3.3.11 Supporting Students Who May Have Been Impacted by Discrimination, Harassment, or Sexual Misconduct
Members of the University community who have experienced discrimination and harassment, including various forms of sexual misconduct, are strongly encouraged to seek resources and support from the University. The Title IX Office within EOCR responds to all reported concerns through outreach that provides information about rights, options and supportive measures.
Confidential resources include medical and psychological care. The UVA Department of Student Health and Wellness is open Monday – Friday from 8 AM to 5:00 PM (4:30 PM during summer and winter breaks) and is available to students for confidential medical care, including evidence collection. Student Health and Wellness has an Urgent Call line (434-297-4261) that is accessible outside of normal business hours to connect students with care.
Student Health and Wellness has a Violence Prevention and Advocacy team that provides confidential assistance to help students identify what they want or need after an incident of sexual assault, family or relationship violence, harassment, hazing, or stalking has occurred. Similarly, the Counseling and Psychological Services team can provide confidential mental health services. Other confidential resources and support can be sought at the UVA Health Emergency Department, the Women’s Center, and the Sexual Assault Resource Agency (SARA).
Students may also report their experience to the Office of Equal Opportunity and Civil Rights (EOCR). EOCR will provide students with supportive measures and resources. Information regarding rights and University processes will also be available through EOCR. Students also have the choice to report any Prohibited Conduct that may constitute a crime to local law enforcement (“Police”), as well as the University.
Given that faculty members are not specifically trained to respond to reports of discrimination, harassment, and sexual misconduct, all faculty members are designated as “Responsible Employees” by University policy HRM-040. This means that they are required to report any information that they have received, whether intentionally or not, about instances of discrimination, harassment and/or sexual misconduct to EOCR in a timely manner. Reporting is critical to the well-being and safety of the University community and is the University’s obligation under federal and Virginia law. Further, reporting ensures that students will be connected to University resources that can offer care, support, and information on options. Therefore, failure to report may result in disciplinary action (see section 4.1, “Obligations to Observe Policy”). Faculty members should familiarize themselves with the policy HRM-040: Reporting by University Employees of Disclosures Relating to the Policy on Sexual and Gender-Based Harassment and Other Forms of Interpersonal Violence and the Preventing and Addressing Discrimination and Harassment, and Preventing and Addressing Retaliation Policies.