate violation notice will be issued by the Department of Campus Safety.

The violation notice will set forth the date, approximate time, location, and nature of the

violation. The citation may be served by affixing a copy to the vehicle involved or by delivering

or mailing a copy to the alleged violator. Service by mail is accomplished by sending a copy of

the citation to the alleged violator’s campus or home mailing address.

B. Paying or Appealing a Fine:

1. Instructions on the front of the notice of a parking violation advise the alleged violator

that the alleged violator may choose to either pay the fine applicable to the violation(s)

charged, or appeal the matter through the Appeals Board within eight (8) business days

of the issuance of the violation. The Appeals Board meets on a bi-weekly basis to

consider appeals received within the allotted eight-day time period. Appeal forms are

available at the Department of Campus Safety, located at 451 S. Brainard St., or online

https://hub.northcentralcollege.edu/sites/campus-safety/news/10397/parking-

citation-appeals The Department of Campus Safety office is open five days a week

between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. during the academic year.

2. If the alleged violation is for altering the date of a temporary permit, the temporary

permit in question must be submitted with the appeal.

3. If the alleged violator chooses to pay the fine, the alleged violator may mail a check or

money order for the appropriate amount to, or pay that amount at Student Accounts

(Old Main). The violator has eight (8) business days from the date of the citation to pay

the fine or file an appeal. Please note, payment of the fine constitutes a waiver of the

right to appeal the citation.

4. If the alleged violator neither pays the fine nor appeals the notice of violation within

eight (8) business days, the fine amount will automatically be charged to the violator’s

College account.

5. If the alleged violator is denied their appeal or is required to pay the fine, the amount

due must be paid within eight (8) business days of the notice of the appeal decision. In

addition, individuals with three (3) or more parking violations will be subject to

immobilization and/ or towing. All appeal decisions made by the Appeals Board are final.

There is no further avenue for appeal.

C. Immobilization and/or Towing:

1. Any vehicle parked on North Central College property may be subject to immobilization

and/or towing for cause after notification, as specified in these regulations. Under

Illinois State Statute, all parking lots must be posted with towing signs in order to

facilitate towing. The College and its officers, employees, and agents are not liable for

any loss or damage of any kind resulting from towing.

2. After receiving three (3) citations a vehicle is subject to immobilization and additional

fines. After five (5) total violations, the vehicle is subject to towing from College

property at the owner’s expense and revocation of the privilege to utilize College

parking lots and structures.

3. A vehicle may be towed without notice for the following reasons: when parked in a

designated accessible/ADA parking space without a valid permit; when blocking a

driveway, entrance, exit, or fire hydrant/posted fire lane; when in a loading zone, no-

parking area, tow zone, landscaped area, prohibited area; or when restricting College

activities. These violations include parking in a campus service area without proper

authorization, or parking in a reserved space on College property without proper display

of a valid parking permit.

4. North Central College works with a towing service to act as its relocation service for all

College owned and leased properties. If your vehicle is towed from the property, you

may contact Campus Safety for the company information.

D. Responsibility for Illegal Parking: The permit holder – or in the absence of a valid permit, the

vehicle’s registered owner – is responsible for any parking violations for that vehicle, and for all

offenses under these regulations regardless of whether or not the vehicle was being used by the

permit holder or registered owner or another entity.

E. Suspension of Parking Privileges: An individual whose vehicle has been towed from College

property, is subject to suspension of parking privileges. The Director of Campus Safety, or their

designee, will notify the permit holder that the permit holder’s failure to comply with parking

policies constitutes grounds for suspension of parking privileges. Additionally, the vehicle may

be subject to immobilization and/or towing, if found on College property.

Posting Policy

A. Individuals and groups affiliated with the College may post approved and stamped

announcements on College bulletin boards to advertise meetings, events, activities, and classes.

Unless otherwise noted, bulletin boards in academic buildings, the Harold and Eva White

Activities Center, Kaufman Dining Hall, and the Rolland Center Boilerhouse Café, are all open for

this category of postings. For approval to post in residence halls, please contact the Office of

Residence Life at (630) 637-5858. All postings must be approved and date stamped at the Harold

and Eva White Activities Center’s (WAC) front desk. Postings can only be posted for two weeks,

unless approval is received from the Office of Student Involvement or Office of Residence Life.

B. Organizations or individuals not affiliated with the College may only post approved and date-

stamped materials in the following designated spots: the bulletin board in the White Activities

Center main lobby, the designated board in the Rolland Center Boilerhouse Café, the bulletin

board located in Kaufman Dining Hall entrance, and the designated bulletin board in the

Larrance Academic Center stairwell. All postings must be approved and date stamped at the

Harold and Eva White Activities Center’s (WAC) front desk. Postings can only be posted for two

weeks, unless approval is received from the Office of Student Involvement.

C. All table top advertisements must be approved and date stamped before posting in the

following designated locations: Harold and Eva White Activities Center/The Cage, Rolland

Center, Boilerhouse Café, and Kaufman Dining Hall.

D. All postings must clearly identify the individual or group responsible for the information.

E. Any postings that do not align with the mission of North Central College and/or demeans any

population will be denied posting approval unless the postings are part of an academic project

or protected by academic freedom.

F. Postings of any kind are not permitted on windows, entry and exit doors, elevators or walls of

any building (with the exception of residence hall postings approved by the Office of Residence

Life) and may be removed.

G. Announcements and advertisements of any kind which are written with chalk, taped, or

otherwise affixed on campus sidewalks without prior approval by the Office of Student

Involvement are not permitted and will be removed.

Pranks

Pranks, defined as mischievous or malicious tricks that cause, or have the potential to cause, damage,

harm, or distress, are prohibited.

Public Gathering Spaces

Public lounges, study areas and gathering spaces are provided throughout the campus to support an

engaging and interactive educational community and to nurture a culture of curiosity, collaboration, and

inquiry. Gathering spaces are for the use of all students, faculty and staff, and in particular cases, guests

of the College. In many cases public gathering spaces exist in close proximity to classrooms, faculty and

staff offices and other public event spaces. It is, therefore, expected that all gathering spaces will be

respected as College property and remain clean and well-kept and that the volume of activity in the

gathering spaces will not interfere with other College activity (classes, meetings, etc.). Personal

belongings should not be left unattended. Sleeping overnight in public lounges, study areas and

gathering spaces is not permitted. Public gathering spaces are solely accessible during posted building

hours and North Central College reserves the right to adjust building hours and accessibility as it deems

appropriate.

Retaliation

Retaliation is a serious violation of College policy and will be adjudicated through the Student Conduct

Process. Retaliation is defined as any materially adverse action taken against an individual because of

the individual’s participation in a permitted and/or required activity such as participation in an

investigation, the reporting of an incident/concern, supporting a party bringing an allegation, or for

assisting in providing information relevant to a potential policy violation. Retaliatory actions include, but

are not limited to, threats or actual violence against the person or the person’s property, adverse

educational or employment consequences, ridicule, intimidation, bullying or ostracism. Additionally,

retaliation may be treated as a possible instance of harassment or discrimination that is adjudicated

through the Discrimination, Harassment, Sexual Misconduct, and/or Retaliation policy procedures

contained in this handbook. Acts of alleged retaliation should be reported immediately to the Office of

Student Affairs and will be promptly addressed. The Office of Student Affairs is prepared to take

appropriate steps to protect individuals who fear that the individual may be subjected to retaliation.

Some examples/scenarios of Retaliation include:

• A member of a student organization participates as a witness in a conduct hearing about the

organization president; the student member is subsequently removed as a member of the

organization because of the student’s participation in the hearing.

• A resident student submits a noise complaint on a neighbor. The neighbor then “recruits” other

hall residents to ostracize the reporting party and threatens to harm them should the reporting

party submit another complaint.

• A student submits an Early Alert referral out of concern of suicidal ideation of a friend, who is

also a student. The friend then communicates with the reporting party’s faculty members that

the reporting party is not a trustworthy individual.

Note: Reports or allegations that fall under the College’s Discrimination, Harassment, Sexual

Misconduct and Retaliation Policy have specific processes and procedures that may differ from the other

procedural standards described in the Student Handbook. To obtain information unique to those cases,

please refer to the Discrimination, Harassment, Sexual Misconduct and Retaliation policy located in “The

College’s Responsibility to Students” section of this Handbook.

Sales, Surveys and Solicitation

Groups or individuals who wish to distribute literature, sell merchandise, or wish to recruit students/

seek membership or support for organizations, must abide by the following:

A. All organizations or individuals not affiliated with the College, who wish to distribute printed

materials, sell merchandise, or wish to recruit students/ seek membership or support for

organizations must be sponsored by a recognized student organization and the associated

activity receiving approval from the Director of Student Involvement.

B. All organizations or individuals desiring to recruit professionally on campus must contact the

Office of Career Development.

C. All campus-affiliated organizations or individuals wishing to sell merchandise or services must

receive permission from and work with the Director of Student Involvement.

D. Student organizations must obtain permission to sell merchandise or services in the residence

halls for fundraising purposes from the Director of Residence Life. Door-to-door selling and

soliciting in the Residence Halls, on campus, or in the local community are not permitted.

E. Students who wish to conduct a survey in the Residence Halls must obtain prior approval from

the Director of Residence Life. Students who wish to conduct a survey elsewhere on campus

must obtain prior approval from the Director of Student Involvement.

F. No alcohol may be sold or distributed on campus unless it is being offered as part of an official

College program or event in a specially designated location.

Please note: If you believe a solicitor has harassed you, you may file a complaint with the Office of

Student Affairs, the Department of Campus Safety, the Office of Residence Life, or the Office of Student

Involvement.

Statement of Acceptable Use of Information Technologies

The Statement of Acceptable Use of Information Technologies describes conditions for the use of

information technologies at North Central College. This document does not attempt to address every

situation encountered in the use of information technologies at North Central College, but is intended to

establish a framework in which each situation may be evaluated. If users have questions about whether

a specific use of information technologies facilities or services is authorized, it is the user's responsibility

to ask an Information Technology Services (hereafter, "ITS") staff member. Ignorance of these policies

will not be considered an excuse. This document is supplemented by all other applicable College policies

and procedures governing the conduct of students, faculty and staff.

A. Revision and Distribution of This Document:

This Statement of Acceptable Use will be periodically revised by North Central College's

Information Technology Services and reviewed by the appropriate College authorities before

distribution. Copies of revisions will be made available to all users on the NCC Intranet, the

Student Handbook and via other means of distribution as appropriate.

B. Purpose of Information Technologies:

The purpose of information technologies at North Central College is to create and maintain an

infrastructure to support the College's basic missions of teaching, learning and research. While

limited personal use of the College's information technologies is permitted, any use of

information technologies not directly related to instructional, administrative or research

activities of the College may be terminated immediately and without warning.

C. Defining Information Technologies:

Information technologies at North Central College includes, but is not limited to, computers,

computer peripherals, data networks, computer software, data storage media, communication

devices, telephones, telecommunications equipment, telecommunications networks, printers,

video equipment and video collaboration tools, as well as any other machine or network to

which North Central College provides access or is connected. In addition to the policies outlined

in this document, any network traffic exiting the College (e.g. via Internet) is subject to any

applicable use policies of the networks through which it flows (such as ICN, WOW, AT&T, etc.). If

users abuse networks to which the College belongs, or the computing services at other sites

connected to those networks, the College will treat this matter as an abuse of the user's North

Central College information technology privileges.

D. Disclaimer of Editorial Control:

North Central College is a carrier of information and not a publisher. As a carrier, the College is

not expected to be aware of, or directly responsible for, materials that users of its information

technologies post, send or publish via e-mail, voice mail, the Internet or other means.

E. Account Eligibility and Use:

The use of information technologies at North Central College is a privilege available to all NCC

students, faculty and staff. User privileges may also be granted on a selective basis to persons

not directly affiliated with the College who are assisting or participating in a College-sponsored

program. In return for obtaining account privileges, all users of information technologies agree

to comply with this Statement of Acceptable Use and adhere to individual departmental or unit

lab and system policies, procedures and protocols.

When persons cease their affiliation with the College (i.e. cease to be an enrolled student, leave

the employment of the College, are no longer involved in an affiliated program) their privileges

to use information technologies may be revoked without prior notice. In addition, the College

reserves the right to limit or restrict access to its information technologies.

Users are responsible for safeguarding the user’s files, identification codes and passwords, and

for using them for their intended purposes only. Each user is responsible for all transactions

made under the authorization of the user’s ID, and for all network activity originating from the

user’s account or personal computer. Users are solely responsible for the user’s personal use of

information technology resources and are prohibited from representing or implying that the

content constitutes the views or policies of the College. Users are not to use an alias or perform

any activity that alters or eliminates the user’s login ID or makes it appear that another

performed the user’s actions.

Do not share your password and do not use anyone else's password. If a user has reason to

believe the user’s password has become known by another user, it is the user's responsibility to

change it immediately.

F. Expectation of Civil Conduct:

All users are to utilize information technologies in a responsible manner. Users are to respect

the rights of others, respect the integrity of physical facilities and network management

systems, and respect all pertinent licensing and contractual agreements entered into by the

College.

Users are not to use information technologies to originate, disseminate, or store material that:

is libelous; violates copyright or other intellectual property law; intimidates, threatens, or

harasses individuals or groups in violation of law or College policy; violates community obscenity

standards as defined by the US Supreme Court; endangers the security of information

technologies; or violates other state or federal law or College policy. For example, the

unauthorized duplication and distribution of sound recording and the use of the College logo

and/or name on a web site without permission of the College is a violation of copyright.

Users are not to deliberately damage information technology resources; attempt to obtain or

access resources to which the user is not authorized; uncover security loopholes; attempt to

access protected files or decrypt encrypted materials; modify system or network facilities,

operating systems or other installed software, or disk partitions; attempt to crash or tie up

computers or networks; monitor data, packets, signals or other information unless specifically

authorized by ITS; or damage College computing facilities, equipment, software or computer

files.

G. Use of Information Technologies Equipment and Resources:

Any information technology equipment belonging to North Central College, including but not

limited to computers, printers, peripherals, software media, telephones and

telecommunications equipment, and data, telephone and video network cabling is not to be

tampered with or moved from its original location without the permission of Information

Technology Services. Residence Hall computing network services and wiring may not be

modified or extended beyond the areas of intended use; this applies to all network wiring,

hardware and in-room jacks. Personal networking equipment including but not limited to

network switches/hubs, wireless access points, and routers are prohibited.

IP addresses are to be assigned solely by ITS or by automated mechanisms implemented by ITS

or its explicit designees. Use of IP addresses other than those assigned as described above is a

violation of this Statement of Acceptable Use.

Users are expected to not deliberately perform actions which are injurious to or wasteful of

information technologies, or which unfairly monopolize resources to the exclusion of others.

These actions include, but are not limited to: sending chain letters or other forms of mass

mailings (also known as "spam"); cryptocurrency mining, creating unnecessary multiple jobs or

processes; degrading the performance of a computer or network; creating, distributing or

running computer viruses, malware, or worms; and printing excessive copies of documents.

Computers owned by students and connected to the College's data network may not be

configured so as to be accessible to anyone outside of North Central College for any purpose.

H. Personal/Recreational Use:

While limited personal use of information technologies is permitted, the use of resources for

personal or recreational purposes that may degrade the network performance when others

need these resources to complete work or coursework will be considered an irresponsible use of

information technologies. Any use of information technologies not directly related to the

primary instructional, administrative or research activities of the College may be terminated

immediately and without warning if it interferes with primary activities. In addition, users must

not use the College's information technologies for personal financial gain or political activity that

would jeopardize the College's tax-exempt status. In addition, using email to solicit sales or

conduct business, setting up a web page to advertise or sell a service, or posting advertisements

to a newsgroup constitutes commercial use.

I. Use of Computer Software:

Computer software protected by copyright is not to be copied using College resources except as

permitted by law or contract with the owner of the copyright. If North Central College has a site

license specifically permitting the copying of software, users must not copy site-licensed

software for distribution to persons other than College students, faculty or staff. Users may not

copy site-licensed software for use at locations not covered under the terms of the licensing

agreement.

J. Freedom of Use:

It is important that users recognize that many computer systems, especially the Internet, may

contain information considered offensive or unorthodox. Users are advised to take

responsibility for the user’s own use and navigation of these resources. For more information on

this topic see the Free Expression policy of this handbook. Within this framework of free

expression, however, users are not to use College information technologies to originate,

disseminate, or store material that: is libelous; violates copyright or other intellectual property

law; intimidates, threatens, or harasses individuals or groups in violation of law or College

policy; violates community obscenity standards as defined by the US Supreme Court; endangers

the security of information technologies; or violates other state or federal law or College policy.

K. Privacy and Integrity of Information:

Although it is the College's intention to provide and preserve the security of files, account

numbers, authorization codes and passwords, security can be breached through actions or

causes beyond its reasonable control. The College cannot guarantee the absolute security,

confidentiality and integrity of a user's information. It is the user's responsibility to safeguard

data, personal information, passwords, and authorization codes; to take full advantage of

security mechanisms built into systems; to choose passwords wisely and change them

periodically; and to follow any security policies and procedures related to the access and use of

data.

Users are to respect the privacy of other users. Programs, data files and the contents of voice

mail are considered confidential unless the user has been explicitly made available to other

users; the ability to access a file or other information does not imply permission to do so.

Deletion, examination, copying or modification of files or data belonging to other users without

their prior consent is prohibited. Users shall not intentionally seek information on, obtain copies

of, or modify passwords belonging to others.

ITS staff will make every effort to ensure the privacy of user files and voice mailboxes and will

hold in strict confidence anything ITS staff discover in user files or voice mailboxes except when

the ITS staff have reason to suspect a violation of College policy or of the law. Information

belonging to users will only be disclosed to College authorities that are empowered by College

policies and procedures to handle charges of improper conduct, including but not limited to the

Dean of Students, the Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs and the Assistant Vice

President of Human Resources.

L. Special Warning on the Privacy of E-mail:

E-mail is not a secure medium and the privacy of e-mail messages cannot be guaranteed. Users

are strongly advised to not send sensitive or confidential material via e-mail.

M. Monitoring Use of Information Technologies:

ITS staff will not intentionally monitor the use of information technologies by specific users

unless (1) it is necessary to maintain or improve the functioning of the College technology

systems, (2) there is reason to suspect a violation of College policy or (3) there is a violation of

state or federal law. Individuals using the College's information technologies without authority,

or in excess of the individual’s authority, are subject to having the individual’s activities

monitored and recorded by ITS staff. In the course of monitoring individuals who are improperly

using information technologies, or in the course of system maintenance, the activities of

authorized users may also be monitored. Anyone using North Central College's information

technologies expressly consents to such monitoring and is advised that if such monitoring

reveals possible evidence of criminal activity, ITS staff may provide evidence from such

monitoring to the appropriate College and/or law enforcement officials, including but not

limited to the Dean of Students, the Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs and the

Assistant Vice President of Human Resources.

N. Data Security

Viruses, Trojan horses, ransomware, worms, password breakers and packet sniffing programs

are known to exist on other networks and may be introduced into North Central College's

information technology infrastructure. Although every reasonable effort will be made to detect

and eradicate dangerous and unethical hardware and software, it is the user's responsibility to

be aware that such hardware or software exists and take appropriate precautions. In particular,

a program should never be run, especially on a networked computer, unless the user knows

what the program does and trusts the source.

O. Backups:

While regular network backups include email and data stored on the College’s network, it is the

sole responsibility of the user to make backups or copies of important data. There is no

guarantee that lost data can be recovered from a network backup.

P. Violations of Policy:

Violation of these guidelines constitutes unacceptable use of information technologies, and may

violate other College policies and/or state and federal law. The appropriate College authorities

and/or law enforcement agencies will process violations. Violations may result in revocation of

computing resource privileges; faculty, staff or student disciplinary action; or legal action.

Grievance procedures regarding actions taken as a result of enforcing this policy should be

initiated with the Dean of Students for students, the Provost and Vice President for Academic

Affairs for faculty, and the Assistant Vice President for Human Resources for all other

employees.

In time-sensitive cases or when required to meet critical operational needs, access to

technology may be wholly or partially restricted without prior notice and without consent.

Suspected violations of law or College policy will be investigated. Upon discovery of evidence of

unauthorized or irresponsible use of information technologies, ITS staff may immediately and

without warning restrict or suspend a user's information technology privileges in order to

prevent further activity, and may also delete or move any files or other information stored

which appear to be involved in the suspected violation. Violations of law or College policy will be

reported to appropriate College officials who will deal with the suspected violations through

procedures that already exist for other types of misconduct.

Q. Reporting Abuses:

You can report an abuse of this policy to either the Dean of Students, the Provost and Vice

President for Academic Affairs, the Assistant Vice President for Human Resources, the Vice

President for Information and Technology, or the Director of Campus Safety. When reporting

abuse of this policy it will help to include copies of any document or communication that is

relevant as well as dates and times of the occurrence, etc.

R. Questions:

If you have any questions related to acceptable use of North Central College Information

Technologies, please contact a member of the ITS staff either by telephone or by visiting the

Information Technology Services Department located at 110 Carnegie Hall.

Statement of Acceptable Use of Campus Property

A. Purpose:

The safety and wellbeing of the North Central College community, including students, faculty,

staff, guests, and visitors are of paramount importance. Accordingly, this policy sets forth

guidelines and expectations for behavior and conduct while on College owned or controlled

property.

B. Scope

This policy applies to all individuals, including faculty, staff, students, visitors, athletic fans,

invited guests, patrons, and other individuals or groups present on College owned or controlled

property.

C. Policy

Use of and access to College owned or controlled property shall be permitted to students,

employees and each of their guests for the purposes of study, work, teaching and conducting or

attending College business or other authorized activities. The College is a private institution

which reserves the right to lawfully restrict or prohibit access to College owned or controlled

property and to prohibit certain individuals from being present on College owned or controlled

property at any time and at its discretion.

All individuals present on College owned or controlled property shall conduct themselves in

accordance with the law, with all College policies, and in a manner that maintains a safe and

non-discriminatory environment. Conduct including, but not limited to, intentional or negligent

disruption of the operations of the College, including classroom education, study

facilities, housing, athletic and/or administrative functions and facilities, excessive noise,

threats, harassment, physical abuse, intimidation, endangerment to the health or safety of any

person or property, or unauthorized entry, obstruction, or occupation of any College owned or

controlled property is prohibited and may be deemed a violation of this policy.

If an individual engages in behavior or conduct that is inconsistent with this or any other College

policy, the individual may be asked to refrain from such conduct, may be issued a College No

Trespass order to any College owned or controlled property and/or may be subject to other

disciplinary action. Failure to adhere to a College No Trespass order may result in law

enforcement action, including possible arrest for trespassing.

Student Identification Cards (Cardinal Cards)

Student Cardinal Cards can be obtained in the Department of Campus Safety located in New Hall (451 N.

Brainard St.).

A. Receiving an ID: Students must present a picture ID in order to receive a North Central College

Student ID.

B. Replacement ID: The cost for a replacement ID is $10.00.

C. IDs and Key: Student IDs grant access to campus buildings and services, and therefore fall under

the jurisdiction of the Key Policy. All key policies and rules also govern Student IDs.

D. Campus Food Services: Student IDs may be used to purchase food at campus dining facilities.

Students must have the student’s ID in order to utilize campus dining services. IDs may not be

lent to other students for the purpose of purchasing food. Students may swipe in guests at

Kaufman Dining Hall or purchase food for friends at other campus food venues, but the ID

owner must be present in order to use the ID.

E. Recreation Facilities: Students must present the student’s ID in order to enter and use

recreational facilities.

F. Emergency Information: In effort to promote student success and wellness, the College includes

emergency and suicide prevention resources on the back of student identification (ID) cards.

North Central College encourages students to utilize the DuPage County Health Department

24/7 Crisis Line and the Text Line, in times of need, whether it be for themselves or the

student’s peers. In an immediate crisis situation parties should contact 9-1-1.

Theft and Unauthorized Borrowing

Theft, attempted theft, unauthorized borrowing, or unauthorized use of any College, public, or private

property is prohibited.

Trespassing

College resources and facilities are meant to be utilized by the College community, however some

limitations regarding hours of use and authorization do exist.

A. No individual may enter a College building or property outside of its set hours of operation,

unless the individual has obtained explicit permission to do so.

B. Areas on campus marked as “no-trespassing” or “authorized personnel only” must not be

entered without explicit permission.

C. No unauthorized persons are permitted on any campus roof or elevated exterior surface at any

time.

D. Individuals issued

an order of "no trespass" on the North Central campus are not permitted on

any property owned or leased by North Central College, including all buildings, parking lots and

campus sidewalks. Should an individual violate an order of “no trespass”, the College may

contact the Naperville Police Department to have the individual arrested for criminal trespass to

real property.

Truthfulness

All members of the College community are expected to be both truthful and complete when providing

information (written, verbal, or electronic) to the College or to any person employed by or acting for the

College.

Video and Audio Recording Policy

North Central College values open and honest communication, and respects the privacy of campus

members. Therefore, in settings in which the parties involved have a reasonable expectation of privacy,

audio and/or video recordings of conversations, interviews, phone calls, meetings or other activities are

prohibited, without the express verbal or written consent of all parties involved. Sharing, transmitting,

publishing, and/or arranging for others to produce or disseminate surreptitiously recorded

communications is also a violation of this policy.

This policy is not intended to govern classroom activities, security cameras, the recording of approved

athletic events, music events, theatre events, lectures, presentations, or any other public activities on

campus.

Weapons and Firearms Policy

Weapons and firearms are prohibited on the campus of North Central College.

A. Weapons

A weapon is defined as any device or object designed or used for inflicting bodily harm or

physical damage including but not limited to explosives, slingshots, bows and arrows, swords,

clubs, spears, and dangerous chemicals. Knives or other bladed instruments with blades three

inches or longer (with the exception of knives intended for kitchen use) are considered weapons

and are prohibited. Other items may be considered a weapon if used to cause fear or inflict

harm. The possession and/or use of disabling chemical sprays are allowed, when intended and

used for self-defense.

B. Firearms

A firearm is defined as any device which is designed to expel a projectile or projectiles by the

action of an explosion, expansion of gas, or escape of gas including but not limited to machine

guns, rifles, shotguns, handguns or other firearms, BB/pellet guns, spring guns, paint ball guns,

airsoft guns, flare guns, stun guns, tasers, or dart guns. Ammunition for any such device or any

replica of the foregoing is also prohibited, except for College sanctioned theatrical productions.

C. Concealed Carry Policy

North Central College is committed to providing a safe and secure environment for all students,

staff, faculty and guests. The 2013 Illinois Firearm Concealed Carry Act (430 ILCS

66/10) enables lawfully registered persons to carry concealed firearms in certain public

locations, but also allows colleges to establish restrictions on their campuses (430 ILCS

66/65(15)). North Central College chooses to restrict the ability to carry firearms on its entire

campus as outlined below.

1. Persons Covered by this Policy

All employees, students, persons conducting business, or guests visiting property

owned, leased or controlled by North Central College are expected to observe all

federal, state, and local laws as well as North Central College policies. Visitors include,

but are not limited to, prospective students, former students and their respective

families.

2. Prohibited Activities

North Central College maintains a weapons and firearms-free campus. “Campus”

includes, but is not limited to any building, classroom, laboratory, artistic venue,

entertainment venue, officially recognized College-related organizational property,

whether owned or leased, and any real property specified as a prohibited area,

including designated parking areas, sidewalks, and common areas under the control of

North Central College and College-owned vehicles.

To provide a safe and secure environment this policy prohibits:

a. Any person covered by this policy from possessing a weapon or firearm on campus,

as described previously, even if that person has a valid federal or state license to

possess a weapon or firearm.

b. Any person covered by this policy from carrying, displaying, brandishing,

discharging, or otherwise using any and all weapons or firearms, including concealed

weapons or firearms.

3. Exceptions

The provisions of this policy do not apply to the possession of weapons or firearms in

North Central College buildings, grounds, vehicles, or at any North Central College-

sponsored activity if the possession of the weapon or firearm is related to one of the

following exceptions:

a. A firearm may be in the possession of on-duty law enforcement officials or by off-

duty law enforcement officials provided the official is carrying proper credentials as

outlined in Illinois’ Law Enforcement Officers’ Safety Act. However, off-duty law

enforcement officers are not permitted to carry or conceal a firearm while attending

class or other sanctioned College events as students.

b. A weapon or firearm may be used in connection with sanctioned classes,

educational presentations, athletics, or recreational sports practices, games,

matches, tournaments or events on campus when the activity requires the use of

such weapons or firearms (e.g., fencing, starter pistols, and archery).

c. A simulated weapon or firearm is allowed when used for the purposes of sanctioned

North Central College-related theatrical productions.

d. Any other exception to this policy must be approved by the Vice President for

Student Affairs and Athletics or their designee.

4. Parking Lots and Storage

North Central College shall determine placement of clearly and conspicuously

posted signs at all building and restricted parking area entrances stating that

concealed firearms are prohibited. Signs shall be in accordance with the design

approved by the Illinois State Police.

Parking Lots

a. A weapon or firearm may be transported into an unrestricted parking lot within a

vehicle if the weapon or firearm and its ammunition remain locked in a case out of

plain view within the parked vehicle. “Case” is defined as a glove compartment or

console that completely encases the weapon or firearm and its ammunition, the

trunk of the vehicle, or a weapon or firearm carrying box, shipping box, or other

container.

b. The weapon or firearm may only be removed for the limited purpose of storage or

retrieval from within the trunk of the vehicle.

c. A weapon or firearm must first be unloaded before removal from the vehicle.

d. Certain parking lots on campus may be designated as areas where weapons and

firearms are always prohibited. Such parking lots will be clearly and conspicuously

posted with signs identifying the prohibition of weapons and firearms.

Storage

a. The primary place of storage for a weapon or firearm is within a locked case out of

plain view within a parked vehicle in an unrestricted parking lot.

b. North Central College does not offer additional storage locations for weapons or

firearms.

5. Enforcement and Reporting

a. Any student found to have carried a weapon or firearm onto the property of North

Central College knowingly, or found to be carrying a weapon under circumstances in

which the student should have known that the student was in possession of a

weapon or firearm, may be subject to discipline up to and including, but not limited

to, expulsion from the College.

b. Any individual visiting, conducting business, or otherwise present on the campus of

North Central College who is found to have carried a weapon or firearm

onto College property knowingly, or found to be carrying a weapon or firearm under

circumstances in which the individual should have known that the individual was in

possession of a weapon or firearm, may be banned from campus. Additionally,

external law enforcement agencies may be contacted and involved which could

result in additional sanctions/charges.

c. As required by the 2013 Illinois Firearm Concealed Carry Act (430 ILCS 66/105), the

Vice President for Student Affairs and Athletics or their designee (typically the Dean

of Students) will report to the Department of State Police any student who is

determined to pose a “clear and present danger.”

d. The Department of Campus Safety is responsible for enforcing the Concealed Carry

restrictions. Any questions can be directed to the Department of Campus Safety at

630-637-5911.

(The Weapons and Firearms policy was drafted in consultation with Northern Illinois University; portions

of this policy borrow heavily from the work of the NIU Department of Police and Public Safety)

Residence Life and Housing Policies

As a member of the residential community at North Central College, students are afforded a great deal

of independence. Along with this independence comes the responsibility of living in a community. The

following policies, services, and procedures were designed to help create the most enjoyable, inclusive,

comfortable, and safe community possible. Failure to adhere to these guidelines and policies may result

in referral to the College’s Student Conduct Process.

A. Air Conditioning: Students are not permitted to install or use individual air-conditioning units

(window units, portable units, swamp coolers, etc.) in the student’s residence hall room.

B. Barbecuing: Only small personal grills may be used by students. Grills must be at least 15 feet

away from campus buildings and attended at all times. Appropriate clean up and safe disposal of

charcoal and other materials must be done as soon as possible after cooking. Disposing of

charcoal on College lawns is strictly prohibited. For appropriate means to dispose of charcoal

and store grills and other cooking equipment, see the Office of Residence Life. Flammable

substances, such as lighter fluid and propane, may not be stored in residence halls.

