Effective August 1, 2024 the Title IX, Nondiscrimination, and Anti-Harassment Policy will replace this policy
Responsible Administrator: Director, Office of Institutional Equity & Title IX Coordinator
Responsible Office: Office of Institutional Equity & Title IX
Issue Date: 6/1/2023
Revision Date: 5/21/2024
Pratt Institute is committed to fostering an environment that is safe, secure and free from sex discrimination and sexual harassment, sexual violence, dating and domestic violence, and stalking among all forms of sexual misconduct. The Institute takes prompt and appropriate action to address misconduct, end a hostile environment if one has been created, and prevent the recurrence of a hostile environment.
*Pratt Institute prohibits romantic or sexual relationships between faculty/staff and undergraduate students. Further, the Institute prohibits romantic or sexual relationships between faculty/staff and graduate students if they are active within the same school, department, or program, or if the faculty member has any academic, professional or supervisory authority over the graduate student. Violations of this prohibited conduct are addressed through the process identified in the Community Standards for Faculty and Staff.
Applicable federal, state, and local laws prohibit discrimination and harassment based on sex in the workplace and in education programs and activities, and may require Pratt to respond in particular ways to disclosures of such discrimination or harassment.
This policy applies to the entire Pratt community, including, but not limited to, students, student organizations, faculty, administrators, and staff, whether on or off campus, and third parties such as guests, visitors, volunteers, invitees, and alumni when they are on Pratt’s campus or participating in Pratt-sponsored activities.
The requirements and protections of this policy apply equally regardless of sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, race, nationality, class status, ability, religion, or other protected classes covered by federal or state law. All requirements and protections are equitably provided to individuals regardless of such status or status as a Complainant, Respondent, or Witness.
Alleged incidents of Prohibited Conduct under this Policy occurring on or after the original effective date of this policy will follow the protocols and procedures outlined in this Policy. Resolution of reports made under this Policy shall follow the protocols and procedure in effect at the time the report is made. However, the definitions of Prohibited Conduct in effect at the time of the incident will govern, unless otherwise directed by the Title IX Coordinator.
Obligations in this policy assigned to a particular title, such as the Title IX Coordinator, may be designated as appropriate by the Institute.
Sex discrimination other than Title IX Prohibited Conduct in this Policy, such as allegations of pay discrimination or limitations on access to services or benefits based on sex, are to be addressed under Pratt’s Discrimination, Harassment, and Bias Response Policy.
This section includes the conduct prohibited by this Policy. Unless otherwise stated in this Policy, the conduct prohibited by this policy can be resolved through the available processes described in this Policy.
- Title IX Sexual Harassment is conduct on the basis of sex that satisfies one or more of the following:
- An Institute employee conditions the provision of an aid, benefit, or service of the University on an individual’s participating in unwelcome sexual conduct; or
- Unwelcome conduct determined by a reasonable person to be so severe, pervasive, and objectively offensive that it effectively denies a person equal access to the Institute’s education program or activity; and Sexual Assault, Dating Violence, Domestic Violence, Stalking, and Retaliation, as defined below.
- Non-Title IX Sexual Harassment is unwelcome conduct based on sex or gender that is so severe and/or pervasive that it has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with a person’s employment, academic performance or participation in the Institute’s programs or activities, or creates a working, learning, program or activity environment that a reasonable person would find intimidating, hostile or offensive.
- Sexual Assault is having or attempting to have sexual contact with another individual without consent or where the individual cannot consent because of age or temporary or permanent mental incapacity (see below for definition of consent and incapacitation). Sexual contact includes:
- sexual intercourse (anal, oral, or vaginal), including penetration with a body part (e.g., penis, finger, hand, or tongue) or an object, or requiring another to penetrate themselves with a body part or an object, however slight;
- sexual touching of the private body parts, including, but not limited to, contact with the breasts, buttocks, groin, genitals, or other intimate part of an individual’s body for the purpose of sexual gratification.
- Sexual touching may be over or under clothing and may include the Respondent touching the Complainant, the Respondent making the Complainant touch the Respondent or another person, or the Respondent making the Complainant touch the Complainant’s own body.
- Dating Violence includes any violence committed by a person: (A) who is or has been in a social relationship of a romantic or intimate nature with the victim; and (B) where the existence of such a relationship shall be determined based on a consideration of the following factors: (i) the length of the relationship; (ii) the type of relationship; (iii) the frequency of interaction between the persons involved in the relationship.
- Domestic Violence is felony or misdemeanor crimes of violence committed by a person who is a current or former spouse or intimate partner of the victim under the family or domestic violence laws of the jurisdiction of the school, or a person similarly situated to a spouse of the victim; is cohabitating or has cohabited with the victim as a spouse or intimate partner; shares a child in common with the victim; or commits actions against a youth or adult victim who is protected from those acts under the family or domestic violence laws of the jurisdiction.
- Stalking is engaging in a course of conduct on the basis of sex directed at a specific person that would cause a reasonable person to fear for the person’s safety or the safety or others, or suffer substantial emotional distress.
Course of conduct means two or more instances including but not limited to unwelcome acts in which an individual directly, indirectly, or through third parties, by any action, method, device, or means, follows, monitors, observes, surveils, threatens, or communicates to or about a person, or interferes with a person’s property. Substantial emotional distress means significant mental suffering or anguish.
Stalking includes the concept of cyber-stalking, a particular form of stalking in which electronic media such as the internet, social networks, blogs, cell phones, texts, or other similar devices or forms of contact are used. - Sexual Coercion is the application of unreasonable pressure, including emotionally or physically manipulative actions or statements, or direct or implied threats, in order to compel the person to engage in sexual activity.
- Sexual Exploitation is the abuse or exploitation of another person’s sexuality without consent, for the perpetrators own advantage or benefit, or for the benefit or advantage of anyone other than the one being exploited. Sexual Exploitation includes, without limitation, causing or attempting to cause the incapacitation of another person in order to gain a sexual advantage over that person; causing the prostitution of another person; electronically recording, photographing, or transmitting intimate or sexual utterances, sounds or images of another person; allowing third parties to observe sexual acts; engaging in voyeurism; distributing intimate or sexual information about another person; and/or knowingly transmitting a sexually transmitted infection, including HIV, to another person.
- Retaliation is any adverse action taken against an individual because they were involved in the disclosure, reporting, investigation, or resolution of a report of Prohibited Conduct. Retaliation includes threats, intimidation, harassment, coercion, violence, or any other conduct that would discourage a reasonable person from engaging in activity protected under this Policy. Activity protected under this Policy may include an individual’s right to make a report and/or file a complaint that Prohibited Conduct has taken place, an individual’s ability to participate in the complaint resolution process, and/or an individual’s good faith effort to intervene as a bystander.
The prohibition against retaliation applies to any individual who has made a report or complaint of sex discrimination, including any individual who has made a report or filed a formal complaint of sexual harassment, any complainant, any individual who has been reported to be the perpetrator of sex discrimination, any respondent, any witness, or any other individuals who participate (or refuse to participate) in any manner in an investigation, proceeding, or hearing.
Retaliation may occur even where there is a finding of “not responsible” under this Policy. Good faith actions lawfully pursued in response to a report of Prohibited Conduct are not Retaliation. Retaliation should be promptly reported to the Title IX Coordinator. Reports of retaliation by an employee will be investigated and resolved by Human Resources. Reports of retaliation by a student will be investigated and resolved via the Student Conduct Policy. - Prohibited Conduct Specific to New York Sexual Harassment in Employment Situations In the State of New York, the following definition of sexual harassment will be applied to situations involving employees when the definitions above (specific to Title IX) are not applicable, as determined by the Title IX Coordinator:
Sexual harassment is unlawful when it subjects an individual to inferior terms, conditions, or privileges of employment. Harassment need not be severe or pervasive to be unlawful and can be any harassing conduct that consists of more than petty slights or trivial inconveniences. Sexual harassment includes unwelcome conduct which is either of a sexual nature, or which is directed at an individual because of that individual’s sex when:- Such conduct has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with an individual’s work performance or creating an intimidating, hostile or offensive work environment, even if the reporting individual is not the intended target of the sexual harassment; Such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of employment; or Submission to or rejection of such conduct is used as the basis for employment decisions affecting an individual’s employment
- Unwelcome sexual propositions, invitations, solicitations, and flirtations;
- Non-consensual sexual intercourse or other sexual contact;
- Coercive behavior, unreasonable pressure, or manipulation to compel a person to engage in sexual activity;
- Threats or insinuations that a person’s employment, wages, promotional opportunities, work assignments, academic grade, classroom assignments, or other conditions of employment or academic or other collegiate life may be adversely affected by not submitting to sexual advances;
- Unwelcome verbal expressions of a sexual nature, including graphic sexual commentaries about a person’s body, dress, appearance, or sexual activities; the unwelcome use of sexually degrading language, jokes, or innuendoes; unwelcome suggestive or insulting sounds or whistles; obscene phone calls, mail, or email;
- Sexually suggestive objects, pictures, videotapes, audio recordings or literature, placed on the work or study area, if not used solely for a legitimate educational purpose;
- Non-consensual touching, grabbing, groping, pinching, or other physical contact;
- Spreading sexual rumors; distributing intimate or sexual information about another person;
- Causing or attempting to cause the incapacitation of another person in order to gain a sexual advantage over that person;
- Electronically recording, photographing, or transmitting intimate or sexual utterances, sounds or images of another person.
