Be aware of new Title IX regulations

The Department of Education recently released the final regulations for implementing protections of equal access to education under Title IX of the Higher Education Act of 1972. As federal laws, these regulations govern how institutions are required to respond to sexual assault and other forms of sexual harassment. These regulations are effective as of Aug. 14, 2020.

These regulations are significant, and we are carefully reviewing them over the coming weeks to determine what adjustments we need to make to our current policies and/or our processes for addressing reports of sexual assault and harassment.

The state of Oregon also has relevant legislation, and we need to consider how the federal and state regulations interact with one another. We will be certain to inform our community of any changes we need to make as a result of these new laws.

We recognize that many members of our community have been deeply impacted by sexual assault. It is important that you know that our commitment to preventing sexual assault, supporting those who report experiencing harm, and conducting fair, transparent and safe grievance processes for all parties continues to be a top priority for us. We remain steadfastly focused on continuing to build a supportive, safe and welcoming environment where everyone can learn, work and thrive.  

If you have experienced sexual harassment or sexual assault, you are encouraged to connect to the resources at our institution or elsewhere that can best support you. Much of this information is on our website at georgefox.edu/titleix. We also have added a new video resource specific to George Fox on our Title IX website’s home page that addresses some common questions.

Our Title IX team’s contact information is on the Title IX website under “staff.” Please contact the Office of Student Life (studentlife@georgefox.edu) if you have any questions or concerns.

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