September 30, 2014

Revised Sexual Misconduct Policies at MIT Continue Protection of Ombuds

At the end of August, Massachusetts Institute of Technology unveiled changes to many student policies, including an update on sexual harassment and assault policies.  At a time when many universities are grappling with the role of Ombuds in a new era of Title IX enforcement, MIT reiterated that its Ombuds would remain a confidential resource for staff and students. 
Title IX FAQ's published last week include the following:
Are all employees at MIT required to report incidents of sexual misconduct to the Title IX Team? 

Title IX requires most employees to report, but not all. Some employees have legally-recognized confidentiality protections and will not share information without the consent of the victim/survivor. The on-campus confidential resources include VPR Victim Advocates, Mental Health Counselors, health practitioners at MIT Medical, the Ombuds office, and religious advisors. Students can also access community resources for confidential assistance (including BARCC, Transition House, and Network LaRed).
(The Tech Online; MIT Title IX FAQ.)

Related posts:  MIT Ombuds to Speak at University of Arizona; MIT Ombuds Annual Report; Mary Rowe, MIT Ombuds, to Retire; Job Posting; MIT Adds an Experienced Ombuds.

See also: Lessons From a Case of Sexual Harassment; Harvard Law Case Study Focuses on Ombuds and the 'Dear Colleague Letter'; Updated Sexual Misconduct Policy at University of North Carolina Reaffirms Ombuds' Confidentiality; Sexual Assault Report from University of Michigan Reaffirms Ombuds' Confidentiality; Grinnell College Affirms Confidentiality of Ombuds Office for Sexual Misconduct MattersUpdated Sexual Misconduct Policy at Colorado College Protects Disclosures to Ombuds; IOA Takes a Stand on Title IX Issues.; Watch Senator Question White House Title IX Expert on Role of Campus Ombuds;

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