- Affirmative Consent (“Consent”): a knowing, voluntary, and mutual decision among all participants to engage in sexual activity. Consent can be given by words or actions, as long as those words or actions create clear permission regarding willingness to engage in the sexual activity. Silence or lack of resistance does not in and of itself, demonstrate consent. The definition of consent does not vary based upon a participant’s sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression. Consent to any sexual act or prior consensual sexual activity between or with any party does not necessarily constitute consent to any other sexual act. Consent is required regardless of whether the person initiating the act is under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol. Consent may be initially given but withdrawn at any time. Consent cannot be given when it is the result of any coercion, intimidation, force, or threat of harm. When consent is withdrawn or can no longer be given, sexual activity must stop. Children under 17 years of age cannot legally consent under New York State law to having sex or sexual contact with an adult (i.e., someone who is 17 years of age or older)
- Coercion and Force: Consent cannot be procured by the use of physical force, compulsion, threats, intimidating behavior, or coercion. Sexual activity accompanied by coercion or force is not consensual.
- Coercion refers to unreasonable pressure for sexual activity. When someone makes it clear that they do not want to engage in sexual activity or do not want to go beyond a certain point of sexual interaction, continued pressure beyond that point can be considered coercive. The use of coercion can involve the use of pressure, manipulation, substances, and/or force. Ignoring objections of another person is a form of coercion.
- Force refers to the use of physical violence and/or imposing on someone physically to engage in sexual contact or intercourse. Force can also include threats, intimidation (implied threats), or coercion used to overcome resistance.
- Complainant
Any individual who has reported being or is alleged to be the victim of Prohibited Conduct under this policy. - Education Program or Activity
Pratt’s “education program or activity” includes:- Any on-campus facility, property, or building owned or controlled by the Institute;
- Any off-campus program or activity that Pratt has substantial control over;
- Any off-campus premises that Pratt has substantial control over. This includes buildings or property owned or controlled by a recognized student organization; and
- Activity occurring within computer and internet networks, digital platforms, and computer hardware or software owned or operated by, or used in the operations of Pratt’s programs and activities over which Pratt has substantial control.
- Formal Complaint
“Formal complaint” means a written document (hard copy or electronic) that alleges that a Respondent committed Prohibited Conduct and requests initiation of the procedures consistent with the Policy to investigate the allegation of the conduct. A “Formal Complaint” can only be filed by a Complainant with a signature or other indication that the complainant is the person filing the formal complaint or signed by the Title IX Coordinator. - Incapacitation: Someone who is incapacitated cannot consent. A person is incapacitated when the person cannot make a rational, reasonable decision because the person lacks the ability to understand their decision. A person can become incapacitated as a result of, among other things, physical or mental impairment, involuntary physical constraint, sleep, unconsciousness, or consumption of alcohol or other drugs.
- Where alcohol or other drugs are involved, incapacitation is a state beyond drunkenness or intoxication. The impact of alcohol and other drugs varies from person to person; however, warning signs that a person may be approaching incapacitation may include slurred or incomprehensible speech, vomiting, unsteady gait, combativeness, or emotional volatility. Evaluating incapacitation also requires an assessment of whether a Respondent knew or should have been aware of the Complainant’s incapacitation based on objectively and reasonably apparent indications of impairment when viewed from the perspective of a sober, reasonable person in the Respondent’s position. Being intoxicated or impaired by drugs or alcohol is never an excuse for committing Prohibited Conduct and does not diminish one’s responsibility to obtain informed and freely given consent. In other words, consent is required regardless of whether the person initiating the act is under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol.
- Party or Parties
Referring to Complainant(s), Respondent(s), or both Complainant(s) and Respondent(s). - Respondent
Respondent, sometimes called the Accused, means any individual who has been reported to have engaged in Prohibited Conduct under this policy. - Title IX Prohibited Conduct includes the following, as defined in Section IV Prohibited Conduct: Title IX Sexual Harassment, domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking, when such violations are alleged to have occurred within the Educational Program or Activity and inside of the United States.
The Title IX Coordinator
The Title IX Coordinator is charged with monitoring compliance with Title IX; providing education and training; overseeing complaints; and coordinating Pratt’s investigation, response, and resolution of all reports of Prohibited Conduct under this policy. The Title IX Coordinator is available to meet with any Student, Employee, or Third Party to discuss this policy or the accompanying procedures and can be contacted at:
Michael Arno | Title IX Coordinator | marno58@pratt.edu | p: 718-687-5171
Employee Reporting Obligations
Other than those serving in the capacity of Confidential Resources, described in section VII(A)(1) in this policy, all Pratt Employees must immediately report possible violations of this policy to the Title IX Coordinator.
This report must include the employee’s name and contact information, and all known details about an incident, including dates, times, locations, names of involved individuals and the nature of the incident. Aside from this reporting obligation, employees will, to the fullest extent possible, maintain the privacy of an individual’s information.
As per New York state law, managers and supervisors are required to report any workplace complaint of sexual harassment that they receive, or any workplace harassment that they observe in the to the Title IX Coordinator.
All employees, contractors, and volunteers who are employed or engaged by Pratt and interact with, supervise, chaperone, or otherwise oversee minors, whether during the program or in any Pratt-sponsored activity, must immediately report any suspected cases of abuse, maltreatment, and/or neglect in accordance with New York State law.
Employees who fail to comply with their reporting obligation may be subject to discipline up to and including termination.
Student Bill of Rights
All Pratt students have the right to:
- Make a report (or decline to report) to local law enforcement and/or state police;
- Have disclosures of Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, and Stalking and all other forms of Prohibited Conduct treated seriously;
- Make a decision about whether or not to disclose a crime or violation and participate in the complaint resolution process and/or criminal justice process free from pressure by the institution;
- Participate in a process that is fair, impartial, and provides adequate notice and a meaningful opportunity to be heard;
- Be treated with dignity and to receive from the Colleges courteous, fair, and respectful health care and counseling services, where available;
- Be free from any suggestion that the Complainant is at fault when these crimes and violations are committed, or should have acted in a different manner to avoid such crimes or violations;
- Describe the incident to as few representatives of the College as practicable and not be required to unnecessarily repeat a description of the incident;
- Be protected from retaliation by the Colleges, any student, the Respondent, and/or their friends, family and acquaintances within the jurisdiction of the Colleges;
- Access to at least one level of appeal of a determination;
- Be accompanied by an Advisor of choice who may assist and advice a Complainant or a Respondent during any meetings and hearings under the Policy and procedures; and
- Exercise civil rights and practice of religion without interference by the investigative, criminal justice, or complaint resolution process of the Colleges.
Amnesty
The health and safety of every student at Pratt Institute is of the utmost importance. Pratt recognizes that students who have been drinking and/or using drugs (whether such use is voluntary or involuntary) at a time that violence (including but not limited to domestic
violence, dating violence, stalking, or sexual assault) occurs may be hesitant to report such incidents due to fear of potential consequences for their own conduct. Pratt strongly encourages students to report domestic violence, dating violence, stalking, or sexual assault to Institute officials. A bystander or complainant acting in good faith who discloses any incident of domestic violence, dating violence, stalking, or sexual assault to college officials or law enforcement will not be subject to discipline under Pratt’s Policy Against Drugs and Alcohol for violations of alcohol and/or drug use policies occurring at or near the time of the commission of the domestic violence, dating violence, stalking, or sexual assault. This policy does not provide amnesty for drug dealers or those who use drugs or alcohol as a weapon or to facilitate Prohibited Conduct. Under Pratt’s Amnesty for Drug and Alcohol Policy, personal drug use and possession, whether it is intentional or accidental, will not form the basis of faculty student disciplinary charges.
