Title IX and student conduct policy reminder
Dear Students,
As we all adjust to remote learning, we want to take this opportunity to remind you that Furman’s Student Conduct Code continues to apply to your participation in remote instruction and other Furman-sponsored programming.
Additionally, for students who return to campus to move out in the coming days and weeks, be advised that the South Carolina Governor issued an order authorizing law enforcement (Furman Police) to prohibit or disperse groups of three or more people. A violation of this order is considered a misdemeanor. Students should not be gathering in groups indoors and outdoors for any reason while on campus until further notice. Students may still bring two individuals with them to campus to assist with moving out.
We also want to assure you that Furman University remains committed to maintaining academic programming and other university activities that are free from discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy, disability, age, religion, veteran status, and any other characteristic or status protected by applicable local, state, or federal law. Furman University further emphasizes its steadfast commitment to prohibiting unlawful retaliation.
In line with these commitments, we remind you that Furman University’s Sexual Misconduct Policy continues to apply with respect to remote learning and other university programming. To that end, we want to make you aware of the following three important points:
- The Title IX Office remains open and functioning remotely at this time. Anyone impacted by sex/gender discrimination is encouraged to contact the Title IX office to make a report online or contact the Title IX Office directly at 864-294-2221 or melissa.nichols@furman.edu. Investigations and hearings will be conducted remotely, and remedies provided, to assure that any sexual harassment, sexual violence, intimate partner violence, stalking, retaliation, or other sexually discriminatory behaviors are addressed promptly.
- The Sexual Misconduct Policy not only applies to behaviors that occur in person between members of the university community, but also applies to online and virtual misconduct. Any behavior that is prohibited by policy is also likely prohibited in cyber-forms, including cyber-harassment (for example, displaying pornographic images), cyber-bullying that is sex-based, and cyber-stalking. Members of the community are expected to maintain a tone of civility and respect in online classes just as they would if they were in class physically. We will not tolerate online behaviors that would not be tolerated in the classroom.
- We have sent a communication to faculty and staff to remind Responsible Employees of their duties when they become aware of incidents or allegations involving members of the campus community, regardless of how they learn of the potential misconduct, whether in person, in writing, or online.
We hope you are adjusting well to the remote instruction this week. If you have any questions or need any assistance, please just let us know. And if you are unsure about how any of Furman’s policies apply in this remote environment, don’t hesitate to ask.
Be well!
Office of Student Life