C. Check-In and Check-Out: Before checking into a room, students are required to complete

several electronic forms which include but are not limited to a Food and Housing Agreement

and Medical Insurance and Emergency Contact Information. Upon check-in a room condition

report must be completed. Regardless of the time of year and/or the circumstances of

departure, proper check-out consists of completing the express check-out form or making an

appointment to check-out with a Residence Life staff member who will inspect the room, record

any damages, and collect room keys. Improper check-out will result in a minimum $75.00

charge, in addition to other charges that may be assessed for cleaning or damage.

D. Common Area Damage:

1. If damage or theft occurs in community areas, and no one accepts responsibility, all

residents of the floor or residence hall will be charged equally. Please refer to the

current Food and Housing Agreement for details.

2. Residents are expected to report information regarding damage, theft, and vandalism to

a Residence Life staff member.

E. Electrical Appliances and Wires:

1. Residents must only use Underwriter’s Laboratory approved electrical appliances. These

appliances will have an UL sticker, stamp, or logo on them. In an effort to conserve

energy and further support sustainability initiatives, the College requests that students

bring Energy Star certified appliances.

2. Open coil items including toasters, toaster ovens, warmers, hot plates, hot pots,

popcorn poppers, space heaters, and electric blankets are prohibited in the residence

hall.

3. A power strip or extension cord may be used, but connecting or “piggy-backing”

multiple extension cords or power strips, in any combination, is prohibited.

4. Residents may be asked to limit the wattage or use of certain appliances, especially at

peak hours, due to overloading. To reduce the risk of overloading the circuits, surge

protectors must have a built-in circuit breaker or fuse. The College accepts no

responsibility for damages incurred to electrical appliances as a result of power surges

or outages.

5. Stereo, TV, and other electrical wires/antenna may not be extended from your room

underneath doors, windows, or through walls in order to prevent injury to you and

others who live or work in your building.

F. Emergency Contact and Missing Person Policy: All resident students are required to provide the

Office of Residence Life with the name of an emergency contact person prior to moving into an

assigned residence hall room.

1. All official missing student reports are immediately referred to Campus Safety.

2. Emergency contact information can be completed on Merlin through the Medical

Insurance and Emergency Contact Information link.

3. If a student is under the age of 18 and not emancipated, the emergency contact person

must be a parent or legal guardian. The emergency contact person may be called during

emergencies as deemed appropriate by the College. The severity of the situation and

the wishes of the student involved will be taken into account when possible. Emergency

contact persons will be notified if a student is taken to the hospital.

4. The emergency contact person also will be contacted if the student is reported missing

for at least 24 hours by roommates, friends, or instructors. The emergency contact

person may be called sooner than 24 hours if the College has reason to believe this will

assist in quickly locating the student or if foul play may be involved in the disappearance

of the student. If a student has been missing for more than 24 hours, or if foul play is

suspected to be involved, a report will also be made to the Naperville Police

Department.

5. The missing person contact information is registered and confidential, accessible only to

authorized campus officials, and may not be disclosed except to law enforcement

personnel in furtherance of a missing person investigation.

6. The following is list of contact information that may be utilized to report a student

missing.

i. Campus Safety 630-637-5911

ii. Office of Residence Life 630-637-5858

iii. Office of Student Affairs 630-637-5151

iv. Naperville Police Department 630-420-6666

G. Entry Doors: All residence hall entry doors are locked for protection and security of students.

Propping doors open is prohibited and may result in a $100 fine and/or disciplinary action.

Doors may be propped open when in use by maintenance or authorized hall staff members. For

the safety of the community, students should close a door if the student finds it propped open

unless directed otherwise by a College staff member.

H. Holiday and Hallway Decorations:

1. Holiday decorations are encouraged by the Office of Residence Life, but must follow

specific safety guidelines. Please see your Area Hall Director for specific guidelines

regarding holiday and hallway decorations.

2. Decorations may not be hung from or attached to hallway ceiling or interfere with the

fire safety system.

3. Live Christmas trees present a potential fire hazard and are prohibited in residence halls.

4. Decorations within rooms or in hallways cannot be affixed to any fire or other

emergency equipment.

I. Kitchens: Residents may use the community kitchen areas located in the residence halls.

Residents are expected to use care when cooking and may not leave cooking food or a hot stove

or oven unattended. Residents are also expected to keep kitchen areas clean and sanitary.

Students should not leave dishes or food items in community kitchen areas unless they are

properly stored and labeled. Misuse or unsafe use of community kitchen areas may result in

kitchen privileges being revoked. Items left or found unattended, in the community kitchen, will

be disposed of unless they are properly labeled and stored.

J. Live-On Policy: North Central College requires any full-time student classified as a first-year,

sophomore, or junior to live in on-campus housing. The College will assign campus housing to

any student not exempted from the live-on requirement. All charges and fees associated with

on-campus living will be processed accordingly.

Exemptions to the live-on requirement will be considered when a student demonstrates to the

Office of Residence Life that:

• The student is living at the residence of the student’s parent or legal guardian.

• The student is 16 years of age or younger or 24 years of age or older.

• Post high school graduation, the student has attended an institution of higher education

for at least two academic years and will enter North Central with 54 or more

transferable credit hours.

• The student has a legal dependent that is living with the student.

• The student is legally married.

• The student is a veteran or on active duty.

• The student is participating in a North Central College sponsored program that requires

living off campus or out of the area (i.e. study abroad).

Students wishing to request an exemption for reasons other than those listed above may do so

by submitting a written request to the Office of Residence Life.

K. Lofts: The only lofts permitted in residence halls are those rented through our outside partner

Bedloft (bedloft.com.) Please contact the Office of Residence Life for more information on this

rental program. Elevation of beds with cinder blocks or other unauthorized materials is not

permitted.

L. Residence Hall Lounges: Most residence halls have a communal lounge to be used for

recreation and/or study.

1. All common area furniture must remain in the residence hall lounge. Removal of

common area furniture to a student’s private room may constitute theft, and will be

handled through the College’s Student Conduct Process.

2. Twenty-four hour visitation is allowed in all the main residence hall lounges. However,

students and guests must follow all other policies, including the Quiet Hours policy, and

are not allowed to sleep in lounges overnight or to take up residence in lounges.

M. Maintenance Concerns: Resident students must report all maintenance concerns to a Residence

Life staff member in a timely fashion.

N. Modification to Rooms: Creativity is encouraged in personalizing rooms, with the expectation

that rooms be returned to their original condition at the time of check out.

1. Students may not modify rooms in any way which alters College property, changes the

architecture of a room, impedes or damages fire protection devices, or blocks lanes of

ingress or egress.

2. Students are not allowed to paint residence hall rooms.

3. Prohibited items include, but are not limited to, waterbeds, lighted signs, and alcoholic

beverage signage (when it is visible from outside the building). Students under 21

cannot display any alcoholic beverage packaging in their rooms.

4. All room furnishings provided by the College must remain in the room at all times.

Wardrobe closets must not be unbolted or moved from their designated locations.

O. Pets: Fish (defined as cold-blooded, aquatic vertebrates, having gills), kept in five-gallon tanks or

smaller, are the only pets allowed in residence hall rooms. All other pets are prohibited. If

unauthorized pets are found, they may be confiscated and turned over to local animal control

authorities. No grace periods will be given for the removal of animals.

P. Quiet Hours: Quiet hours in all residence halls are Sunday through Thursday, 11:00 p.m. to 8:00

a.m., and Friday and Saturday, 12:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m. Quiet hours will be extended prior to and

during final exam periods. Even at times other than officially established quiet hours, students

are expected to maintain reasonably low levels of noise in full courtesy to others. Therefore,

courtesy hours are in effect 24 hours a day. Themed communities, entire floors, or entire

buildings may vote to increase the community’s quiet hours.

Q. Food and Housing Agreements: Every North Central Student required or choosing to live on

campus is required to electronically sign a Residence Hall Food and Housing Agreement during

the housing application process on eRezLife (noctrl.erezlife.com) before moving into a residence

hall room. The College reserves the right, upon written notice prior to the beginning of any

semester, to terminate this Agreement.

The Food and Housing Agreement is issued for the entire academic year. A resident may request

to be released from the Food and Housing Agreement by completing a Live Off-Campus Request

Form on eRezLife. If granted, a release involves the assessment of a liquidation fee. For more

information, please refer to the current Food and Housing Agreement or the Office of Residence

Life.

R. Room Care and Damages: For health reasons and continuous care of College property, rooms

must be kept clean and in good condition throughout the year. Upon move in, a room condition

report will be completed. The condition of the room at check-out will be compared to the

condition at check-in. Charges will be made for any missing or damaged room items. Incidents of

damage should be reported immediately in order to facilitate repair and to prevent additional

damage. If damage or theft occurs in the community areas, and no one accepts responsibility, all

residents of the floor or hall will be charged equally. Students whose rooms are deemed a

health or safety risk may incur mid-year cleaning charges and could have the student’s housing

privileges revoked. The use of 3M products and or tape on walls may result in damage charges.

Use of blue painters tape is encouraged.

S. Room Changes: Room changes may be requested any time during the semester by completing a

Wait List Request on eRezLife (noctrl.erezlife.com). Students may not move rooms without

authorization from a professional Residence Life staff member. Students will be held responsible

for the room they are officially assigned to and must pay any damage costs associated with their

assigned room. Room changes for the upcoming semester require vacating the current room

prior to the end of the current semester. Students experiencing roommate difficulty should

contact the student’s RA or Area Hall Director to pursue mediation or other remedies.

T. Room Entry and Search: North Central College recognizes the right of students to protection

against unreasonable entry and search of the student’s room. In order to safeguard this right,

the College follows these guidelines:

1. Entry may take place by a College staff member without prior notification for scheduled

room inspections, non-scheduled inspections during vacations, requested and

scheduled repair/maintenance, emergency maintenance, when there is reason to

suspect a violation of college or legal regulations, when imminent danger to the health

and welfare of any student is suspected or in cases of an emergency.

2. Except in serious or emergency situations, the premises occupied by students will not be

searched unless authorization for the search has been obtained from the Office of

Student Affairs, Director of Campus Safety, or their designee.

3. If you believe your privacy has been violated by a member of the staff or another

student, a written report of the incident with specific details should be submitted to the

Office of Student Affairs.

U. Room Selection: The annual room selection process for returning students occurs during Spring

Semester. Detailed information regarding the room selection process will be distributed to

eligible students during the Spring Semester. Students who do not currently live in a residence

hall, but would like to, should contact the Office of Residence Life to obtain housing information.

V. Sports and Ball Playing: Due to the potential for causing injury or damage, sports, ball playing,

wrestling, and general rough-housing are prohibited within residence halls or any buildings not

designated for appropriate athletic use.

W. Theft, Other Loss, and Insurance: Report any property lost immediately to Campus Safety

and/or a Resident Assistant or an Area Hall Director. The best guard against property loss or

damage is a locked door and secured window. The College is not responsible for loss or damage

to personal property, whether by theft, fire, flooding, power surges, brownouts, or other

circumstances. It is strongly recommended that students check homeowner’s coverage and

other insurance policies to determine any current level of coverage or consider renter’s

insurance to protect their personal belongings.

X. Vacations and Closings:

1. The residence halls and any leased apartments close each year for Winter Break and

Spring Break.

2. Students are required to leave campus during all breaks, except as specifically provided

herein or when granted specific permission from the Office of Residence Life. Students

who do not comply with this policy may be assessed a fine, and may be subject to

disciplinary action.

3. Summer housing is available on a limited basis for a separate fee.

4. Students are allowed to remain on campus during break periods, when granted specific

permission from the Office of Residence Life. However, if students violate any of the

policies outlined in the handbook, or if it is deemed to be in the best interest of the

community, a student may be required to immediately leave campus for the duration of

any break period.

5. There may be fees associated with remaining on campus during a break period. If a

student is required to leave campus due to a policy violation, their fees will not be

refunded.

Y. Guests and Visitation: Guests are defined as 1) individuals who are not affiliated with North

Central College; and 2) North Central College students who are not official residents of a

building or room in which the student is present.

1. Students are responsible for holding the student’s guests to the same standards set

forth for North Central College students, and may be held accountable for inappropriate

conduct by the student’s guests.

2. Guests must be escorted at all times while visiting campus residence halls. Any non-

resident person without an escort will be required to leave the building and may have

future guest privileges revoked.

3. Guests visiting a residence hall room or specific floor lounge between 1:00 a.m. to 8:00

a.m. Sunday through Thursday and 2:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m. Friday and Saturday, will be

considered an overnight guest. Overnight guests may stay only with the permission of all

other assigned occupants of room and or suite.

4. Residents may have an overnight guest in the residence hall for no more than three (3)

nights in any two (2)-week period. Permission to host an overnight guest for a longer

period of time must be obtained from the Area Hall Director. Guests are not permitted

to take up residence in any residence hall room unless they are assigned by a Residence

Life staff member.

5. Guest visitation is permitted at any time of the day in all main residence hall lounges for

the purpose of active study, discussion, and socializing. However, students and guests

must follow all other policies, including the Quiet Hours policy, and (in accordance with

the Residence Hall Lounges policy) are not allowed to sleep in lounges overnight or to

take up residence in lounges.

6. Residence Hall Staff and Campus Safety Officers retain the right to ask a guest to vacate

a particular building or room at any time if a College policy may be in the process of

being violated, there is disagreement among residents of the room/suite about whether

the guest is welcome, or if it is otherwise in the best interest of the community.

7. No individual may enter another student’s residence hall room without being explicitly

invited, and guests should never enter a room without at least one resident present and

with the consent of all residents.

8. Guests under the age of 18 are not permitted to stay overnight in the residence halls.

Exceptions to this policy can be made regarding official overnight visits sponsored by the

Office of Admissions, Athletics, or when a resident student officially requests to have a

sibling stay overnight. In order for a sibling under the age of 18 to stay on campus

overnight, the student must submit written parental permission to the resident

student’s Area Hall Director prior to the visit. Guests violating this policy will be required

to leave immediately.

AA. Windows: Windows, screens, and window blocks must be intact at all times – this includes

common areas and lounges. Any tampering with windows or screens, entering or exiting

through windows, or throwing, dropping, or hanging/displaying objects from windows is

prohibited, and may result in disciplinary action.

1. Flashing lights or images are prohibited from being displayed in residence hall windows.

2. Anything visible from outside of a building is subject to removal by the College.

3. Blinds are provided on each window and must remain intact.

4. Beds, whether bunked or lofted, may not rest against windows.

5. As a safety precaution, residents are encouraged to lock windows when not in the room

and when sleeping.

THE COLLEGE’S RESPONSIBILITY TO STUDENTS

North Central College is committed to providing a positive, holistic educational experience. The College

expects much from its students, staff and faculty, and also recognizes that it has certain obligations to

the safety, wellbeing, and privacy of the entire campus community. Therefore, by admitting new

students, faculty, and staff into the community, the College agrees to certain responsibilities to protect

and serve the community it has created.

Asbestos Management Plan

The asbestos management plan for North Central College is kept on file at Operations (999 E. Chicago

Avenue) and is available for inspection during normal business hours by representatives of the U.S.

Environmental Protection Agency and the State of Illinois, the public, faculty, staff, students, and

parents. Questions regarding the College’s asbestos management plan may be directed to the

Operations Office at 630-637-5658.

Bias Incident Response Procedures

North Central College’s mission is to be a diverse community of learners dedicated to preparing students

to be curious, engaged, ethical, and purposeful citizens and leaders in local, national and global

contexts. The North Central College community values its students, staff, and faculty from all historically

marginalized and underrepresented backgrounds, and strives to create an inclusive environment by

implementing policies, initiatives, and programs that provide needed support and resources.

While the College adheres to and supports the principles of free expression and academic freedom, each

member of the North Central College community also shares in a common responsibility to maintain an

environment free from bias and hate. The purpose of the College’s bias incident policy is to support an

inclusive atmosphere that fosters respect, embraces differences and welcomes diversity.

Unfortunately, some members of our community have experienced bias incidents on campus, in and out

of the classroom that have involved racial epithets; sexist, homophobic, and transphobic comments;

microaggressions and more. This Bias Incident Policy is meant to provide definitions of terms related to

bias incidents, clarify the roles of the Bias Incident Response Team (“BIRT”) and other offices/areas,

share how to report a bias incident, and outline steps taken after a bias incident report is received by

the College.

A. Definitions:

5. Bias: Prejudice in favor or against one thing, person, or group compared with another,

usually in an offensive way. Results from the tendency and need to classify individuals

into categories.

6. Bias incident: Acts of conduct, speech, or expression that target individuals and groups

based on their actual or perceived protected identity. Bias incidents reflect similar

motivation as hate crimes but may not reach the legally defined threshold of

criminality.

7. Hate crime: A criminal offense that manifests evidence that the victim was

intentionally selected because of the perpetrator’s bias against the victim.

8. Impacted party: An individual that has been negatively affected by the reported

incident.

9. Reporting party: An individual that reports a bias-related incident or concern to the

College.

10. Responding party: An individual that has allegedly participated in the bias related

concern.

11. Protected Identity: Defined by federal law, state law or College policy. Protected

classes may include age, ancestry, color, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender identity or

expression, military status, national origin, pregnancy, race, religion, sex, sexual

orientation, or veteran status.

B. Bias Incident Response Team (BIRT):

The BIRT consists of representatives from multiple areas of campus. The BIRT receives, monitors,

refers and coordinates college responses to hate and bias-related incidents or concerns on

campus. The team also serves as a resource to those who want to explore and proactively

respond to patterns of bias concerns or incidents. All members of the team are trained to ensure

the team is in alignment with best practices in bias response. The BIRT meets weekly but may call

emergency or special meetings for incidents that greatly impact the College community.

1. Team Membership

Members of the BIRT include representatives from the following offices:

• Student Affairs

• Academic Affairs

• Dyson Wellness Center

• Residence Life

• Campus Safety

• Human Resources

• Athletics

• Multicultural Affairs

2. Team Responsibilities

The purpose of the BIRT is to:

•

Inform members of the North Central College community of the process for

reporting bias concerns or incidents

•

Receive, review and discuss bias incident reports

•

Collaborate and refer to the appropriate office as needed to best support the

involved individuals, begin the applicable process, and for additional actions which

may be outside the purview of the BIRT

•

Engage other offices as necessary to assess and respond to incidents that have the

potential to significantly impact a portion of or the entire North Central College

community

•

Make recommendations to the appropriate college officials regarding actions and

remedies consistent with college policies and procedures

•

Engage in ongoing refinement of team procedures and protocols to foster optimal

team functioning and interface with the college community

•

Identify college policy and procedural issues and refer them to the appropriate

entities, to begin formulating a resolution

•

Remain informed of federal & state laws that impact responsibilities outlined above

C. Bias Incident Reporting:

Individuals who have experienced or witnessed a bias-related incident, discrimination, or hate

crime may use one or more of the following methods to report the incident. Any act of bias,

regardless of severity, can be reported by members of the community, via the online Bias

Incident Reporting Form.

The Bias Incident Reporting Form can be located on the college website at the following links:

• https://www.northcentralcollege.edu/transparency/reporting-tools

• https://hub.northcentralcollege.edu/sites/diversity-inclusion/news/10020/bias-incident-

reporting

Any member of the North Central community (faculty, staff or student) may report any serious

complaint or concern such as a bias incident via the campus conduct hotline via the Reporting

Tools webpage above or by calling 866-943-5787. Callers to the hotline may remain anonymous.

While anyone can report an incident anonymously, it is important to understand that the BIRT

may be limited in ability to respond to or fully investigate anonymous reports due to lack of

ability to follow up with reporting party.

Community members can call 911 or contact Campus Safety at 630-637-5911 for an emergency

or event that an individual believes is an immediate threat to health or safety. Campus Safety,

Residence Life staff and other on-call staff are available to receive reports and support impacted

and reporting parties after regular business hours.

Staff in offices such as Student Affairs, the Department of Campus Safety and the Office of

Residence Life are equipped to receive reports of concerns and offer support to impacted parties.

Incidents may be reported both written or orally. While staff in these offices may also be involved

in investigations into violations of college policy, reporting bias incidents to these offices does not

mean that a violation of college policy or a hate crime has occurred.

For questions about reporting incidents where the responding party is a faculty or staff member

of the College, please contact the Office of Human Resources. For questions about reporting

incidents where the responding party is a student or community member, please contact the

Office of Student Affairs.

D. What Happens After a Report is Submitted?

The College reviews all bias incident reports filed through the Bias Incident Reporting Form. The

College’s initial review of reports determines if the concern described involves a violation of

college policies, as described below:

1. Possible Violations of College Policy

A party having or expressing bias may not be in itself a violation of college policy. A bias

incident must violate a college policy to be eligible for disciplinary action. If a report

involves a possible violation or college policy, a review of the incident report will take place

within a reasonable period of time. The purpose of the review is to determine whether

there is reasonable cause to believe that the conduct reported may have violated College

policy. If there is reasonable cause, to believe that a college policy was violated, the

appropriate office would follow the process outlined in the relevant policies. Incidents that

require review for possible violation of college policies will be referred as appropriate to

one of the following offices/areas for review and response:

• Student Conduct (for possible violation by students of policies within the Student

Handbook). Student conduct policies that may be related to bias incidents include, but

are not limited to:

o Bullying, Intimidation and Threats

o Disruption

o Damage and Vandalism

• Title IX Office (for possible violation of the College’s Title IX and Sexual Misconduct

Policy)

• Human Resources (for possible violation of Human Resources Policies)

• Campus Safety or law enforcement (for possible Hate Crimes)

• ADA/504 Coordinator (for possible violation of the College’s ADA/504 Policies)

If a person is found to have violated a college policy, they will be notified in compliance

with the applicable policy and may be subject to disciplinary action under the relevant

policy as circumstances warrant. If the review determines that the report does not involve

a violation of any of the above policies, the report may be referred to the BIRT for

response.

2. Reports that are not a Violation of College Policy

Many bias incidents do not rise to the level of a violation of Student Handbook or Human

Resources policy. Some examples would be insensitive comments or microaggressions. If it

is determined that the conduct described in a report does not constitute a possible policy

violation, the College will respond through the BIRT (for student or visitor/guest as

responding party), through the Office of Human Resources (for faculty or staff as responding

party) or through the appropriate college Vice President (for vendor or contracted service as

responding party).

• Reports with Students as Responding Party

Once a report is received, a representative of the BIRT or designee will contact the reporting

and/or impacted party for an initial intake meeting to discuss the information contained in

the report and the impacted party’s desires for next steps.

We understand that witnessing or experiencing a bias incident can be traumatic.

Participation in an intake meeting is voluntary. However, not participating in the intake

meeting may limit the ability for the BIRT to follow up on the report. Reporting, responding

and impacted students may have an advisor of their choice present with them for all

meetings and interviews, if they so choose. The parties may select whoever they wish to

serve as their advisor as long as the advisor is available at the scheduled time and is not

involved in the reported incident. The advisor may be a friend, mentor, family member,

attorney, or any other individual a party chooses. A party may choose advisors from inside

or outside of the College community.

When responding to the incident, the BIRT representative will take the wishes of the

impacted party into account. Reporting parties may request no action following the intake

meeting. However, reports may require a response from the College if there is a significant

health or safety issue involved or when a non-discriminatory environment cannot be

maintained in the absence of action.

The BIRT representative may also contact other individuals who may know information

relevant to the incident. The representative will also provide support to impacted parties by

directing the individual to campus resources and providing information about the bias

response process. After the initial contacts, the BIRT will review the report, and any relevant

documentation, and information determined from interviews. The BIRT will then make

recommendations to the appropriate parties for the next steps in response to the report.

The BIRT may provide feedback to the responding parties involved about the impact of the

incident and the College’s expectations regarding diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging.

The BIRT or designee will coordinate feedback. Participation in feedback conversations by

responding students, for incidents that do not involve a violation of college policies are

voluntary.

• Reports with Faculty/Staff as Responding Party

Once a report is received, a representative from Human Resources will contact the reporting

and/or impacted party for an initial intake meeting to discuss the information contained in

the report and the impacted party’s desires for next steps. Participation in this intake

meeting is voluntary. However, not participating may limit the ability for the Human

Resources to follow up on the report.

Human Resources will coordinate the intervention with the responding party. Human

Resources will contact the supervisor, dean or chair of the responding party’s department to

offer a summary of the concern and points for feedback. Human Resources will report back

to the BIRT chair that the intervention has occurred. Feedback for faculty staff may not be

voluntary.

• Reports with Vendors/Contractors/Visitors as Responding Party

Once a report is received, a representative from the BIRT will contact the reporting and/or

impacted party for an initial intake meeting to discuss the information contained in the

report and the impacted party’s desires for next steps. Participation in this intake meeting is

voluntary. However, not participating may limit the ability for the BIRT to follow up on the

report.

The BIRT will coordinate the intervention with the responding party, if they are a

visitor/guest/outside community member. If a vendor or contractor is involved as a

responding party, the appropriate college Vice President will coordinate contact the vendor

or contracting company to offer a summary of the concern and points for feedback. The

appropriate Vice President will report back to the BIRT chair that the intervention has

occurred.

3. Additional Response Options for Reports

Depending on the nature of the report, the BIRT may also recommend one or more of the

following next steps to the appropriate area of the College:

• Contacting students, groups, or other members of the community who may be

impacted by the incident and need assistance or support

• Providing or Evaluating communications that may inform the campus community and

impacted groups about bias incidents and the response

• Recommending or providing coaching, education or mediation to members of the

campus community

• Providing options for support referrals and resources to impacted parties or referral to

the Behavioral Intervention Team for support

4. Report Closure

The staff members who conducted the intake will provide follow-up with the reporting

and/or impacted party to confirm that the concern has been addressed. This staff member

will also report to the BIRT any other response options, such as support referrals and

resources.

E. Free Expression, Free Speech, and Hate Speech:

College policies are not meant to inhibit or prohibit educational content or discussions inside or

outside of the classroom that include germane, but controversial or sensitive subject matters

protected by academic freedom. Speech or conduct that is protected by academic freedom

and/or the First Amendment will not be considered a violation of college policy. However,

supportive measures or feedback may be offered to those involved.

The College affirms its belief in the importance of free expression and the right of all members of

the College community to speak in favor of issues that the community member supports, and to

criticize issues with which the community member disagrees. At the same time, students, faculty,

and nonfaculty employees share with the College a responsibility to help ensure a campus

climate of civility—one where intimidation, hostility, or demeaning actions directed toward a

specific individual or group are not tolerated.

The terms free expression and free speech are often used interchangeably. Freedom of speech

refers to the right of an individual to express their opinions and ideas without fear of government

censorship or punishment and is protected by the First Amendment. Freedom of expression is a

broader term that includes not only speech, but also other forms of communication, such as

writing, art, and other forms of expression including social media.

However, not all speech or expression is protected. The categories of speech that may not be

protected under the First Amendment may include:

• Words or expressive conduct that incite violence or illegal activity

• Obscenity

• Fighting words

• True threats

• Defamation/libel

• Fraud

• Expressive activity that involves illegal conduct (e.g., vandalism, trespass, disturbance, terrorizing

activity)

For speech to be obscene, it must appeal to the prurient interest, depict or describe sexual conduct in a patently

offensive way, and lack serious literary, artistic, political, or scientific value.

Hate Speech does not have a legal definition in the United States. According to the American

Library Association, hate speech is any form of expression through which speakers intend to vilify,

humiliate, or incite hatred against a group or a class of persons based on a particular identity. Like

free speech, hate speech is protected by the First Amendment. While hateful speech about groups

of people may be protected by the First Amendment, this behavior runs counter to our values as a

college that values diversity, equity and inclusion for members of our community.

F. Retaliation:

Retaliation is defined as any materially adverse action taken against an individual because of the

individual’s participation in a permitted and/or required activity such as participation in an

investigation, the reporting of an incident/concern, supporting a party bringing an allegation, or

for assisting in providing information relevant to a potential policy violation. Retaliation is a

serious violation of college policy. Acts of alleged retaliation should be reported immediately to

the Office of Student Affairs or Human Resources and will be promptly addressed. The Office of

Student Affairs or Human Resources is prepared to take appropriate steps to protect individuals

who fear that they may be subjected to retaliation.

G. Privacy:

All information and referrals of alleged Bias incidents will be handled by the BIRT in a confidential

manner with information released only on a need-to-know basis. The BIRT will make reasonable

efforts to protect the identity of involved individuals. Information about an incident may be

disclosed (date, time, location of the incident, nature of the incident) in the form of safety

announcements, summary reports, or as required by law.

H. Annual Reporting:

The campus community will be updated about bias related report response via the following:

• Twice yearly reports to the campus community of bias reporting statistics

• Quarterly reports to the Board of Trustees

• If reports rise to the level of a hate crime, in weekly safety report from Campus Safety and

Annual Security Report

I. Resources and Support:

The impact and effect of bias incidents can be harmful due to the nature of targeting someone's

actual or perceived membership in an identity group. These types of incidents can affect the well-

being and success of the individuals involved, as well as the campus community. To help those

impacted by bias, North Central College offers resources and support.

1. Offices that may offer support include:

• Office of Multicultural Affairs | [email protected]

| Harold & Eva White Activities Center

(WAC), 2nd Floor

• Campus Safety | campussafety@noctrl.edu | 630-637-5911 | Available 24/7 | New

Hall, Lower Level

• Office of Residence Life | r[email protected]| 630-637-5858 | New Hall, Lower Level.

Note: Contact Campus Safety at 630-637-5911 after hours to reach the Area Hall

Director on Duty

• Dyson Wellness Center (DWC) | dyson@noctrl.edu | 630-637-5550 | Stadium, 2nd

Floor. Note: Reporting to the DWC is a confidential option. Staff are unable to report or

share any information without an individual's written permission.

• Athletics Office| 630-637-5500 | Merner, 1

Floor

• Office of Faith & Action | 630-637-5417 | Keikhofer, 2nd Floor

• Student Success|studentsuccess@noctrl.edu

| 630-637-5111 | Oesterle Library. Note:

Academic Advisor Contact information at northcentralcollege.edu/undergraduate-

studies/center-student-success

• Student Disability Services | [email protected]du | 630-637-5264 | Oesterle Library

• Office of Student Affairs | s[email protected] | 630-637-5151 | Old Main, 5th

Floor

• Office of Human Resources | humanre[email protected]trl.edu | 630-637-5757| Old

Main, 5th Floor

• Title IX Office | TitleIX@noctrl.edu | 630-637-5156 | Old Main, Room 524

J. References:

North Central College Student Handbook

North Central College Bias Resource Guide

American Library Association (n.d.) First Amendment and Censorship.

https://www.ala.org/advocacy/intfreedom/censorship

American Library Association (n.d.) Hate Speech and Hate Crime.

https://www.ala.org/advocacy/intfreedom/hate

FindLaw Staff (2022, July 19). First Amendment Limits: Obscenity.

https://constitution.findlaw.com/amendment1/first-amendment-limits--obscenity.html

Camera Policy

The Department of Campus Safety operates a public safety video system to complement its anti-crime

strategy, to effectively allocate and deploy personnel and to enhance public safety and security in public

areas. Cameras may be placed in strategic locations on campus to detect and deter crime, to help

safeguard against potential threats to the community, to help manage emergency response situations

during natural and man-made disasters and to assist College personnel in providing services to the

community.

The existence of this policy does not imply or guarantee that cameras will be monitored in real time

continuously or otherwise. Video monitoring in public areas will be conducted in a legal and ethical

manner while recognizing and protecting constitutional standards of privacy.

Crime Statistics

In accordance with Federal law, North Central College is required to provide annual crime statistics to

faculty, staff, students, and the public. Annual crime statistics and fire reports are made available to the

entire campus community via the College website, and a daily crime log may be requested by contacting

the Director of Campus Safety at 630-637-5912 or the Office of Student Affairs at 630-637-5151.

Department of Campus Safety

This department is composed of administrative leadership, professional Campus Safety Officers and

student Campus Safety Officers that are trained by the professional staff. The department works to

protect life and property within the College community. Officers are available 24 hours a day, seven

days a week. All Campus Safety Officers are trained to handle security and safety matters on campus, in

addition to parking enforcement. Students should promptly report any and all criminal activity and

safety concerns to Campus Safety. Campus Safety Officers will assist Area Hall Directors and Resident

Assistants with concerns in the residence halls, and, if necessary, assist the police or fire departments.