Requesting Accommodations
This policy does not alter any institutional obligations under federal disability laws including the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.
Parties may request reasonable accommodations for disclosed disabilities to the Title IX Coordinator at any point before or during the grievance process. Accommodations will be granted if appropriate and that do not fundamentally alter the Process. The Title IX Coordinator will not affirmatively provide disability accommodations that have not been specifically requested by the Parties, even where the Parties may be receiving accommodations in other institutional programs and activities.
Requests for accommodations in connection with allegations of Prohibited Conduct should be made to the Institute’s Title IX Coordinator. The Institute will provide information about the employee’s request for accommodation only to those having a need to know such information in order to implement the accommodations.
Effect of Criminal Proceedings
Sexual misconduct may constitute a violation of both law and Institute policy. The Institute encourages students to report alleged sexual misconduct promptly to local law enforcement agencies. Criminal investigations may be useful in the gathering of relevant evidence, particularly forensic evidence. The standards for finding a violation of criminal law are different from the standards for finding a violation of this policy. Therefore, criminal investigations or reports are not determinative of whether Prohibited Conduct, for purposes of the policy, has occurred. In other words, conduct may constitute Prohibited Conduct under this policy even if law enforcement agencies lack sufficient evidence of a crime and decline to prosecute.
The filing of a complaint of Prohibited Conduct under this policy is independent of any criminal investigation or proceeding. The Institute will not wait for the conclusion of any criminal investigation or proceedings to commence its own investigation or take any necessary interim measures to protect the complainant and the Institute community. However, the Institute may temporarily delay its investigation to enable law enforcement to gather evidence and to engage in a preliminary investigation of sexual misconduct matters that may also violate the state criminal code. Such delay should not last longer than ten (10) days except when law enforcement requests and justifies a longer delay.
Additional/Alternative Rights for Union Employees
Institute employees who are represented by a union may have other procedural rights pursuant to the respective collective bargaining agreement. Please refer to the collective bargaining agreement and/or contact your union representative for further information.
This section contains the procedures to report Prohibited Conduct, as well as options for resolution, including investigations and adjudications.
Disclosing and/or Reporting Prohibited Conduct
This section includes information about how to make confidential disclosures, non-confidential disclosures, how to report to law enforcement and/or campus safety, as well as how to report to the Title IX Coordinator.
Reporting individuals may choose any or all of these options free from retaliation, and may receive assistance and supportive measures from Pratt regardless of which options are exercised.
Confidential Disclosure Options
Reporting parties have the right to disclose confidentially an incident of sexual misconduct to Pratt Institute representatives who may offer confidentiality pursuant to applicable laws and can assist in obtaining services for reporting individuals. Reporting individuals also have the right to disclose confidentially and obtain services from the state or local government. Medical providers and professional licensed counselors and pastoral counselors (e.g. clergy/chaplain) who provide mental health counseling to members of the Pratt community, may not report any information about an incident of sexual misconduct disclosed while acting within the scope of that provider’s/counselor’s license or certification to the Title IX Coordinator without a Complainant’s permission. State law requires professional counselors to report: (i) when a patient is likely to engage in conduct that would result in serious harm to the patient or others; (ii) if there is reasonable cause to suspect that a minor has been sexually abused.
The following is the contact information for on-campus confidential resources for students:
- Counseling Center, ISC Building Room 314, 718-687-5356 (Available Monday-Friday 9AM-5PM)
- Health Services, Willoughby Hall Suite 117, 718-399-4542 (Available Monday-Friday 9AM-5PM)
The following is the contact information for confidential resources for employees:
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP Guidance Resources Program)
Call: 800-311-4327
TDD: 800-697-0353
Online: guidanceresources.com
Your company Web ID: GEN311
The following is the contact information for off-campus confidential resources for any individual:
- Safe Horizon: 800-621-HOPE (4673)
- RAINN National Sexual Assault Hotline: 800-656-HOPE
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 800-799-SAFE
- New York State Domestic Violence Hotline, 1-800-942-6906
- New York State Office of Victim Services, 1-800-247-8035
- New York State Division of Human Rights Sexual Workplace Sexual Harassment: 1-800-HARASS
- Medical/Emergency Rooms
- Brooklyn: Woodhull Hospital: 718-963-8000
- Manhattan: Bellevue Hospital: 212-562-5555
These confidential resources can help and provide information regarding medical assistance and treatment (including information about sexually transmitted infections, and sexual assault forensic examinations), and resources available through the New York State Office of Victim Services, and law enforcement options.
The above-listed resources are available free of charge.
In order to make informed choices, it is important to be aware of confidentiality and mandatory reporting requirements when consulting on and off campus resources. When a report is made to these resources, you are not making a report to the Institute and it will not result in other supportive measures, an investigation, or other corrective measures. Any person who desires supportive measures (such as a change in housing, academic or work assignments) or wishes to seek formal action in response to their allegations (such as investigation, hearing, and/or sanctions) must make their report/disclosure to the Title IX Coordinator.
The Institute also has non-confidential campus resources available to the Pratt community. These non-confidential resources are required to report disclosures of sexual misconduct to the Title IX Coordinator.
The following is the contact information for on campus non-confidential resources for any individual:
- Title IX Coordinator: titleix@pratt.edu or 718-687-5171
- Associate Vice President for Student Life: jkelle30@pratt.edu or 718-687-5443
- Student Advocate and Care Coordinator: Studentadvocate@pratt.edu or 718-399-4546
- Human Resources Senior Employer Labor Specialist: dsimonette@pratt.edu or 718-687-5438
Reporting to Law Enforcement and Campus Safety
Under NY law, victims of sexual misconduct have the right to notify or decline to notify law enforcement. Timing is a critical factor in collecting and preserving evidence that may assist in proving that the alleged misconduct occurred or may be helpful in obtaining protection or restraining orders from the police. The Department of Campus Safety and other Institute representatives indicated below, are available to assist in notifying law enforcement of an incident of sexual misconduct and in contacting law enforcement or legal service organizations to learn about these remedies.
For local Police and Emergency Assistance dial 911
For Campus Safety:
- Brooklyn Campus (Main Guard Booth): 718-636-3540 or 718-636-3541
- Manhattan Campus Security Desk: 212-647-7776
Disclosing or Reporting to the Title IX Coordinator
Any person may disclose sex discrimination, including sexual harassment (whether or not the person reporting is the person alleged to be the victim of conduct that could constitute sex discrimination or sexual harassment), in person, by mail, by telephone, or by electronic mail, using the contact information listed for the Title IX Coordinator, or by any other means that results in the Title IX Coordinator receiving the person’s oral or written report.
Michael Arno
Title IX Coordinator
200 Willoughby Hall, Brooklyn NY 11205
marno58@pratt.edu , titleix@pratt.edu, 718-687-5171
A disclosure may be made at any time (including during non-business hours) by using the telephone number or electronic mail address, or by mail to the office address listed for the Title IX Coordinator. Please click here to report any misconduct related to the Title IX and Sexual Misconduct policy.
Upon receipt of a disclosure of Prohibited Conduct, the Title IX Coordinator or their designee will promptly contact the Complainant to discuss the availability of supportive measures, consider the Complainant’s wishes with respect to supportive measures, inform the Complainant of the availability of supportive measures with or without the filing of a Formal Complaint, and explain to the Complainant the process for filing a Formal Complaint. The Title IX Coordinator will make an initial assessment of the reported information and respond to any immediate safety or well-being concerns raised by the report.
