GCU Sexual Misconduct Policies
Non-Retaliation
Grand Canyon University (GCU) does not tolerate retaliation. Retaliation is any adverse effect against any person who is involved with the filing of, or investigation into, a claim of sexual harassment or sexual misconduct. Retaliation includes, but is not limited to, threats, menacing behavior, coercion or discriminatory actions. Retaliation is a serious violation and may result in immediate removal from GCU.
Confidentiality
GCU has a mandatory employee reporting policy for faculty and staff. All GCU employees must notify the Title IX office of any alleged or possible sexual harassment and sexual misconduct. If you would like the details of an incident to be kept confidential, you can seek help or advice from:
- On Campus: Health services staff and medical providers at the Health and Wellness Clinic and licensed professional counselors in the Student Care Office
- Off Campus: Professional counselors, crisis counselors and other local agencies or resources
All other GCU staff and faculty are required to report any alleged or possible sexual harassment and sexual misconduct.
GCU is required to thoroughly investigate all allegations of sexual misconduct and violence, taking any actions necessary to maintain your safety and that of the university at large, regardless of whether a formal complaint is made. You will be informed of whatever actions are taken. If a formal investigation takes place, only a certain degree of confidentiality can be assured. The students involved, including witnesses, will be apprised of the investigation to the degree necessary. University officials will be informed on a need-to-know basis. If a Complainant requests confidentiality, GCU will do the utmost to respect their wishes, but ultimately it is at the Title IX Coordinator’s discretion if a formal investigation will take place.
To the extent permitted by law, publicly available record keeping will be accomplished without identifying the Complainant or Respondent. Reports of crimes to the campus community will withhold the names of victims. Examples include Clery Act reporting and Federal Timely Warning Obligations.
Student Rights
- The right to an equitable investigation and resolution of all credible allegations of prohibited harassment or discrimination made in good faith to university officials.
- The right to timely written notice of all alleged violations, including the identity of the parties involved (if known), the precise misconduct being alleged, the date and location of the alleged misconduct (if known), the implicated policies and procedures and possible sanctions.
- The right to timely written notice of any material adjustments to the allegations (e.g., additional incidents or allegations, additional Complainants, unsubstantiated allegations) and any attendant adjustments needed to clarify potentially implicated policy violations.
- The right not to have any personally identifiable information released to the public without consent provided, except to the extent permitted by law.
- The right to be treated with respect by university officials.
- The right to have university policies and procedures followed without material deviation.
- The right not to be pressured to mediate or otherwise informally resolve any reported misconduct involving violence, including sexual violence.
- The right not to be discouraged by university officials from reporting sexual misconduct or discrimination to both on-campus and off-campus authorities.
- The right to be informed by university officials of options to notify proper law enforcement authorities, including on-campus and local police, and the option(s) to be assisted by university authorities in notifying such authorities, if the party so chooses. This also includes the right not to be pressured to report, as well.
- The right to have allegations of violations of this Policy responded to promptly and with sensitivity by university law enforcement and/or other university officials.
- The right to be informed of available interim actions and supportive measures, such as counseling; advocacy; health care; student financial aid; or other services, both on campus and in the community.
- The right to a university-implemented no-contact order [or a no-trespass order against a non-affiliated third party] when a person has engaged in or threatens to engage in stalking, threatening, harassing or other improper conduct that presents a danger to the welfare of the party or others.
- The right to be informed of available assistance in changing academic, living and/or working situations after an alleged incident of discrimination, harassment and/or retaliation, if such changes are reasonably available. No formal report, or investigation, either campus or criminal, needs to occur before this option is available. Such actions may include, but are not limited to:
- Relocating an on-campus student’s housing to a different on-campus location
- Changing an employee’s work environment (e.g., reporting structure, office/workspace relocation)
- Exam, paper and/or assignment rescheduling or adjustment
- Receiving an incomplete in, or a withdrawal from, a class (may be retroactive)
- Transferring class sections
- Temporary withdrawal/leave of absence (may be retroactive)
- Campus safety escorts
- Alternative course completion options.
- The right to have the university maintain such actions for as long as necessary and for supportive measures to remain private, provided privacy does not impair the university’s ability to provide the supportive measures.
- The right to receive sufficiently advanced, written notice of any meeting or interview involving the other party, when possible.