Campus Safety Officers are authorized to examine and withhold identification cards of students, to

conduct field interviews for violation of College policies and/or criminal activity, and to detain parties on

campus for questioning, or for referral to local, state and/or federal law enforcement authorities.

Directory Information

Directory information, which is information that is generally not considered harmful or an invasion of

privacy if released, may be disclosed to third parties without a student’s written consent. If students do

not wish directory information to be disclosed, the student must request in writing that this information

be withheld. Such requests must be received by the Registrar no later than August 15 for the following

year and are in effect until the student notifies the Registrar, in writing, to remove the non-disclosure

request. The College designates the following categories of student information as public or “directory”

information: name; address (local and home); telephone numbers; e-mail address; date and place of

birth; class level; major and minor fields of study; participation in officially recognized activities and

sports; height and weight of athletes; photographs/video for College and other publications; the most

recent previous educational institution attended; dates of attendance; degrees and awards conferred,

including dates; and current course load.

Credentialing Policy for External Media

North Central College is a private institution and its campus is private property. College officials will

provide access to campus activities and events only to qualified media representatives. College officials

reserve the right to accompany reporters, videographers and photographers during media interviews

with students, faculty and staff.

Members of the media and/or media agencies intending to conduct media interviews or recordings on

campus must contact the Office of Institutional Communication (OIC) at 630-637-5300 or

oic@noctrl.edu to request a College-issued media credential and/or approval.

Media agencies can include, but are not limited to, online and print news publications, cable systems,

internet providers, radio and television stations or networks, podcasters, photographers, and

videographers. A College-issued media credential may be provided to an individual who represents, or is

one acting on a specific assignment for, an accredited media agency. Membership in a writers or

broadcaster’s association does not automatically qualify an individual for media credentials.

Reporters granted a College-issued media credential must be properly credentialed at all times while on

campus property. An individual holding a media credential is subject to removal from College-owned or

controlled property by College officials and/or Campus Safety for violating media polices. The credential

is not transferable and may be revoked at any time at the discretion of the College.

College event coordinators, as well as students, faculty and staff hosting activities or events on campus

will be notified of media inquiries, and reserve the right to decline the presence of media at their

campus events. There may be occasions where OIC may not be aware of a media representative’s

presence on campus. If faculty, staff or students are approached by a reporter or media agency directly,

please contact OIC regarding any concerns or questions.

Driver Certification

Faculty, staff, and students wishing to use North Central College vans must be driver certified in order to

meet College insurance requirements. A driver certification may be obtained by contacting the

Department of Campus Safety at 630-637-5826. The certification process consists of online training

modules and the completion of a registration packet. Faculty/Staff member certifications will be valid

for four years, and students must renew certifications on an annual basis.

Emergency Response Plan

North Central College is committed to the safety of all students, faculty and staff and all who visit our

campus. The Emergency Response Team has put together the Emergency Response Plan with the sole

purpose of preparing the College community in the event of an emergency or a disaster.

Our priorities are to protect human life, to meet community needs, to ensure the academic viability of

the institution, to protect College property, to recover as quickly as possible from the emergency, and to

protect the reputation of the College.

This information is a summary of the institutional Emergency Response Plan and was developed to

provide guidelines so students, faculty, and staff know how to react during emergency situations. Please

review this information carefully and be prepared for situations that can arise at any time.

For more information about the Emergency Response Plan, please visit its website at:

https://hub.northcentralcollege.edu/sites/crisis-management

Emergency Procedures

The safety of all members of the campus community and visitors to the College is of the utmost

importance. Emergency information is posted near the door or light switch in every classroom, office,

and residence hall room and in the lobbies of administrative and academic buildings. It is important that

you review this information and pay attention to what is going on around you. Please report any

suspicious person, object, or behavior to Campus Safety at 630-637-5911 immediately.

A. Emergency Notification: In the event of an emergency, the College will communicate with you

in a number of ways. Pop up messages may appear on your campus computer, an

announcement or siren may sound from our campus outdoor alert system, a faculty or staff

person may communicate a message in person, and/or you may receive a voicemail or an email.

Our campus siren/outdoor alert system is tested on the First Tuesday of every month.

B. Emergency Text Message: To ensure that the College has another means of communicating

with you, you may sign up for emergency text messaging via RAVE, the College’s emergency

communication system. To add your mobile phone number, or to update your account, go to:

https://www.getrave.com/login/northcentralcollege.

C. Evacuation/Safe Area: If an emergency situation occurs, North Central may need to evacuate a

building or area. As every second counts in an emergency, the College needs your full

cooperation whenever you hear an alarm or are instructed by College personnel to evacuate,

even if it appears to be a false alarm. Upon evacuation, proceed to a safe area away from the

building and threat. It is vital that emergency responders have enough room to address the

situation. Once you are safe, look around to see if someone is collecting names. If you see a

College employee accounting for individuals, please check in with them immediately.

D. Fire Safety: When a fire alarm sounds, every student, employee, and visitor must promptly and

carefully evacuate the building. In preparation for a possible fire, it is a good idea to locate at

least two exit routes from your room/floor. If a fire begins in the room you are in, leave the

room and close the door behind you to keep smoke and flames out of the corridor. Locate the

closest pull station and sound the alarm. Exit the building via the closest exit. If the fire alarm

sounds:

1. If the door to the room is closed, first feel the door and door knob with the palm of your

hand. If either is hot, leave the door shut. If the door and door knob are not hot, open

the door slowly.

2. Check the hall. If you can leave safely, shut the door behind you and exit the building via

the closest exit.

3. If the nearest exit or stairway is blocked by smoke or fire, use an alternate exit if clear. If

you cannot find a safe exit, return to your room, close the door, and let someone know

that you are in your room (call 911 and/or Campus Safety at 630-637-5911 and hang

something out the window).

E. Medical Emergency: If a student, employee, or visitor experiences a medical emergency while

on campus, please call 9-1-1 immediately; then contact the Department of Campus Safety at

630-637-5911. All accidents or injuries that occur on College property should be promptly

reported to Campus Safety.

F. Violent Behavior: If confronted with violent behavior or a crime in-progress attempt to remain

calm. When deciding what action to take, consider any real-time information that may be

available to you. Avoid approaching the situation or placing yourself in danger. Remain

observant and vigilant to your surroundings and be prepared to seek safety, if necessary.

Considerations may include:

1. Whether a threat is nearby? Are you in immediate danger?

2. Do you need to consider options (Run, Hide, and Fight) to provide for your safety?

a. Run - Are there options to leave the area and relocate to a place of safety?

b. Hide - Are there options to seek shelter in a locked room or closet?

c. Fight - If the threat is in or entering the area you are in, be prepared to take

steps to distract the threat and defend yourself until you can escape.

As you consider your options and take action, inform others of what is taking place. Remain

observant and vigilant to your surroundings and be prepared to seek safety, if necessary. Call 9-

1-1 as soon as possible; then notify Campus Safety at 630-637-5911. Provide as much

information as possible.

G. Severe Weather: In the event of severe weather, occupants of campus buildings should take

shelter in the designated areas. Designated areas are typically listed on the back of every office,

classroom, and residence hall room door. All individuals on campus should:

1. Move away from the outside perimeter of the building and toward a safe area such as

an interior washroom, stairwell, basement, or other interior room. Avoid areas with

large glass windows or a large expanse of roof/ceiling.

2. Not attempt to leave the building.

3. Not get on an elevator.

4. Remain calm and follow instructions from North Central College personnel.

H. School Closures: As a general practice, North Central College does not close unless the health,

safety and security of the College personnel and students are seriously brought into question.

When this does happen, either because of severe weather conditions or other emergencies, the

College will notify students and employees via text alert, voicemail and/or email and the Office

of Marketing and Communications will update the public via the College website and/or other

modes of communication. Announcements of the emergency closing will, to every extent

possible, specify the starting and ending times of the closing and whether the closing includes

specific College services, events and evening or weekend classes and programs. Listen to radio

announcements and check the College website for closing information.

For school closing information:

• Listen to radio stations WBBM-AM 780/105.9FM, WGN-AM 720 or WONC-FM 89.1

• Watch CBS 2 Chicago, NBC 5 Chicago, ABC 7 Chicago, WGN-TV 9, Fox News Chicago and

CLTV news

• Check your campus email, voicemail and the College home page

northcentralcollege.edu

• Sign up for emergency text messages at:

https://www.getrave.com/login/northcentralcollege.

Emotional Support Animal Policy

Responsible College Official: Assistant Vice President of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion

Policy Implementation Date: August 19, 2019

Policy Statement

North Central College recognizes the importance of “Emotional Support Animals” as defined by the

Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act (ADAAA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and

under the Office of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and Fair Housing Act (FHA) in providing

equal access to and participation in the College for qualified individuals with disabilities. The College is

committed to allowing Emotional Support Animals that are necessary to provide individuals with

disabilities an equal opportunity to use and enjoy campus housing.

Students with disabilities who utilize Emotional Support Animals as an accommodation to use campus

housing are requested to meet with Student Disability Services. For an appointment contact the Student

Disability Services via email at sds@noctrl.edu

or by phone 630-637-5264.

If you believe your rights under disability law are not being provided appropriately by the College,

grievance procedures can be found in the Discrimination, Harassment, Sexual Misconduct and

Retaliation policy. Individuals with disabilities who have a complaint or grievance regarding how this

policy has been implemented or who feel that the individual has been wrongfully denied access,

services, or accommodations related to an Emotional Support Animal can contact the:

Dr. Rebecca Gordon

Assistant Vice President of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion, Old Main

30 N. Brainard

rgordo[email protected]du

External Inquiries may also be made to:

Office for Civil Rights (OCR), Chicago Office

U.S. Department of Education

Citigroup Center

500 W. Madison Street, Suite 1475

Chicago, IL 60661-4544

Telephone: 312-730-1560

FAX: 312-730-1576; TDD: 800-877-8339

Email: [email protected]

Emotional Support Animals

Emotional Support Animals are defined as untrained animals that provide emotional support,

comfort

and/or therapy required for individuals with disabilities to be able to utilize and enjoy

living in the

residence halls. Emotional Support Animals are not pets and must alleviate

symptoms or effects of a

disability.

Requests for Emot

onal Support Anima

s are determ

ned on a case

---

case basis through an

nteractive process w

th Student Disab

ili

ty Serv

ces in consultation with the Office of Res

dence

The

nteractive process must estab

sh that the individua

seeking to live with the emot

onal

support an

mal has a d

sab

ili

ty and a d

sab

ili

---

ated need for the emot

onal support an

mal

individua

with a disab

ilit

y must provide supporting documentation of the individual’s disab

ilit

and/or specif

c recommendat

ons for an emot

onal support an

mal as an accommodat

on by a

licensed service prov

der w

th expert

se in the individual’s specific condition

In determining if a particular Emotional Support Animal is appropriate, the College may consider:

•

the type, size and weight of the emotional support animal for the assigned housing

space

•

if the animal poses an undue financial or administrative burden

•

if the presence of the animal fundamentally alters the nature of the program or

services offered

in housing

•

whether the animal is house broken

•

if the animal is under the owner’s control

•

if the animal would cause substantial physical damage to the property of others that

cannot be

reduced or eliminated through another reasonable accommodation, and

•

whether the animal poses a direct threat to the health and safety of others that

cannot be

mitigated through other reasonable accommodations

Approved Emotional Support Animals are allowed in the residence halls but not in classrooms,

other

buildings, or the workplace.

The College may determine that an Emotional Support Animal is not permitted if the Emotional

Support

Animal’s presence interferes with the reasonable use and enjoyment of others living in

the same

dwelling. This may include making housing assignments based on separating residents

with Emotional

Support Animals from residents with allergies, phobias or religious preferences.

If the College

determines that the individual with the Emotional Support Animal would be better

served in an

individual room or different residence hall, the student will not be charged the

difference in price of a

single room or the cost of relocating.

The College is not responsible for the supervision or care of the Emotional Support Animal.

Emotional

Support Animals must be under the handler’s/owner’s control at all times. The

animal must be

harnessed, leashed, tethered or in a pet carrier when being transported or

exiting the room. The

individual is also responsible for:

•

The health, we

---

ng, and c

eanl

ness of the anima

•

The cost of any damages incurred as a result of the animal

•

The

mmed

ate c

ean

---

up after and proper disposa

of the anima

’s waste

•

Adhering to all State and local ordinances for dog licensing, registration, and vaccination

requirements

Students with Emotional Support Animals may be asked to remove the animal from the premises

when

the animal causes a substantial disruption, unreasonably interferes with the College’s study,

learning or

work environment, or creates health and safety concerns. For example,

•

The animal’s behavior or actions show aggression towards their handler or other

members of

the campus community

•

The animal is out of control or disruptive (e.g. repeated barking, meows, screeches)

and the

handler does not take effective action to control it

•

The presence of the animal causes danger to the safety of the handler or other

students/campus

members

•

The animal would fundamentally alter the nature of a job, service, or activity

•

The animal is not housebroken

•

The animal is physically ill or unreasonably dirty

A spec

c Emot

onal Support Anima

can be determ

ned to be

nappropr

ate for prov

ding the

accommodat

f, over t

me, the

dua

th the d

sab

ili

ty a

ows the an

to substantia

srupt or unreasonably

nterfere w

th the College’s study, learning, or work environment or if the

emot

onal support an

mal

s not house

---

broken, phys

ill

, or jeopardizes the safety or we

---

of the handler or campus community

These matters w

ill

be referred to Student Conduct or Human

Resource

Service Animal Policy

Responsible College Official: Assistant Vice President of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion

Policy Implementation Date: August 19, 2019

Policy Statement

North Centra

ege recognizes the importance of “Service Animals” as defined by the Americans

th Disab

ili

es Act Amendments Act (ADAAA) and Sect

on 504 of the Rehab

ili

tat

on Act

prov

ding equa

access to and part

pat

n the Co

ege for qua

duals w

th d

sab

ili

The Co

ege

s comm

tted to prov

ding reasonable accommodat

ons to indiv

dua

s w

th disabi

uding the use of Serv

ce An

mals on campus to fac

itate the individual’s fu

---

part

pat

on and

equa

access to the Col

ege’s programs, activities and work environment.

Students with disabilities who utilize Service Animals are requested to meet with Student

Disability Services. For

an appointment, contact Student Disability Services via email at

sds@noctrl.edu

or by phone at 630-637-5264.

Faculty and staff with disabilities who utilize Service Animals are asked to contact Human

Resources via

email at humanresources@noctrl.edu or phone 630-637-5757.

If you believe your rights under disability law are not being provided appropriately by the College,

grievance procedures can be found in the Discrimination, Harassment, Sexual Misconduct and

Retaliation policy. Individuals with disabilities who have a complaint or grievance regarding how

this

policy has been implemented or who feel that the individual has been wrongfully denied

access, services, or

accommodations related to a Service Animal can contact:

Dr. Rebecca Gordon

Assistant Vice President of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion

Old Main

30 N. Brainard

rgordon@noctrl.edu

External Inquiries may also be made to:

Office for Civil Rights (OCR); Chicago Office

U.S. Department of Education

Citigroup Center

500 W. Madison Street,

Suite 1475

Chic

ago, IL 60661

---

4544 Te

ephone: 312

---

730

---

1560

FAX: 312

---

730

---

1576; TDD: 800

---

877

---

8339

Email: OCR.Chicago@ed.gov

Service Animal

Service Animals are defined as dogs, without breed restrictions, that have been individually

trained to

do work or perform tasks directly related to an individual’s disability. The ADA also

has a provision to

include miniature horses as Service Animals so long as they have been trained

to perform work or tasks

for the individual with disabilities and the College determines this is

reasonable. No other species of

animals, wild or domestic, are included as Service Animals under

ADA.

Service Animals must provide a work or task related to the individual’s disability. Where it is not

readily

apparent that the animal is a Service Animal, the College may ask the following two

questions: 1) Is the

animal a Service Animal required because of a disability? and 2) What work or

task has the animal been

trained to perform? While Service Animals can also provide comfort,

therapy, and emotional support,

they must also perform work or tasks related to the individual’s

disability to be considered a Service

Animal.

For Service dogs and miniature horses, the College may consider:

•

whether the service animal is house broken,

•

if the animal is under the handler’s/owner’s control, and

•

whether or not the animal’s presence will compromise legitimate safety

requirements for safe

operations.

In addition, the College may determine that a service animal is not permitted if the service

animal’s

presence fundamentally alters the nature of a job, service, program, or activity.

The types of work or tasks performed by service animals include, but are not limited to:

•

Alerting an individual with diabetes that the individual’s blood sugar reaches high or

low levels

•

Calming an individual with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) or anxiety

•

Detecting the onset of a seizure and then help the individual to remain safe during the

seizure

•

Assisting an individual with low vision with navigation

•

Retrieving items or turning on/off light switches

•

Providing assistance with stability or balance

•

Alerting an individual with hearing loss to the presence of people

Students with disabilities may live with the student’s service animal in campus housing. If the

College determines

that the individual and Service Animal would be better served in an individual

room or different

residence hall, the student will not be charged the difference in price of a

single room or the cost of

relocating. Service Animals are permitted to accompany the individual

in all public areas of the College,

which include areas such as classrooms, the cafeteria, residence

halls, and other campus buildings.

Serv

ce Anima

s are not required to wear an identifying vest or badge

nteract

ve process w

ill

be engaged

f the serv

ce an

mal poses an

ssue to another member of the campus commun

because of a

erg

es, phobias, or re

---

based reasons

This may include making housing

assignments based on separat

ng residents w

th serv

ce an

s from residents w

th a

erg

es,

phob

as or re

ous preferences.

Dogs not tra

ned to do work, perform a task, or take spec

c act

on to m

gate the effects of a

disabi

ty and on

y prov

de comfort, therapy or emot

onal support (aka, Emot

onal Support Anima

do not qua

lif

y as Serv

ce Anima

s and may be exc

uded from publ

c areas of the campus such as

assrooms and other publ

c bui

dings

The College is not responsible for the supervision or care of the Service Animal. Service animals

must be

under the handler’s/owner’s control at all times. The animal must be harnessed, leashed

or tethered. In

the event these devices interfere with the Service Animal’s work or the individual’s

disability prevents

using these devices, the individual must maintain control through voice, signal

or other effective

controls. The individual is also responsible for:

•

The health, we

---

ng, and c

ean

ness of the an

•

The cost of any damages incurred as a result of the animal

•

The

mmed

ate c

ean

---

up after and proper disposa

of the an

mal’s waste

•

Adhering to all State and local ordinances for dog licensing, registration, and

vaccination

requirements

Students with Service Animals may be asked to remove the animal from the premises when

causing a

substantial disruption, unreasonably interfering with the College’s study, learning, or

work environment,

or for health and safety reasons. For example,

•

The animal’s behavior or actions show aggression toward their handler or other members

of the

campus community

•

The animal is out of control or disruptive (e.g. barking repeatedly) and the handler does

not take

effective action to control it

•

The presence of the animal causes danger to the safety of the handler or other

students/campus

members

•

The animal would fundamentally alter the nature of a job, service, or activity

•

The animal is not housebroken

•

The animal is physically ill or unreasonably dirty

If an owner is not able to maintain control of the animal and/or if the animal is disruptive or

aggressive, the owner w

ill

be referred to Student Conduct or Human Resources

Enrollment Verifications

The Registrar’s Office verifies student enrollment status for the current semester and/or past semesters

of enrollment to financial lending institutions for loans, for insurance companies for “good driver”

discounts, for scholarship receipt and/or continuance, for health insurance coverage, and for

employment purposes. North Central College has authorized the National Student Clearinghouse to

provide enrollment verification for third-party requestors. Please note that current semester

enrollment can only be verified after the tenth day of the semester.

Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords students certain rights with respect to the

student’s education records. These rights include:

A. The right to inspect and review the student's education records within 45 days of the day the

College receives a request for access. A student should submit to the Registrar a written

request that identifies the record(s) the student wishes to inspect. The Registrar will make

arrangements for access and notify the student of the time and place where the records may be

inspected. If the records are not maintained by the Registrar, the Registrar will advise the

student of the correct official to whom the request should be addressed.

B. The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the student

believes are inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy rights

under FERPA. A student who wishes to ask the College to amend a record should write the

College official responsible for the record, clearly identify the part of the record the student

wants changed, and specify why it should be changed. If the College decides not to amend the

record as requested, the College will notify the student in writing of the decision, and the

student’s right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment.

C. The right to provide written consent before the College discloses personally identifiable

information from the student's education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes

disclosure without consent. The College discloses educational records without a student’s prior

written consent under the FERPA exception for disclosure to school officials with legitimate

educational interests. A school official is a person employed by the College in an administrative,

supervisory, academic, research, or support staff position; a person serving on the Board of

Trustees; a student serving on an official committee (such as a disciplinary or grievance

committee) or assisting another school official in performing the official’s tasks; or a person,

institution, or company with whom the College has contracted as its agent to provide a service

instead of using College employees or officials. The College currently outsources enrollment and

degree verification, debt collection, tuition management services, enrollment, retention and

graduation tracking and financial aid analysis; other agents include attorneys and auditors. A

school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education

record in order to fulfill the official’s professional responsibilities for the College. Upon request,

the College also discloses education records without consent to officials of another school in

which a student seeks or intends to enroll. Additionally, the College will disclose records without

consent to comply with a judicial order or lawfully issued subpoena and to appropriate officials

in cases of health and safety emergencies.

D. The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures

by the College to comply with the requirements of FERPA.

Flag Policy

North Central College understands there is interest on the part of College community members to

display on campus the flags that represent a community member’s country, ethnic group(s), and/or

cultural communities. The College also recognizes that a display of any particular flag may elicit different

reactions in different cultures.

As such, North Central College has established the following policy for the display of flags:

• The main campus flagpole is located on the lawn of Old Main (30 N. Brainard St) and is reserved

solely for displaying the United States and North Central College flags.

• The U.S. flag will be lowered to half-staff at the direction of the President of the United States or

the Governor of the State of Illinois. Further, the U.S. flag will be lowered to half-staff at the

direction and discretion of the North Central College Office of the President, for the death of

current members of the faculty, staff, student body, Board of Trustees, a friend of the College, a

former member of the faculty, staff or Board of Trustees, etc.

• Flags representing groups, cultures, or nations not specified above, may be displayed at

designated locations throughout campus. Determination of the location and the flags to be

displayed will be made by the Vice President for Student Affairs and Athletics, or their designee.

• Inquiries about the Flag Policy should be directed to the Office of Student Affairs.

Filing a Formal Complaint

A formal student complaint is a written and signed complaint; initiated by a student or a family member

on behalf of a student (and confirmed by the student), that is a non-trivial, non-routine complaint,

either academic or non-academic, the resolution of which rises to the level of a President’s Cabinet

member. Formal student complaints and their resolution are logged and regularly reviewed by the

Cabinet. Petitions for waiver of College regulations, College disciplinary actions and grade appeals are

not formal student complaints. Complaints related to sexual misconduct, discrimination, harassment,

and retaliation are handled through our "Title IX and Sexual Misconduct Policy" as outlined above.

Reports can be made at titleixreport.northcentralcollege.edu.

Any member of the North Central community – faculty, staff or student – may report a serious

complaint or concern to the Campus Conduct Hotline at 866-943-5787. The hotline is staffed by

professional staff members of BHR Worldwide, an organization which specializes in compliance hotlines,

and it is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The hotline operator will record the complaint or

concern and forward it to the appropriate staff member at North Central for review and action as

appropriate. Callers to the hotline may remain anonymous.

Hazard Communications Standard

It is the policy of North Central College to train all employees and students on – and inform them of –

the Hazard Communication Standard.

Definitions:

1. Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) – A document that lists information related to

occupational safety and health for the use of various substances and products.

2. Safety and Compliance Officers – Individuals responsible for ensuring a safe and healthy

work environment. At the College, the department(s) and individuals serving in this role

are the department of Operations, Human Resources, and Lab Managers.

A. Purpose: The purpose of this notice is to inform all employees and students that North Central

College is complying with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration [OSHA Hazard

Communication Standard, Title 29 Code of Federal Regulations 1910.1200], by compiling a

hazardous chemicals list, by using Material Safety Data Sheets [MSDS], by ensuring that

containers are labeled, and by providing all employees with training. All affected persons will be

advised of the hazard communication program at the College, during the hiring and training

process. This program applies to work operations at the College where the individual may be

exposed to hazardous substances under normal working conditions or during an emergency

situation.

B. Training: Each employee who works with or is potentially exposed to hazardous chemicals will

receive initial training on the Hazard Communication Standard, as well as the safe use of toxic

substances. This general training program will be organized by the safety and compliance

officers and participation is a condition of employment at the College. The program prepared for

this purpose uses both audio-visual materials and seminar-type training. The training program

will emphasize the following items:

1. A summary of the standard and this written program.

2. The chemical and physical properties of hazardous substances and methods that can be

used to detect the presence or release of chemicals.

3. The physical hazards of chemicals.

4. The health hazards, including signs and symptoms of exposure, the hazards associated

with exposure to chemicals, and any medical condition known to be aggravated by

exposure to the chemical.

5. The procedures to protect against hazards.

6. Where Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) are located, how to read and interpret the

information on both labels and MSDS, and how employees may obtain additional hazard

information.

C. Specialized Training: In addition to the general training program, the employee will, when

appropriate, participate in a second session devoted to the hazards specific to the employee’s

work area. This session will be part of the on-the-job training program. This job-specific training

will be organized by the program and regional coordinators. Whenever a new hazard is

introduced into the work area, additional training will be provided. Supervisors will provide

training regarding hazards and appropriate protective measures so they will be available to

answer questions and to provide regular monitoring of safe-work practices.

D. Non-Routine Tasks: When an employee is required to perform hazardous non-routine tasks, a

special training session should be conducted to inform the employee about the hazardous

chemicals to which the employee might be exposed, and the proper precautions to take to

reduce or avoid exposure. The departmental supervisor is responsible for the special training.

E. General Principles: Under this program, the employee will be informed of the content of the

Hazard Communication Standard, the hazardous properties of the chemicals with which the

employee works, safe-handling procedures, and measures for protection from these chemicals.

The employee will also be informed of the hazards associated with non-routine tasks, when

applicable.

F. List of Hazardous Chemicals: The safety and compliance officers will maintain a list of all

hazardous chemicals on the campus and related work practices used by the College, and will

update this list as necessary. This list will include the work area in which the substance is used.

In addition, departmental supervisors will maintain a list of all hazardous substances for the

supervisor’s designated area and update these lists as required. The departmental lists are

available from each departmental supervisor.

G. Material Safety Data Sheets: The Material Safety Data Sheets [MSDS] provide individuals with

specific information on the chemicals the College uses. The safety and compliance officers will

maintain an MSDS file in the office for every substance on the list of hazardous chemicals. The

MSDS will be a fully completed OSHA Form 74 or equivalent. In addition, the departmental

coordinators will maintain a file of MSDS in the coordinator’s work area, which will be available

to all individuals using the following link:

https://chemmanagement.ehs.com/9/f9d5d35b-d535-

4d5d-b6b0-e04fbeebcf1d.

1. The departmental supervisors are responsible for acquiring and updating MSDS files.

Any updates should be submitted to the safety and compliance officers for the master

file and online database. Chemical manufacturers will be contacted by the supervisors if

additional information is necessary.

2. It is the supervisors’ responsibility to contact the supplier to obtain an MSDS sheet in

the event that any hazardous material is received without one.

3. All new procurement of hazardous chemicals for the College must be cleared by one of

the supervisors.

H. Labels and Other Forms of Warning: The safety and compliance officers will assist departmental

supervisors in ensuring that all hazardous chemicals at the College are properly labeled and

updated, as required. Labels should include at least the chemical identity, appropriate hazard

warnings, and the name and address of the supplier. The program and departmental supervisors

will refer to the corresponding MSDS to assist the individual in verifying label information. No

hazardous material delivered to the College will be accepted, unless it is properly labeled.

1. If there are a number of stationary containers in a work area that have similar contents

and hazards, signs will be posted to convey the hazard information.

2. If the individual transfers chemicals from a labeled container into a portable container

that is intended for immediate use only, no labels are required on the portable

container.

I. Contractor Employees: The safety and compliance officers will advise, in person, outside

contractors of any chemical hazards that may be encountered in the normal course of the

contractor’s work on the College premises, the labeling system in use, the protective measures

to be taken, and the safe-handling procedures to be used. In addition, these individuals will be

notified of the location, availability of MSDS and link to the online database (

https://chemmanagement.ehs.com/9/f9d5d35b-d535-4d5d-b6b0-e04fbeebcf1d

) Each

contractor bringing chemicals on-site must provide the College with the appropriate hazard

information on these materials, including the labeling system used and the precautionary

measures to be taken in working with these chemicals.

J. Administration: The safety and compliance officers will act as the representative of the Vice

President for Operations, Mr. Mike Hudson, who has the overall responsibility for the program.

The safety and compliance officers will review and update the program as necessary. Copies of

the written program may be obtained in the Operations Office. Due to the operational structure

of the institution, each supervisor, each division chairperson, department head or student

organization advisor will be responsible for their respective area and will report to the safety

and compliance officers.

K. Additional Information: Any individual can obtain further information on this written program,

the hazard communication standard, applicable MSDS, and chemical information by contacting

Human Resources at 630-637-5757 or the Operations office at 630-637-5656.

Housing Accommodations

North Central College students living on campus are provided with accommodations under Section 504

and 508 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, the ADA

Amendments Act of 2008, and the Fair Housing Act. If a student has a disability as defined by the ADA,

the student may be granted reasonable accommodations in student housing. These accommodations

are determined on a case-by-case basis through an interactive process which includes a verification of

disability. The disability verification must substantiate a need for a particular housing accommodation

based on the student's disability. An individual with a disability is defined by the ADA as a person who

has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more of the major life activities, a

person who has a history or record of such an impairment, or a person who is perceived by others as

having such an impairment. The verification must show substantial limitations to major life activities

relevant to living in campus housing. Approved accommodations are dependent on availability. More

information on the housing accommodation process can be found here:

https://hub.northcentralcollege.edu/sites/support-assistance/SitePageModern/8916/student-

disability-services.

Lock Outs

In the event on-campus residents are locked out of their rooms, the resident should attempt to contact

the following resources in the following order for assistance: roommate(s), the resident’s Resident

Assistant (RA), any other RA in the building/area, the on-call RA, the resident’s Area Hall Director (AHD),

and finally, Campus Safety. Residents must show the resident’s ID prior to, or immediately after, the

resident’s door is unlocked, or upon receipt of a temporary key. If a temporary key is issued it must be

returned in the timeline outlined by the issuant. Failure to return a temporary key will result in a lock

change at the student’s expense.

Lost and Found

The Department of Campus Safety will attempt to return all found property to rightful owners. When

the owner can be determined, the Department of Campus Safety will attempt to notify the owner by

telephone or by e-mail, giving instructions on procedures to claim the property. The Department of

Campus Safety maintains found property for up to 90 days. Property not claimed within 90 days may be

destroyed or discarded. Persons claiming lost property will be required to show proper identification,

and sign for all items returned. Individuals can also file a lost property report at the Department of

Campus Safety to speed along the identification and return of recovered property.

If you have lost something, please contact the Department of Campus Safety at 630-637-5826, or at

their office, located at 451 S. Brainard St. in Naperville.

Mental Health Emergency Contact Policy

North Central College maintains a safe community by encouraging students to care for the student’s

physical and mental health. In accordance with Illinois state law, North Central College is required to

provide each student an opportunity to designate a contact person in the event of a mental health

emergency. The Illinois Student Optional Disclosure of Private Mental Health Act states that the

institution may disclose the student's mental health information “if a physician or qualified examiner

makes a determination that the student poses a clear danger to himself, herself, or others.”

Students have the choice to elect a desired contact person or decline this option. A mental health

emergency contact person can be anyone over the age of 18 (e.g., parent, sibling, or friend). Students do

not have to designate a mental health emergency contact person if the student does not wish to do so.