In this intake assessment, the Title IX Coordinator will conduct a preliminary assessment and:
- Inform the Complainant of the right to seek medical treatment, and explain the importance of obtaining and preserving forensic and other evidence;
- Inform the Complainant of the right to contact law enforcement, decline to contact law enforcement, and/or seek a protective order;
- Inform the Complainant about campus and community resources, including no-contact orders;
- Inform the Complainant of the right to file a Formal Complaint and the right to seek Informal Resolution after filing a Formal Complaint; ascertain the Complainant’s expressed preference for resolution (Informal Resolution, Formal Resolution, or neither); and discuss with the Complainant any concerns or barriers to participating in any investigation and resolution by Pratt;
- Explain Pratt’s prohibition against Retaliation and that Pratt will take prompt action in response to any act of Retaliation;
- Assess the nature and circumstances of the report, including whether it provides the names and/or other information that personally identifies the Complainant, the Respondent, any witness, and/or any other third party with knowledge of the reported incident;
- Ascertain the ages of the Parties, and if either of the parties is a minor (under 18), and follow any applicable reporting protocols;
- Coordinate with appropriate officials regarding Clery Act reporting, if applicable;
- Ensure that the Complainant receives a written explanation of all available resources and options, and is offered the opportunity to meet and discuss the resources and options;
- Assess any threat to the safety or well-being of the Complainant or the Pratt community. A non-exhaustive list of safety factors to be considered by Pratt includes:
- Whether there have been other sexual misconduct reports or complaints about the same Respondent;
- Whether the incident involves a weapon or violence;
- Whether the Respondent has a history of arrests or disciplinary records;
- Whether the incident represents an escalation in and unlawful conduct on behalf of the Respondent from previously noted behavior;
- Whether there is an increased risk that the Respondent will commit additional acts of violence; and other aggravating circumstances.
Where the Complainant requests that personally-identifying information not be shared with the Respondent, that no investigation be pursued, and/or that no further action be taken, the Title IX Coordinator will seek to honor the preferences of the Complainant wherever possible taking into consideration the safety factors listed above and its legal obligations. The Title IX Coordinator will determine whether the Title IX Coordinator will sign a Formal Complaint even if the Complainant declines to do so. Where the Title IX Coordinator has determined that the Institute must proceed with a Formal Complaint despite a Complainant’s request to the contrary, the Title IX Coordinator will make reasonable efforts to protect the privacy of the Complainant. However, Pratt’s investigation will involve speaking with the Respondent and others who may have relevant information, in which case the Complainant’s identity may have to be disclosed. In such cases, the Title IX Coordinator will notify the Complainant that Pratt intends to proceed with the Formal Complaint, but that the Complainant is not required to participate in the investigation or in any other actions undertaken by Pratt. In all cases, the initial report, intake assessment, and the determinations of the Title IX Coordinator will be documented and retained by Pratt in accordance with applicable law.
- Bystander Reports
If the Institute receives a report of alleged sexual misconduct by someone other than the alleged victim (e.g., by a friend or coworker, roommate, resident advisor), the Institute’s Title IX Coordinator will promptly notify the alleged victim of the report, and inform the alleged victim of the available resources and assistance. To the extent possible, the Institute will respond to the report of sexual misconduct as if the victim had made the initial report. - Anonymous Reporting
Reports regarding sexual misconduct may be made anonymously, but can give rise to a need to investigate. Anonymous reports will be preliminarily investigated, to the extent possible, both to assess the underlying allegation(s) and to determine supportive measures. However, anonymous reports typically limit the Institute’s ability to investigate and respond, depending on what information is shared. The Institute tries to provide supportive measures to all Complainants, which is impossible with an anonymous report where the Complainant is not identified. Because reporting carries no obligation to initiate a formal response, and as the Institute respects Complainant requests to not to take formal action in response to a report unless doing so would be clearly unreasonable or there is an unmitigated risk of harm to the reporting individual or other members of the Institute community, the Complainant is largely in control and should not fear a loss of privacy by making a report that allows the Institute to discuss and/or provide supportive measures. - Public Events and Climate Surveys
Generally, information disclosed at public events and in climate surveys does not obligate the Institute to begin an investigation. This includes information shared in classroom writing assignments or discussions, human subjects research, or events such as “Take Back the Night” marches or speak-outs. The information may be used to inform educational and prevention efforts. Support measures may also result from such disclosures without formal Institute action. The Institute will take steps to ensure that answers to required climate surveys and assessments remain anonymous. No personally identifiable information will be included in any published results. Information discovered or produced as a result of these surveys will not be in any court proceeding except as required by a court action. - Reports with Employee Respondents
Generally, allegations of Prohibited Conduct against an employee will be addressed by the Title IX Coordinator in partnership with the Institute’s Office of Human Resources. This includes student-employees when the Prohibited Conduct is alleged to have occurred in the context of their employment. - Reports with Third-Party Respondents
Any Respondent who is not an Institute student, faculty member, or staff member is generally considered a Third Party. The Institute’s ability to take appropriate corrective action against a Third Party may be limited, and will depend on the nature of the Third Party’s relationship, if any, to the Institute. The institute Title IX Coordinator will determine which office(s) will address allegations against all other Third-Party Respondents.
Available Supportive and Interim Measures
Supportive Measures
Complainants who report allegations that could constitute Prohibited Conduct under this policy have the right to receive supportive measures from Pratt Institute regardless of whether they desire to file a Formal Complaint, which may include Counseling Services, Health Services, academic adjustments or modifications, reasonable assistance from Campus Safety as appropriate. Supportive measures are non-disciplinary and non-punitive. Supportive Measures are also available to Respondents.
Any individual who has been the victim of sexual misconduct may request assistance in changing academic, living, transportation, and working situations, as applicable. The Institute will grant such modifications, provided they are reasonable and available, regardless of whether the victim chooses to report the crime to law enforcement.
Interim Measures
Interim measures and/or adjustments may be made to ensure safety, prevent retaliation, and avoid an ongoing hostile environment. During the fact-finding and investigatory phase, the Institute will offer and implement as applicable appropriate remediation measures including, but not limited to interim suspension, housing or academic accommodations, safety escorts and/or No Contact orders to ensure the safety of the community.
A No Contact Order is a document issued by a Pratt administrator that is designed to limit or prohibit contact or communications between the parties.
Emergency Removal
Pratt Institute retains the authority to remove a respondent from the Institute’s program or activity on an emergency basis, where Pratt (1) undertakes an individualized safety and risk analysis and (2) determines that an immediate threat to the physical health or safety of any student or other individual arising from the allegations of covered sexual harassment justifies a removal.
If Pratt Institute determines such removal is necessary, the respondent will be provided notice and an opportunity to challenge the decision immediately following the removal, by notifying the Title IX Coordinator in writing. The Institute will designate an individual, not otherwise involved in the case, to consider the challenge to the removal and determine if the emergency removal was reasonable.
Administrative Leave
If necessary, Pratt retains the authority to place a non-student employee respondent on administrative leave, suspension, or other discipline during a pending complaint process under this policy, with or without pay as appropriate, consistent with Institute policy and/or the respective CBA.
Advisor of Choice and Participation of Advisor of Choice
Each party has the right to choose and consult with an Advisor of their choice. The Advisor may be any person, including an attorney.
Parties in this process may be accompanied by an Advisor to any meeting or related hearing to which they are required or are eligible to attend. The Advisor is not an advocate. Except where explicitly stated by this Policy, Advisors shall not participate directly in the process, with exception that only an Advisor may conduct cross-examination during a live hearing.
Pratt Institute will provide the parties equal access to advisors; any restrictions on advisor participation will be applied equally.
A union-represented employee may also be entitled to having a union representative present in addition to their advisor of choice. The advisor and/or union representative may consult with the party that they are assisting at appropriate times, but may not interfere with the investigation or complaint resolution process.
Confidentiality
Pratt values the privacy of its students, employees, and other community members. Community members should be able to seek the assistance they need without fear that the information they provide will be shared more broadly.
Confidentiality refers to confidential resources who are not required to redisclose Prohibited Conduct to law enforcement or college officials without the disclosing party’s permission, except for extreme circumstances, such as a health and/or safety emergency or child abuse. References made to privacy mean Pratt offices and employees who cannot guarantee confidentiality, but will maintain privacy to the greatest extent possible, such that information disclosed will be relayed only as necessary to investigate and/or seek a resolution and to notify the Title IX Coordinator or designee, who is responsible for tracking patterns and spotting systemic issues. Pratt will limit the disclosure as much as practicable.
Pratt’s offices and employees who cannot guarantee confidentiality will maintain the individual’s privacy to the greatest extent possible. Information provided to a non-confidential resource will only be relayed as necessary for the Title IX coordinator to investigate and/or seek a resolution.
Note that Pratt will maintain as confidential any supportive measures provided to a party, to the extent that maintaining such confidentiality would not impair the ability of the Institute to provide the support measures. Pratt will keep confidential who has made a report or complaint of sex discrimination, including sexual harassment, as well as any respondent or witness, outside of necessary disclosures of information to comply with federal and state law, and to conduct an investigation or hearing under this Policy.
