The Title IX Grievance Process

The timeframe for the Title IX Grievance Process begins with the filing of a Formal Complaint. The Grievance Process will be concluded within a reasonably prompt manner, and no longer than ninety (90) business days after the filing of the Formal Complaint, provided that the Process may be extended for a good reason, including but not limited to the absence of a party, a party’s advisor, or a witness; concurrent law enforcement activity; or the need for language assistance or accommodation of disabilities. The procedure for applying for extensions is described below.

 

To file a Formal Complaint, a complainant must provide the Title IX Coordinator a written, signed complaint describing the facts alleged. Complainants are only able to file a Formal Complaint under this Policy if they are currently participating in, or attempting to participate in, the education programs or activities of Hampshire College, including as an employee. For complainants who do not meet this criteria, the College will utilize existing policy in Norms for Community Living, Sexual Misconduct, Relationship Violence, and Stalking Policy.

 

If a complainant does not wish to make a Formal Complaint, the Title IX Coordinator may determine a Formal Complaint is necessary. Hampshire College will inform the complainant of this decision in writing, and the complainant need not participate in the process further but will receive all notices issued under this Policy and Process.

 

Nothing in the Title IX Grievance Policy or the Norms for Community Living prevents a complainant from seeking the assistance of state or local law enforcement alongside the appropriate on-campus process.