Students may also modify the designation entries at any time.

In the event that a mental health clinician or physician at the Dyson Wellness Center at North Central

College finds that a student is experiencing an emergency that puts the student or others at risk for

serious injury or death, the mental health clinician or physician will contact the designated mental

health emergency contact person listed within 24 hours.

Students may complete the designation form by accessing the student’s Merlin account, selecting the

Emergency Contact Information link and completing the applicable fields for the Emergency Mental

Health Contact.

Please note that the College reserves the right to contact any emergency contact person (including

parents or legal guardians) as required or permitted by law.

Pregnant and Parenting Policy

Responsible College Official: Title IX Coordinator

Responsible Offices: Title IX Office, Office of Student Affairs

Policy Implementation Date: August 19, 2019

Policy Statement

Title IX ensures protection and equal treatment of pregnant individuals, persons with pregnancy-related

conditions, and new parents in the College’s admission process, educational programs, extracurricular

activities, hiring, leave policies and employment policies. Title IX also prohibits the College from applying

any rule related to a student’s parental, family, or marital status that treats students differently on the

basis of sex.

Students who are pregnant will be treated as students who have temporary medical conditions.

Therefore pregnancy, childbirth, false pregnancy, termination of pregnancy, and recovery will be viewed

as a justification for excused absences or a leave of absence for the period of time deemed medically

necessary by the student’s physician. To receive approval for leaves, students are expected to comply

with the Medical Emergencies policy in the Student Handbook and they or their designee (parents,

guardian, etc.) should notify both their instructors and the Title IX Coordinator at (630) 637-5156. Upon

the student’s return to the College, reasonable steps will be taken to ensure that the student retains the

same position of academic progress they were in when the leave was initiated, which includes access to

the same course catalogue in place at the start of the medical leave.

Pregnant and parenting students with medically necessary absences will be granted reasonable

accommodations to make up missed work, attendance, or graded class participation (e.g. assignments,

projects, papers, quizzes, tests, and presentations) wherever possible. Reasonable accommodations may

include, but are not limited to: excused absences, extended deadlines, alternative test dates, projects in

lieu of class participation, independent study, tutoring, online course completion options, incomplete

grades, retroactive withdrawal, or when medically warranted, retaking a term. In addition, pregnant

students may have access to ergonomic and assistive supports typically provided through Student

Success and Disability Services. The College offers a lactation space in the

• Oesterle Library, room 012.

• Wentz Center for Health Sciences and Engineering, room 305

Additional spaces can be identified by contacting the Title IX Coordinator, Cortney Matuszak, at (630)

637-5156 or cmatuszak@noctrl.edu

The College will work with the student to devise an alternative path to completion, if possible, for

programs that include clinical rotations, performances, labs, and group work. In progressive curricular

and/or cohort-model programs, medically necessary leaves are sufficient cause to permit the student to

shift course order, substitute similar courses, or join a subsequent cohort when returning from leave,

but essential program requirements or licensure requirements cannot be modified.

Students are encouraged to work with their faculty members and College’s support systems such as

success coaches, Student Success, and Dyson Wellness Center staff to proactively devise a plan for how

to best address anticipated need for leave, minimize the academic impact of their absence, and work

toward a smooth re-entry to the student’s academic program. The Title IX Coordinator will assist with

plan development and implementation, as needed.

The Title IX Coordinator has the authority to determine that such accommodations are necessary and

appropriate and will maintain all appropriate documentation related to accommodations. The Title IX

Coordinator may inform faculty members of the need to adjust academic parameters accordingly. A

request for accommodations from a student who is pregnant or parenting will be shared with faculty

and staff only to the extent necessary to provide reasonable accommodation. The Title IX Coordinator

may grant accommodations retroactively, within a reasonable period of time, if appropriate.

To access reasonable accommodations or leave, the student is required to contact:

Cortney Matuszak, JD

Title IX Coordinator

524 Old Main

30 N Brainard

(630) 637-5156

cmat[email protected]du

Residence Life and Housing-Related Accommodations

The on-campus housing of a student who is pregnant will not be altered based on pregnancy status

unless requested by the student.

Leave Policies

Relevant leave policies include the Graduate School Leave of Absence

policy: http://catalog.noctrl.edu/content.php?catoid=13&navoid=879

and Medical Emergencies policy

in the Student Handbook: https://cardinalnet.northcentralcollege.edu/student-life/student-

handbookhall-policies.

Complaint Process

Students who feel that they have been discriminated against based on their pregnant and/or parenting

status can file a report with the Title IX Coordinator. To make a report, contact:

Cortney Matuszak, JD

Title IX Coordinator

524 Old Main

30 N Brainard

(630) 637-5156

cmat[email protected]du

For external inquiries:

Office for Civil Rights (OCR); Chicago Office

U.S. Department of Education

Citigroup Center

500 W. Madison Street,

Suite 1475

Chicago, IL 60661-4544

Telephone: (312) 730-1560

Fax: (312) 730-1576

Email: [email protected]

Definitions

Caretaking: caring for and providing for the needs of a child.

Medical Necessity: a determination made by a health care provider (of the student’s choosing) that a

certain course of action is in the patient’s (e.g. infant or mother) best health interests.

Parenting: the raising of a child by the child’s parents/legal guardians in the reasonably immediate

postpartum period.

Pregnancy Related Conditions: include (but are not limited to) pregnancy, childbirth, false pregnancy,

termination of pregnancy, conditions arising in connection with pregnancy, and recovery from any of

these conditions.

Pregnancy Discrimination: includes treating an individual affected by pregnancy or a pregnancy-related

condition less favorably than similar individuals not so affected, and includes a failure to provide legally

mandated leave or accommodations.

Pregnant Student/Birth-Parent: refers to the student who is or was pregnant. This policy and its

pregnancy-related protections apply to all pregnant persons, regardless of gender identity or expression.

Reasonable Accommodations: (for the purposes of this policy) changes in the academic environment or

typical operations that are made to the extent possible in order to enable pregnant students, students

with pregnancy related conditions, and parenting students (whose accommodations relate to the

medical necessity of the mother or child) to continue to pursue their studies and enjoy the equal

benefits of the College.

Privacy – Safeguard Rule

North Central College, in compliance with the Federal Trade Commission’s rules and consumer

protection mission, has instituted privacy principles and policies designed to safeguard students, users,

employees, and customer information against such risks as loss, unauthorized access, destruction,

misuse, modification, or disclosure.

The Safeguard Rule policy will ensure the security of personally identifiable information that is stored in

hardcopy or electronic format. Information Technology Services, in conjunction with the Office of

Human Resources, is responsible for data security policies and procedures and all related technical and

legal issues.

Student Record Retention

Records of incidents, investigations, hearings, meetings, Early Alert referrals, bias incident reports, and

any other student conduct/behavioral record are maintained by the Office of Student Affairs for a

minimum of ten (10) years as indicated below. If the records involve a student, the records will be

maintained for a minimum of ten (10) years past the date of the incident/event and in accordance with

the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), which protects the privacy of student education

records. The College reserves in its sole discretion, the right, but is not required, to maintain any record

it deems appropriate for a longer period. For example, records involving a student’s suspension or

dismissal from the College may be kept for a longer time period. The College may purge applicable

records annually.

Note: Records involving the College’s Discrimination, Harassment, Sexual Misconduct and Retaliation

Policy have specific processes and procedures that may differ from the above records retention policy.

To obtain information unique to these records, please refer to the Discrimination, Harassment, Sexual

Misconduct and Retaliation policy located in “The College’s Responsibility to Students” section of this

Handbook.

See the North Central College Undergraduate and Graduate Academic Catalogs for institutional policies

regarding retention of student academic records.

Office of Residence Life Staff

Each residence hall has committed staff members who live within the community and provide resident

students with assistance and service. The Office of Residence Life Staff include:

A. Area Hall Directors: The general administration of student services within each residence hall is

the responsibility of the Area Hall Director (AHD), a professional staff member who lives on

campus. All professional live-in staff members have an office within the AHD’s assigned area,

and can be reached by contacting the Office of Residence Life or the AHD’s individual office.

Staff members serve as a resource for each resident student and can assist in

managing/addressing a wide range of questions, issues, and concerns related to a student’s

continued success at the College. Staff members assist in creating an inclusive, safe, and

supportive environment that encourages a student’s academic and personal growth. AHDs

provide support to students by connecting them with campus resources and providing students

with someone to talk to when they’re feeling overwhelmed. Professional staff members may

have additional advising responsibilities for student organizations. In some situations, AHDs also

provide support to off-campus, commuting students.

B. Resident Assistants: A Resident Assistant (RA) is a current student serving as a paraprofessional

assigned to a residence hall community. These student leaders have taken on the responsibility

of acting as a resource for residential students. RAs serve as positive role models for students,

and strive to aid residents in achieving individual and community goals. RAs also help students

familiarize themselves with policies and guidelines, as well as help to maintain an environment

conducive to learning. In addition, RAs organize educational and social programs with the intent

of promoting an environment that encourages each student’s academic and personal growth.

RAs work to create an engaging and inclusive living community for all residents.

C. On-Call Residence Life Staff: In emergency situations, residents should not hesitate to call either

911 for police, fire, and/or ambulance or 630-637-5911 for Campus Safety assistance. In non-

emergency situations during the daytime hours, residents should first attempt to contact the

resident’s Resident Assistant (RA), then any other RA in the hall or area, and then the resident’s

Area Hall Director. In the evenings, on-call RAs are available from 4:30 p.m. to 8:00 a.m. to assist

students. On-call RAs can be contacted by calling the duty cell phone number posted throughout

the respective residence halls. For questions or assistance when an RA is not available, residents

can contact the resident’s Area Hall Director.

Unmanned Aircraft Systems (Drones)

The personal, institutional or commercial use of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), as defined by the

Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is prohibited on campus unless pre-approved in writing by the

Director of Campus Safety. Requests for approval are to be made by submitting the Unmanned Aircraft

Flight Request Form available at https://www.northcentralcollege.edu/dronepolicy

Any and all data obtained from an approved use of a UAS on campus must be provided to the College.

UAS operators are solely responsible for any injuries or damage of any type caused to property and/or

people by the UAS. The UAS Operator will indemnify, defend and hold the College harmless for any costs

or damages, including reasonable attorney’s fees, incurred by the College in connection with the use of

a UAS. The College will not be responsible for any damages of any kind caused by use of a UAS. Any

operator of a UAS must register the UAS with the FAA and other governmental authorities as required.

The operator must also follow all pertinent federal, state and local laws and regulations including, but

not limited to, the City of Naperville, the Naperville Park District, and DuPage County. Detailed

information regarding federal regulations can be found on the Federal Aviation Administration website

at www.faa.gov/uas/

Voter Registration

Information on registering to vote may be found at the Illinois State Board of Election’s website

http://www.elections.il.gov/InfoForVoters.aspx

. Students who need additional assistance in registering

to vote should contact the Office of Student Affairs or the College’s Student Governing Association.

Daily Crime Log

The Department of Campus Safety maintains a Daily Crime Log to record all criminal incidents and

alleged criminal incidents that are reported to the Department of Campus Safety. The Department of

Campus Safety does not disclose information when the disclosure is prohibited by law, if the disclosure

would jeopardize the confidentiality of a victim, would cause a suspect to flee or evade detection, or if it

would result in the destruction of evidence. The Daily Crime Log is designed to provide crime

statistics/information on a timelier basis than the statistical disclosures in the College's Annual Security

and Fire Safety Report. This Daily Crime Log is maintained and updated within two business days of the

date the crime is reported to the Department of Campus Safety. Dispositions on the Daily Crime Log are

maintained for 60 days after a crime is included in the log. A copy of the College's Daily Crime Log may

be requested from the Department of Campus Safety for review. The crime log for the most recent 60-

day period is immediately available for public inspection, upon request, during normal business

hours. Any portion of the log that is older than 60 days is open to public inspection, upon request, and

made available within two business days of the request.

Weekly Safety Reports

The Department of Campus Safety publishes a Weekly Campus Safety Report, which is available on the

College website at https://www.northcentralcollege.edu/campus-safety/campus-safety-reports

. This

weekly report is compiled using the Daily Crime Log information for a seven-day period. The last 90 day

period of reports are available for public inspection, upon request, during business hours. If a major

safety incident occurs, the campus community will be notified by a RAVE text message alert and/or a

special bulletin that will be emailed to all students, faculty and staff. Additionally, a safety bulletin may

be posted at the entrance/exit to each residence hall, various high traffic areas on campus, and on the

Campus Safety website. The safety bulletins are displayed on bright orange paper designed to indicate

the bulletin’s importance.

TITLE IX AND SEXUAL MISCONDUCT POLICY

1. Glossary

• Advisor means a person chosen by a party or appointed by the institution to accompany the

party to meetings related to the Resolution Process, to advise the party on that process, and to

conduct questioning for the party at the hearing, if any.

• Appeal Decision-Maker means the person or panel who accepts or rejects a submitted appeal

request, determines whether an error occurred that substantially affected the investigation or

original determination, and directs corrective action, accordingly.

• Complainant means an individual who is alleged to be the victim of conduct that could

constitute harassment or discrimination based on a protected characteristic, or retaliation for

engaging in a protected activity.

• Confidential Resource means an employee who is not a Mandated Reporter of notice of

harassment, discrimination, and/or retaliation (irrespective of Clery Act Campus Security

Authority status).

• Day means a business day when the College is in normal operation.

• Decision-Maker means the person or panel who hears evidence, determines relevance, and

makes the Final Determination of whether this Policy has been violated and/or assigns

sanctions.

• Directly Related Evidence is evidence connected to the complaint, but which is neither

exculpatory (tending to prove a violation) nor exculpatory (tending to disprove a violation) and

cannot be relied upon by the Decision-Maker(s). Compare to Relevant Evidence

, below.

• Education Program or Activity means locations, events, or circumstances where the College

exercises substantial control over both the Respondent and the context in which the

harassment, discrimination, and/or retaliation occurs and also includes any building owned or

controlled by a student organization that is officially recognized by the College.

• Final Determination is a conclusion by the standard of proof that the alleged conduct did or did

not violate policy.

• Finding is a conclusion by the standard of proof that the conduct did or did not occur as alleged

(as in a “finding of fact”).

• Formal Complaint means a document submitted or signed by a Complainant or signed by the

Title IX Coordinator alleging a Respondent engaged in harassment or discrimination based on a

protected characteristic or retaliation for engaging in a protected activity and requesting that

the College investigate the allegation(s).

• Formal Grievance Process means “Process A,” a method of formal resolution designated by the

College to address conduct that falls within the policies included below, and which complies

with the requirements of the Title IX regulations (34 C.F.R. § 106.45) and the Violence Against

Women Act § 304.

• Grievance Process Pool includes any Investigators, Hearing Decision-Makers, Appeal Decision-

Makers, and Advisors who may perform any or all of these roles (though not at the same time or

with respect to the same complaint).

• Informal Resolution a complaint resolution agreed to by the Parties and approved by the Title IX

Coordinator that occurs prior to a formal Final Determination being reached.

• Investigator means the person(s) authorized by the College to gather facts about an alleged

violation of this Policy, assess relevance and credibility, synthesize the evidence, and compile

this information into an investigation report of Relevant Evidence and a file of Directly Related

Evidence.

• Mandated Reporter means a College employee who is obligated by policy to share knowledge,

notice, and/or reports of harassment, discrimination, and/or retaliation with the Title IX

Coordinator.

• Notice means that an employee, student, or third party informs the Title IX Coordinator or other

Official with Authority of the alleged occurrence of harassing, discriminatory, and/or retaliatory

conduct under this Policy.

• Official with Authority (OWA) means a College employee who has responsibility to implement

corrective measures for harassment, discrimination, and/or retaliation on behalf of the College.

• Parties means the Complainant(s) and Respondent(s), collectively.

• Process A means the Formal Grievance Process detailed below and defined above.

• Process B means the administrative resolution procedures detailed below that only apply when

Process A does not, as determined by the Title IX Coordinator.

• College means a postsecondary education program that receives federal funding.

• Relevant Evidence is evidence that tends to prove (exculpatory) or disprove (exculpatory) an

issue in the complaint.

• Remedies are post-Final Determination actions directed to the Complainant and/or the

community as mechanisms to address safety, prevent recurrence, and restore access to the

College’s education program.

• Respondent means an individual who has been reported to be the perpetrator of conduct that

could constitute harassment or discrimination based on a protected characteristic, or retaliation

for engaging in a protected activity under this Policy.

Not to be confused with those mandated by state law to report child abuse, elder abuse, and/or abuse of

individuals with disabilities to appropriate officials, though these responsibilities may overlap with those who have

mandated reporting responsibility in this Policy.

• Resolution means the result of an Informal Resolution or Formal Grievance Process.

• Sanction means a consequence imposed on a Respondent who is found to have violated this

Policy.

• Sexual Harassment is an umbrella category including the offenses of sexual harassment, sexual

assault, stalking, dating violence, and domestic violence. See Section 16.A

for greater detail.

• Student means any individual who has accepted an offer of admission, or who is registered or

enrolled for credit or non-credit bearing coursework, and who maintains an ongoing educational

relationship with the College.

• Title IX Coordinator is the official designated by the College to ensure compliance with Title IX

and the College’s Title IX program. References to the Coordinator throughout this policy may

also encompass a designee of the Coordinator for specific tasks.

• Title IX Team refers to the Title IX Coordinator, any deputy coordinators, and any member of

the Grievance Process Pool

2. Rationale for Policy

North Central College is committed to providing a workplace and educational environment, as well as

other benefits, programs, and activities, that are free from discrimination and harassment based on a

protected characteristic, and retaliation for engaging in a protected activity.

The College values and upholds the equal dignity of all members of its community and strives to balance

the rights of the parties in the grievance process during what is often a difficult time for all involved.

To ensure compliance with federal, state, and local civil rights laws and regulations, and to affirm its

commitment to promoting the goals of fairness and equity in all aspects of the education program or

activity, the College has developed policies and procedures that provide a prompt, fair, and impartial

process for those involved in an allegation of sex or gender-based discrimination or harassment, and for

allegations of retaliation.

1. Applicable Scope

North Central College does not discriminate in its employment practices or in its educational programs

or activities on the basis of sex/gender. The College also prohibits retaliation against any person

opposing discrimination or participating in any discrimination investigation or complaint process

internally or externally. Reports of misconduct, questions regarding Title IX, and concerns about

noncompliance should be directed to the Title IX Coordinator. For a complete copy of the policy or for

more information, please contact the Title IX Coordinator or the Assistant Secretary of Education within

the Office for Civil Rights (OCR).

2. Title IX Coordinator

The Title IX Coordinator oversees implementation of North Central College’s Title IX and Sexual

Misconduct Policy, hereafter “Policy”.

The Title IX Coordinator has the primary responsibility for coordinating the College’s efforts related to

the intake, investigation, resolution, and implementation of supportive measures to stop, remedy, and

prevent discrimination, harassment, and retaliation prohibited under this Policy.

The Title IX Coordinator is not acting as legal counsel but as a Higher Education Administrator. Title IX

Coordinator may utilize internal or external counsel for legal guidance and advice as necessary.

All parties will be provided with a comprehensive electronic brochure detailing options and resources,

which the Title IX Coordinator may also review with the parties in person.

3. Independence and Conflict of Interest

The Title IX Coordinator manages the Title IX Team and acts with independence and authority free from

bias and conflicts of interest. The Title IX Coordinator oversees all resolutions under this Policy and these

procedures. The members of the Title IX Team are vetted and trained to ensure they are not biased for

or against any party in a specific complaint, or for or against Complainants and/or Respondents,

generally.

To raise any concern involving bias, conflict of interest, misconduct, or discrimination by the Title IX

Coordinator, contact the College President or the Vice President of Student Affairs and Athletics.

Concerns of bias, misconduct, discrimination, or a potential conflict of interest by any other Title IX

Team member should be raised with the Title IX Coordinator.

4. Administrative Contact Information

Complaints or notice of alleged policy violations, or inquiries about or concerns regarding this Policy and

procedures, may be made internally to:

Title IX Coordinator

Student Affairs, Old Main Office 524

30 N. Brainard St., Naperville, IL 60540

(630) 637-5156

TitleIX@noctrl.edu

North Central College has also classified most employees as Mandated Reporters of any knowledge they

have that a member of the community is experiencing harassment, discrimination, and/or retaliation.

The section below on Mandated Reporting

details which employees have this responsibility and their

duties, accordingly.

Inquiries may be made externally to:

Office for Civil Rights (OCR)

U.S. Department of Education

400 Maryland Avenue, SW

Washington, D.C. 20202-1100

Customer Service Hotline #: (800) 421-3481

Fax: (202) 453-6012

TDD#: (877) 521-2172

Email: [email protected]v

Web: http://www.ed.gov/ocr

U.S. Department of Education (Chicago Office)

John C. Kluczynski Federal Building

230 S. Dearborn Street, 37th Floor

Chicago, IL 60604

Telephone: (312) 730-1560

Fax: (312) 730-1576

Email: [email protected]

For complaints involving employee-on-employee conduct:

Equal Employment Opportunity Commission

(EEOC).

EEOC Chicago Office

JCK Federal Building

230 S Dearborn Street, Suite 1866

Chicago, IL 60604

Phone: (312) 872-9777

Fax: (312) 588-1260

TTY: (800) 669-6820

ASL Video Phone: (844) 234-5122

5. Notice/Complaints of Discrimination, Harassment, and/or Retaliation

Notice or complaints of discrimination, harassment, and/or retaliation may be made using any of the

following options:

1) File a report or Formal Complaint with, or give verbal notice to, the Title IX Coordinator. Such a

report or Formal Complaint may be made at any time (including during non-business hours) by

using the telephone number or email address, or by mail, to the office listed for the Title IX

Coordinator or any other official listed.

Title IX Coordinator

Student Affairs, Old Main Office 524

30 N. Brainard St., Naperville, IL 60540

(630) 637-5156

TitleIX@noctrl.edu

2) Report online, using the reporting form posted at titleixreport.northcentralcollege.edu

Anonymous reports are accepted but can give rise to a need to investigate to determine if the

parties can be identified. If not, no further formal action is taken, though measures intended to

protect the community may be enacted. The College tries to provide supportive measures to all

Complainants, which may be impossible with an anonymous report that does not identify the

Complainant.

Because reporting carries no obligation to initiate a formal response, and because the College

respects Complainant requests to dismiss complaints unless there is a compelling threat to

health and/or safety, the Complainant is largely in control and should not fear a loss of

confidentiality by making a report that allows the College to discuss and/or provide supportive

measures.

3) Report using the Campus Conduct Hotline at (866) 943-5787.

As used in this Policy, the term “Formal Complaint” means a document or electronic submission (such as

by electronic mail or through an online portal provided by the College for this purpose) that contains the

Complainant’s physical or digital signature, or otherwise indicates that the Complainant is the person

filing the complaint, and requests that the College investigate the allegations. If notice is submitted in a

form that does not meet this standard, the Title IX Coordinator will contact the Complainant to ensure

that it is filed correctly.

6. Rights of the Parties

• The right to an equitable investigation and resolution of all credible allegations of prohibited

harassment, discrimination, and/or retaliation made in good faith to College officials.

• The right to timely written notice of all alleged violations, including the identity of the parties

involved (if known), the precise misconduct being alleged, the date and location of the alleged

misconduct (if known), the implicated policies and procedures, and possible sanctions.

• The right to timely written notice of any material adjustments to the allegations (e.g., additional

incidents or allegations, additional Complainants, unsubstantiated allegations) and any

attendant adjustments needed to clarify potentially implicated policy violations.

• The right to be informed in advance of any public release of information by the College

regarding the allegation(s) or underlying incident(s), whenever possible.

• The right not to have any personally identifiable information released by the College to the

public without consent provided, except to the extent permitted by law.

• The right to be treated with respect by College officials.

• The right to have College policy and these procedures followed without material deviation.

• The right not to be pressured to mediate or otherwise informally resolve any reported

misconduct involving violence, including sexual violence.

• The right not to be discouraged by College officials from reporting sexual harassment,

discrimination, and/or retaliation to both on-campus and off-campus authorities.

• The right to be informed by College officials of options to notify proper law enforcement

authorities, including on-campus and local police, and the option(s) to be assisted by the College

in notifying such authorities, if the party so chooses. This also includes the right not to be

pressured to report.

• The right to have allegations of violations of this Policy responded to promptly and with

sensitivity by College law enforcement and/or other College officials.

• The right to be informed of available supportive measures, such as counseling; advocacy; health

care; student financial aid, visa, and immigration assistance; and/or other services, both on

campus and in the community.

• The right to a College-implemented no-contact order or a no-trespass order against a non-

affiliated third party when a person has engaged in or threatens to engage in stalking,

threatening, harassing, or other improper conduct.

• The right to be informed of available assistance in changing academic, living, and/or working

situations after an alleged incident of discrimination, harassment, and/or retaliation, if such

changes are reasonably available. No formal report, or investigation, either institutional or

criminal, needs to occur before this option is available. Such actions may include, but are not

limited to:

o Relocating an on-campus student’s housing to a different on-campus location

o Assistance from College staff in completing the relocation

o Changing an employee’s work environment (e.g., reporting structure, office/workspace

relocation)

o Transportation assistance

o Visa/immigration assistance

o Arranging to dissolve a housing contract and provide a pro-rated refund

o Exam, paper, and/or assignment rescheduling or adjustment

o Receiving an incomplete in, or a withdrawal from, a class (may be retroactive)

o Transferring class sections

o Temporary withdrawal/leave of absence (may be retroactive)

o Campus safety escorts

o Alternative course completion options

• The right to have the College maintain such actions for as long as necessary and for supportive

measures to remain confidential, provided confidentiality does not impair the College’s ability to

provide the supportive measures.

• The right to receive sufficiently advanced, written notice of any College meeting or interview

involving another party, when possible.

• The right to identify and have the Investigator(s), Advisors, and/or Decision-Maker(s) question

relevant available witnesses, including expert witnesses.

• The right to provide the Investigator(s)/Decision-Maker(s) with a list of questions that, if

deemed relevant by the Investigator(s)/Decision-Maker(s), may be asked of any party or

witness.

• The right to have inadmissible sexual predisposition/prior sexual history or irrelevant character

evidence excluded by the Decision-Maker(s).

• The right to know the relevant and directly related evidence obtained and to respond to that

evidence.

• The right to a fair opportunity to provide the Investigator(s) with their account of the alleged

misconduct and have that account be on the record.

• The right to receive a copy of all relevant and directly related evidence obtained during the

investigation, subject to privacy limitations imposed by state and federal law, and a ten (10)

business day period to review and comment on the evidence.

• The right to receive a copy of the final investigation report, including all factual, policy, and/or

credibility analyses performed, and to have at least ten (10) business days to review and

comment on the report prior to the hearing.

• The right to be informed of the names of all witnesses whose information will be used to make a

finding, in advance of that finding, when relevant.

• The right to regular updates on the status of the investigation and/or resolution.

• The right to have reports of alleged Policy violations addressed by Investigators, Title IX

Coordinators, and Decision-Maker(s) who have received at least eight hours of relevant annual

training.

• The right to preservation of confidentiality/privacy, to the extent possible and permitted by law.

• The right to meetings, interviews, and/or hearings that are closed to the public.

• The right to petition that any College representative in the process be recused on the basis of

disqualifying bias and/or conflict of interest.

• The right to have an Advisor of their choice to accompany and assist the party in all meetings

and/or interviews associated with the Resolution Process.

• The right to the use of the appropriate standard of evidence, preponderance of the evidence, to

make a Finding and Final Determination after an objective evaluation of all relevant evidence.

• The right to be present, including presence via remote technology, during all testimony given

and evidence presented during any hearing.

• The right to have an impact and/or mitigation statement considered by the Decision-Maker(s)

following a determination of responsibility for any allegation, but prior to sanctioning.

• The right to be promptly informed of the finding(s) and sanction(s) (if any) of the Resolution

Process and a detailed rationale of the decision (including an explanation of how credibility was

assessed) in a written Notice of Outcome letter delivered simultaneously (without undue delay)

to the parties.

• The right to be informed in writing of when a decision by the College is considered final and any

changes to the Final Determination or sanction(s) that occur post Notification of Outcome.

• The right to be informed of the opportunity to appeal the finding(s) and sanction(s) of the

Resolution Process, and the procedures for doing so in accordance with the standards for appeal

established by the College.

• The right to a fundamentally fair resolution as defined in these procedures.

7. Supportive Measures

The College will offer and implement appropriate and reasonable supportive measures to the parties

upon notice of alleged harassment, discrimination, and/or retaliation. Supportive measures are non-

disciplinary, non-punitive individualized services offered as appropriate and as reasonably available.

They are offered, without fee or charge to the parties, to restore or preserve access to the College’s

education program or activity, including measures designed to protect the safety of all parties and/or

the College’s educational environment and/or to deter harassment, discrimination, and/or retaliation.

After receiving notice of a complaint, the Title IX Coordinator will perform an initial screening for

jurisdiction, and will promptly make supportive measures available to the parties as appropriate. If the

report does not meet this Policy’s requirements, the Title IX Coordinator will make a good faith effort to

connect the reporting party to the correct College office for further assistance. At the time that

supportive measures are offered, the College will inform the Complainant, in writing, that they may file

a Formal Complaint with the College either at that time or in the future, if they have not done so

already. The Title IX Coordinator works with the Complainant to ensure that their wishes are considered

with respect to any planned and implemented supportive measures.

The College will maintain the confidentiality of the supportive measures, provided that confidentiality

does not impair the College’s ability to provide those supportive measures. The College will act to

ensure as minimal an academic impact on the parties as possible and will implement measures in a way

that does not unreasonably burden the other party.

These actions may include, but are not limited to:

• Referral to counseling, medical, and/or other healthcare services

• Referral to the Employee Assistance Program

• Referral to community-based service providers

• Visa and immigration assistance

• Student financial aid counseling

• Education to the institutional community or community subgroup(s)

• Altering campus housing assignment(s)

• Altering work arrangements for employees or student-employees

• Safety planning

• Providing campus safety escorts

• Providing transportation assistance

• Implementing contact limitations (no contact orders) between the parties

• Academic support, extensions of deadlines, or other course/program-related adjustments

• Trespass, Persona Non Grata (PNG), or Be-On-the-Lookout (BOLO) orders

• Timely warnings

• Class schedule modifications, withdrawals, or leaves of absence

• Increased security and monitoring of certain areas of the campus

• Any other actions deemed appropriate by the Title IX Coordinator

Violations of no contact orders or other restrictions may be referred to appropriate student or employee

conduct processes for enforcement, be heard by the Title IX Coordinator, or added as collateral

misconduct allegations to an ongoing complaint under this Policy.

8. Emergency Removal

The College can act to remove a student Respondent from its education program or activities—partially

or entirely—on an emergency basis when an individualized safety and risk analysis has determined that

an immediate threat to the physical health or safety of any student or other individual justifies removal.

This risk analysis is performed by the Title IX Coordinator in conjunction with the Behavioral Intervention

Team using its standard objective violence risk assessment procedures.

When an emergency removal is imposed, the student will be given notice of the action and the option to

request to meet with the Title IX Coordinator prior to such action/removal being imposed, or as soon as

reasonably possible thereafter, to show cause why the action/removal should not be implemented or

should be modified.

This meeting is not a hearing on the merits of the allegation(s), but rather is an administrative process

intended to determine solely whether the emergency removal is appropriate. When this meeting is not

requested in a timely manner, objections to the emergency removal will be deemed waived. A

Complainant and their Advisor may be permitted to participate in this meeting if the Title IX Coordinator

determines it equitable to do so. This section also applies to any restrictions that a coach or athletic

administrator may place on a student-athlete arising from allegations related to Title IX. There is no

appeal process for emergency removal decisions.

A Respondent may be accompanied by an Advisor of their choice when meeting with the Title IX

Coordinator for the show cause meeting. The Respondent will be given access to a written summary of

the basis for the emergency removal prior to the meeting to allow for adequate preparation.