As to matters involving students, under federal privacy laws, the investigative report, statements of one party that are shared with the other party in the resolution process, and any documents prepared by Pratt, including documents by or for the adjudicators in advance of the hearing and the hearing transcript, constitute education records which may not be disclosed outside of the proceedings, except as may be required or authorized by law. Access to materials will be provided only by a secure method and parties and advisors are not permitted to make copies of any documents shared or make use of the documents outside of the processes described in this policy. Inappropriately sharing materials provided during this process may constitute retaliation and result in disciplinary action.
Generally, the Institute will not share information about a report or record of prohibited conduct under this Policy without the permission of the party, unless required by law. The Federal Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) permits institutions to share information with parents/guardians of students when: (i) there is a health or safety emergency, or (ii) when the student is a dependent on either parent’s prior year federal income tax return.
Resolution Processes
Resolution processes, including Investigations and adjudications, including Informal Resolution, are initiated with a Formal Complaint. This section describes how to file a Formal Complaint and the investigation and resolution processes available depending on the type of Prohibited Conduct alleged to have occurred. All institutional notices described in this policy will be sent to Parties through their institutional email, if applicable. It is the responsibility of Parties to maintain and regularly check their institutional accounts.
- How to File a Formal Complaint
To file a Formal Complaint, a complainant must provide the Title IX Coordinator a written, signed complaint describing the facts alleged.
If a complainant does not wish to make a Formal Complaint, the Title IX Coordinator may determine a Formal Complaint is necessary. Pratt will inform the complainant of this decision in writing, and the complainant need not participate in the process further but will receive all notices issued under this policy.
A complainant who files a Formal Complaint may elect, at any time, to address the matter through the Informal Resolution process described in this Policy. - Initial Review of Formal Complaint
The Title IX Coordinator will review the Formal Complaint and determine which resolution processes are available given the type of Prohibited Conduct and the status of the Parties. For example, Informal Resolution of a complaint of Title IX Prohibited Conduct is not available when the Respondent is an employee and the Complainant is a student.
If new information requires the Title IX Coordinator to amend the determination about available resolution processes, the Title IX Coordinator will advise the Parties in writing. - Consolidation
The Institute may consolidate Formal Complaints as appropriate, for example, if there are multiple Formal Complaints where the allegations of Prohibited Conduct arise out of the same facts or circumstances.
The Institute may consolidate complaints alleging Prohibited Conduct against more than one Respondent, or by more than one Complainant against one or more Respondents, or by one party against the other party, where the allegations of Prohibited Conduct arise out of the same facts or circumstances.
Pratt reserves the right to use this Policy to adjudicate other allegations and conduct charges as defined by policies outside of the scope of this Policy in instances when the conduct is associated with an alleged issue of Prohibited Conduct. - Dismissal of a Formal Complaint
The Title IX Coordinator may dismiss a Formal Complaint brought under this Policy, or any specific allegations raised within that Formal Complaint, at any time during the investigation or hearing, if:- A complainant notifies the Title IX Coordinator in writing that they would like to withdraw the Formal Complaint or any allegations raised in the Formal Complaint;
- The respondent is no longer enrolled or employed by Pratt Institute; or
- If specific circumstances prevent Pratt Institute from gathering evidence sufficient to reach a determination regarding the Formal Complaint or allegations within the Formal Complaint.
If the Formal Complaint is dismissed after the respondent is notified about the Formal Complaint, either party may appeal the dismissal using the process in this policy. Pratt will promptly send written notice of the dismissal of the Formal Complaint or any specific allegation within the Formal Complaint, and the reason for the dismissal, simultaneously to the parties.
The timeframe for the formal resolution process begins with the filing of a Formal Complaint. The Grievance Process will be concluded within a reasonably prompt manner. The Institute will inform all parties in writing of an explanation for and need of an extension. Below are the general timeframes for the major stages of the grievance process. “Days” are business days where Pratt is open.
- Investigation Stage
- About 60 days for the investigation
- 10 days to review the preliminary report and to submit any response or additional information or questions
- 5 days to respond to new evidence provided by the other party during their review of the preliminary report
- At least 10 days between receipt of the final investigative report by the Parties and the hearing
- Decision & Appeals
- Parties receive written notice of outcome 10 days or less after the hearing takes places, if applicable
- Appeals from the Parties are due 5 days from the notice of outcome
- If someone appeals, Pratt has 3 days to notify the other party in writing
- The non-appealing party has 5 days to respond or submit their own appeal
- The Appeals Panel will issue its decision within 10 days
Each party may request a one-time delay in the resolution process of up to five (5) days for good cause (granted or denied in the sole judgment of the Title IX Coordinator or designee) provided that the requestor provides reasonable notice and the delay does not overly inconvenience other parties.
For example, a request to take a five day pause made an hour before a hearing for which multiple parties and their advisors have traveled to and prepared for shall generally not be granted, while a request for a five day pause in the middle of investigation interviews to allow a party to obtain certain documentary evidence shall generally be granted. The Title IX Coordinator shall have sole judgment to grant further pauses in the process.
The Title IX Coordinator will draft and timely provide the Notice of Allegations to all Parties. The institution will provide sufficient time for the parties to review the Notice of Allegations and prepare a response before any initial interview.
The Notice of Allegations will include the following:
- Notice of the allegations potentially constituting Prohibited Conduct, and sufficient details known at the time the Notice is issued, such as the identities of the Parties, if known; the conduct allegedly constituting Prohibited Conduct; and the date and location of the alleged incident, if known;
- Notice of the applicable policies and procedures;
- The Student Bill of Rights;
- How to challenge participation by the Title IX Coordinator for bias or conflict of interest – which the Assistant Vice President for Student Life will resolve in their sole discretion.
- How to challenge participation by the Investigator for bias or conflict of interest – which the Title IX Coordinator will resolve in their sole discretion.
- A statement that the respondent is presumed not responsible for the alleged conduct and that a determination regarding responsibility is made at the conclusion of the grievance process;
- A statement that the parties may have an advisor of their choice, who may be any person including a friend, relative, colleague, or an attorney
; - A statement that before the conclusion of the investigation, the parties may inspect and review evidence obtained as part of the investigation that is directly related to the allegations raised in the Formal Complaint, including the evidence upon which the Institute does not intend to rely in reaching a determination regarding responsibility, and evidence that both tends to prove or disprove the allegations, whether obtained from a Party or from any other source;
- A statement that the Institute prohibits knowingly making false statements or knowingly submitting false information to the Institute.
- A statement that retaliation is prohibited.
The Institute will issue an amended Notice of Allegations as needed if additional allegations are discovered during the course of the investigation. The parties will be provided sufficient time to review the additional allegations to prepare a response before any initial interview regarding those additional charges.
Pratt will provide parties with written notice of the date, time, location, participants, and purpose of meetings to which they are invited, including hearings, investigative interviews, or other meetings, with sufficient time for the party to prepare to participate.
In all investigations into alleged sexual misconduct, the Institute will evaluate evidence under a “preponderance of the evidence” standard. A preponderance of the evidence means that information shows it is “more likely than not” that the respondent violated this policy. The respondent will be found to be responsible for the alleged sexual misconduct if the Investigator concludes, based upon careful review of all information presented, that it is more likely than not that such sexual misconduct occurred. The Title IX Coordinator or designee will perform an investigation under a reasonably prompt timeframe of the conduct alleged to constitute covered sexual harassment after issuing the Notice of Allegations.
Pratt and not the parties, has the burden of proof and the burden of gathering evidence, i.e. the responsibility of showing a violation of this policy has occurred. This burden does not rest with either party, and either party may decide not to share their account of what occurred or may decide not to participate in an investigation or hearing. This does not shift the burden of proof away from Pratt and does not indicate responsibility.
Relevance in Evidence and Questions
“Relevant” evidence and questions refer to any questions and evidence that tends to make an allegation of sexual harassment more or less likely to be true.
The following are not relevant:
- Evidence and questions about the complainant’s sexual predisposition or prior sexual behavior unless:
- They are offered to prove that someone other than the respondent committed the conduct alleged by the complainant, or
- They concern specific incidents of the complainant’s prior sexual behavior with respect to the respondent and are offered to prove consent.
- Evidence and questions that constitute, or seek disclosure of, information protected under a legally recognized privilege.
- Any party’s medical, psychological, and similar records unless the party has given voluntary, written consent.
All parties must submit any evidence they would like the investigator to consider prior to when the parties’ time to inspect and review evidence begins.
