University of Michigan employees have a new online tool to learn whether they are required to report information to the university about possible student sexual and gender-based misconduct under U-M’s new student policy.

Under the policy, University of Michigan Policy and Procedures on Student Sexual and Gender-based Misconduct and other forms of Interpersonal Violence, most employees serving in leadership positions are responsible for reporting suspected misconduct to the university. The policy went into effect July 1.

“Creating a safe and inclusive environment at U-M is the responsibility of all members of our campus community,” says President Mark Schlissel. “By understanding how the university responds to sexual and gender-based misconduct and interpersonal violence — and the role each of us has — together we can continue to create an environment that is safe for all.”

The online training includes a short survey and key information. Employees will learn if their position is classified as a responsible employee, what falls under the policy as prohibited conduct and how to share information with the university. They also receive guidance on how to appropriately respond to students who disclose information about possible misconduct to be as supportive as possible.

“All employees are strongly encouraged to share information of potential sexual and gender-based misconduct. Our goal is to make sure any student impacted by these kinds of matters is offered the available assistance and connected to the appropriate resources,” says Anthony Walesby, the university’s Title IX coordinator.

In-person Q&A sessions are scheduled through October for responsible employees to ask questions and receive additional guidance on their responsibilities.

“The training is helpful, clear and provides information that is valuable in advising students,” says Abigail J. Stewart, Sandra Schwartz Tangri Distinguished University Professor of Psychology and Women’s Studies.

Responsible employees include: regents; executive officers; associate or assistant vice presidents and provosts; deans, directors, department heads and chairs (including those serving in interim and assistant or associate roles); graduate and undergraduate chairs; and supervisors of employees who are not student or postdoctoral employees. Responsible employees should report sexual misconduct to the Office for Institutional Equity.

In addition, campus security authorities designated by the university under the Clery Act also are responsible for reporting suspected misconduct. This includes advisers to university-recognized student groups and all individuals working in the Student Life Division, the Division of Public Safety and Security, Intercollegiate Athletics and the Office for Institutional Equity, except those who serve in non-supervisory positions in select units.

Individuals serving in positions offering confidential services are excluded from the reporting requirement, including employees with Counseling and Psychological Services and the Sexual Assault Prevention and Awareness Center.

The university encourages all members of the campus community to report concerns of sexual or gender-based harassment, sexual assault, intimate-partner violence or stalking. The Office for Institutional Equity follows up on each report received to determine appropriate next steps. Suspected misconduct concerns may be reported directly to the Title IX coordinator via email, phone, in person or online.

Faculty, staff and students also may report information to the U-M Police Department or choose to share information confidentially with SAPAC.

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• sexual misconduct