The Title IX Coordinator has sole discretion under this Policy to implement or modify an emergency

removal and to determine the conditions and duration. Violation of an emergency removal under this

policy will be grounds for discipline within the student or employee conduct processes, which may

include expulsion or termination.

The College will implement the least restrictive emergency actions possible in light of the circumstances

and safety concerns. As determined by the Title IX Coordinator, these actions could include, but are not

limited to: removing a student from a residence hall, temporarily re-assigning an employee, restricting a

student or employee’s access to, or use of, facilities or equipment, allowing a student to withdraw or

take incomplete grades without financial penalty, authorizing an administrative leave, and suspending a

student’s participation in extracurricular activities, student employment, student organizational

leadership, or intercollegiate/intramural/club athletics.

At the discretion of the Title IX Coordinator, alternative coursework options may be pursued to ensure

as minimal an academic impact on the parties as possible.

When the Respondent is an employee, or a student employee, accused of misconduct in the course of

their employment, existing provisions for interim action are applicable instead of the above emergency

removal process.

9. Promptness

Once North Central College has received notice or a Formal Complaint, all allegations are promptly acted

upon. Complaints typically take 60-90 business days to resolve. There are always exceptions and

extenuating circumstances that can cause a resolution to take longer, but the College will avoid all

undue delays within its control.

Any time the general timeframes for resolution outlined in College procedures will be delayed, the

College will provide written notice to the parties of the delay, the cause for the delay, and an estimate of

the anticipated additional time that will be needed as a result of the delay.

10. Confidentiality/Privacy

Every effort is made by the College to preserve the confidentiality of reports.

The College will not share

the identity of any individual who has made a report or Formal Complaint of harassment, discrimination,

or retaliation; any Complainant; any individual who has been reported to be the perpetrator of

harassment, discrimination, or retaliation; any Respondent; or any witness, except as permitted by the

Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)

or its implementing regulations,

or as required by

law; or to carry out the purposes of 34 C.F.R. Part 106, including any investigation, hearing, or grievance

proceeding arising under these policies and procedures.

The College reserves the right to determine which College officials have a legitimate educational interest

in being informed about incidents that fall under this Policy, pursuant to the Family Educational Rights

and Privacy Act (FERPA).

Only a small group of officials who need to know will typically be told about the complaint. Information

will be shared as necessary with Investigators, Decision-Makers, witnesses, and the parties. The circle of

people with this knowledge will be kept as tight as possible to preserve the parties’ rights and privacy.

The College may contact parents/guardians of students to inform them of situations in which there is a

significant and articulable health and/or safety risk but will usually consult with the student first before

doing so.

For the purpose of this Policy, privacy and confidentiality have distinct meanings. Privacy means that information

related to a complaint will be shared with a limited number of College employees who “need to know” in order to

assist in the assessment, investigation, and resolution of the complaint. All employees who are involved in the

College’s response to notice under this Policy receive specific training and guidance about sharing and

safeguarding private information in accordance with state and federal law. The privacy of student education

records will be protected in accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), as outlined in

the College’s Student Records Policy. The privacy of employee records will be protected in accordance with Human

Resources policies. Confidentiality exists in the context of laws (including Title IX) that protect certain

relationships, including those who provide services related to medical and clinical care, mental health providers,

counselors, and ordained clergy. The law creates a privilege between certain health care providers, mental health

care providers, attorneys, clergy, spouses, and others, with their patients, clients, parishioners, and spouses. The

College has designated individuals who have the ability to have privileged communications as Confidential

Resources. For more information about Confidential Resources, see page 29

. When information is shared by a

Complainant with a Confidential Resource, the Confidential Resource cannot reveal the information to any third

party except when an applicable law or a court order requires or permits disclosure of such information. For

example, information may be disclosed when: (1) the individual gives written consent for its disclosure; (2) there is

a concern that the individual will likely cause serious physical harm to self or others; or (3) the information

concerns conduct involving suspected abuse or neglect of a minor under the age of 18, elders, or individuals with

disabilities. Non-identifiable information may be shared by Confidential Resources for statistical tracking purposes

as required by the federal Clery Act. Other information may be shared as required by law.

20 U.S.C. 1232g

34 C.F.R. § 99

Confidentiality and mandated reporting are addressed more specifically below.

11. Jurisdiction

This Policy applies to the College’s education program and activities,

to conduct that takes place on

property owned or controlled by the College, at College-sponsored events, and in buildings owned or

controlled by the College’s recognized student organizations. The Respondent must be a member of

College’s community in order for this Policy to apply.

This Policy can also be applicable to the effects of off-campus misconduct that effectively deprives a

person of access to College’s education program or activities. The College may also extend jurisdiction to

off-campus and/or to online conduct when the Title IX Coordinator determines that the conduct affects

a substantial College interest.

Regardless of where the conduct occurred, the College will address notice/complaints to determine

whether the conduct occurred in the context of its employment or education program or activity and/or

has continuing effects on campus (including virtual learning and employment environments) or in an off

campus sponsored program or activity. A substantial College interest includes:

1) Any action that constitutes a criminal offense as defined by law. This includes, but is not limited

to, single or repeat violations of any local, state, or federal law.

2) Any situation in which it is determined that the Respondent poses an immediate threat to the

physical health or safety of any student, employee, or other individual.

3) Any situation that significantly impinges upon the rights, property, or achievements of others,

significantly breaches the peace, and/or causes social disorder.

4) Any situation that substantially interferes with the educational interests or mission of the

College.

If the Respondent is unknown or is not a member of the College community, the Title IX Coordinator will

assist the Complainant in identifying appropriate institutional and local resources and support options. If

criminal conduct is alleged, the College can assist in contacting local or institutional law enforcement if

the individual would like to file a police report.

Further, even when the Respondent is not a member of the College’s community, supportive measures,

remedies, and resources may be provided to the Complainant by contacting the Title IX Coordinator.

In addition, the College may take other actions as appropriate to protect the Complainant against third

parties, such as barring individuals from College property and/or events.

All vendors serving the College through third-party contracts are subject to the policies and procedures

of their employers and/or to these Policies and procedures to which their employer has agreed to be

bound by their contracts.

Which includes the College’s employees’ work environment.

When the Respondent is enrolled in or employed by another institution, the Title IX Coordinator can

assist the Complainant in liaising with the appropriate individual at that institution, as it may be possible

to pursue action under that institution’s policies.

Similarly, the Title IX Coordinator may be able to assist and support a student or employee Complainant

who experiences discrimination in an externship, study abroad program, or other environment external

to the College where sexual harassment or nondiscrimination policies and procedures of the facilitating

or host organization may give the Complainant recourse.

12. Time Limits on Reporting

There is no time limitation on providing notice/complaints to the Title IX Coordinator. However, if the

Respondent is no longer subject to the College’s jurisdiction and/or significant time has passed, the

ability to investigate, respond, and/or provide remedies may be more limited or impossible.

Acting on notice/complaints significantly impacted by the passage of time (including, but not limited to,

the rescission or revision of policy) is at the discretion of the Title IX Coordinator, who may document

allegations for future reference, offer supportive measures and/or remedies, and/or engage in informal

or formal action, as appropriate.

When notice/complaint is affected by significant time delay, the College will typically apply the policy in

place at the time of the alleged misconduct and the procedures in place at the time of notice/complaint.

Typically, this Policy is only applied to alleged incidents that occurred after August 8, 2023. For alleged

incidents that occurred prior to August 9, 2023, previous versions of this Policy will apply. Those versions

are available from the Title IX Coordinator.

13. Online Harassment and Misconduct

College policies are written and interpreted broadly to include online manifestations of any of the

behaviors prohibited below, when those behaviors occur in or have an effect on the College’s education

program and activities or when they involve the use of College networks, technology, or equipment.

Although the College may not control websites, social media, and other venues through which harassing

communications are made, when such communications are reported to the College, it will engage in a

variety of means to address and mitigate the effects.

Members of the community are encouraged to be good digital citizens and to refrain from online

misconduct, such as feeding anonymous gossip sites; sharing inappropriate content via social media;

unwelcome sexual or sex-based messaging; distributing, or threatening to distribute, nude or semi-nude

photos or recordings; breaches of privacy; or otherwise using the ease of transmission and/or

anonymity of the Internet or other technology to harm another member of the College community.

14. Discriminatory Harassment Policy

Students, staff, administrators, and faculty are entitled to an employment and educational environment

that is free of discriminatory harassment. This Policy is not meant to inhibit or prohibit educational

content or discussions inside or outside of the classroom that include germane, but controversial, or

sensitive subject matters protected by academic freedom.

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The sections below describe the specific forms of legally prohibited harassment that are also prohibited

under College Policy. When speech or conduct is protected by academic freedom and/or the First

Amendment, it will not be considered a violation of College Policy, though supportive measures will be

offered to those impacted. All offense definitions encompass actual and/or attempted offenses.

A. Sexual Harassment

The Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights (OCR), the Equal Employment Opportunity

Commission (EEOC), and the State of Illinois regard sexual harassment, a specific form of

discriminatory harassment, as an unlawful discriminatory practice.

Acts of sexual harassment may be committed by any person upon any other person, regardless

of the sex, sexual orientation, and/or gender identity of those involved.

The College has adopted the following definitions of sexual harassment in order to address the

unique environment of an academic community. Two definitions are required by federal law.

While they overlap, they are not identical, and they each apply as noted.

Title VII Sexual Harassment applies to situations where an employee is subjected to workplace

sexual harassment.

a. Unwelcome verbal, written, graphic, and/or physical conduct;

b. that is severe or pervasive and objectively offensive;

c. on the basis of sex/gender, that

d. Unreasonably interferes with, limits, or effectively denies an individual’s educational

or employment access, benefits, or opportunities.

Title IX Sexual Harassment, as an umbrella category, includes the offenses of sexual

harassment, sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking. This definition

applies to all formal complaints that fall within Title IX jurisdiction as determined by the Title IX

Coordinator. Sexual harassment includes:

Conduct on the basis of sex,

or that is sexual in nature that satisfies one or more of the

following:

1) Quid Pro Quo:

a. an employee of the College,

b. conditions

the provision of an aid, benefit, or service of the College,

c. on an individual’s participation in unwelcome sexual conduct.

If the sexual harassment occurs in a College-owned residence with a residential Complainant, then the HUD/FHA

definition of sexual harassment--which tracks the Title VII definition--may also apply.

Including gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, and sex stereotypes.

Implicitly or explicitly.

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2) Sexual Harassment (Hostile Environment):

a. unwelcome conduct,

b. determined by a reasonable person,

c. to be so severe, and

d. pervasive, and,

e. objectively offensive,

f. that it effectively denies a Complainant equal access to the College’s education

program or activity.

3) Sexual Assault, defined as:

Unwelcomeness is subjective and determined by the Complainant (except when the Complainant is younger

than the age of consent). Severity, pervasiveness, and objective offensiveness are evaluated based on the totality

of the circumstances from the perspective of a reasonable person in the same or similar circumstances (“in the

shoes of the Complainant”), including the context in which the alleged incident occurred and any similar, previous

patterns that may be evidenced. This definition is broad enough to potentially encompass forms of sex-based

disparate treatment, even if not harassing in nature.

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a. Any sexual act

directed against a Complainant,

o without their consent, or

o instances in which the Complainant is incapable of giving consent.

b. Incest:

o Non-forcible sexual intercourse,

o between persons who are related to each other,

A ‘sexual act” is specifically defined by federal regulations to include one or more of the following:

Rape:

• The carnal knowledge of a Complainant OR Penetration, no matter how slight, of the vagina or anus with

anybody part or object, or oral penetration by a sex organ of another person,

• without their consent,

• including instances where they are incapable of giving consent because of age or because of temporary or

permanent mental or physical incapacity.”

Sodomy:

• Oral or anal sexual intercourse with a Complainant,

• forcibly, and/or

• against their will (non-consensually), or

• not forcibly or against their will in instances in which the Complainant is incapable of giving consent

because of age or because of temporary or permanent mental or physical incapacity.

Sexual Assault with an Object:

• The use of an object or instrument to penetrate,

• however slightly,

• the genital or anal opening of the body of the Complainant,

• forcibly, and/or

• against their will (non-consensually), or

• not forcibly or against their will in instances in which the Complainant is incapable of giving consent

because of age or because of temporary or permanent mental or physical incapacity.

Fondling:

• The touching of the private body parts of the Complainant (buttocks, groin, breasts),

• for the purpose of sexual gratification,

• forcibly, and/or

• against their will (non-consensually), or

• not forcibly or against their will in instances in which the Complainant is incapable of giving consent

because of age or because of temporary or permanent mental or physical incapacity.

This would include having another person touch you sexually, forcibly, and/or without their consent.

This definition set is not taken from NIBRS verbatim. ATIXA has substituted Complainant for “victim,” has

removed references to his/her throughout, has defined “private body parts,” has removed the confusing and

unnecessary term “unlawfully,” and has inserted language clarifying that the College interprets “against the

person’s will” to mean “non-consensually.” These are liberties ATIXA thinks are important to take with respect to

the federal definitions, but users should consult legal counsel before adopting them.

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o within the degrees wherein marriage is prohibited by Illinois law.

c. Statutory Rape:

o Non-forcible sexual intercourse,

o with a person who is under the IL statutory age of consent of 17.

4) Dating Violence, defined as:

a. violence,

b. on the basis of sex,

c. committed by a person,

d. who is in or has been in a social relationship of a romantic or intimate nature

with the Complainant.

i. The existence of such a relationship shall be determined based on the

Complainant’s statement and with consideration of the length of the

relationship, the type of relationship, and the frequency of interaction

between the persons involved in the relationship. For the purposes of

this definition—

a) Dating violence includes, but is not limited to, sexual or physical

abuse or the threat of such abuse.

b) Dating violence does not include acts covered under the

definition of domestic violence.

5) Domestic Violence,

defined as:

a. violence,

b. on the basis of sex,

c. committed by a current or former spouse or intimate partner of the

Complainant,

d. by a person with whom the Complainant shares a child in common, or

e. by a person who is cohabitating with, or has cohabitated with, the Complainant

as a spouse or intimate partner, or

f. by a person similarly situated to a spouse of the Complainant under the

domestic or family violence laws of Illinois, or

g. by any other person against an adult or youth Complainant who is protected

from that person’s acts under the domestic or family violence laws of Illinois.

6) Stalking, defined as:

a. engaging in a course of conduct,

b. on the basis of sex,

c. directed at the Complainant, that

i. would cause a reasonable person to fear for the person’s safety, or

ii. the safety of others; or

iii. Suffer substantial emotional distress.

To categorize an incident as Domestic Violence under this Policy, the relationship between the Respondent and

the Complainant must be more than just two people living together as roommates. The people cohabitating must

be current or former spouses or have an intimate relationship.

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For the purposes of this definition—

 Course of conduct means two or more acts, including, but not limited to acts in

which the Respondent directly, indirectly, or through third parties, by any

action, method, device, or means, follows, monitors, observes, surveils,

threatens, or communicates to or about a person, or interferes with a person’s

property.

 Reasonable person means a reasonable person under similar circumstances and

with similar identities to the Complainant.

 Substantial emotional distress means significant mental suffering or anguish

that may but does not necessarily require medical or other professional

treatment or counseling.

The College reserves the right to impose any level of sanction, ranging from a reprimand up to

and including suspension or expulsion/termination, for any offense under this Policy. The most

serious offenses are likely to result in suspension, expulsion, or termination.

B. Force, Coercion, Consent, and Incapacitation

As used in the offenses above, the following definitions and understandings apply:

Force: Force is the use of physical violence and/or physical imposition to gain sexual access.

Force also includes threats, intimidation (implied threats), and coercion that is intended to

overcome resistance or produce consent (e.g., “Have sex with me or I’ll hit you,” which elicits

the response, “Okay, don’t hit me. I’ll do what you want.”).

Sexual activity that is forced is, by definition, non-consensual, but non-consensual sexual activity

is not necessarily forced. Silence or the absence of resistance alone is not consent. Consent is

not demonstrated by the absence of resistance. While resistance is not required or necessary, it

is a clear demonstration of non-consent.

Coercion: Coercion is unreasonable pressure for sexual activity. Coercive conduct differs from

seductive conduct based on factors such as the type and/or extent of the pressure used to

obtain consent. When someone makes clear that they do not want to engage in certain sexual

activity, that they want to stop, or that they do not want to go past a certain point of sexual

interaction, continued pressure beyond that point can be coercive.

Consent is:

• knowing, and

• voluntary, and

• clear permission

• by word or action

• to engage in sexual activity.

The state definition of consent in the State of Illinois, which is applicable to criminal prosecutions for sex

offenses in Illinois but may differ from the definition used on campus to address policy violations. Consent 720 ILCS

5/11-1.70 is included for Clery/VAWA Sec. 304 compliance purposes.

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Individuals may perceive and experience the same interaction in different ways. Therefore, it is

the responsibility of each party to determine that the other has consented before engaging in

the activity.

If consent is not clearly provided prior to engaging in the activity, consent may be ratified by

word or action at some point during the interaction or thereafter, but clear communication from

the outset is strongly encouraged.

For consent to be valid, there must be a clear expression in words or actions that the other

individual consented to that specific sexual conduct. Reasonable reciprocation can be implied

consent. For example, if someone kisses you, you can kiss them back (if you want to) without

the need to explicitly obtain their consent to being kissed back.

Consent can also be withdrawn once given, as long as the withdrawal is reasonably and clearly

communicated. If consent is withdrawn, that sexual activity should cease within a reasonably

immediate time.

Consent to some sexual contact (such as kissing or fondling) cannot be presumed to be consent

for other sexual activity (such as intercourse). A current or previous intimate relationship is not

sufficient to constitute consent. If an individual expresses conditions on their willingness to

consent (e.g., use of a condom) or limitations on the scope of their consent, those conditions

and limitations must be respected.

Proof of consent or non-consent is not a burden placed on either party involved in a complaint.

Instead, the burden remains on the College to determine whether its policy has been violated.

The existence of consent is based on the totality of the circumstances evaluated from the

perspective of a reasonable person in the same or similar circumstances, including the context

in which the alleged misconduct occurred and any similar and previous patterns that may be

evidenced.

Consent in relationships must also be considered in context. When parties consent to BDSM

other forms of kink, non-consent may be shown by the use of a safe word. Resistance, force,

violence, or even saying “no” may be part of the kink and thus consensual, thus College’s

evaluation of communication in kink situations should be guided by reasonableness, rather than

strict adherence to policy that assumes non-kink relationships as a default.

Incapacitation: A person cannot consent if they are unable to understand what is happening or

are disoriented, helpless, asleep, or unconscious for any reason, including due to alcohol or

other drug consumption. As stated above, a Respondent violates this Policy if they engage in

sexual activity with someone who is incapable of giving consent.

It is a defense to a sexual assault policy violation that the Respondent neither knew nor should

have known the Complainant to be physically or mentally incapacitated. “Should have known” is

Bondage, discipline/dominance, submission/sadism, and masochism.

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an objective, reasonable person standard that assumes that a reasonable person is both sober

and exercising sound judgment.

Incapacitation occurs when someone cannot make rational, reasonable decisions because they

lack the capacity to give knowing/informed consent (e.g., to understand the “who, what, when,

where, why, and how” of their sexual interaction).

Incapacitation is determined through consideration of all relevant indicators of an individual’s

state and is not synonymous with intoxication, impairment, blackout, and/or being drunk.

This Policy also covers a person whose incapacity results from a temporary or permanent

physical or mental health condition, involuntary physical restraint, and/or the consumption of

incapacitating substances.

C. Sexual Exploitation

In addition to the forms of sexual harassment described above, which are covered by Title IX,

the College additionally prohibits sexual exploitation as a form of discrimination that may be

within or outside of Title IX when the act is based upon the Complainant’s actual or perceived

protected characteristic.

1) Sexual Exploitation, defined as:

a. an individual taking non-consensual or abusive sexual advantage of another

b. for their own benefit or for the benefit of anyone other than the person being

exploited, and

c. that conduct does not otherwise constitute Sexual Harassment under this

Policy.

Examples of Sexual Exploitation include, but are not limited to:

 Sexual voyeurism (such as observing or allowing others to observe a person

undressing or using the bathroom or engaging in sexual acts, without the

consent of the person being observed)

 Invasion of sexual privacy (e.g., doxing)

 Knowingly making an unwelcome disclosure of (or threatening to disclose) an

individual's sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression

 Taking pictures, video, or audio recording of another in a sexual act, or in any

other sexually related activity when there is a reasonable expectation of privacy

during the activity, without the consent of all involved in the activity; or

exceeding the boundaries of consent (such as allowing another person to hide in

a closet and observe sexual activity; or disseminating sexual pictures without

the photographed person’s consent), including the making or posting of non-

consensual pornography

 Prostituting another person

 Engaging in sexual activity with another person while knowingly infected with

human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or a sexually transmitted disease (STD) or

infection (STI), without informing the other person of the virus, disease, or

infection

 Causing or attempting to cause the incapacitation of another person (through

alcohol, drugs, or any other means) for the purpose of compromising that

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person’s ability to give consent to sexual activity, or for the purpose of making

that person vulnerable to non-consensual sexual activity

 Misappropriation of another person’s identity on apps, websites, or other

venues designed for dating or sexual connections (e.g., spoofing)

 Forcing a person to take an action against that person’s will by threatening to

show, post, or share information, video, audio, or an image that depicts the

person’s nudity or sexual activity

 Knowingly soliciting a minor for sexual activity

 Engaging in sex trafficking

 Creating, possessing, or disseminating child pornography

Sanctions for Sexual Exploitation range from warning through expulsion/termination.

In addition, matters initially filed as Title IX Sexual Harassment but dismissed for Title IX

jurisdictional reasons may be pursued under this Policy’s Process B provision.

D. Consensual Relationships

North Central College’s Consensual Relationships Policy can be found within the Human

Resources Department, accessible using this link:

https://www.northcentralcollege.edu/sites/default/files/documents/2020-03/20-3-18-

consensual-relationships-policy.pdf

15. Retaliation

Protected activity under this Policy includes reporting alleged misconduct that may implicate this Policy,

participating in the resolution process, supporting a Complainant or Respondent, assisting in providing

information relevant to an investigation, and/or acting in good faith to oppose conduct that constitutes

a violation of this Policy.

Acts of alleged retaliation should be reported immediately to the Title IX Coordinator and will be

promptly investigated. The College will take all appropriate and available steps to protect individuals

who fear that they may be subjected to retaliation.

The College and any member of the College’s community are prohibited from taking or attempting to

take materially adverse action by intimidating, threatening, coercing, harassing, or discriminating against

any individual for the purpose of interfering with any right or privilege secured by law or policy, or

because the individual has made a report or complaint, testified, assisted, or participated or refused to

participate in any manner in an investigation, proceeding, or hearing under this Policy and procedure.

Filing a complaint under Process B could be considered retaliatory if those allegations could be subject

to Process A, when the Process B allegations are made for the purpose of interfering with or

circumventing any right or privilege provided afforded within Process A that is not provided by Process

Retaliation allegations can be routed exclusively through Process B if a College so elects, but where retaliation

and sexual harassment allegations are both alleged, it will likely make more sense to use Process A to resolve all

together.

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B. Therefore, the College carefully vets all complaints to ensure this does not happen, and to ensure that

complaints are routed to the appropriate process.

The exercise of rights protected under the First Amendment does not constitute retaliation.

Pursuing a code of conduct violation for making a materially false statement in bad faith in the course of

a grievance proceeding under this Policy and procedure does not constitute retaliation, provided that

the determination of responsibility, by itself, is not sufficient to conclude that any party has made a

materially false statement in bad faith.

16. Mandated Reporting

Most North Central College employees (faculty, staff, administrators) are expected to report actual or

suspected Title IX discrimination, harassment, and/or retaliation to the Title IX Coordinator immediately,

although there are some limited exceptions.

To make informed choices, it is important to be aware of confidentiality and mandatory reporting

requirements when consulting institutional resources. Within the institution, some resources may

maintain confidentiality and are not required to report actual or suspected Title IX harassment,

discrimination, or retaliation in a way that identifies the parties. They may offer options and resources

without any obligation to inform an outside agency or institution official unless a Complainant has

requested the information be shared.

If a Complainant expects formal action in response to their allegations, reporting to any Mandated

Reporter can connect them with resources to report alleged crimes and/or policy violations, and these

employees will immediately pass reports to the Title IX Coordinator (and/or police, if desired by the

Complainant or required by law), who will act when an incident is reported to them.

The following sections describe the College reporting options for a Complainant or third party (including

parents/guardians when appropriate):

A. Confidential Resources

If a Complainant would like the details of an incident to be kept confidential, the Complainant

may speak with:

• On-campus licensed professional counselors in the Dyson Wellness Center

• On-campus health service providers and staff in the Dyson Wellness Center

• On-campus Victim Advocate in the Dyson Wellness Center

• On-campus members of the clergy/chaplains working within the scope of their licensure

or ordination

• Community-based (non-employees):

o Licensed professional counselors and other medical providers

o Local rape crisis counselors

o Domestic violence resources

o Local or state assistance agencies

o Clergy/Chaplains

o Attorneys

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All of the above-listed individuals will maintain confidentiality when acting under the scope of

their licensure, professional ethics, professional credentials, or official designation, except in

extreme cases of immediacy of threat or danger or abuse of a minor/elder/individual with a

disability, or when required to disclose by law or court order.

For students, institutional counselors in the Dyson Wellness Center are available to help free of

charge and may be consulted on an emergency basis during normal business hours. For

employees, the Employee Assistance Program can be utilized. Both students and employees are

able to utilize the Campus Advocate. The Campus Advocate (available through the Dyson

Wellness Center) offers confidential support services and advocacy. The Campus Advocate can

be contacted at 630-637-5550 during normal business hours and can be contacted after hours

through calling Campus Safety.

Employees who have confidentiality as described above, and who receive reports within the

scope of their confidential roles will timely submit anonymous statistical information for Clery

Act purposes unless they believe it would be harmful to their client, patient, or parishioner.

B. Mandated Reporters and Formal Notice/Complaints

All College employees (including student employees), with the exception of those who are

designated as Confidential Resources, are Mandated Reporters and must promptly share with

the Title IX Coordinator all known details of a report made to them in the course of their

employment.

Employees must promptly share all details of behaviors under this Policy they observe or have

knowledge of, even if not reported to them by a Complainant or third party.

Complainants may want to carefully consider whether they share personally identifiable details

with non-confidential Mandated Reporters, as those details must be shared with the Title IX

Coordinator.

Generally, disclosures in climate surveys, classroom writing assignments or discussions, human

subjects research, or at events such as “Take Back the Night” marches or speak-outs do not

provide notice that must be reported to the Title IX Coordinator by employees, unless the

Complainant clearly indicates that they desire a report to be made or a seek a specific response

from the College.

Supportive measures may be offered as the result of such disclosures without formal College

action.

Failure of a Mandated Reporter to report an incident of harassment, discrimination, or

retaliation of which they become aware is a violation of College Policy and can be subject to

disciplinary action for failure to comply/failure to report.

Though this may seem obvious, when a Mandated Reporter is engaged in harassment or other

violations of this Policy, they still have a duty to report their own misconduct, though the

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College is technically not on notice simply because a harasser is also a Mandated Reporter

unless the harasser does in fact report themselves.

Finally, it is important to clarify that a Mandated Reporter who is themselves a target of

harassment or other misconduct under this Policy is not required to report their own

experience, though they are encouraged to do so.

17. When a Complainant Does Not Wish to Proceed

If a Complainant does not wish for their name to be shared, does not wish for an investigation to take

place, and/or does not want a Formal Complaint to be pursued, they may make such a request to the

Title IX Coordinator, who will evaluate that request in light of the duty to ensure the safety of the

institution and to comply with state or federal law.

The Title IX Coordinator has ultimate discretion over whether the College proceeds when the

Complainant does not wish to do so, and the Title IX Coordinator may sign a Formal Complaint to initiate

a grievance process, usually upon completion of an appropriate violence risk assessment.

The Title IX Coordinator’s decision should be based on results of the violence risk assessment that show

a compelling risk to health and/or safety that requires the College to pursue formal action to protect the

community. A compelling risk to health and/or safety may result from evidence of patterns of

misconduct, predatory conduct, threats, abuse of minors, use of weapons, and/or violence. Colleges

may be compelled to act on alleged employee misconduct irrespective of a Complainant’s wishes.

The Title IX Coordinator must also consider the effect that non-participation by the Complainant may

have on the availability of evidence and the College’s ability to pursue a Formal Grievance Process fairly

and effectively.

When the Title IX Coordinator executes the written complaint, they do not become the Complainant.

The Complainant is the individual who is alleged to be the victim of conduct that could constitute a

violation of this Policy.

When the College proceeds, the Complainant (and/or their Advisor) may have as much or as little

involvement in the process as they wish. The Complainant retains all rights of a Complainant under this

Policy irrespective of their level of participation. Typically, when the Complainant chooses not to

participate, the Advisor may be appointed as proxy for the Complainant throughout the process, acting

to ensure and protect the rights of the Complainant, though this does not extend to the provision of

evidence or testimony.

Note that the College’s ability to remedy and respond to notice may be limited if the Complainant does

not want the College to proceed with an investigation and/or grievance process. The goal is to provide

the Complainant with as much control over the process as possible, while balancing the College’s

obligation to protect its community.

In cases in which the Complainant requests confidentiality/no formal action and the circumstances allow

the College to honor that request, the College may offer Informal Resolution

options, supportive

measures, and remedies to the Complainant and the community, but will not otherwise pursue formal

action.

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If the Complainant elects to take no action, they can change that decision if they decide to pursue a

Formal Complaint at a later date. Upon making a Formal Complaint, a Complainant has the right, and

can expect, to have allegations taken seriously by the College and to have the incidents investigated and

properly resolved through these procedures. Please consider that delays may cause limitations on

access to evidence, or present issues with respect to the status of the parties.

18. Federal Clery Timely Warning Obligations

Per the Clery Act, North Central College must issue timely warnings for reported incidents that pose a

serious or continuing threat of bodily harm or danger to members of the campus community.

The College will ensure that a Complainant’s name and other identifying information is not disclosed,

while still providing enough information for community members to make safety decisions in light of the

potential danger.

19. False Allegations and Evidence

Deliberately false and/or malicious accusations under this Policy are a serious offense and will be subject

to appropriate disciplinary action. This does not include allegations that are made in good faith but are

ultimately shown to be erroneous or do not result in a policy violation determination.

Additionally, witnesses and parties knowingly providing false evidence, tampering with or destroying

evidence, or deliberately misleading an official conducting an investigation, hearing, or informal

resolution can be subject to discipline under appropriate College policies.

20. Amnesty

The College encourages individuals, including third parties, to report misconduct and crimes.

Sometimes, individuals are hesitant to report to College officials or participate in resolution processes

because they fear that they themselves may be in violation of certain policies, such as underage drinking

or use of illicit drugs at the time of the incident.

It is in the best interests of the College community that Complainants choose to report misconduct to

College officials, that witnesses come forward to share what they know, and that all parties be

forthcoming during the process.

To encourage reporting and participation in the process, the College maintains a policy of offering the

Complainant amnesty from minor policy violations–such as underage consumption of alcohol or the use

of illicit drugs–related to the incident. At the discretion of the Title IX Coordinator, witnesses may be

granted this amnesty as well.

Amnesty does not apply to more serious allegations such as physical abuse of another or illicit drug

distribution. The decision not to offer amnesty to a Respondent is based on neither sex nor gender, but

on the fact that collateral misconduct is typically addressed for all students within a progressive

discipline system, and the rationale for amnesty–the incentive to report serious misconduct–is rarely

applicable to Respondent with respect to a Complainant.

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Sometimes, students are hesitant to assist others for fear that they may get in trouble themselves (for

example, an underage student who has been might hesitate to help take an individual who has

experienced sexual assault to Public Safety or the hospital).

The College maintains a policy of amnesty for students who offer help to others in need. Although policy

violations often cannot be overlooked, the College may provide purely educational options with no

official disciplinary finding, rather than punitive sanctions, to those who offer their assistance to others

in need.

