Title IX and Sexual Misconduct Policy

Discrimination on the basis of sex, sex stereotypes, sexual orientation, and pregnant or parenting status is prohibited.

Butler University is committed to fostering a safe, respectful, and inclusive educational environment where all members of the University community are free from sex discrimination, sexual harassment, sexual misconduct, and retaliation. The Sexual Misconduct Policy prohibits conduct that denies or limits an individual’s ability to participate in or benefit from University programs and activities and establishes the University’s process for responding to reports of prohibited conduct. The University is committed to providing prompt, equitable, and impartial resolution of reports, offering appropriate supportive measures, protecting the rights of all parties, and ensuring compliance with applicable federal and state laws, including Title IX and related civil rights requirements.

Please visit www.butler.edu/diversity-equity-inclusion/institutional-equity for the complete policy and resources.

Procedures and Implementation

Procedures

The Sexual Misconduct Policy establishes a structured process for responding to reports of prohibited conduct. Key procedural components include:

  • Reports may be submitted through multiple reporting channels, including the Title IX Coordinator, the online reporting form, email, telephone, or law enforcement.
  • Upon receipt of a report, the Title IX Coordinator conducts an initial assessment to determine jurisdiction, discuss supportive measures, and explain available resolution options. – When appropriate, reports may proceed through either an Informal Resolution process or a Formal Resolution process, depending on the nature of the allegations and the parties’ participation. – Formal Resolution includes an investigation, review of evidence, an investigative report, a hearing before a decision-maker, a written determination, and an opportunity for appeal.
  • Findings are determined using the preponderance of the evidence standard, and sanctions or remedies may be imposed when a policy violation is established.

Implementation

The Policy identifies several mechanisms that support consistent implementation across the University:

  • The Title IX Coordinator is responsible for overseeing implementation of the Policy, coordinating the University’s response to reports, and ensuring compliance with applicable federal and state law.
  • Supportive measures may be implemented at any stage of the process to preserve access to educational or employment opportunities and to protect the rights of the parties, regardless of whether a formal investigation is initiated.
  • Risk assessments and emergency removal procedures are available when necessary to address immediate health or safety concerns.
  • The Policy outlines sanctions, remedies, and responsive actions for students, employees, and, where applicable, third parties when violations are substantiated.
  • Records of reports and resolutions are maintained in accordance with University record retention requirements, and the Policy is reviewed annually to ensure continued compliance with applicable legal standards.

Resources

The Sexual Misconduct Policy identifies both on-campus and off-campus resources available to individuals affected by prohibited conduct. These resources are intended to provide confidential support, reporting options, emergency assistance, medical care, advocacy, and crisis intervention.

On-Campus Resources

  • Office for Institutional Equity (Title IX Coordinator)
  • Butler University Police Department (BUPD)
  • Counseling and Consultation Services*
  • The Compass Center*
  • Student Health Services*
  • Office of Student Advocacy*
  • Student Disability Services (for accessibility accommodations)

*The directors of these offices serve as Confidential Resources under the Policy.

Off-Campus Resources

  • Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD)
  • IU Health Methodist Hospital
  • Ascension St. Vincent Hospital
  • The Julian Center
  • St. Vincent Stress Center
  • Community Health Crisis Services
  • 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

Additional Support

The Policy also provides for supportive measures, including counseling, academic accommodations, employment accommodations, housing modifications, no-contact directives, leaves of absence, safety planning, referrals for protective orders, and other individualized measures designed to preserve access to University programs and activities.