Pratt cannot access, consider, or disclose medical records without a waiver from the party (or parent, if applicable) to whom the records belong or of whom the records include information.
Inspection and Review of Evidence
At the conclusion of all interviews and fact gathering, and when the evidence has been gathered, the Investigator will provide each party the opportunity to review all of the evidence gathered that is directly related to the allegation(s). This will include both inculpatory and exculpatory evidence and may include evidence that is not relied upon in making a determination. The purpose of the inspection and review process is to allow each party the equal opportunity to meaningfully respond to the evidence prior to conclusion of the investigation.
Given the sensitive nature of the information provided, Pratt will facilitate this review in a secure manner. Neither the parties nor their advisors may copy, remove, photograph, print, image, videotape, record, or in any manner otherwise duplicate or remove the information provided. Any student or employee who fails to abide by this may be subject to discipline. Any Advisor who fails to abide by this may be subject to discipline and/or may be excluded from further participation in the process.
The Parties have ten (10) business days after reviewing the preliminary report and the evidence packet to submit a response in writing to the Investigator, if they choose. Such a response may include additional comments or information, identify additional witnesses or evidence, or submit any further questions to be directed by the Investigator to other parties or witnesses. The Investigator will incorporate any response provided by the parties into the Final Investigative Report.
Upon receipt of each party’s response to the evidence reviewed, the Investigator will determine if any additional investigation is needed. If new relevant evidence is provided by either party, or gathered by the Investigator, the newly gathered evidence (including answers to clarifying questions) will be made available for review by each party. Each party will have five (5) business days in which to respond to the new evidence. Each may provide a response in writing, or orally, to the Investigator. The Investigator will incorporate any oral and/or written response provided by the parties into the Investigation Report.
The institution will provide access to copies of the parties’ written responses to the investigator to all parties and their advisors, if any.
Any evidence subject to inspection and review will be available at any hearing, including for purposes of cross-examination.
Inclusion of Evidence Not Directly Related to the Allegations
Evidence obtained in the investigation that is determined in the reasoned judgment of the Investigator not to be directly related to the allegations in the Formal Complaint will be included in the appendices to the Investigative Report
Final Investigative Report
The Investigator designated by the Title IX Coordinator will create a Final Investigative Report. The Investigative Report is not intended to catalog all evidence obtained by the investigator, but only to provide a fair summary of that evidence.
Only relevant evidence (including both inculpatory and exculpatory – i.e. tending to prove and disprove the allegations – relevant evidence) will be referenced in the Investigative Report.
The Investigator may redact irrelevant information from the Investigative Report when that information is contained in documents or evidence that is/are not relevant and/or not permissible.
In cases involving Title IX Prohibited Conduct with a student or employee respondent, and in cases involving Prohibited Conduct (including retaliation) with a student respondent, formal resolution includes a live hearing. All participants shall be subject to Pratt’s Rules of Decorum. Pratt will not threaten, coerce, intimidate or discriminate against any party in an attempt to secure a person’s participation.
- Initiating the Hearing
Within ten (10) calendar days prior to the date of the hearing, the Title IX Coordinator will notify the parties in writing of the specific charge, the date, time, and location of the hearing, the name of the Decision-Maker, and how to challenge participation by the Decision-Maker for bias or conflict of interest – which the Title IX Coordinator will resolve in their sole discretion. Pratt may, at the discretion of the Title IX Coordinator, postpone the hearing or determine that multiple hearing sessions are necessary for a continuance. Good causes for extension may include the unavailability of the parties, the timing of semester breaks or holidays designated by Pratt, or other extenuating circumstances requiring more time. Any extension, including the reason for the extension, will be shared with the parties in writing. The Complainant or the Respondent may seek to postpone the hearing. Permission to postpone a hearing may be granted provided that the request to do so is based on a compelling need and communicated to the Title IX Coordinator prior to the time of the hearing. - Hearing Format
The live hearing may be conducted with all parties physically present in the same geographic location, or, at Pratt’s discretion, any or all parties, witnesses, and other participants may appear at the live hearing virtually through a video conferencing option. This technology will enable participants simultaneously to see and hear each other. At its discretion, Pratt may delay or adjourn a hearing based on technological errors not within a party’s control.
A typical hearing may include brief opening remarks by the Complainant and/or Respondent, with follow-up questions posed by the Decision-Maker, information presented by the parties or witnesses deemed relevant by the Decision-Maker, with follow-up question for the parties or witnesses by the Adjudicator and the parties’ Advisors for cross-examination, and brief concluding remarks by the Complainant and Respondent. - Attendance by and Participation of Parties
All Parties have a right to be present at the hearing. Parties may be accompanied in the hearing by an Advisor of their choice and must provide the name of their Advisor to the Title IX Coordinator at least three (3) calendar days prior to the hearing.
Pratt may still proceed with the live hearing in the absence of a party and/or witness(es) may reach a determination of responsibility in their absence. If a party does not attend the live hearing, the party’s advisor may appear and conduct cross-examination on their behalf. If neither a party nor their advisor appear at the hearing, Pratt will provide an advisor to appear on behalf of the non-appearing party.
The Decision-Maker cannot draw an inference about the determination regarding responsibility based solely on a party’s absence from the live hearing or refusal to answer cross examination or other questions. - Attendance by and Participation of Witnesses
The parties may submit to the Title IX Coordinator a list of witnesses they believe have relevant information to the outcome of the hearing. The Decision-Maker/s will review the parties’ requested witnesses and consider any other witnesses. The Decision-Maker has discretion to determine which witnesses are relevant and may decline to hear from witnesses where they conclude that the information is not necessary for the review. Witnesses will only be permitted to attend the hearing during their own testimony. - Recording & Transcripts
All proceedings will be audio recorded. A transcript of the recording will be made available to the parties for inspection and review. This will be the sole recording of the hearing; no Party, Advisor, or witness is permitted to record the hearing, or any portion of the hearing. Any unauthorized recording may result in disciplinary action. - Expectations of Decorum
The following Expectations of Decorum are to be observed in the hearing, during cross-examination questioning, and as applicable to any meetings associated with resolution of a Formal Complaint; and applied equally to all parties and Advisors. The Title IX Coordinator will have the authority to remove from the meeting, process, or hearing an involved party and/or Advisors who do not comply with the Expectations of Decorum.- Questions must be conveyed in a neutral tone.
- Parties and Advisors will refer to other parties, witnesses, Advisors, and institutional staff using the name and gender used by the person and shall not intentionally mis-name or mis-gender that person in communication or questioning.
- No party may act abusively or disrespectfully during the hearing toward any other party or to witnesses, Advisors, or Adjudicators.
- While an Advisor may be an attorney, no duty of zealous advocacy should be inferred or enforced within this forum.
- The Advisor may not yell, badger, or physically “lean in” to a party or witness’ personal space. Advisors may not approach the other party or witnesses without obtaining permission from the Adjudicator.
- The Advisor may not use profanity or make irrelevant ad hominem attacks upon a party or witness. Questions are meant to be interrogative statements used to test knowledge or understand a fact, they may not include accusations within the text of the question.
- The parties may not ask repetitive questions. This includes questions that have already been asked by the Adjudicator, the Advisor in cross-examination, or the party or Advisor in direct testimony. When the Adjudicator determines a question has been “asked and answered” or is otherwise not relevant, the parties must move on.
- Parties and Advisors may take no action at the hearing that a reasonable person in the shows of the affected party would see as intended to intimidate that person (whether party, witness, or official) into not participating in the process or meaningfully modifying their participation in the process.
- Newly-Discovered Evidence
As a general rule, no new evidence or witnesses may be submitted during the live hearing.
If a party identifies new evidence or witnesses that were not reasonably available during the investigation and could affect the outcome of the matter, the party may request that such evidence or witnesses be considered at the live hearing.
The Decision-Maker/s will consider this request and make a determination regarding:- whether such evidence or witness testimony was unavailable by reasonable effort prior to the hearing, and
- whether such evidence or witness testimony could affect the outcome of the matter. The party offering the newly-discovered evidence or witness has the burden of establishing these questions by the preponderance of the evidence.