21. Federal Statistical Reporting Obligations

Certain institutional officials–those deemed Campus Security Authorities–have a duty to report the

following for federal statistical reporting purposes (Clery Act):

1) All “primary crimes,” which include criminal homicide, rape, fondling, incest, statutory rape,

robbery, aggravated assault, burglary, motor vehicle theft, and arson

2) Hate crimes, which include any bias-motivated primary crime as well as any bias-motivated

larceny or theft, simple assault, intimidation, or destruction/damage/vandalism of property

3) VAWA-based crimes,

which include sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, and

stalking

4) Arrests and referrals for disciplinary action for weapons-related law violations, liquor-related

law violations, and drug law violations

All personally identifiable information is kept private, but statistical information must be shared with

Campus Public Safety regarding the type of incident and its general location (on or off campus or in the

surrounding area, but no addresses are given) for publication in the Annual Security Report and daily

campus crime log. Campus Security Authorities include: student affairs/student conduct staff, campus

public safety, local police, coaches, athletic directors, residence life staff, student activities staff, human

resources staff, advisors to student organizations, and any other official with significant responsibility for

student and campus activities.

22. Preservation of Evidence

The preservation of evidence in incidents of sexual assault and stalking is critical to potential criminal

prosecution and to obtaining restraining/protective orders and is particularly time sensitive. The College

will inform the Complainant of the importance of preserving evidence by taking actions such as the

following:

A. Forensic Evidence Collection for Sexual Assault

• Secure the room or location where the sexual assault occurred (if possible) without

disturbing anything. If you need assistance securing an on-campus room or location for

evidence collection, call Campus Safety – (630) 637-5911. Do not allow anyone else to enter

VAWA is the Violence Against Women Act, enacted in 1994 and codified in part at 42 U.S.C. sections 13701

through 14040.

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until law enforcement arrives.

• Preserve all physical evidence and take pictures or screen shots.

• It is best not to bathe, shower, urinate, douche, or use a toothbrush. Do not wash or discard

any articles of clothing worn during the sexual assault, however, evidence can still be

obtained even if you shower or wash.

• If you suspect a rape drug has been used, do not urinate and ask the health care provider to

take a urine sample immediately.

• Evidence can be collected for a minimum of 7 days post sexual assault, or longer in some

cases, through the forensic evidence collection process conducted in the Emergency Room.

Keep the same clothes on if you are still wearing what you had on during the assault. The

Emergency Room will provide you with scrubs or sweats or you can have someone bring

clothes. Otherwise, bring the clothes you were wearing during the assault with you to the

Emergency Room in a clean paper bag or bedsheet, not wrapped in plastic.

B. General Evidence Collection

• In cases such as battery, property damage, and vandalism, contact Campus Safety (630) 637-

5911 for evidence collection or documentation. Campus Safety can also secure the location for

evidence collection and documentation by local law enforcement.

• Try to remember any helpful details that can corroborate your account of events (e.g., what

time you arrived, what time the other person arrived, who saw them with you, what other

friends were there). Write details down as soon as you remember them even if they seem

irrelevant like who was there, description of the location, and what you saw, felt, smelled, and

heard.

• If you don’t know the identity of the other person, try to remember what they were wearing,

who they came with or seemed to know them, any identifying marks, jewelry, and clothing.

• Save emails, texts, snap chats, voice mails, any messages sent over social media, and written

notes. If these are disturbing to you, forward to a trusted friend or family member to be the

repository of the information or the confidential Campus Advocate (for sexual misconduct).

The Title IX Coordinator can also maintain copies.

• Take pictures of any physical injuries or damage to property.

• Keep a record of witnesses or people you informed of what was happening.

• Keep a record of all the incidents with date, time and description of abusive, harassing, or

threatening behavior, and email it to yourself or a trusted friend in order to have a time

stamp.

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Process A: Resolution Process for Alleged Violations of Title IX Requirements

1. Overview

The procedures below apply only to qualifying allegations of Title IX Sexual Harassment (including sexual

assault, dating violence, domestic violence, and stalking, as defined in the Policy) involving students,

staff, administrators, or faculty members.

Process B can also apply to sexual harassment (including sexual assault, dating violence, domestic

violence, and stalking, as defined above) when jurisdiction does not fall within Process A, as determined

by the Title IX Coordinator.

The procedures below may be used to address alleged collateral misconduct by the Respondent arising

from the investigation of or occurring in conjunction with reported misconduct (e.g., vandalism, physical

abuse of another), when alleged violations of the Policy are being addressed at the same time. In such

cases, the Title IX Coordinator may consult with the institution officials who typically oversee such

conduct (e.g., human resources, student conduct, academic affairs, etc.) to provide input as needed. All

other allegations of misconduct unrelated to incidents covered by the Policy will be addressed through

procedures described in the student, program, faculty, and staff handbooks.

2. Notice/Complaint

Upon receipt of a Formal Complaint or notice of an alleged policy violation by the Title IX Coordinator,

the Title IX Coordinator initiates a prompt initial assessment to determine the next steps the College

needs to take. The Title IX Coordinator will contact the Complainant to offer supportive measures and

determine whether the Complainant wishes to file a Formal Complaint.

The Title IX Coordinator will then initiate at least one of three responses:

1) Offering supportive measures because the Complainant does not want to file a Formal

Complaint

2) An Informal Resolution (upon submission of a Formal Complaint)

3) A Formal Grievance Process including an investigation and a hearing (upon submission of a

Formal Complaint)

The College uses a Formal Grievance Process as described below to determine whether the Policy has

been violated. If so, the College will promptly implement effective remedies designed to ensure that it is

not deliberately indifferent to harassment or discrimination, their potential recurrence, and/or their

effects.

3. Initial Assessment

Upon notice, the Title IX Coordinator will perform an initial assessment of the report or Formal

Complaint to ensure the report appears to meet Policy requirements and jurisdiction. If this threshold is

met, the Title IX Coordinator will provide supportive outreach to the Complainant (if identity is known)

via their school e-mail or in person within 12 hours of receipt of notice. Notice can present in a variety

of forms, including, but not limited to, reports submitted through the College’s online form, in-person or

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over the phone, via e-mail, via mail, and any other method deemed sufficient by the Title IX

Coordinator. Once the Title IX Coordinator receives such a report or a Formal Complaint of an alleged

violation of this Policy, the Title IX Coordinator will complete an initial assessment, which can include:

• The Title IX Coordinator seeks to determine if the person impacted wishes to make a Formal

Complaint, and will assist them to do so, if desired.

o If they do not wish to do so, the Title IX Coordinator determines whether to initiate a

complaint themselves.

• If a Formal Complaint is received, the Title IX Coordinator assesses its sufficiency and works with

the Complainant to make sure it is correctly completed.

• The Title IX Coordinator reaches out to the Complainant to offer supportive measures.

• The Title IX Coordinator works with the Complainant to ensure they are aware of the right to

have an Advisor.

• The Title IX Coordinator works with the Complainant to determine whether the Complainant

prefers a supportive and remedial response, an Informal Resolution option, or a formal

investigation and grievance process.

o If a supportive and remedial response is preferred, the Title IX Coordinator works with

the Complainant to identify their needs, determine appropriate supports, and

implements accordingly. No Formal Grievance Process is initiated, though the

Complainant can elect to initiate one later, if desired.

o If an Informal Resolution option is preferred, the Title IX Coordinator assesses whether

the complaint is suitable for Informal Resolution

, which informal mechanism may

serve the situation best or is available, and may seek to determine if the Respondent is

also willing to engage in Informal Resolution.

o If a Formal Grievance Process is preferred by the Complainant, the Title IX Coordinator

determines if the alleged misconduct falls within the scope of the 2020 Title IX

regulations:

 If it does, the Title IX Coordinator will initiate the formal investigation and

grievance process, directing the investigation to address, based on the nature of

the complaint:

• an incident, and/or

• a pattern of alleged misconduct, and/or

• a culture/climate issue

 If alleged misconduct does not fall within the scope of the Title IX regulations,

the Title IX Coordinator determines that the regulations do not apply (and will

“dismiss” that aspect of the complaint, if any), assesses which policies may

apply, which Resolution Process is applicable, and will refer the matter

accordingly, including referring the matter for resolution under Process B, if

applicable. Please note that dismissing a complaint under the 2020 Title IX

regulations is solely a procedural requirement under Title IX, which does not

limit the College’s authority to address a complaint with an appropriate process

and remedies.

Per the 2020 Title IX regulations, Colleges are prohibited from Informal Resolution of a complaint by a student

against an employee.

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A. Violence Risk Assessment

In some cases, the Title IX Coordinator may determine that a Violence Risk Assessment (VRA)

should be conducted by the BIT or TAT as part of the initial assessment. A VRA can aid in ten

critical and/or required determinations, including:

1) Emergency removal of a Respondent on the basis of immediate threat to an individual

or the community’s physical health/safety

2) Whether the Title IX Coordinator should pursue/sign a Formal Complaint absent a

willing/able Complainant

3) Whether the scope of the investigation should include an incident, and/or pattern of

misconduct, and/or climate of hostility/harassment

4) To help identify potential predatory conduct

5) To help assess/identify grooming behaviors

6) Whether it is reasonable to try to resolve a complaint through Informal Resolution, and

if so, what approach may be most successful

7) Whether to permit a voluntary withdrawal by the Respondent

8) Whether to impose transcript notation or communicate with a transfer College about a

Respondent

9) Assessment of appropriate sanctions/remedies (to be applied post-hearing)

10) Whether a Clery Act Timely Warning/Trespass order/Persona-non-grata is needed

Threat assessment is the process of evaluating the actionability of violence by an individual

against another person or group following the issuance of a direct or conditional threat. A VRA is

a broader term used to assess any potential violence or danger, regardless of the presence of a

vague, conditional, or direct threat.

VRAs require specific training and are typically conducted by psychologists, clinical counselors,

social workers, case managers, law enforcement officers, student conduct officers, or other

Behavioral Intervention Team (BIT)/CARE team members. A VRA authorized by the Title IX

Coordinator should occur in collaboration with the BIT or threat assessment team. Where a VRA

is required by the Title IX Coordinator, a Respondent refusing to cooperate may result in a

charge of failure to comply within the appropriate student or employee conduct process.

A VRA is not an evaluation for an involuntary behavioral health hospitalization, nor is it a

psychological or mental health assessment. A VRA assesses the risk of actionable violence, often

with a focus on targeted/predatory escalations, and is supported by research from the fields of

law enforcement, criminology, human resources, and psychology.

B. Dismissal (Mandatory and Discretionary)

These dismissal requirements are mandated by the 2020 Title IX Regulations, 34 CFR §106.45.

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The College must dismiss a Formal Complaint or any allegations therein if, at any time during the

investigation or hearing, it is determined that:

1) The conduct alleged in the Formal Complaint would not constitute Title IX Sexual

Harassment as defined above, even if proved;

2) The conduct did not occur in an educational program or activity controlled by the

College (including buildings or property controlled by recognized student organizations),

and/or the College does not have control of the Respondent;

3) The conduct did not occur against a person in the United States; and/or

4) At the time of filing a Formal Complaint, a Complainant is not participating in or

attempting to participate in the College’s education program or activity, and based on

the available information, the Title IX Coordinator has determined that they do not need

to sign a Formal Complaint on behalf of the College

The College may dismiss a Formal Complaint or any allegations therein if, at any time during the

investigation or hearing:

1) A Complainant notifies the Title IX Coordinator in writing that the Complainant would

like to withdraw the Formal Complaint or any allegations therein;

2) The Respondent is no longer enrolled in or employed by the College; and/or

3) Specific circumstances prevent the College from gathering evidence sufficient to reach a

determination as to the Formal Complaint or allegations therein

A Complainant who decides to withdraw a complaint may later request to reinstate it or refile it.

Upon any dismissal, the College will promptly send written notice of the dismissal and the

rationale for doing so simultaneously to the parties.

This dismissal decision is appealable by any party under the procedures for appeal (See

Section

36). The decision not to dismiss is also appealable by any party claiming that a dismissal is

required or appropriate.

4. Counterclaims

North Central College is obligated to ensure that the grievance process is not abused for retaliatory

purposes, thus counterclaims made with retaliatory intent will not be permitted. The College permits

the filing of counterclaims but uses an initial assessment, described above, to assess whether the

allegations in the counterclaim are made in good faith.

Counterclaims determined to have been reported in good faith will be processed using the Resolution

Process below. Investigation of such claims may take place after resolution of the underlying initial

complaint, in which case a delay may occur.

Such a Complainant is still entitled to supportive measures, but the formal grievance process is not applicable

unless the Title IX Coordinator signs the complaint in the event the Complainant cannot/will not do so.

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Counterclaims may also be resolved through the same investigation as the underlying complaint, at the

discretion of the Title IX Coordinator. When counterclaims are not made in good faith, they will be

considered retaliatory and may constitute a violation of this policy.

5. Right to an Advisor

The parties may each have an Advisor of their choice present with them for all meetings, interviews, and

hearings within the Resolution Process, if they so choose. The parties may select whoever they wish to

serve as their Advisor as long as the Advisor is eligible and available.

Choosing an Advisor who is also a witness in the process creates potential for bias and conflict of

interest. A party who chooses an Advisor who is also a witness can anticipate that issues of potential

bias will be explored by the hearing Decision-Maker(s).

A. Who Can Serve as an Advisor

The Advisor may be a friend, mentor, family member, attorney, or any other individual a party

chooses to advise, support, and/or consult with them throughout the Resolution Process. The

parties may choose Advisors from inside or outside of the College community.

The Title IX Coordinator will also offer to assign a trained Advisor to any party if the party so

chooses. If the parties choose an Advisor from the pool available from the College, the Advisor

will have been trained by the College and be familiar with the College’s Resolution Process.

If the parties choose an Advisor from outside the pool of those identified by the College, the

Advisor may not have been trained by the College and may not be familiar with College policies

and procedures.

Parties also have the right to choose not to have an Advisor in the initial stages of the Resolution

Process, prior to a hearing.

B. Advisor’s Role in Meetings and Interviews

The parties may be accompanied by their Advisor in all meetings and interviews at which the

party is entitled to be present, including intake and interviews. Advisors should help the parties

prepare for each meeting and are expected to advise ethically, with integrity, and in good faith.

“Available” means the party cannot insist on an Advisor who simply doesn’t have inclination, time, or availability.

Also, the Advisor cannot have institutionally conflicting roles, such as being a Title IX administrator who has an

active role in the matter, or a supervisor who must monitor and implement sanctions.

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The College cannot guarantee equal Advisory rights, meaning that if one party selects an Advisor

who is an attorney, but the other party does not or cannot afford an attorney, the College is not

obligated to provide an attorney.

C. Advisors in Hearings/College-Appointed Advisor

Under the Title IX Regulations, a form of indirect questioning is required during the hearing but

must be conducted by the parties’ Advisors. The parties are not permitted to directly question

each other or any witnesses. If a party does not have an Advisor for a hearing, the College will

appoint a trained Advisor for the limited purpose of conducting any questioning of the parties

and witnesses.

D. Pre-Interview Meetings

Advisors and their advisees may request to meet with the Investigator(s) conducting

interviews/meetings in advance of these interviews or meetings. This pre-meeting allows

Advisors to clarify and understand their role and College’s policies and procedures.

E. Advisor Violations of College Policy

All Advisors are subject to the same College policies and procedures, whether they are attorneys

or not, and whether they are selected by a party or assigned by the College. Advisors are

expected to advise their advisees without disrupting proceedings. Advisors should not address

College officials or Investigators in a meeting or interview unless invited to do so (e.g., asking

procedural questions). The Advisor may not make a presentation or represent their advisee

during any meeting or proceeding and may not speak on behalf of the advisee to the

Investigator(s) or other Decision-Maker(s) except during a hearing proceeding during

questioning.

The parties are expected to ask and respond to questions on their own behalf throughout the

investigation phase of the Resolution Process. Although the Advisor generally may not speak on

behalf of their advisee, the Advisor may consult with their advisee, either privately as needed, or

by conferring or passing notes during any Resolution Process meeting or interview. For longer or

more involved discussions, the parties and their Advisors should ask for breaks to allow for

private consultation.

Any Advisor who oversteps their role as defined by this Policy, or who refuses to comply with

the College’s established rules of decorum for the hearing, will be warned. If the Advisor

continues to disrupt or otherwise fails to respect the limits of the Advisor role, the

meeting/interview/hearing may be ended, or other appropriate measures implemented,

including the College requiring the party to use a different Advisor or providing a different

Subject to the state law provisions or College policy above.

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College-appointed Advisor. Subsequently, the Title IX Coordinator will determine how to address

the Advisor’s non-compliance and future role.

F. Sharing Information with the Advisor

The College expects that the parties may wish to have the College share documentation and

evidence related to the allegations with their Advisors. The College provides a consent form that

authorizes the College to share such information directly with a party’s Advisor. The parties

must either complete and submit this form to the Title IX Coordinator or provide similar

documentation demonstrating consent to a release of information to the Advisor before the

College is able to share records with an Advisor.

If a party requests that all communication be made through their attorney Advisor, the College

will comply with that request at the discretion of the Title IX Coordinator.

Advisors appointed by the institution will not be asked to disclose details of their interactions

with their advisees to institutional officials or Decision-Makers.

G. Privacy of Records Shared with Advisor

Advisors are expected to maintain the privacy of the records shared with them. These records

may not be shared with third parties, disclosed publicly, or used for purposes not explicitly

authorized by College. Advisors may be asked to sign Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs).

College may restrict the role of any Advisor who does not respect the sensitive nature of the

process or who fails to abide by the College’s privacy expectations.

H. Expectation of an Advisor

The College generally expects an Advisor to adjust their schedule to allow them to attend

College meetings/interviews/hearings when planned, but the College may change scheduled

meetings/interviews/hearings to accommodate an Advisor’s inability to attend, if doing so does

not cause an unreasonable delay.

The College may also make reasonable provisions to allow an Advisor who cannot be present in

person to attend a meeting/interview/hearing by telephone, video conferencing, or other

similar technologies as may be convenient and available.

I. Expectations of the Parties with Respect to Advisors

A party may elect to change Advisors during the process and is not obligated to use the same

Advisor throughout. The parties are expected to inform the Investigator(s) of the identity of

their Advisor at least two (2) business days before the date of their first meeting with

Investigators (or as soon as possible if a more expeditious meeting is necessary or desired).

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The parties are expected to provide timely notice to the Title IX Coordinator if they change

Advisors at any time. It is assumed that if a party changes Advisors, consent to share information

with the previous Advisor is terminated, and a release for the new Advisor should be secured.

Parties are expected to inform the Title IX Coordinator of the identity of their hearing Advisor at

least two (2) business days before the hearing.

J. Assistance in Securing an Advisor

The Title IX Coordinator can assign an Advisor from the College’s Title IX Grievance Pool, if a

party so chooses. Parties are also able to secure their own Advisor as discussed above.

For representation, Respondents may wish to contact organizations such as:

• Families Advocating for Campus Equality (http://www.facecampusequality.org)

• Stop Abusive and Violent Environments (http://www.saveservices.org)

Complainants may wish to contact organizations such as:

• The Victim Rights Law Center (http://www.victimrights.org)

• The National Center for Victims of Crime (http://www.victimsofcrime.org), which

maintains the Crime Victim’s Bar Association

• The Time’s Up Legal Defense Fund (https://nwlc.org/times-up-legal-defense-fund/)

6. Resolution Processes

Resolution proceedings are private. All persons present at any time during the Resolution Process are

expected to maintain the privacy of the proceedings in accordance with College Policy.

Although there is an expectation of privacy around what Investigators share with parties during

interviews, the parties have discretion to share their own knowledge and evidence with others if they so

choose, except for information the parties agree not to disclose as part of an Informal Resolution. The

College encourages parties to discuss any sharing of information with their Advisors before doing so.

The Formal Grievance Process is the College’s primary resolution approach unless Informal Resolution is

elected by all parties and the College.

A. Informal Resolution

Three options for Informal Resolution are detailed in this section.

This is being provided for informational purposes and does not constitute the College’s endorsement of any of

the external individuals/organizations listed.

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1) Supportive Resolution. When the Title IX Coordinator can resolve the matter informally

by providing supportive measures (only) to remedy the situation.

2) Alternative Resolution. When the parties agree to resolve the matter through an

alternative resolution mechanism including mediation, restorative practices, facilitated

dialogue, etc., as described below, often before a formal investigation takes place (See

Section B

3) Accepted Responsibility. When the Respondent accepts responsibility for violating

policy, and desires to accept the recommended sanction(s) and end the Resolution

Process (See Section C

To initiate Informal Resolution, a Complainant must submit a Formal Complaint, as defined

above. A Respondent who wishes to initiate Informal Resolution should contact the Title IX

Coordinator. The parties may agree, as a condition of engaging in Informal Resolution, that

statements made, or evidence shared, during the Informal Resolution process will not be

considered in the Formal Grievance Process unless all parties’ consent.

It is not necessary to pursue Informal Resolution first in order to pursue a Formal Grievance

Process, and any party participating in Informal Resolution can stop the process at any time and

begin or resume the Formal Grievance Process. The parties may not enter into an agreement

that requires the College to impose specific sanctions, though the parties can agree to certain

restrictions or other courses of action. For example, the parties cannot require a student be

suspended, but the parties can agree that the Respondent will temporarily or permanently

withdraw. The only Informal Resolution Process that can result in sanctions levied by the

institution is “Accepted Responsibility.” The Title IX Coordinator has discretion to determine if

an investigation will be paused during Informal Resolution, or if it will be limited, or will continue

during the Informal Resolution process.

Prior to implementing Informal Resolution, the College will provide the parties with written

notice of the reported misconduct and any sanctions (only in the case of Accepted

Responsibility) or measures that may result from participating in such a process, including

information regarding any records that will be maintained or shared by the College.

The College will obtain voluntary, written confirmation that all parties wish to resolve the

matter through Informal Resolution before proceeding and will not pressure the parties to

participate in Informal Resolution.

B. Alternative Resolution Approaches

Alternative Resolution is an informal approach including mediation, restorative practices,

facilitated dialogue, etc. by which the parties reach a mutually agreed upon resolution of a

complaint. All parties must consent to the use of an Alternative Resolution approach.

The Title IX Coordinator may consider the following factors to assess whether Alternative

Resolution is appropriate, or which form of Alternative Resolution may be most successful for

the parties:

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• The parties’ amenability to Alternative Resolution

• Likelihood of potential resolution, considering any power dynamics between the parties

• The nature and severity of the alleged misconduct

• The parties’ motivation to participate

• Civility of the parties

• Results of a violence risk assessment/ongoing risk analysis

• Disciplinary history of the Respondent

• Whether an emergency removal is needed

• Skill of the Alternative Resolution facilitator with this type of complaint

• Complaint complexity

• Emotional investment/capability of the parties

• Rationality of the parties

• Goals of the parties

• Adequate resources to invest in Alternative Resolution (time, staff, etc.)

The ultimate determination of whether Alternative Resolution is available or successful is made

by the Title IX Coordinator. The Title IX Coordinator is authorized to facilitate a resolution that is

acceptable to all parties, and/or to accept a resolution that is proposed by the parties, usually

through their Advisors, including terms of confidentiality, release, and non-disparagement.

The Title IX Coordinator maintains records of any resolution that is reached, and failure to abide

by the resolution agreement may result in appropriate responsive/disciplinary actions (e.g.,

referral for formal resolution, referral to the conduct process for failure to comply). Results of

complaints resolved by Alternative Resolution are not appealable.

C. Respondent Accepts Responsibility for Alleged Violations

The Respondent may accept responsibility for all or part of the alleged policy violations at any

point during the Resolution Process. If the Respondent indicates an intent to accept

responsibility for all of the alleged misconduct, the formal process will be paused, and the Title

IX Coordinator will determine whether Informal Resolution can be used according to the criteria

above.

If Informal Resolution is applicable, the Title IX Coordinator will determine whether all parties

and the College are able to agree on responsibility, restrictions and/or remedies. If so, the Title

IX Coordinator implements the accepted finding that the Respondent is in violation of College

policy and implements agreed-upon restrictions and remedies and determines the appropriate

sanction(s) in coordination with other appropriate administrator(s), as necessary.

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This result is not subject to appeal once all parties indicate their written assent to all agreed

upon resolution terms. When the parties cannot agree on all terms of resolution, the Formal

Grievance Process will resume at the same point where it was paused.

When a resolution is accomplished, the appropriate sanction(s) or responsive actions are

promptly implemented to effectively stop the harassment or discrimination, prevent its

recurrence, and remedy the effects of the discriminatory conduct, both on the Complainant and

the community.

7. Formal Grievance Process Pool

The Formal Grievance Process relies on a pool of administrators

(“the Pool”) to carry out the process.

A. Pool Member Roles

Members of the Pool are trained annually, and can serve in in the following roles at the

discretion of the Title IX Coordinator:

• To provide appropriate intake of and initial guidance pertaining to complaints

• To act as an Advisor to the parties

• To serve in a facilitation role in Informal Resolution or Alternative Resolution if

appropriately trained in appropriate resolution approaches (e.g., mediation, restorative

practices, facilitated dialogue)

• To perform or assist with initial assessment as needed

• To investigate complaints

• To serve as a hearing facilitator (process administrator, no decision-making role)

• To serve as a Decision-Maker regarding the complaint

• To serve as an Appeal Decision-Maker

B. Pool Member Appointment

The Title IX Coordinator appoints the Pool,

which acts with independence and impartiality.

Although members of the Pool are typically trained in a variety of skill sets and can rotate

amongst the different roles listed above in different complaints, the College can also designate

permanent roles for individuals in the Pool, using others as substitutes or to provide greater

The parties may not want discussions that take place within Informal Resolution to be admissible in a later

Formal Grievance Process, but essential facts must and do transfer from the informal process to the formal.

External, trained third-party neutral professionals may also be used to serve in Pool roles

This does not preclude the College from having all members of the Pool go through an application and/or

interview/selection process

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depth of experience when necessary. This process of role assignment may be the result of

particular skills, aptitudes, or talents identified in members of the Pool that make them best

suited to particular roles.

C. Pool Member Training

Pool members receive annual training based on their respective roles. This training includes, but

is not limited to:

• The scope of the College’s Title IX and Sexual Misconduct Policy and Procedures

• How to conduct investigations and hearings that protect the safety of Complainants and

Respondents, and promote accountability

• Implicit bias

• Disparate treatment

• Reporting, confidentiality, and privacy requirements

• Applicable laws, regulations, and federal regulatory guidance

• How to implement appropriate and situation-specific remedies

• How to investigate in a thorough, reliable, timely, and impartial manner

• How to conduct a sexual harassment investigation

• Trauma-informed practices pertaining to investigations and resolution processes

• How to uphold fairness, equity, and due process

• How to weigh evidence

• How to conduct questioning

• How to assess credibility

• Impartiality and objectivity

• How to render findings and generate clear, concise, evidence-based rationales

• The definitions of all offenses

• How to apply definitions used by the College with respect to consent (or the absence or

negation of consent) consistently, impartially, and in accordance with policy

• How to conduct an investigation and grievance process including hearings, appeals, and

Informal Resolution Processes

• How to serve impartially by avoiding prejudgment of the facts at issue, conflicts of

interest, and bias against Respondents and/or for Complainants

• Any technology to be used at a live hearing

• Issues of relevance of questions and evidence

• Issues of relevance to create an investigation report that fairly summarizes relevant

evidence

• How to determine appropriate sanctions

• Recordkeeping

The materials used to train all members of the Pool are publicly posted on the Title IX website.

Additionally, any Pool role can be contracted at the Title IX Coordinator’s discretion to qualified

external, trained third-party neutral professionals.

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8. Formal Grievance Process: Notice of Investigation and Allegations

The Title IX Coordinator will provide written Notice of the Investigation and Allegations (the “NOIA”) to

the Respondent upon commencement of the Formal Grievance Process. This facilitates the

Respondent’s ability to prepare for the interview and to identify and choose an Advisor to accompany

them. The NOIA is also copied to the Complainant, who will be given advance notice of when the NOIA

will be delivered to the Respondent.

The NOIA will include:

• A meaningful summary of all allegations

• The identity of the involved parties (if known)

• The precise misconduct being alleged

• The date and location of the alleged incident(s) (if known)

• The specific policies implicated

• A description of the applicable procedures

• A statement of the potential sanctions/responsive actions that could result

• A statement that the College presumes the Respondent is not responsible for the reported

misconduct unless and until the evidence supports a different determination

• A statement that determinations of responsibility are made at the conclusion of the process and

that the parties will be given an opportunity during the review and comment period to inspect

and review all directly related and/or relevant evidence obtained

• A statement about the College’s policy on retaliation

• Information about the confidentiality of the process

• Information on the need for each party to have an Advisor of their choosing and suggestions for

ways to identify an Advisor

• A statement informing the parties that the College’s policy prohibits knowingly making false

statements, including knowingly submitting false information during the Resolution Process

• Detail on how the party may request disability accommodations during the Resolution Process

• The name(s) of the Investigator(s), along with a process to identify to the Title IX Coordinator, in

advance of the interview process, any conflict of interest that the Investigator(s) may have

• An instruction to preserve any evidence that is directly related to the allegations

Amendments and updates to the NOIA may be made as the investigation progresses and more

information becomes available regarding the addition or dismissal of various allegations.

Notice will be made in writing and may be delivered by one or more of the following methods: in

person, mailed to the local or permanent address (es) of the parties as indicated in official College

records, or emailed to the parties’ College-issued email or designated accounts. Once mailed, emailed,

and/or received in-person, notice will be presumptively delivered.

9. Resolution Timeline

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The College will make a good faith effort to complete the Resolution Process within a sixty to ninety (60-

90) business-day time period, including appeal if any, which can be extended as necessary for

appropriate cause by the Title IX Coordinator, who will provide notice and rationale for any extensions

or delays to the parties as appropriate, as well as an estimate of how much additional time will be

needed to complete the process.

10. Appointment of Investigators

Once the decision to commence a formal investigation is made, the Title IX Coordinator appoints Pool

members to conduct the investigation (typically using a team of two Investigators), usually within two

(2) business days of determining that an investigation should proceed.

11. Ensuring Impartiality

Any individual materially involved in the administration of the Resolution Process, including the Title IX

Coordinator, Investigator(s), and Decision-Maker(s), may neither have nor demonstrate a conflict of

interest or bias for a party generally, or for a specific Complainant or Respondent.

The Title IX Coordinator will vet the assigned Investigator(s) for impartiality by ensuring there are no

actual or apparent conflicts of interest or disqualifying biases. At any time during the Resolution Process,

the parties may raise a concern regarding bias or conflict of interest, and the Title IX Coordinator will

determine whether the concern is reasonable and supportable. If so, another Pool member will be

assigned and the impact of the bias or conflict, if any, will be remedied. If the source of the conflict of

interest or bias is the Title IX Coordinator, concerns should be raised with the President of North Central

College and/or the Vice President of Student Affairs and Athletics.

The Formal Grievance Process involves an objective evaluation of all relevant evidence obtained,

including evidence that supports that the Respondent engaged in a policy violation and evidence that

supports that the Respondent did not engage in a policy violation. Credibility determinations may not be

based solely on an individual’s status or participation as a Complainant, Respondent, or witness.

The College operates with the presumption that the Respondent is not responsible for the reported

misconduct unless and until the Respondent is determined to be responsible for a policy violation by the

applicable standard of proof.

12. Investigation Timeline

Investigations are completed expeditiously, normally within sixty (60) business days, though some

investigations may take many weeks or even months, depending on the nature, extent, and complexity

of the allegations, availability of witnesses, law enforcement involvement, etc.

The College will make a good faith effort to complete investigations as promptly as circumstances

permit and will communicate regularly with the parties to update them on the progress and timing of

the investigation.

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13. Investigation Process Delays and Interactions with Law Enforcement

The College may undertake a short delay in its investigation (several days to a few weeks) if

circumstances require. Such circumstances include but are not limited to: a request from law

enforcement to temporarily delay the investigation, the need for language assistance, the absence of

parties and/or witnesses, and/or health conditions.

