UT’s new Policy on Sexual Misconduct, Relationship Violence, and Stalking became effective on August 19th, 2015. The policy represents a full year of thoughtful review and work involving stakeholders from across our campus. The Sexual Misconduct Policy Task Force, made up of faculty, staff, and students, ensured that all feedback and viewpoints were considered in the review of the interim policy first introduced last August. Nine public sessions were held last year, and the diversity of viewpoints represented helped to make the policy stronger, more transparent, and easier to understand.
Survivors of sexual misconduct, relationship violence, and stalking are strongly encouraged promptly report the incident to the Title IX coordinator, the Sexual Assault Response Team (SART), or the UT Police Department. Reporting an incident to the university does not obligate you to pursue university discipline or criminal prosecution. You can find contact information for reporting options and confidential resources at sexualassault.utk.edu. The website also has the policy, complaint procedures, and resources regarding sexual misconduct, relationship violence, and stalking.
Every member of our campus community are encouraged to become familiar with the policy and their responsibilities as a member of our community. The policy requires certain university employees, called mandatory reporters, to report incidents of sexual misconduct, relationship violence, or stalking to the Title IX coordinator, a deputy Title IX coordinator, or the Sexual Assault Response Team (SART).
This fall UT will be introducing training about the policy in a variety of formats. Departments can request training by calling the Office of Equity and Diversity at 865-974-2498. UT is also expanding the Volunteers Speak UP! bystander training and outreach efforts to engage our community members in a dialogue about consent. To find out how you can get involved, visit volunteersspeakup.utk.edu.
Questions about the policy should be directed to Title IX Coordinator Jenny Richter at 865-974-2498.