If the Decision-Maker/s answers in the affirmative to both questions, then the parties will be granted a reasonable pause in the hearing to review the evidence or prepare for questioning of the witness. Alternatively, should the newly-discovered evidence require additional fact-gathering, the Decision-Maker/s may send the case back to the investigator for any further investigation as may be required. In this case, the investigator will issue an amended Investigation Report, to which the Parties shall have an opportunity to respond. Depending on the amount of new evidence, the Institute may shorten the second review and response period, as determined by the Title IX Coordinator. The amended Investigation Report, along with any response(s), shall then be provided to the Parties, their Advisor, and to the Decision-Maker/s. - Hearing Advisors
As per this policy, in the event that a party does not have an Advisor present at the live hearing, the Institute must provide an Advisor, without fee or charge to that party, who may be, but is not required to be, an attorney to conduct cross-examination on behalf of that party. At the hearing, the Adjudicator will permit each party’s Advisor to ask the other party and any witnesses all relevant questions and follow-up questions, including those challenging credibility. Such cross-examination at the live hearing must be conducted directly, orally, and in real time by the party’s Advisor of choice and never by a party personally. Advisors provided by the Institute will be adults with an understanding of the purpose of cross-examination, and may be attorneys or have training commensurate to attorneys with respect to conducting cross-examination. - The Decision-Maker
At Pratt’s discretion, the Decision-Maker will be a single adjudicator or a hearing panel of three (3) individuals, with one panel member serving as chairperson. The Decision-Maker will not be the case Title IX Coordinator, Title IX Investigator, or advisor to any party in the case, nor may any Decision-Maker serve on the appeals body in the case.
The Decision-Maker determines responsibility regarding whether the policy was violated, and determines which sanctions will apply if any. Where a student is found responsible for a violation of this Policy, the Title IX Coordinator will designate an appropriate administrator from the Institute to provide a record of disciplinary history to the Decision-Maker. The Decision-Maker will then determine the appropriate sanction(s).
The Decision-Maker may not have a conflict of interest or bias in favor of or against complainants or respondents generally, or in favor or against the parties to the particular case. - Cross-Examination
Before any cross-examination question is answered, the Decision-Maker/s will determine if the question is relevant. Cross-examination questions that are duplicative of those already asked, including by the Decision-Maker may be deemed irrelevant if they have been asked and answered.
Should a party or the party’s advisor choose not to cross-examine a party or witness, the party shall affirmatively waive cross-examination through a written or oral statement to the Decision-Maker/s.
The Decision-Maker shall have the authority to determine whether questions shall be submitted in writing (whether by using a “chat” feature of the video-conferencing platform, email, or a similar mechanism), prior to being asked, so as to facilitate the Decision-Maker’s ability to understand the question before making any determination of relevance. - Standard of Proof
Pratt uses the preponderance of the evidence standard for investigations and determinations regarding responsibility of Formal Complaints covered under this policy. This means that the investigation and hearing determine whether it is more likely than not that a violation of this policy occurred. - Notice of Outcome
The notice of outcome is a written determination regarding responsibility that will be issued simultaneously to all parties. If there are no extenuating circumstances, the determination regarding responsibility will be issued by Pratt within ten (10) business days of the completion of the hearing.
The notice of outcome will include:- Identification of the allegations potentially constituting covered sexual harassment;
- A description of the procedural steps taken from the receipt of the formal complaint through the determination, including any notifications to the parties, interviews with parties and witnesses, site visits, methods used to gather other evidence, and hearings held;
- Findings of fact supporting the determination;
- Conclusions regarding which section of this policy or other college policy, if any, the respondent has or has not violated.
- For each allegation:
- A statement of, and rationale for, a determination regarding responsibility;
- A statement of, and rationale for, any disciplinary sanctions the recipient imposed on the respondent; and
- A statement of, and rationale for, whether remedies designed to restore or preserve equal access to Pratt’s education program or activity will be provided by Complainant, except that the remedies provided shall not be shared with the Respondent; and
- Pratt’s procedures and the permitted reasons for the complainant and respondent to appeal.
- How to challenge participation by the Appeal Panel for bias or conflict of interest – which the Title IX Coordinator will resolve in their sole discretion.
If the Parties do not file an appeal, the determination is final at the expiration of the time to file an appeal. If any of the Parties file an appeal, the determination regarding responsibility becomes final on the date that the Institute provides the Parties with the appeal determination. Both parties have the right to choose whether to disclose or discuss the outcome of the resolution process. - Sanctions
Disciplinary sanctions are imposed on a Respondent who has been found responsible and range from a warning up to and including expulsion/termination from the Institute or revocation of a degree. The disciplinary sanction(s) for a violation of this Policy will be based on a consideration of all of the circumstances, including but not limited to: the nature and severity of the conduct, the Respondent’s disciplinary history, previous allegations involving similar conduct, the disciplinary provisions of applicable collective bargaining agreements (for employees represented by a union), and any other information deemed relevant by the Decision-Maker(s). The following is a possible list of sanction(s) that may be imposed:
• Behavioral requirement
• Change of class/job assignment and/or housing/work location
• Educational requirements and/or community services
• Expulsion/termination
• Oral or Written warning/letter of reprimand or censure
• Removal from office/position, demotion, and/or reduction in pay
• Restitution
• Restriction from Institute facilities, programs, or activities.
• Required training and/or counseling
• Student social probation
• Suspension/dismissal from Institute housing
• Suspension/leave with or without pay
• Withholding diploma/revocation of degree - Appeals
Each party may appeal (1) the dismissal of a Formal Complaint or any included allegations and/or (2) a determination regarding responsibility. To appeal, a party must submit their written appeal within five (5) business days of being notified of the decision, indicating the grounds for the appeal. The notice of outcome will include instructions on how to submit the written appeal.
The limited grounds for appeal available are as follows:- Procedural irregularity that affected the outcome of the matter (i.e. a failure to follow the Institute’s own procedures);
- New evidence that was not reasonably available at the time the determination regarding responsibility or dismissal was made, that could affect the outcome of the matter;
- The Title IX Coordinator, Investigator(s), or Decision-Maker, including a hearing panel member, had an actual conflict of interest or demonstrated bias for or against an individual party, or for or against complainants or respondents in general, that affected the outcome of the matter.
- The sanction is objectively unreasonable in light of the facts and circumstances.
When an appeal is submitted, any sanction is placed on hold until the appeal is resolved. Interim Measures remain in effect and Supportive Measures remain available while the appeal is pending.
If a party appeals, the other party will be notified, in writing, and will then have five (5) business days to respond to appeal or submit their own appeal, if they wish. The appeals process is documentary only, and no hearing is held.
Appeals will be decided by an appeals panel, appointed by the Title IX Coordinator, who will be free of an actual conflict of interest and/or demonstrated bias, and who have not served as investigator, Title IX Coordinator, or Decision-Maker in the same matter.
The outcome of the appeal, including the rationale for the decision, will be provided in writing simultaneously to both parties ten (10) business days from the date submissions were due from the parties. - Transcript Notation
Consistent with the Student Conduct Policy, the Institute will make a notation on the transcripts of students found responsible for Prohibited Conduct or withdraw with the Formal Complaint pending if the Prohibited Conduct constitutes a crime of violence.
As applicable, the AVP for Student Life or Title IX Coordinator will direct the Institute’s Registrar to make a notation on a student’s transcript when that student is found responsible for crimes of violence, or withdraws pending a charge for a crime of violence. Crimes of violence are criminal homicide, rape, incest, fondling, robbery, aggravated assault, burglary, motor vehicle theft, and arson.
The notation will state that the student was “suspended after a finding of responsibility for a code of conduct violation” or “expelled after a finding of responsibility for a code of conduct violation.” If a student withdraws with charges pending, the notation will read “withdrew with conduct charges pending.”
Notations following an expulsion are permanent. One year after the conclusion of the suspension, Respondents who have been suspended may appeal to an appeals panel, requesting the removal of the notation. A Respondent may appeal the notation regarding suspension no more than one time per year by writing to the AVP for Student Life or Title IX Coordinator as applicable, who will submit the appeal to the panel for review and determination.
The following details the next steps after the investigation in cases involving Non-Title IX Prohibited Conduct with an employee respondent.
Upon completion of the investigation, the Investigator will provide to the Assistant Vice President of Human Resources a written statement of the determination and recommended actions, including any discipline of an employee.
- Employee Sanctions
The Assistant Vice President of Human Resources or their designee will determine the appropriate sanction for any employee who is determined, after an investigation, to have engaged in a violation of this policy. Sanctions may include oral or written warning, reprimand, withholding of a promotion, demotion, re- assignment, suspension with or without pay, compensation adjustment, or discharge.