The College will communicate the anticipated duration of the delay and reason to the parties in writing

and provide the parties with status updates if necessary. The College will promptly resume its

investigation and Resolution Process as soon as feasible. During such a delay, College will implement

supportive measures as deemed appropriate.

College action(s) or processes are not typically altered or precluded on the grounds that civil or criminal

charges involving the underlying incident(s) have been filed or that criminal charges have been

dismissed or reduced.

14. Investigation Process Steps

All investigations are thorough, reliable, impartial, prompt, and fair. Investigations involve interviews

with all available relevant parties and witnesses; obtaining available, relevant evidence; and identifying

sources of expert information, as necessary.

All parties have a full and fair opportunity, through the investigation process, to suggest witnesses and

questions, to provide evidence and expert witnesses, and to fully review and respond to all evidence on

the record.

At the discretion of the Title IX Coordinator, investigations can be combined when complaints implicate

a pattern, collusion, and/or other shared or similar actions.

The Investigator(s) typically take(s) the following steps, if not already completed (not necessarily in this

order):

• Determine the identity and contact information of the Complainant

• Identify all policies implicated by the alleged misconduct and notify the Complainant and

Respondent of all of the specific policies implicated

• Assist the Title IX Coordinator, if needed, with conducting a prompt initial assessment to

determine if the allegations indicate a potential policy violation

• Commence a thorough, reliable, and impartial investigation by identifying issues and developing

a strategic investigation plan, including a witness list, evidence list, intended investigation

timeframe, and order of interviews for the parties and witnesses

• Meet with the Complainant to finalize their interview/statement, if necessary

• Work with the Title IX Coordinator, as necessary, to prepare the initial Notice of Investigation

and Allegations (NOIA). The NOIA may be amended with any additional or dismissed allegations

o Notice should inform the parties of their right to have the assistance of an Advisor, who

could be a member of the Pool or an Advisor of their choosing present for all meetings

attended by the party

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• Provide each interviewed party and witness an opportunity to review and verify the

Investigator’s summary notes (or transcript) of the relevant evidence/testimony from their

respective interviews and meetings

• Make good faith efforts to notify each party of any meeting or interview involving another party,

in advance when possible

• When participation of a party is expected, provide that party with written notice of the date,

time, and location of the meeting, as well as the expected participants and purpose

• Interview all available, relevant witnesses and conduct follow-up interviews as necessary

• Allow each party the opportunity to suggest witnesses and questions they wish the

Investigator(s) to ask of another party and/or witnesses, and document in the report which

questions were asked, with a rationale for any changes or omissions

• Complete the investigation promptly and without unreasonable deviation from the intended

timeline

• Provide regular status updates to the parties throughout the investigation

• Prior to the conclusion of the investigation, provide the parties and their respective Advisors (if

so desired by the parties) with a list of witnesses whose information will be used to render a

finding

• Write a comprehensive investigation report fully summarizing the investigation, all witness

interviews, and addressing all relevant evidence. Appendices including relevant physical or

documentary evidence will be included

• Prior to the conclusion of the investigation, provide the parties and their respective Advisors (if

so desired by the parties) a secured electronic or hard copy of the draft investigation report as

well as an opportunity to inspect and review all of the evidence obtained as part of the

investigation that is directly related to the reported misconduct, including evidence upon which

the College does not intend to rely in reaching a determination, for a ten (10) business-day

review and comment period so that each party may meaningfully respond to the evidence. The

parties may elect to waive the full ten (10) days.

• Elect to respond in writing in the investigation report to the parties’ submitted responses and/or

to share the responses between the parties for additional responses

• Incorporate relevant elements of the parties’ written responses into the final investigation

report, include any additional relevant evidence, make any necessary revisions, and finalize the

report. The Investigator(s) should document all rationales for any changes made after the

review and comment period.

• Share the report with the Title IX Coordinator and/or legal counsel for their review and feedback

• Incorporate any relevant feedback and share the final report with all parties and their Advisors

through secure electronic transmission or hard copy at least ten (10) business days prior to a

hearing. The parties and Advisors are also provided with a file of any directly related evidence

that was not included in the report.

15. Witness Role and Participation in the Investigation

Witnesses (as distinguished from the parties) who are employees of the College are strongly encouraged

to cooperate with and participate in the College’s investigation and Resolution Process. Student

witnesses and witnesses from outside the College community are encouraged to cooperate with College

investigations and to share what they know about a complaint.

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Although in-person interviews for parties and all potential witnesses are ideal, circumstances (e.g., study

abroad, summer break) may require individuals to be interviewed remotely. Skype, Zoom, Microsoft

Teams, FaceTime, WebEx, or similar technologies may be used for interviews if the Investigator(s)

determine that timeliness, efficiency, or other reasons dictate a need for remote interviewing. The

College will take appropriate steps to reasonably ensure the security/privacy of remote interviews.

Witnesses may also provide written statements in lieu of interviews or choose to respond to written

questions, if deemed appropriate by the Investigator(s), though not preferred.

16. Interview Recording

No unauthorized audio or video recording of any kind is permitted during investigation meetings. If

Investigator(s) elect to audio and/or video record interviews, all involved parties should be made aware

of and consent to audio and/or video recording.

17. Evidentiary Considerations

Neither the investigation nor the hearing will consider: (1) incidents not relevant or not directly related

to the possible violation(s), unless they evidence a pattern; or (2) questions and evidence about the

Complainant’s sexual predisposition; or (3) questions and evidence about the Complainant’s prior sexual

behavior, unless such questions and evidence about the Complainant’s prior sexual behavior are offered

to prove that someone other than the Respondent committed the conduct alleged by the Complainant,

or if the questions and evidence concern specific incidents of the Complainant’s prior sexual behavior

with respect to the Respondent and are offered to prove consent.

Within the boundaries stated above, the investigation and the hearing can consider character evidence

generally, if offered, but that evidence is unlikely to be relevant unless it is fact evidence or relates to a

pattern of conduct.

18. Referral for Hearing

Provided that the complaint is not resolved through Informal Resolution, once the final investigation

report is shared with the parties, the Title IX Coordinator will refer the matter for a hearing.

The hearing cannot be held less than ten (10) business days from the conclusion of the investigation–

when the final investigation report is transmitted to the parties and the Decision-Maker(s)–unless all

parties and the Decision-Maker(s) agree to an expedited timeline.

The Title IX Coordinator will select an appropriate Decision-Maker or Decision-Makers from the Pool and

provide a copy of the investigation report and the file of directly related evidence. Allegations involving

student-employees in the context of their employment will be directed to the appropriate Decision-

Maker(s) depending on the context and nature of the alleged misconduct.

19. Hearing Decision-Maker Composition

The College will designate a single Decision-Maker or a three-member panel from the Pool, at the

discretion of the Title IX Coordinator. The single Decision-Maker will also Chair the hearing. With a

panel, one of the three members will be appointed as Chair by the Title IX Coordinator.

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The Decision-Maker(s) will not have had any previous involvement with the complaint. The Title IX

Coordinator may elect to have an alternate from the Pool sit in throughout the hearing process in the

event that a substitute is needed for any reason.

Those who have served as Investigators will be witnesses in the hearing and therefore may not serve as

Decision-Makers. Those who are serving as Advisors for any party may not serve as Decision-Makers in

that matter.

The Title IX Coordinator may not serve as a Decision-Maker or Chair in the matter but may serve as an

administrative facilitator of the hearing if their previous role(s) in the matter do not create a conflict of

interest. Otherwise, a designee may fulfill the facilitator role. The hearing will convene at a time and

venue determined by the Title IX Coordinator or designee.

20. Additional Evidentiary Considerations in the Hearing

Previous disciplinary action of any kind involving the Respondent may not be used unless there is an

allegation of a pattern of misconduct. Such information may also be considered in determining an

appropriate sanction upon a determination of responsibility, assuming the College uses a progressive

discipline system. This information is only considered at the sanction stage of the process and is not

shared until then.

The parties may each submit a written impact and/or mitigation statement prior to the hearing for the

consideration of the Decision-Maker(s) at the sanction stage of the process when a determination of

responsibility is reached.

After post-hearing deliberation, the Decision-Maker(s) render(s) a determination based on the

preponderance of the evidence; whether it is more likely than not that the Respondent violated the

Policy as alleged.

21. Hearing Notice

No less than ten (10) business days prior to the hearing,

the Title IX Coordinator or the Chair will send

notice of the hearing to the parties. Once mailed, emailed, and/or received in-person, notice will be

presumptively delivered.

The notice will contain:

• A description of the alleged violation(s), a list of all policies allegedly violated, a description of

the applicable hearing procedures, and a statement of the potential sanctions/responsive

actions that could result.

• The time, date, and location of the hearing.

• Description of any technology that will be used to facilitate the hearing.

Unless an expedited hearing is agreed to by all parties.

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• Information about the option for the live hearing to occur with the parties located in separate

rooms using technology that enables the Decision-Maker(s) and parties to see and hear a party

or witness answering questions. Such a request must be raised with the Title IX Coordinator as

soon as possible, preferably at least five (5) business days prior to the hearing.

• A list of all those who will attend the hearing, along with an invitation to object to any Decision-

Maker(s) based on demonstrated bias or conflict of interest. This must be raised with the Title IX

Coordinator at least two (2) business days prior to the hearing.

• Information on how the hearing will be recorded and how the parties can access the recording

after the hearing.

• A statement that if any party or witness does not appear at the scheduled hearing, the hearing

may be held in their absence. For compelling reasons, the Chair may reschedule the hearing.

• Notification that the parties may have the assistance of an Advisor of their choosing at the

hearing and will be required to have one present for any questions they may desire to ask. The

party must notify the Title IX Coordinator if they wish to conduct cross-examination and do not

have an Advisor, and the College will appoint one. Each party must have an Advisor present if

they intend to cross-examine others. There are no exceptions.

• A copy of all the materials provided to the Decision-Maker(s) about the complaint unless they

have already been provided.

• An invitation to each party to submit to the Chair an impact and/or mitigation statement pre-

hearing that the Decision-Maker(s) will review during any sanction determination.

• An invitation to contact the Title IX Coordinator to arrange any disability accommodations,

language assistance, and/or interpretation services that may be needed at the hearing, at least

seven (7) business days prior to the hearing.

• Whether parties can/cannot bring mobile phones/devices into the hearing.

Hearings for possible violations that occur near or after the end of an academic term (assuming the

Respondent is still subject to this Policy) and are unable to be resolved prior to the end of term will

typically be held immediately after the end of the term or during the summer, as needed, to meet the

resolution timeline followed by the College and remain within the 60-90 business-day goal for

resolution. Employees who do not have 12-month contracts are still expected to participate in

Resolution Proceedings that occur during months between contracts.

22. Alternative Hearing Participation Options

If a party or parties prefer not to attend or cannot attend the hearing in person, the party should

request alternative arrangements from the Title IX Coordinator as soon as possible, preferably at least

five (5) business days prior to the hearing.

The Title IX Coordinator can arrange to use technology to allow remote testimony without

compromising the fairness of the hearing. Remote options may also be needed for witnesses who

cannot appear in person. Any witness who cannot attend in person should let the Title IX Coordinator

know as soon as possible, preferably at least five (5) business days prior to the hearing so that

appropriate arrangements can be made.

The final investigation report may be shared using electronic means that preclude downloading, forwarding, or

otherwise sharing.

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23. Pre-Hearing Preparation

After any necessary consultation with the parties, the Chair will provide the names of persons who have

been asked to participate in the hearing, all pertinent documentary evidence, and the final investigation

report to the parties at least ten (10) business days prior to the hearing.

Any witness scheduled to participate in the hearing must have been first interviewed by the

Investigator(s) or have proffered a written statement or answered written questions, unless all parties

and the Chair assent to the witness’s participation in the hearing. The same holds for any relevant

evidence that is first offered at the hearing. If the parties and Chair do not assent to the admission of

evidence newly offered at the hearing, the Chair may delay the hearing and/or instruct that the

investigation needs to be re-opened to consider that evidence.

The parties will be given a list of the names of the Decision-Maker(s) at least five (5) business days in

advance of the hearing. All objections to any Decision-Maker must be raised in writing, detailing the

rationale for the objection, and must be submitted to the Title IX Coordinator as soon as possible and no

later than two (2) business days prior to the hearing. Decision-Makers will only be removed if the Title IX

Coordinator concludes that their actual or perceived bias or conflict of interest precludes an impartial

hearing of the complaint.

The Title IX Coordinator will give the Decision-Maker(s) a list of the names of all parties, witnesses, and

Advisors at least five (5) business days in advance of the hearing. Any Decision-Maker who cannot make

an objective determination must recuse themselves from the proceedings when notified of the identity

of the parties, witnesses, and Advisors in advance of the hearing. If a Decision-Maker is unsure of

whether a bias or conflict of interest exists, they must raise the concern to the Title IX Coordinator as

soon as possible.

During the ten (10) business day period prior to the hearing, the parties have the opportunity for

continued review and comment on the final investigation report and available evidence. That review

and comment can be shared with the Chair at a pre-hearing meeting or at the hearing and will be

exchanged between each party by the Chair.

24. Pre-Hearing Meetings

The Chair may convene a pre-hearing meeting(s) with the parties and/or their Advisors and invite them

to submit the questions or topics they (the parties and/or their Advisors) wish to ask or discuss at the

hearing, so that the Chair can rule on their relevance ahead of time to avoid any improper evidentiary

introduction in the hearing or to provide recommendations for more appropriate phrasing.

However, this advance review opportunity does not preclude the Advisors from asking a question for

the first time at the hearing or from asking for a reconsideration on a pre-hearing ruling by the Chair

based on any new information or testimony offered at the hearing. The Chair must document and share

with each party their rationale for any exclusion or inclusion at a pre-hearing meeting.

34 C.F.R. § 668.46(k) (3) (B) (3) requires “timely and equal access to the accuser, the accused, and appropriate

officials to any information that will be used during informal and formal disciplinary meetings and hearings.”

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The Chair, only with full agreement of the parties, may decide in advance of the hearing that certain

witnesses do not need to be present if their testimony can be adequately summarized by the

Investigator(s) in the investigation report or during the hearing.

At each pre-hearing meeting with a party and/or their Advisor, the Chair will consider arguments that

evidence identified in the final investigation report as relevant is, in fact, not relevant. Similarly,

evidence identified as directly related but not relevant by the Investigator(s) may be argued to be

relevant. The Chair may rule on these arguments pre-hearing and will exchange those rulings between

the parties prior to the hearing to assist in preparation for the hearing. The Chair may consult with legal

counsel and/or the Title IX Coordinator or ask either or both to attend pre-hearing meetings.

The pre-hearing meeting(s) will not be recorded. The pre-hearing meetings may be conducted as

separate meetings with each party/Advisor, with all parties/Advisors present at the same time,

remotely, or as a written-only exchange. The Chair will work with the parties to establish the format.

25. Hearing Procedures

At the hearing, the Decision-Maker(s) have the authority to hear and make determinations on all

allegations of discrimination, harassment, and/or retaliation and may also hear and make

determinations on any additional alleged policy violations that occurred in concert with the

discrimination, harassment, and/or retaliation, even though those collateral allegations may not

specifically fall within the Policy.

Participants at the hearing will include the Chair, any additional panelists, the hearing facilitator, the

Investigator(s) who conducted the investigation, the parties, Advisors to the parties, any called

witnesses, the Title IX Coordinator (who may be acting as the hearing facilitator), and anyone providing

authorized accommodations, interpretation, and/or assistive services.

The Chair will answer all questions of procedure.

Anyone appearing at the hearing to provide information will respond to questions on their own behalf.

The Chair will allow witnesses who have relevant information to appear at a portion of the hearing to

respond to specific questions from the Decision-Maker(s) and the parties, and the witnesses will then be

excused. The Investigator(s) may remain present for the duration of the hearing.

26. Joint Hearings

In hearings involving more than one Respondent and/or involving more than one Complainant who has

accused the same individual of substantially similar conduct, the default procedure will be to hear the

allegations jointly.

However, the Title IX Coordinator may permit the investigation and/or hearings pertinent to each

Respondent or complaint to be conducted separately if there is a compelling reason to do so. In joint

hearings, separate determinations of responsibility will be made for each Respondent and/or for each

complaint with respect to each alleged policy violation.

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27. The Order of the Hearing – Introductions and Explanation of Procedure

The Chair explains the procedures and introduces the participants. This may include a final opportunity

for challenge or recusal of the Decision-Maker(s) based on bias or conflict of interest. The Chair will rule

on any such challenge unless the Chair is the individual who is the subject of the challenge, in which case

the Title IX Coordinator will review the challenge and decide.

The hearing facilitator may attend to: logistics of rooms for various parties/witnesses as they wait; flow

of parties/witnesses in and out of the hearing space; ensuring recording and/or virtual conferencing

technology is working as intended; copying and distributing materials to participants, as appropriate,

etc.

28. Investigator Presentation of Final Investigation Report

The Investigator(s) will present a summary of the final investigation report, including items that are

contested and those that are not, and will be subject to questioning by the Decision-Maker(s) and the

parties (through their Advisors). The Investigator(s) may be present during the entire hearing process,

but not during deliberations. Neither the parties nor the Decision-Maker(s) should ask the

Investigator(s) their opinions on credibility, recommended findings, or determinations, and Advisors and

parties will refrain from discussion of or questions for Investigators about these assessments. If such

information is introduced, the Chair will direct that it be disregarded.

29. Testimony and Questioning

Once the Investigator(s) present(s) the report and respond(s) to questions, the parties and witnesses

may provide relevant information in turn, beginning with the Complainant, and then in the order

determined by the Chair. The hearing will facilitate questioning of parties and witnesses by the Decision-

Maker(s) and then by the parties through their Advisors.

All questions are subject to a relevance determination by the Chair. The Advisor, who will remain seated

during questioning, will pose the proposed question orally, electronically, or in writing (orally is the

default, but other means of submission may be permitted by the Chair upon request if agreed to by all

parties and the Chair), the proceeding will pause to allow the Chair to consider the question (and state it

if it has not already been stated aloud), and the Chair will determine whether the question will be

permitted, disallowed, or rephrased.

The Chair may invite explanations or persuasive statements regarding relevance with the Advisors if the

Chair so chooses. The Chair will then state their decision on the question for the record and advise the

party/witness to whom the question was directed, accordingly. The Chair will explain any decision to

exclude a question as not relevant, or to reframe it for relevance.

The Chair will limit or disallow questions on the basis that they are irrelevant, unduly repetitious (and

thus irrelevant), or abusive. The Chair has final say on all questions and determinations of relevance. The

Chair may consult with legal counsel on any questions of admissibility. The Chair may ask Advisors to

frame why a question is or is not relevant from their perspective but will not entertain argument from

the Advisors on relevance once the Chair has ruled on a question.

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If the parties raise an issue of bias or conflict of interest of an Investigator or Decision-Maker at the

hearing, the Chair may elect to address those issues, consult with legal counsel, and/or refer them to the

Title IX Coordinator, and/or preserve them for appeal. If bias is not in issue at the hearing, the Chair

should not permit irrelevant questions that probe for bias.

30. Refusal to Submit to Questioning; Inferences

Any party or witness may choose not to offer evidence and/or answer questions at the hearing, either

because they do not attend the hearing, or because they attend but refuse to participate in some or all

questioning. The Decision-Maker(s) can only rely on whatever relevant evidence is available through the

investigation and hearing in making the ultimate determination of responsibility. The Decision-Maker(s)

may not draw any inference solely from a party or witness’ absence from the hearing or refusal to

submit to cross-examination or answer other questions.

31. Hearing Recordings

Hearings (but not deliberations) are recorded by the College for purposes of review in the event of an

appeal. The parties may not record the proceedings and no other unauthorized recordings are

permitted.

The Decision-Maker(s), the parties, their Advisors, and appropriate administrators of the College will be

permitted to review the recording or review a transcript of the recording, upon request to the Title IX

Coordinator. No person will be given or be allowed to make a copy of the recording without permission

of the Title IX Coordinator.

32. Deliberation, Decision-Making, and Standard of Proof

The Decision-Maker(s) will deliberate in closed session to determine whether the Respondent is

responsible for the policy violation(s) in question. If a panel is used, a simple majority vote is required to

determine the finding. The preponderance of the evidence standard of proof is used. The hearing

facilitator may be invited to attend the deliberation by the Chair, but is there only to facilitate

procedurally, not to address the substance of the allegations.

When there is a finding of responsibility on one or more of the allegations, the Decision-Maker(s) may

then consider the previously submitted party impact and/or mitigation statement(s) in determining

appropriate sanction(s). The Chair will ensure that each of the parties has an opportunity to review any

submitted impact and/or mitigation statement(s) once they are submitted. The Decision-Maker(s) will

also review any pertinent conduct history provided by the Dean of Students and will recommend the

appropriate sanction(s) in consultation with other appropriate administrators, as required.

The Chair will then prepare a written statement detailing all findings and final determinations, the

rationale(s) explaining the decision(s), the evidence used in support of the determination(s), the

evidence not relied upon in the determination(s), any credibility assessments, and any

recommendations of sanction(s) and rationales explaining the sanction(s) and will deliver the statement

to the Title IX Coordinator.

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This statement is typically three to five (3-5) pages in length and must be submitted to the Title IX

Coordinator within two (2) business days of the end of deliberations unless the Title IX Coordinator

grants an extension. If an extension is granted, the Title IX Coordinator will notify the parties.

33. Notice of Outcome

Using the deliberation statement, the Title IX Coordinator will work with the Chair to prepare a Notice of

Outcome letter. The Notice of Outcome may be reviewed by legal counsel at the Title IX Coordinator’s

discretion. The Title IX Coordinator will then share the letter, which includes the final determination,

rationale, and any applicable sanction(s), with the parties and their Advisors within 5 business days of

receiving the deliberation statement.

The Notice of Outcome will be shared with the parties simultaneously. Notification will be made in

writing and may be delivered by one or more of the following methods: in person, mailed to the local or

permanent address of the parties as indicated in official College records, or emailed to the parties’

College-issued email or otherwise approved account. Once mailed, emailed, and/or received in-person,

notice will be presumptively delivered.

The Notice of Outcome will articulate the specific alleged policy violation(s), including the relevant policy

section(s), and will contain a description of the procedural steps taken by the College from the receipt of

the misconduct report to the determination, including any and all notifications to the parties, interviews

with parties and witnesses, site visits, methods used to obtain evidence, and hearings held.

The Notice of Outcome will specify the finding for each alleged policy violation; the findings of fact that

support the determination; conclusions regarding the application of the relevant policy to the facts at

issue; a statement of, and rationale for, the result of each allegation to the extent the College is

permitted to share such information under state or federal law; any sanction(s) issued which the College

is permitted to share according to state or federal law; and whether remedies will be provided to the

Complainant to ensure access to the College’s educational or employment program or activity.

The Notice of Outcome will also include information on when the results are considered final by the

College, will note any changes to the outcome and/or sanction(s) that occur prior to finalization, and the

relevant procedures and bases for appeal.

34. Sanctions

Factors considered when determining a sanction/responsive action may include, but are not limited to:

• The nature, severity of, and circumstances surrounding the violation(s)

• The Respondent’s disciplinary history

• The need for sanctions/responsive actions to bring an end to the discrimination, harassment,

and/or retaliation

• The need for sanctions/responsive actions to prevent the future recurrence of discrimination,

harassment, and/or retaliation

• The need to remedy the effects of the discrimination, harassment, and/or retaliation on the

Complainant and the community

• The impact on the parties

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• Any other information deemed relevant by the Decision-Maker(s)

The sanctions will be implemented as soon as is feasible, either upon the outcome of any appeal or the

expiration of the window to appeal without an appeal being requested.

The sanctions described in this Policy are not exclusive of, and may be in addition to, other actions

taken, or sanctions imposed, by external authorities.

If it is later determined that a party or witness intentionally provided false or misleading information,

that action could be grounds for re-opening a grievance process at any time, and/or referring that

information to another process for resolution.

A. Student Sanctions

The following are the common sanctions that may be imposed upon students singly or in

combination:

• Warning: A formal statement that the conduct was unacceptable and a warning that

further violation of any College policy, procedure, or directive will result in more severe

sanctions/responsive actions.

• Required Counseling: A mandate to meet with and engage in either College-sponsored

or external counseling to better comprehend the misconduct and its effects.

• Probation: A written reprimand for violation of institutional policy, providing for more

severe disciplinary sanctions in the event that the student or organization is found in

violation of any institutional policy, procedure, or directive within a specified period of

time. Terms of the probation will be articulated and may include denial of specified

social privileges, exclusion from co-curricular activities, exclusion from designated areas

of campus, no-contact orders, and/or other measures deemed appropriate.

• Suspension: Termination of student status for a definite period of time not to exceed

two years and/or until specific criteria are met. Students who return from suspension

are automatically placed on probation through the remainder of their tenure as a

student at the College.

• Expulsion: Permanent termination of student status and revocation of rights to be on

campus for any reason or to attend College-sponsored events.

• Withholding Diploma: The College may withhold a student’s diploma for a specified

period of time and/or deny a student participation in commencement activities as a

sanction if the student is found responsible for violating policy.

• Revocation of Degree: The College reserves the right to revoke a degree previously

awarded from the College for fraud, misrepresentation, and/or other violation of

College policies, procedures, or directives in obtaining the degree, or for other serious

violations committed by a student prior to graduation.

• Other Actions: In addition to or in place of the above sanctions, the College may assign

any other sanctions as deemed appropriate.

College policies on transcript notation will apply to these proceedings.

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B. Student Organization Sanctions

The following are the common sanctions that may be imposed upon student organizations singly

or in combination:

• Warning: A formal statement that the conduct was unacceptable and a warning that

further violation of any College policy, procedure, or directive will result in more severe

sanctions/responsive actions.

• Probation: A written reprimand for violation of institutional policy, providing for more

severe disciplinary sanctions in the event that the organization is found in violation of

any institutional policy, procedure, or directive within a specified period of time. Terms

of the probation will be articulated and may include denial of specified social and event

privileges, denial of College funds, ineligibility for honors and awards, restrictions on

new member recruitment, no-contact orders, and/or other measures deemed

appropriate.

• Suspension: Termination of student organization recognition for a definite period of

time not to exceed two years and/or until specific criteria are met. During the

suspension period, a student organization may not conduct any formal or informal

business or participate in College-related activities, whether they occur on or off

campus. Re-recognition is possible but not guaranteed and will only be considered after

the end of the suspension period and based on meeting all re-recognition criteria and

obtaining clearance from the College.

• Expulsion: Permanent termination of student organization recognition and revocation of

the privilege to congregate and conduct business on campus as an organization for any

reason.

• Loss of Privileges: Restricted from accessing specific College privileges for a specified

period of time.

• Other Actions: In addition to or in place of the above sanctions, the College may assign

any other sanctions as deemed appropriate.

C. Employee Sanctions/Responsive/Corrective Actions

Responsive actions for an employee who has engaged in harassment, discrimination, and/or

retaliation include:

• Verbal or Written Warning

• Performance Improvement Plan/Management Process

• Enhanced Supervision, Observation, or Review

• Required Counseling

• Required Training or Education

• Probation

• Denial of Pay Increase/Pay Grade

• Loss of Oversight or Supervisory Responsibility

• Demotion

• Transfer

• Reassignment

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• Delay of (or referral for delay of) Tenure Track Progress

• Assignment to New Supervisor

• Restriction of Stipends, Research, and/or Professional Development Resources

• Suspension/Administrative Leave with Pay

• Suspension/Administrative Leave without Pay

• Termination

• Other Actions: In addition to or in place of the above sanctions/responsive actions, the

College may assign any other responsive actions as deemed appropriate.

35. Withdrawal or Resignation Before Complaint Resolution

A. Students

Should a Respondent decide not to participate in the Resolution Process, the process proceeds

absent their participation to a reasonable resolution. Should a student Respondent permanently

withdraw from the College, the Resolution Process typically ends with a dismissal, as the College

has lost primary disciplinary jurisdiction over the withdrawn student. However, the College may

continue the Resolution Process when, at the discretion of the Title IX Coordinator, doing so

may be necessary to address safety and/or remedy any ongoing effects of the alleged

harassment, discrimination, and/or retaliation.

Regardless of whether the complaint is dismissed or pursued to completion of the Resolution

Process, the College will continue to address and remedy any systemic issues or concerns that

may have contributed to the alleged violation(s), and any ongoing effects of the alleged

harassment, discrimination, and/or retaliation.

If the student Respondent only withdraws or takes a leave for a specified period of time (e.g.,

one semester or term), the Resolution Process may continue remotely and, if found in violation,

that student is not permitted to return to College unless and until all sanctions, if any, have been

satisfied.

B. Employees

Should an employee Respondent resign with unresolved allegations pending, the Resolution

Process typically ends with dismissal, as the College has lost primary disciplinary jurisdiction over

the resigned employee. However, the College may continue the Resolution Process when, at the

discretion of the Title IX Coordinator, doing so may be necessary to address safety and/or

remedy any ongoing effects of the alleged harassment, discrimination, and/or retaliation.

Regardless of whether the matter is dismissed or pursued to completion of the Resolution

Process, the College will continue to address and remedy any systemic issues or concerns that

contributed to the alleged violation(s), and any ongoing effects of the alleged harassment,

discrimination, and/or retaliation.

The employee who resigns with unresolved allegations pending is not eligible for academic

admission or rehire with the College or any College location, and the records retained by the

Title IX Coordinator will reflect that status.

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36. Appeals

Any party may submit a written request for appeal (“Request for Appeal”) to the Title IX Coordinator

within 5 business days of the delivery of the Notice of Outcome.

A single Appeal Decision-Maker will Chair the appeal. No Appeal Decision-Maker will have been

previously involved in the Resolution Process for the complaint, including in any dismissal appeal that

may have been heard earlier in the process.

The Request for Appeal will be forwarded to the Appeal Chair or designee for consideration to

determine if the request meets the grounds for appeal (a Review for Standing). This review is not a

review of the merits of the appeal, but solely a determination as to whether the request meets the

grounds and is timely filed.

A. Grounds for Appeal

Appeals are limited to the following grounds:

1) A procedural irregularity affected the outcome of the matter

2) New evidence that was not reasonably available at the time the determination

regarding responsibility or dismissal was made, that could affect the outcome of the

matter

3) The Title IX Coordinator, Investigator(s), or Decision-Maker(s) had a conflict of interest

or bias for or against Complainants or Respondents generally or the specific

Complainant or Respondent that affected the outcome of the matter

If any of the grounds in the Request for Appeal do not meet the grounds in this Policy, that

request will be denied by the Appeal Chair, and the parties and their Advisors will be notified in

writing of the denial and the rationale.

If any of the grounds in the Request for Appeal meet the grounds in this Policy, then the Appeal

Chair will notify all parties and their Advisors, the Title IX Coordinator, and, when appropriate,

the Investigator(s) and/or the original Decision-Maker(s).

All other parties and their Advisors, the Title IX Coordinator, and, when appropriate, the

Investigator(s) and/or the original Decision-Maker(s) will be mailed, emailed, and/or provided a

hard copy of the Request for Appeal with the approved grounds and then be given 5 business

days to submit a response to the portion of the appeal that was approved and involves them. All

responses, if any, will be forwarded by the Appeal Chair to all parties for review and comment.

The non-appealing party (if any) may also choose to appeal at this time. If so, that will be

reviewed to determine if it meets the grounds in this Policy by the Appeal Chair and either

denied or approved. If approved, it will be forwarded to the party who initially requested an

appeal, the Title IX Coordinator, and the Investigator(s) and/or original Decision-Maker(s), as

necessary, who will submit their responses, if any, within 5 business days. Any such responses

will be circulated for review and comment by all parties. If not approved, the parties will be

notified accordingly, in writing.

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Neither party may submit any new requests for appeal after this time period. The Appeal Chair

will collect any additional information needed and all documentation regarding the approved

grounds for appeal, and the subsequent responses will be shared with the Appeal Chair and the

Chair will render a decision within no more than 5 business days, barring exigent circumstances.

All decisions apply the preponderance of the evidence standard of evidence.

