Title IX

Interim Title IX Policy and Supporting Materials

As you may know, over the summer the Department of Education pushed out new regulations to follow under Title IX.  Below you will find the training that the University’s Civil Rights and Title IX team participated in to prepare for the new regulations, as well as the updated policy and procedure, and additional communication information.

Policy and Procedure

CS 27, Title IX

CS 20 (formerly 06-05-01), Sexual Misconduct

Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 ("Title IX"), 20 U.S.C. §1681 et seq, is a federal civil rights law that prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex in education programs and activities. All public and private elementary and secondary schools, school districts, colleges, and universities receiving any Federal funds must comply with Title IX. Under Title IX, discrimination on the basis of sex can include sexual harassment or sexual violence, such as rape, sexual assault, sexual battery, and sexual coercion.

  • Title IX protects all students regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, immigration status or disability.
  • Students who report sexual violence can expect the University to take steps to protect and support them, including while a university investigation is pending.

Title IX was historically associated with actual or perceived gender-based disparities in athletic programs. However, it is a far broader law covering all aspects of educational and academic-related programming and prohibiting gender discrimination. Importantly, Title IX prohibits sexual violence and sexual misconduct which may affect the educational or campus environment.

The law provides that:

No person shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subject to discrimination under any educational program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance.

In summary, Title IX prohibits gender-based discrimination in all University of Pittsburgh at Titusville programs and activities, including, but not limited to, recruiting, admissions, financial aid, academic programs, student services, guidance, advising, grievance procedures, discipline, course/class assignments, grading, recreation, athletics, housing, meal services, and employment.

Examples of Unlawful Practices Under Title IX Relating to Sexual Misconduct

Sexual Harassment – unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature

Sexual Misconduct – rape, sexual assault, sexual battery, sexual exploitation, sexual coercion, and any other form of non-consensual sexual activity (including when an individual is not in a condition to give legal consent)

Stalking – repeatedly following, harassing, threatening or intimidating another individual using such methods including, but not limited to, telephone, mail, electronic communication, and social media

Domestic Violence – in addition to physical abuse, also includes emotional, verbal and economic abuse

Dating Violence – in addition to physical abuse, also includes emotional, verbal and economic abuse

Retaliation – adverse academic, social, employment or other actions against anyone reporting a violation or participating in an investigation of any Title IX allegation

In addition to being considered discriminatory, sexual violence is criminal activity.