In determining an appropriate sanction, the Assistant Vice President of Human Resources, in consultation with the appropriate Pratt personnel, will consider the nature and severity of the violation as well as any prior discipline or record of past violations of Institute policies, as well as the nature and severity of such past violation(s).
Within five (5) business days from the completion of the investigation and determination, the Institute will communicate the findings and intended actions to the complainant and respondent. The determination letter will contain only the following information: (i) the name of the respondent; (ii) whether the respondent has been found responsible or not responsible for specific violation(s) of the sexual misconduct policy; (iii) the sanction imposed, if any; (iv) the Institute’s appeal process; (v) any change to the results that occurs prior to the time that the results become final; and (vi) when the results become final. - Appeals
Either party may appeal the determination of the Investigator and/or the disciplinary decision of the Assistant Vice President of Human Resources. A party has three grounds under which to appeal: a) there is new evidence that was not reasonably available at the time of the investigation or hearing, b) procedural errors were committed in the investigation of the complaint that had an impact on the determination, and/or c) the sanctions are not consistent with past practices or the severity of the alleged sexual misconduct.
A party wishing to appeal may file an appeal in writing, including the basis for the appeal, with the Title IX Coordinator within ten (10) business days after the date the decision is rendered.
The Title IX Coordinator will promptly provide the non-appealing party with an opportunity to view the appeal. The non-appealing party may file a written response to the appeal within 10 business days of viewing the appeal.
Within ten (10) business days of the filing of the appeal, or, if the non-appealing files a response to the appeal, within ten (10) business days of the filing of such response, the President or his/her designee will review the record and findings to determine if there is a legitimate basis of appeal under one of the reasons outlined above. If not, the appeal will be denied. If there is a basis for appeal, there may be further inquiry. Except for appeals brought under (a) above, the entire appeal inquiry process will be based on the appealing party’s appeal, the non-appealing party’s response, and the investigator’s record of the case. Otherwise, no additional evidence is allowed and no additional witnesses may be heard. The President or his/her designee will make a final determination based on the record of the investigation and the appeal and issue final determination letters to the respondent and the complainant concurrently.
Background
Informal resolution is a voluntary, remedies-based, structured interaction between or among affected parties that balances support and accountability Informal resolution is designed to eliminate the Prohibited Conduct, prevent its recurrence, and remedy its effects in a manner that meets the needs of the complainant while maintaining the safety of the campus community. Informal resolution may not be used in cases where an employee is alleged to have committed Title IX Sexual Harassment against a student. Informal Resolution will not be used to impose disciplinary action against the Respondent and will not be reported to third parties; however, it may be taken into consideration in the event of future findings of responsibility for Prohibited Conduct or other violations of Pratt’s policies.
Availability of Informal Resolution Process
The Parties may elect to enter Pratt Institute’s informal resolution process at any time after the filing of the Formal Complaint by making a written request to the Title IX Coordinator.
Informal Resolution is not available to resolve a student Complainant’s allegation that an employee has engaged in Title IX Prohibited Conduct.
Use of the informal resolution process is voluntary, and both the Complainant, Respondent, and Title IX Coordinator must agree to use of the Informal Resolution process. No Party may be required to participate in informal resolution, and Pratt Institute will not condition enrollment, employment, or enjoyment of any other right or privilege upon agreeing to informal resolution.
At any time after the commencement of the informal resolution process, the Title IX Coordinator or designee may determine that the informal resolution process is not an appropriate method for resolving the matter, and may require that the matter be resolved through the formal process.
Factors that the Title IX Coordinator or designee may weigh in considering the appropriateness of the informal resolution process include, but are not limited to, the gravity of the allegations, whether there is an ongoing threat of harm or safety to the campus, whether the respondent is a repeat offender, and whether the Parties are participating in good faith. The Title IX Coordinator’s determination on whether Informal Resolution is appropriate is not subject to appeal.
Exiting the Informal Resolution Process
Either Party, or the Title IX Coordinator, may end the Informal Resolution Process, at which time the investigation and/or adjudication will return to the formal process. Information disclosed or obtained for purposes of the informal resolution process may be incorporated into the formal investigation and live hearing, provided that this information is disclosed and reviewed by the Parties under the investigatory and hearing procedures described in the Title IX Grievance Process.
Required Written Notice
If a party requests the initiation of an alternative resolution process and the Title IX Coordinator agrees that the matter is appropriate for alternative resolution, each party will receive a written notice that discloses:
- The allegations;
- The requirements of the alternative resolution process, including the circumstances under which it precludes the parties from resuming a formal complaint arising from the same allegations;
- The parties’ right to withdraw from alternative resolution and resume or initiate disciplinary resolution with respect to the formal complaint; and
- Information about maintenance of records or how records could be shared.
Available Restorative Approaches
With approval from the Title IX Coordinator, after consultation and intake with the alternative resolution coordinator, the complainant and the respondent may voluntarily agree on the process(es) that best meets the interests and needs of the parties, including:
Facilitated Dialogue: A structured and facilitated conversation between two or more individuals, most often the complainant, the respondent, and/or other community members. The focus is often on providing a space for voices to be heard and perspectives to be shared. Depending on stated interests, the participants may sometimes work towards the development of a shared agreement, although working towards an agreement is not always the intended outcome.
Restorative Circle or Conference Process: A facilitated interaction where the individuals who have experienced harm can come together with an individual(s) who assumes responsibility for repairing the harm (to the extent possible). A circle or conference may include multiple members of the community to explore individual and community impact, harm, obligations, and opportunity for repairing them. Parties must agree on all those who will be present.
Shuttle Negotiation: An indirect, facilitated conversation (either verbally, or through written communications) individually with the complainant, the respondent, and/or other participants to discuss experience and perspective and explore interests while working towards meeting expressed needs. This negotiated process does not require direct interaction between the parties or the parties and other participants, but rather, independently, with a coordinator.
Role of the Facilitator
Informal resolution processes are managed by facilitators, who may not have a conflict of interest or bias in favor of or against complainants or respondents generally or regarding the specific Parties in the matter. The Title IX Coordinator may serve as the facilitator, subject to these restrictions.
All facilitators must have training in the definition of sexual harassment under 34 C.F.R. § 106.30(a), the scope of the institution’s education program or activity, how to conduct informal resolution processes, and how to serve impartially, including by avoiding prejudgment of the facts at issue, conflicts of interest, or bias.
Written Informal Resolution Terms
The terms of the Informal Resolution will be in writing. Once the Parties, and the Title IX Coordinator, have agreed, in writing, to the terms of the Informal Resolution, the agreement is considered final, and is not subject to withdrawal or appeal. Both Parties are equally bound to follow the terms of the Informal Resolution agreement.
Outcomes of Informal Resolutions
Measures that may be agreed to as a result of the alternative resolution process may include:
- Alcohol education classes for the respondent;
- Regular meetings for a Respondent with an appropriate College individual, unit, or resource;
- Permanent extension of a (one-way, or mutual) no contact directive;
- Restriction from participation in specific clubs and/or organizations;
- Respondent restriction from participation in particular events;
- Respondent completion of an educational plan with regular meetings with the applicable resolution coordinator or other appropriate College staff or faculty member.
Confidentiality
In entering the informal resolution process, the Parties agree that any testimony and evidence (including admissions of responsibility) they share or receive during the informal resolution process concerning the allegations of the Formal Complaint is confidential while the parties are participating in the informal resolution process. No evidence concerning the allegations obtained within the informal resolution process may be disseminated to any person, provided that any Party to the informal resolution process may generally discuss the allegations under investigation with a parent, friend, advisor, or other source of emotional support, or with an advocacy organization.
Inquiries about Pratt’s application of Title IX and its implementing regulations, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Clery Act, as amended by VAWA, and, in New York, the New York State and City human rights laws and Article 129-B of the New York Education Law, under this policy may be addressed to Pratt’s Title IX Coordinator. Inquiries concerning the Clery Act or VAWA may also be referred to the United States Department of Education, Clery Act Compliance Division. Inquiries concerning the application of Title IX and its implementing regulations may be referred to the United States Department of Education, Assistant Secretary, Office for Civil Rights, at OCR@ed.gov or (800) 421-3481.
Pratt Institute has the right to revise this Policy at any time. Any new or revised Policy shall be deemed to be in effect upon being published on the Institute’s Office of Title IX and Nondiscrimination website. Any matters already under way shall continue under the procedures in effect as of the date of the written Notice of Allegations, unless the Parties are otherwise provided written notice that a different policy or procedure shall apply.