A Notice of Appeal Outcome will be sent to all parties simultaneously. The Notice of Appeal

Outcome will specify the finding on each ground for appeal, any specific instructions for remand

or reconsideration, any sanction(s) that may result which the College is permitted to share

according to state or federal law, and the rationale supporting the essential findings to the

extent the College is permitted to share under state or federal law.

Notification will be made in writing and may be delivered by one or more of the following

methods: in person, mailed to the local or permanent address of the parties as indicated in

official institutional records, or emailed to the parties’ College-issued email or otherwise

approved account. Once mailed, emailed and/or received in-person, notice will be

presumptively delivered.

B. Sanctions Status During the Appeal

Any sanctions imposed as a result of the hearing are stayed (i.e.: not implemented) during the

appeal process. Supportive measures may be reinstated, subject to the same supportive

measure procedures above.

If any of the sanctions are to be implemented immediately post-hearing, but pre-appeal, then

the emergency removal procedures (detailed above) for a show cause meeting on the

justification for doing so must be permitted within 48 hours of implementation.

If the original sanctions include separation in any form, the College may place a hold on official

transcripts, diplomas, graduations, course registration, etc. pending the outcome of an appeal.

The Respondent may request a stay of these holds from the Title IX Coordinator within two (2)

business days of the notice of the sanctions. The request will be evaluated by the Title IX

Coordinator or designee, whose determination is final.

C. Appeal Considerations

• Appeals are not intended to provide for a full re-hearing (de novo) of the allegation(s).

In most cases, appeals are confined to a review of the written documentation or record

of the original hearing and pertinent documentation regarding the specific grounds for

appeal.

• Decisions on appeal are to be deferential to the original determination, making changes

to the finding only when there is clear error and to the sanction(s)/responsive action(s)

only if there is a compelling justification to do so.

• An appeal is not an opportunity for Appeal Decision-Makers to substitute their

judgment for that of the original Decision-Maker(s) merely because they disagree with

the finding and/or sanction(s).

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• The Appeal Chair/Decision-Maker(s) may consult with the Title IX Coordinator and/or

legal counsel on questions of procedure or rationale, for clarification, if needed.

Documentation of all such consultation will be maintained.

• Appeals granted should normally be remanded (or partially remanded) to the original

Investigator(s) and/or Decision-Maker(s) for reconsideration.

• Once an appeal is decided, the outcome is final: further appeals are not permitted, even

if a decision or sanction is changed on remand (except in the case of a new hearing).

• In rare cases where an error cannot be cured by the original Investigator(s) and/or

Decision-Maker(s) or the Title IX Coordinator (as in cases of bias), the Appeal

Chair/Decision-Maker(s) may order a new investigation and/or a new hearing with new

Pool members serving in the Investigator and Decision-Maker roles.

• The results of a new hearing can be appealed, once, on any of the three available appeal

grounds.

• In cases resulting in reinstatement to the College or resumption of privileges, all

reasonable attempts to restore the Respondent to their prior status will be made,

recognizing some opportunities lost may be irreparable in the short term.

37. Long-Term Remedies/Other Actions

Following the conclusion of the Resolution Process, and in addition to any sanctions implemented, the

Title IX Coordinator may implement additional long-term remedies or actions with respect to the parties

and/or the institutional community that are intended to stop the harassment, discrimination, and/or

retaliation, remedy the effects, and prevent reoccurrence.

These remedies/actions may include, but are not limited to:

• Referral to counseling and health services

• Referral to the Employee Assistance Program

• Education to the individual and/or the community

• Permanent alteration of housing assignments

• Permanent alteration of work arrangements for employees

• Provision of campus safety escorts

• Climate surveys

• Policy modification and/or training

• Provision of transportation assistance

• Implementation of long-term contact limitations between the parties

• Implementation of adjustments to academic deadlines, course schedules, etc.

At the discretion of the Title IX Coordinator, certain long-term support or measures may also be

provided to the parties even if no policy violation is found.

When no policy violation is found, the Title IX Coordinator will address any remedies the College owes

the Respondent to ensure no effective denial of educational access.

The College will maintain the confidentiality of any long-term remedies/actions/measures, provided

confidentiality does not impair the College’s ability to provide these services.

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38. Failure to Comply with Sanctions and/or Responsive Actions

All Respondents are expected to comply with the assigned sanctions, responsive actions, and/or

corrective actions within the timeframe specified by the final Decision-Maker(s) (including the Appeal

Chair).

Failure to abide by the sanction(s)/action(s) imposed by the date specified, whether by refusal, neglect,

or any other reason, may result in additional sanction(s)/action(s), including suspension, expulsion,

and/or termination from the College. Supervisors are expected to enforce completion of

sanctions/responsive actions for their employees.

A suspension will only be lifted when compliance is achieved to the satisfaction of the Title IX

Coordinator.

39. Recordkeeping

North Central College will maintain for a period of at least seven years following the conclusion of the

Resolution Process, records of:

1) Each sexual harassment investigation including any determination regarding responsibility and

any audio or audiovisual recording or transcript required under federal regulation

2) Any disciplinary sanctions imposed on the Respondent

3) Any remedies provided to the Complainant designed to restore or preserve equal access to the

College’s education program or activity

4) Any appeal and the result therefrom

5) Any Informal Resolution and the result therefrom

6) All materials used to train Title IX Coordinators, Investigators, Decision-Makers, and any person

who facilitates an Informal Resolution process. The College will make these training materials

publicly available on the College’s website.

7) Any actions, including any supportive measures, taken in response to a report or Formal

Complaint of sexual harassment, including:

a. The basis for all conclusions that the response was not deliberately indifferent

b. Any measures designed to restore or preserve equal access to the College’s education

program or activity

c. If no supportive measures were provided to the Complainant, document the reasons

why such a response was not clearly unreasonable in light of the known circumstances

The College will also maintain any and all records in accordance with state and federal laws.

40. Disability Accommodations in the Resolution Process

North Central College is committed to providing reasonable accommodations and support to qualified

students, employees, or others with disabilities to ensure equal access to the College’s Resolution

Process.

Anyone needing such accommodations or support should contact the Director of Disability/Access

Services or HR if employee, who will review the request and, in consultation with the person requesting

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the accommodation and the Title IX Coordinator, determine which accommodations are appropriate

and necessary for full participation in the process.

41. Revision of this Policy and Procedures

This Policy and procedures supersede any previous policies addressing harassment, sexual misconduct,

discrimination, and/or retaliation for incidents occurring on or after August 9, 2023, under Title IX and

will be reviewed and updated annually by the Title IX Coordinator. The College reserves the right to

make changes to this document as necessary, and once those changes are posted online, they are in

effect.

During the Resolution Process, the Title IX Coordinator may make minor modifications to procedures

that do not materially jeopardize the fairness owed to any party, such as to accommodate summer

schedules. The Title IX Coordinator may also vary procedures materially with notice (on the institutional

website, with the appropriate effective date identified) upon determining that changes to law or

regulation require Policy or procedural alterations not reflected in this Policy and procedures.

If government laws or regulations change–or court decisions alter–the requirements in a way that

impacts this document, this document will be construed to comply with the most recent government

laws or regulations or court holdings.

This document does not create legally enforceable protections beyond the protections of the

background state and federal laws which frame such policies and codes, generally.

This Policy and procedures are effective August 9, 2023.

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Process B: Resolution of Alleged Sexual Misconduct Falling Outside Title IX

• Process B is applicable when the Title IX Coordinator determines Process A is inapplicable, or

offenses subject to Process A have been dismissed.

• If Process A is applicable, Process A must be applied in lieu of Process B.

PROCESS B RESOLUTION PROCESS FOR ALLEGED VIOLATIONS OF THE TITLE IX AND SEXUAL

MISCONDUCT POLICY

North Central College will act on any formal or informal allegation or notice of violation of the Title IX

and Sexual Misconduct Policy that is received by the Title IX Coordinator

or a member of the

administration, faculty, or other employee, with the exception of confidential resources, as articulated

in the Policy above.

The procedures described below apply to all allegations of sex or gender-based harassment,

discrimination, and/or retaliation involving students, staff, faculty members, or third parties that do not

meet Process A requirements.

These procedures may also be used to address collateral misconduct arising from the investigation of or

occurring in conjunction with harassing, discriminatory, or retaliatory conduct (e.g., vandalism, physical

abuse of another). All other allegations of misconduct unrelated to incidents covered by this Policy will

be addressed through the procedures elaborated in the respective student, program, faculty, and staff

handbooks.

1. Initial Assessment

Following intake, receipt of notice, or a complaint of an alleged violation of the College’s

nondiscrimination policy, the Title IX Coordinator

engages in an initial assessment, which is typically

one to five (1-5) business days in duration. The steps in an initial assessment can include:

• The Title IX Coordinator reaches out to the Complainant to offer supportive measures.

• The Title IX Coordinator works with the Complainant to ensure they have an Advisor.

• The Title IX Coordinator works with the Complainant to determine which of three options to

pursue: A Supportive Response, an Informal Resolution, or an Administrative Resolution.

o If a Supportive Response is preferred, the Title IX Coordinator works with the

Complainant to identify their wishes and then seeks to facilitate implementation. An

Colleges can substitute any alternative process instead of Process B, if desired. VAWA Section 304 requirements

apply to Process B or any alternative process for reports that fall under VAWA. Title IX requirements outside of

Section 106.30 (based on the original 1975 regulations, etc.) may also be resolved using Process B.

All references herein to a Title IX Coordinator also include a designee of the Title IX Coordinator.

If circumstances require, the Vice President of Student Affairs and Athletics or Title IX Coordinator will designate

another person to oversee the process below should an allegation be made about the Coordinator or the

Coordinator be otherwise unavailable or unable to fulfill their duties.

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Administrative Resolution process is not initiated, though the Complainant can elect to

initiate it later, if desired.

o If an Informal Resolution option is preferred, the Title IX Coordinator assesses whether

the complaint is suitable for Informal Resolution, which informal mechanism may serve

the situation best or is available, and may seek to determine if the Respondent is also

willing to engage in Informal Resolution.

o If Administrative Resolution is preferred, the Title IX Coordinator initiates the

investigation process and determines whether the scope of the investigation will

address:

 Incident

 A potential pattern of misconduct

 A culture/climate issue

• In many cases, the Title IX Coordinator may determine that a Violence Risk Assessment (VRA)

should be conducted by the BIT and/or TAT as part of the initial assessment. A VRA can aid in

ten critical and/or required determinations, including:

o Interim suspension of a Respondent who is a threat to health/safety

o Whether the Title IX Coordinator should pursue Administrative Resolution absent a

willing/able Complainant

o Whether to put the investigation on the footing of incident and/or pattern and/or

climate

o To help identify potentially predatory conduct

o To help assess/identify grooming behaviors

o Whether a Complaint is amenable to Informal Resolution, and what modality may be

most successful

o Whether to permit a voluntary withdrawal by the Respondent

o Whether to impose transcript notation or communicate with a transfer College about a

Respondent

o Assessment of appropriate sanctions/remedies

o Whether a Clery Act Timely Warning and/or Trespass order/Persona-non-grata is

needed

Based on the initial assessment, the College will initiate one of these responses:

• Supportive Response – measures to help restore the Complainant’s education access, as

described in the Policy.

• Informal Resolution – typically used for less serious offenses and only when all parties agree to

Informal Resolution, or when the Respondent is willing to accept responsibility for violating

policy.

• Administrative Resolution – investigation of alleged policy violation(s) and recommended

finding, subject to a determination by the Title IX Coordinator or Decision-Maker(s) and the

opportunity to appeal.

The investigation and the subsequent Administrative Resolution determine whether the Policy has been

violated. If so, the College will promptly implement effective remedies designed to end the

discrimination, prevent recurrence, and address the effects.

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The process followed considers the preference of the parties but is ultimately determined at the

discretion of the Title IX Coordinator. If at any point during the initial assessment or formal investigation

the Title IX Coordinator determines that reasonable cause does not support the conclusion that policy

has been violated, the process will end, and the parties will be notified.

The Complainant may request that the Title IX Coordinator review the reasonable cause determination

and/or re-open the investigation. This decision lies in the sole discretion of the Title IX Coordinator, but

the request is usually only granted in extraordinary circumstances.

2. Resolution Process Pool

The Resolution Process relies on a pool of officials (“Pool”) for implementation. Members of the Pool are

announced in an annual distribution of this Policy to all students, employees, prospective students, and

prospective employees.

Members of the Pool are trained annually in all aspects of the Resolution Process and can serve in any of

the following roles, at the direction of the Title IX Coordinator:

• To provide sensitive intake for and initial advice pertaining to the allegations

• To act as optional process Advisors to the parties

• To facilitate Informal Resolution

• To investigate allegations

• To serve as a Decision-Maker

• To serve as an Appeal Decision-Maker

The Title IX Coordinator carefully vets Pool members for potential conflicts of interest or disqualifying

biases and appoints the Pool, which acts with independence and impartiality.

Pool members receive annual training organized by the Title IX Coordinator, including a review of

College policies and procedures as well as applicable federal and state laws and regulations so that they

are able to appropriately address allegations, provide accurate information to members of the

community, protect safety, and promote accountability.

The Pool members receive annual training jointly. This training includes, but is not limited to:

• The scope of the College’s Title IX and Sexual Misconduct Policy and Procedures

• How to conduct investigations and hearings that protect the safety of Complainants and

Respondents and promote accountability

• Implicit bias

• Disparate treatment

• Reporting, confidentiality, and privacy requirements

• Applicable laws, regulations, and federal regulatory guidance

• How to implement appropriate and situation-specific remedies

• How to investigate in a thorough, reliable, timely, and impartial manner

• How to conduct a sexual harassment investigation

• Trauma-informed practices pertaining to investigations and Resolution Processes

• How to uphold fairness, equity, and due process

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• How to weigh evidence

• How to conduct questioning

• How to assess credibility

• Impartiality and objectivity

• Types of evidence

• Deliberation

• How to render findings and generate clear, concise, evidence-based rationales

• The definitions of all offenses

• How to apply definitions used by the institution with respect to consent (or the absence or

negation of consent) consistently, impartially, and in accordance with Policy

• How to conduct an investigation and grievance process including hearings, appeals, and

Informal Resolution Processes

• How to serve impartially by avoiding prejudgment of the facts at issue, conflicts of interest, and

bias against Respondents and/or for Complainants

• Any technology to be used

• Issues of relevance of questions and evidence

• Issues of relevance to create an investigation report that fairly summarizes relevant evidence

• How to determine appropriate sanctions in reference to all forms of harassment and

discrimination allegations

3. Counterclaims

Counterclaims by the Respondent may be made in good faith or may instead be motivated by a

retaliatory intent. The College is obligated to ensure that any process is not abused for retaliatory

purposes.

The College permits the filing of counterclaims, but uses the initial assessment, described above, to

assess whether the allegations are made in good faith. If they are, the allegations will be processed using

the resolution procedures below, typically after resolution of the underlying allegation. Counterclaims

made with retaliatory intent will not be permitted.

A delay in the processing of counterclaims is permitted, accordingly. Occasionally, allegations and

counterclaims can be resolved through the same investigation, at the discretion of the Title IX

Coordinator. When counterclaims are not made in good faith, they will be considered retaliatory, and

may constitute a violation of this Policy.

4. Advisors

A. Advisor Expectations

The College generally expects an Advisor to adjust their schedule to allow them to attend

College meetings when planned, but College may change scheduled meetings to accommodate

an Advisor’s inability to attend, if doing so does not cause an unreasonable delay.

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The College may also make reasonable provisions to allow an Advisor who cannot attend in

person to attend a meeting by telephone, video conferencing, or other similar technologies as

may be convenient and available.

Parties whose Advisors are disruptive or who do not abide by College policies and procedures

may face the loss of that Advisor and/or possible Policy violations.

Advisors are expected to consult with their advisees without disrupting College meetings or

interviews. Advisors do not represent parties in the process; their role is only to advise.

B. Expectations of the Parties with Respect to Advisors

Each party may choose an Advisor

who is eligible and available

to accompany them

throughout the process. The Advisor can be anyone, including an attorney, but should not be

someone who is also a witness in the process. A party may elect to change Advisors during the

process and is not obligated to use the same Advisor throughout.

The parties are expected to inform the Investigators of the identity of their Advisor at least two

(2) business days before the date of their first meeting with the Investigator(s) (or as soon as

possible if a more expeditious meeting is necessary or desired).

The parties are expected to provide timely notice to the Investigator(s) and/or the Title IX

Coordinator if they change Advisors at any time.

Upon written request of a party, the College will copy the Advisor on all communications

between the College and the party. The Advisor may be asked to sign a non-disclosure

agreement (NDA) regarding private, sensitive records.

At the discretion of the Title IX Coordinator, more than one Advisor may be permitted to the

parties, upon request. For equity purposes, if one party is allowed another Advisor, the other

party must be allowed one to as well.

C. Assistance in Securing an Advisor

For representation, Respondents may wish to contact organizations such as:

• Families Advocating for Campus Equality (http://www.facecampusequality.org)

This could include an attorney, advocate, or support person. Witnesses are not entitled to Advisors within the

process, though they can be advised externally. If the College allows more than one Advisor for one party, they

should do so for all parties.

“Available” means the party cannot insist on an Advisor who simply doesn’t have inclination, time, or availability.

Also, the Advisor cannot have institutionally conflicting roles, such as being a Title IX administrator who has an

active role in the matter, or a supervisor who must implement and monitor sanctions.

This is being provided for informational purposes and does not constitute the College’s endorsement of any of

the external individuals/organizations listed.

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• Stop Abusive and Violent Environments (http://www.saveservices.org)

Complainants may wish to contact organizations such as:

• The Victim Rights Law Center (http://www.victimrights.org)

• The National Center for Victims of Crime (http://www.victimsofcrime.org), which

maintains the Crime Victim’s Bar Association

• The Time’s Up Legal Defense Fund (https://nwlc.org/times-up-legal-defense-fund/)

5. Resolution Options

Proceedings are private. All persons present at any time during the Resolution Process are expected to

maintain the privacy of the proceedings in accord with College Policy.

While there is an expectation of privacy around what is discussed during interviews, the parties have

discretion to share their own experiences with others if they so choose but are encouraged to discuss

with their Advisors first before doing so.

A. Informal Resolution

Informal Resolution is applicable when the parties voluntarily agree to resolve the matter

through Alternative Resolution, when the Respondent accepts responsibility for violating Policy,

or when the Title IX Coordinator can resolve the matter informally by providing remedies to

resolve the situation. The Title IX Coordinator has discretion to determine if an investigation will

be paused during Informal Resolution, or if it will be limited, or will continue during the Informal

Resolution process.

It is not necessary to pursue Informal Resolution first in order to pursue Administrative

Resolution, and any party participating in Informal Resolution can stop the process at any time

and request the Administrative Resolution process. Further, if an Informal Resolution fails after

the resolution is finalized, Administrative Resolution may be pursued.

i. Alternative Resolution

Alternative Resolution is an informal process, such as mediation or restorative practices,

by which the parties mutually agree to resolve an allegation. It may be used for less

serious, yet inappropriate, behaviors and is encouraged as an alternative to the

Administrative Resolution process (described below) to resolve conflicts, as appropriate.

The parties must consent to the use of Alternative Resolution.

The Title IX Coordinator determines if Alternative Resolution is appropriate, based on

the willingness of the parties, the nature of the conduct at issue, and the susceptibility

of the conduct to Alternative Resolution.

In an Alternative Resolution, a trained administrator or third party facilitates

communication among with the parties to an effective resolution, if possible.

Institutionally imposed sanctions are not possible as the result of an Alternative

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Resolution process, though the parties may agree to accept sanctions and/or

appropriate remedies.

The Title IX Coordinator maintains records of any resolution that is reached, and failure

to abide by the resolution can result in appropriate enforcement actions.

Alternative Resolution is not typically the primary resolution mechanism used to address

reports of violent behavior of any kind or in other cases of serious violations of policy,

though similarly structured conversations may be made available after the

Administrative Resolution process is completed should the parties and the Title IX

Coordinator believe it could be beneficial. The results of Alternative Resolution are not

appealable.

ii. Respondent Accepts Responsibility for Alleged Violations

The Respondent may accept responsibility for all or part of the alleged policy violations

at any point during the Resolution Process. If the Respondent accepts responsibility, the

Title IX Coordinator determines that the individual is in violation of College policy.

The Title IX Coordinator then determines appropriate sanction(s) or responsive actions,

which are promptly implemented in order to effectively stop the harassment,

discrimination, and/or retaliation; prevent its recurrence; and remedy the effects of the

conduct, both on the Complainant and the community.

If the Respondent accepts responsibility for all of the alleged policy violations and the

Title IX Coordinator or designee has determined appropriate sanction(s) or responsive

actions, to which the Respondent agrees, and which are promptly implemented, the

process is over. The Complainant may be consulted on and will be informed of this

outcome.

If the Respondent accepts responsibility for some of the alleged policy violations and the

Title IX Coordinator has determined appropriate sanction(s) or responsive actions, to

which the Respondent agrees, and which are promptly implemented for those

violations, then the remaining allegations will continue to be investigated and resolved

through Administrative Resolution. The parties will be informed of this outcome. The

parties are still able to seek Alternative Resolution on the remaining allegations, subject

to the stipulations above.

B. Administrative Resolution via an Investigation and Hearing

Administrative Resolution can be pursued at any time during the process for any behavior for

which the Respondent has not accepted responsibility that would constitute conduct covered by

the Policy if proven. Administrative Resolution starts with a thorough, reliable, and impartial

investigation.

If Administrative Resolution is initiated, the Title IX Coordinator will provide written notification

of the investigation to the parties at an appropriate time during the investigation. Typically,

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notice is given at least 48 hours in advance of an interview. Advanced notice facilitates the

parties’ ability to identify and choose an Advisor, if any, to accompany them to the interview.

Notification will include a meaningful summary of the allegations, will be made in writing, and

may be delivered by one or more of the following methods: in person, mailed to the local or

permanent address of the parties as indicated in official College records, or emailed to the

parties’ College-issued or designated email account.

Once mailed, emailed, and/or received in-person, notice will be presumptively delivered. The

notification will include the policies allegedly violated, if known at the time. Alternatively, the

policies allegedly violated can be provided at a later date, in writing, as the investigation

progresses, and details become clearer.

The College aims to complete all investigations within a sixty (60) business-day time period,

which can be extended as necessary for appropriate cause by the Title IX Coordinator, with

notice to the parties as appropriate. Investigations can take weeks or even months, depending

on the nature, extent, and complexity of the allegations, availability of witnesses, police

involvement, etc.

Once the decision is made to commence an investigation, the Title IX Coordinator appoints Pool

members to conduct the investigation (typically using a team of two Investigators), usually

within two (2) business days of determining that an investigation should proceed.

The Title IX Coordinator will vet the assigned Investigator(s) to ensure impartiality by ensuring

there are no conflicts of interest or disqualifying bias.

The parties may, at any time during the Resolution Process, raise a concern regarding bias or

conflict of interest, and the Title IX Coordinator will determine whether the concern is

reasonable and supportable. If so, another Investigator will be assigned and the impact of the

bias or conflict, if any, will be remedied. If the bias or conflict relates to the Title IX Coordinator,

concerns should be raised with the Vice President of Student Affairs and Athletics.

The College will make a good faith effort to complete the investigation as promptly as

circumstances permit and will communicate regularly with the parties to update them on the

progress and timing of the investigation.

The College may undertake a short delay in its investigation (several days to weeks, to allow

evidence collection) when criminal charges based on the same behaviors that invoke the

College’s Resolution Process are being investigated by law enforcement. The College will

promptly resume its investigation and Resolution Process once notified by law enforcement that

the initial evidence collection process is complete.

College action(s) are not typically altered or precluded on the grounds that civil or criminal

charges involving the underlying incident(s) have been filed or that criminal charges have been

dismissed or reduced.

Investigations involve interviews with all relevant parties and witnesses, obtaining available,

relevant evidence, and identifying sources of expert information, as necessary.

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All parties have a full and fair opportunity, through the investigation process, to suggest

witnesses and questions, to provide evidence, and to fully review and respond to all evidence on

the record.

6. Investigation

The Investigators typically take the following steps, if not already completed (not necessarily in this

order):

• Determine the identity and contact information of the Complainant

• In coordination with institutional partners (e.g., the Title IX Coordinator), initiate or assist with

any necessary supportive measures

• Identify all policies implicated by the alleged misconduct

• Assist the Title IX Coordinator with conducting an initial assessment to determine if there is

reasonable cause to believe the Respondent has violated policy

• If there is insufficient evidence to support reasonable cause, the process is closed with no

further action

• Commence a thorough, reliable, and impartial investigation by developing a strategic

investigation plan, including a witness list, evidence list, intended investigation timeframe, and

order of interviews for all parties and witnesses

• Meet with the Complainant to finalize their statement, if necessary

• Prepare the initial Notice of Investigation and Allegations (NOIA) on the basis of the initial

assessment. Notice may be one step or multiple steps, depending on how the investigation

unfolds, and potential policy violations may be added or dropped as more is learned.

Investigators will update the NOIA accordingly and provide it to the parties.

• Notice should inform the parties of their right to have the assistance of a Pool member as a

process Advisor appointed by the College or an Advisor of their choosing present for all

meetings attended by the advisee

• When formal notice is given, it should provide the parties with a written description of the

alleged violation(s), a list of all policies allegedly violated, a description of the applicable

procedures, and a statement of the potential sanctions/responsive actions that could result

• Give an instruction to the parties to preserve any evidence that is directly related to the

allegations

• Provide the parties and witnesses with an opportunity to review and verify the Investigator’s

summary notes from interviews and meetings with that specific party or witness

• Make good faith efforts to notify each party of any meeting or interview involving another party,

in advance when possible

• Interview all relevant individuals and conduct follow-up interviews as necessary

• Allow each party the opportunity to suggest questions they wish for the Investigator(s) to ask

the other party and witnesses

• Complete the investigation promptly and without unreasonable deviation from the intended

timeline

• Provide regular status updates to the parties throughout the investigation

• Prior to the conclusion of the investigation, summarize for the parties the list of witnesses

whose information will be used to render a finding

• Write a comprehensive investigation report fully summarizing the investigation and all evidence

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• Provide the parties with a copy of the draft investigation report when it is completed, including

all relevant evidence, analysis, credibility assessments, and recommended finding(s)

• Provide each party with a full and fair opportunity to respond to the report in writing within 5

business days and incorporate that response, if any, into the report

• Investigators may choose to respond in writing in the report to the responses of the parties,

and/or to share the responses between the parties for their responses, while also ensuring that

they do not create a never-ending feedback loop

• Share the report with the Title IX Coordinator or legal counsel for review and feedback

• Provide the final report to the Title IX Coordinator with one of two options:

o In the report, include a recommended determination, based on a preponderance of the

evidence, whether a policy violation is more likely than not to have occurred

7. Determination

Within two to three (2-3) business days of receiving the Investigator’s recommendation, the Title IX

Coordinator or a trained, designated Decision-Maker from the Pool

reviews the report and all

responses, and then makes the final determination on the basis of the preponderance of the evidence.

If the record is incomplete, the Title IX Coordinator/Decision-Maker may direct a re-opening of the

investigation, or may direct or conduct any additional inquiry necessary, including informally meeting

with the parties or any witnesses, if needed.

The investigation recommendation, if any, should be strongly considered but is not binding on the Title

IX Coordinator/Decision-Maker. The Title IX Coordinator or Decision-Maker may invite and consider

impact and/or mitigation statements from the parties if and when determining appropriate sanction(s),

if any.

8. Additional Details of the Investigation Process

A. Witness Responsibilities

Witnesses (as distinguished from the parties) who are College faculty or staff are expected to

cooperate with and participate in the College’s investigation and Resolution Process. Failure of a

witness to cooperate with and/or participate in the investigation or Resolution Process

constitutes a violation of Policy and may be subject to discipline.

B. Remote Processes

Parties and witnesses may be interviewed remotely by phone, video conferencing, or similar

technologies if the Investigator(s) and/or Decision-Maker determine that timeliness, efficiency,

or other causes dictate a need for remote interviewing. Witnesses may also provide written

statements in lieu of interviews, or respond to questions in writing, if deemed appropriate by

When the Title IX Coordinator is the Investigator or has been heavily involved in the process prior to

determination, a Decision-Maker should be designated from the Pool to ensure there is no conflict of interest.

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the Investigator(s), though this approach is not ideal. When remote technologies are used, the

College makes reasonable efforts to ensure privacy and ensures that any technology does not

work to the detriment of any party or subject them to unfairness.

C. Recording

No unauthorized audio or video recording of any kind is permitted during the Resolution Process

including investigation interviews. If Investigator(s) elect to audio and/or video record

interviews, all involved parties must be made aware of and consent to audio and/or video

recording.

D. Evidence

Any evidence that is relevant and credible may be considered, including an individual’s prior

misconduct history as well as evidence indicating a pattern of misconduct, subject to the

limitation in (E) below. The process should exclude irrelevant or immaterial evidence and may

disregard evidence lacking in credibility or that is improperly prejudicial.

E. Prior Sexual History/Patterns

Unless the Title IX Coordinator/Decision-Maker determines it is appropriate, the investigation

and the finding do not consider: (1) incidents not directly related to the possible violation(s),

unless they evidence a pattern; (2) the irrelevant sexual history of the parties (though there may

be a limited exception made with regard to the sexual history between the parties); (3)

irrelevant character evidence.

F. Previous Allegations/Violations

While previous conduct violations by the Respondent are not generally admissible as

information supporting the current allegation, the Investigator(s) may supply the Title IX

Coordinator/Decision-Maker with information about previous good faith allegations and/or

findings, when that information suggests potential pattern and/or predatory conduct.

If the College uses a progressive discipline system, previous disciplinary action of any kind

involving the Respondent may be considered in determining the appropriate sanction(s).

Character witnesses or evidence may be offered. The investigation and hearing will determine if

the character evidence is relevant. If so, it may be considered. If not, it will be excluded.

G. Notification of Outcome

If the Respondent admits to the violation(s), or is found in violation, the Title IX Coordinator, in

consultation with other administrators as appropriate, determines sanction(s) and/or responsive

actions, which are promptly implemented in order to effectively to stop the harassment,

discrimination, and/or retaliation; prevent its recurrence; and remedy the effects of the

discriminatory conduct, both on the Complainant and the community.

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The Title IX Coordinator informs the parties of the determination within two to three (2-3)

business days of the resolution, ideally simultaneously, but without significant time delay

between notifications. Notifications are made in writing and may be delivered by one or more of

the following methods: in person, mailed to the local or permanent address of the parties as

indicated in official College records, or emailed to the parties’ College-issued or designated

email account. Once mailed, emailed, and/or received in-person, notice is presumptively

delivered.

The Notification of Outcome specifies the finding for each alleged policy violation, any

sanction(s) that may result which the College is permitted to share pursuant to state or federal

law, and the rationale supporting the findings to the extent the College is permitted to share

under state or federal law.

The notice will detail when the determination is considered final (See Section 11

) and will detail

any changes that are made prior to finalization.

Unless based on an acceptance of violation by the Respondent, the determination may be

appealed by either party. The Notification of Outcome also includes the grounds on which the

parties may appeal and the steps the parties may take to request an appeal of the findings.

More information about the appeal procedures can be found in Section 11

9. Sanctions

Factors considered when determining any sanction(s)/responsive action(s) may include, but are not

limited to:

• The nature, severity of, and circumstances surrounding the violation(s)

• An individual’s disciplinary history

• Previous allegations or allegations involving similar conduct

• The need for sanctions/responsive actions to bring an end to the discrimination, harassment,

and/or retaliation

• The need for sanctions/responsive actions to prevent the future recurrence of discrimination,

harassment, and/or retaliation

• The need to remedy the effects of the discrimination, harassment, and/or retaliation on the

Complainant and the community

• The impact on the parties

• Any other information deemed relevant by the Title IX Coordinator/Decision-Maker

The sanction(s) will be implemented as soon as is feasible. The sanctions described in this Policy are not

exclusive of, and may be in addition to, other actions taken, or sanctions imposed by outside authorities.

A. Student Sanctions

The following are the common sanctions that may be imposed upon students singly or in

combination:

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