Rights of Students Involved in Incidents of Alleged
Sexual Violence
Carlow University follows these principles regarding individuals
involved in allegations of sexual violence:
1. A student subject to sexual violence is encouraged to report
to the University Policy, Pittsburgh Police, and/or the Title IX
coordinator [Tim Phillips]. Students reporting sexual violence
(hereafter known as the reporting person) have the option of
notifying University Police and/or the Pittsburgh Police
Department.
2. Every report of sexual violence will be taken seriously and
prompt action will be taken as appropriate. University officials
will assist students in contacting the above departments if
desired. However, a student is not required to file a report to
receive support and accommodations when reasonable and
appropriate.
3. When appropriate the University will issue a campus alert or
timely notice to campus if the incident reported indicates an
ongoing risk to the campus community. Any release of information
will protect the identity of the victim when notifications are
issued.
4. Supporting students involved in allegations of sexual
violence is of primary consideration, as are exploring options and
protecting the rights of those involved, including the individual's
right to privacy as provided by law and policy and to determine
what options to pursue (see the Sexual Misconduct Policy for more
information about maintaining privacy).
5. The University will do everything reasonably possible to
provide a climate that is sensitive, respectful, and supportive of
individual needs of both the reporting person and respondent
(individual alleged to have violated policy).
6. During a campus conduct review procedure, the reporting
person will be free from any suggestion that she/he is responsible
or was "contributorily negligent" or assumed the risk of being
assaulted. This right cannot be construed to limit such claims in
any criminal or civil action for or against the University.
7. During campus conduct review procedures students will have
access to information as outlined in the student conduct review
procedures [Student Handbook, p. 37].
8. Involved students will have access to existing campus
counseling and support services, including an advisor from within
the campus community to assist with process support.
9. If reasonably available, academic and living arrangements may
be changed upon student request and no contact directives between
involved parties may be issued, regardless of whether a formal
report has been filed. See the Title IX coordinator, Counseling
Office, or a University Police member for further assistance.
Resources for Students
Numerous resources are available to assist individuals dealing
with sexual misconduct, both on and off campus:
Carlow University Health and Counseling
Center has a registered nurse and two licensed
counselors on staff, supported by a consulting arrangement with
UPMC Adolescent Medicine and a consulting psychiatrist. Any student
who has experienced sexual misconduct at any time, on or off
campus, past or present, is encouraged to use these support
services.
Director of Health Services: 412.578.6174
University Counselors: 412.578.6306 or 412.578.8731
Magee Women's Hospital (300 Halket Street,
Pittsburgh 1.866.MyMagee) and UPMC
Mercy (1400 Locus Street, Pittsburgh 412.232.8111)
have Forensic Nurses available 24 hours a day, seven days a week at
their emergency departments. These Forensic Nurses, called Sexual
Assault Nurse Examiners (SANE), are highly trained to collect
evidence and connect individuals with advocates and community
resources.
Pittsburgh Action Against Rape (PAAR) provides
prevention and education services on campus. PAAR also provides a
24 hour confidential hotline (1.866.END.RAPE), counseling, and
support through the medical and legal process. 412.431.5665.
Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network
(RAINN) is the largest anti-sexual assault
organization in the country. They provide access to a wide variety
of support and educational services to survivors of sexual
misconduct and those who support them. 1.800.656.HOPE (4673)
University Police have sworn officers on duty
24/7 to receive reports and assist students with access to
immediate health and safety resources. 412-578-6007.
The Investigations Bureau of the Pittsburgh City
Police investigates crimes including sexual misconduct. To
report a crime in the City of Pittsburgh, call 911 or the number
below. City of Pittsburgh Police Investigations Bureau- Sex
Assault/ Family Violence: 412.323.7141