Frequently Asked Questions

What Happens When I File a Complaint?

• When you file a complaint, the Title IX Coordinator or Deputy Coordinator will have you file a complaint form. You will also be interviewed, asked if there are any witnesses to your complaint. You will also be advised to maintain confidentiality and not discuss this with outsiders or your witnesses. The investigator will interview your witnesses, the Respondent (person against whom you have complained) and examine any documents or other evidence you, your witness or the Respondent presents.
  
  The final determination will be provided to you and to the Respondent.

What Happens if Someone Accuses me of Sexual Harassment?

• The same process as outlined above will occur. You will be given the opportunity to hear the allegations, respond and present any evidence.

What Should I do if I Witness or Someone Tells me About an Alleged Sexual Harassment Incident?

• If you witness or are the victim of sexual harassment, report the incident promptly.
  
  If you are a faculty or staff member, you have an obligation to report.

What Does an “Obligation to Report” Mean?

• As a faculty or staff member of PCC, you have an obligation to report any incidents of alleged sexual harassment that you may witness or that may be reported to you within 24 hours. You should report these situations to the Title IX Coordinator, Ken Nufer, Chief Human Resources Officer.

I am Afraid of Retaliation – What Should I Do?

• The PCC policy forbids retaliation. Specifically, the policy states,
  
  “Retaliatory harassment is any adverse employment or educational action taken against a person because of the person’s perceived participation in a complaint or investigation of discrimination or sexual misconduct.”

Can I Bring an Attorney?

• The complainant(s) or respondent(s) cannot be represented by an attorney or law student unless civil or criminal actions concerning the particular incident in question are pending.

What if I am Found to be Responsible?

• Investigator shall issue the findings in the form of an investigation report. The report shall also contain recommendations for sanctioning, if any, to end the discrimination, prevent its recurrence, and remedy its effects on the victim and the college community. Both parties shall be informed of the findings.
  
  Where the respondent is found not responsible for the alleged violation(s), the investigation should be closed.
  
  Where the respondent accepts the finding that s/he violated the non-discrimination, anti-harassment, or retaliation policy, the CSSO will then proceed with disciplinary action, after consultation with the Title IX/EO Coordinator(s), in accordance with the applicable policies and procedures that govern.
  
  In the event that the respondent rejects the findings in part or entirely, the CSSO will then convene a hearing to determine whether the accused individual is in violation of the contested aspects of the complaint.