Resources for Accused
If you have been accused of sexual violence, sexual assault, sexual harassment, relationship violence or stalking, DO NOT contact the complainant/accuser. Campus services are available to help you understand your rights and the complaint processes.
Your rights through the Title IX process
- Be presumed to not be in violation of any University policy until such a determination is made through the appropriate process.
- Be treated with respect and dignity.
- Receive an explanation of the complaint, any policy violations alleged against you, and any restrictions placed upon you.
- To have an advisor of your choosing accompany you throughout investigative and administrative processes.
- A fair and prompt investigation and the right to have an advisor of your choice present for any related meetings and procedures.
- Have your information and information pertaining to the complaint kept private, made available only to individuals who have a direct need to know in order to address the matter and bring about its resolution.
- To not have to see or be in the presence of the person who filed the complaint.
- Report any retaliation against you. If you suspect that you are a victim of retaliation, reach out to the Title Coordinator immediately.
- Receive assistance with issues (academic, housing, etc.) specific to your circumstance.
- The ability to speak and present information on your own behalf free from prejudice or presumption.
- Know the status of the complaint at any point in the process and be informed of the outcome of the investigation and the process in a timely manner.
- An appeal. See the Student Code of Community Standards and the Sexual Violence Policy for detailed information on appeal process.
You may wish to contact the Office for Institutional Equity and Access, the Division of Student Affairs, Counseling and Psychological Services, or other community resources for more information about your rights or assistance with the formal complaint process.
Formal complaint process
Complaints filed with the Office of Institutional Equity and Access are resolved within 60 calendar days. That time may be extended due to parallel criminal investigations, school breaks, or other exceptions necessary for a fair, complete and thorough process.
When a complaint is filed, an assigned investigator conducts an initial inquiry to gather information and determine the best way to bring about a resolution of the complaint. There are two pathways to resolving the complaint: closing the case due to insufficient information or a formal investigation process.
See the Student Code of Community Standards and for detailed information on complaint process.
For questions about the complaint and investigation process, Board Policy 1B.3 and Procedures 1B.3.1 & 1B.1.1 or possible investigative leave (employees), the Student Code of Community Standards/Title IX process or possible summary suspension (students), contact:
- Human Resources for employee inquiries (320) 308-3203
- Division of Student Affairs for student inquiries (320) 308-3111
- Title IX Coordinator for employee and/or student inquiries (320) 308-5123
Process adviser
The adviser is an impartial individual not otherwise involved in the investigation or disciplinary process.
While the individual is solely responsible for presenting his or her case during the disciplinary process, an advisor may confer with and advise the respondent but may not advocate for them in any meeting or in disciplinary hearing. An attorney may be present at the request of the respondent.
Contact Office of Institutional Equity and Access to connect with a process adviser.