Overview

Title IX is a federal law that prohibits discrimination based on sex in educational programs and activities that receive Federal financial assistance. Examples of programs and activities that are subject to Title IX include admissions, recruitment, financial aid, academic programs, athletics, housing and employment. Title IX also protects students from sexual harassment, including sexual violence, such as rape, other forms of sexual assault, sexual battery and sexual coercion.

USD’s Title IX Coordinator monitors and oversees the university’s compliance with Title IX and related laws in the prevention of sex harassment and discrimination, including the coordination of education and training activities and the response to Title IX complaints. Students, faculty, administrators, staff, or others who participate in USD’s education programs and activities with questions, concerns, or complaints about sex discrimination, sex harassment or sexual misconduct are encouraged to contact the Title IX Coordinator

Dear Campus Community,

We all have a responsibility to prevent sexual violence on our campus. One of the most important values we cherish as a university community is the inherent sacredness and dignity of every human being. Thus, we have a special responsibility to respect the great gift of our own dignity and self-worth, to recognize the sacredness and potential for good that comes with every encounter, and to protect those who may be vulnerable or impaired. Whether we are on or off campus, in public view or in the most intimate moments of a relationship, caring for ourselves and others is part of our Culture of Care. This course, and our execution of preventative and supportive actions, provides our community with the resources and information needed to help maintain such a climate in the event of sexual misconduct and assault.

The University of San Diego has long-established protocols and programs aimed at the prevention of and response to sexual violence and we continually refine our protocols, programs and policies. We have an ongoing steering committee consisting of faculty, student and administration representatives which regularly evaluates and enhances our sexual assault prevention policies, educational programs and response services. Our Campus Assault Resources and Education (CARE) program (www.sandiego.edu/care), their trained CARE Advocates, and Title IX office (www.sandiego.edu/titleix) have played an important role in providing support resources and education to our community and regularly provide information about sexual assault, dating and domestic violence, stalking and sexual exploitation. Over the years, the University has raised considerable awareness about sexual violence through in-person and online trainings and workings available to all members of our campus community.

Sexual violence in any form violates the law, our policies, our mission, and our core values. Each one of us is responsible to remain committed to promoting a safe environment for our campus community – one that is dedicated to the highest standards of integrity and respect for every human being.

Sincerely,

James T. Harris, III, DEd
President