- The right to ask the Investigator(s) and Decision-maker(s) to identify and question relevant witnesses, including expert witnesses.
- The right to provide the Investigator(s)/Decision-maker(s) with a list of questions that, if deemed relevant by the Investigator(s)/Chair, may be asked of any party or witness.
- The right not to have irrelevant prior sexual history or character admitted as evidence.
- The right to know the relevant and directly related evidence obtained and to respond to that evidence.
- The right to a fair opportunity to provide the Investigator(s) with their account of the alleged misconduct and have that account be on the record.
- In the case of a formal Title IX investigation - the right to receive a copy of the investigation report, including all factual, policy and/or credibility analyses performed and all relevant and directly related evidence available and used to produce the investigation report, subject to the privacy limitations imposed by state and federal law, prior to the hearing, and the right to have at least ten (10) business days to review the report prior to the hearing.
- In the case of a formal Title IX investigation, the right to respond to the investigation report, including comments providing any additional relevant evidence after the opportunity to review the investigation report, and to have that response on the record.
- The right to be informed of the names of all witnesses whose information will be used to make a finding, in advance of that finding, when relevant.
- The right to regular updates on the status of the investigation and/or resolution.
- The right to have reports of alleged Policy violations addressed by Investigators, Title IX Coordinators, and Decision-maker(s) who have received relevant annual training.
- The right to preservation of privacy, to the extent possible and permitted by law.
- The right to petition that any university representative in the process be recused on the basis of disqualifying bias and/or conflict of interest.
- The right to have an Advisor of their choice to accompany and assist the party in all meetings and/or interviews associated with the resolution process.
- The right to the use of the appropriate standard of evidence, preponderance of the evidence, to make a finding after an objective evaluation of all relevant evidence.
- The right to be present, including presence via remote technology, during all testimony given and evidence presented during any formal grievance hearing.
- The right to have an impact statement considered by the Decision-maker(s) following a determination of responsibility for any allegation, but prior to sanctioning.
- The right to be promptly informed in a written Notice of Outcome letter of the finding(s) and sanction(s) of the resolution process and a detailed rationale therefore (including an explanation of how credibility was assessed), delivered simultaneously (without undue delay) to the parties.
- The right to be informed in writing of when a decision by the university is considered final and any changes to the sanction(s) that occur before the decision is finalized.
- The right to be informed of the opportunity to appeal the finding(s) and sanction(s) of the resolution process, and the procedures for doing so in accordance with the standards for appeal established by the university.
- The right to a fundamentally fair resolution as defined in these procedures.
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Response
Victims of sexual misconduct (including sexual violence) have many services available to them so that they can obtain information and support. If you have experienced any type of sexual misconduct, know that we are here to help. There are a number of resources at GCU to assist you with your health and safety.
After a sexual assault, vital evidence may remain on your body or clothes. It is important to not shower, bathe, wash, change clothes, comb hair, eat or drink before a physical exam, if possible. See "Seeking Medical Assistance" for information on where to go for an exam, typically within 120 hours of an assault.
Such physical evidence is important to a GCU investigation, as well as a police investigation. Even if you showered or washed, evidence may still be collectible and medical conditions can be treated, even after 120 hours.
Electronic evidence can be extremely important to the outcome of an investigation. Save and/or screenshot any relevant text messages, social media posts, photos, Snapchats, voicemails or emails. These can be provided to Public Safety or the Title IX investigator for use in a university investigation.
Seeking medical assistance in a timely manner is important in order to treat any possible injuries. In addition to receiving medical attention, you may wish to have a sexual assault forensic exam completed for evidentiary purposes in criminal or civil procedures.
For immediate medical attention, contact 911 or go to a local hospital emergency room.
The following locations can provide medical care and also preserve evidence through a sexual assault forensic exam:
Phoenix Baptist Hospital2000 W. Bethany Home Road
Phoenix, AZ 85015 Phoenix Family Advocacy Center
2120 N. Central Ave. (2nd Floor)
Phoenix, AZ 85004 Maryvale Hospital
5102 W. Campbell Ave.
Phoenix, AZ 85031 John C. Lincoln North Mountain Hospital
250 E. Dunlap Ave.
Phoenix, AZ 85020 Scottsdale Family Advocacy Center
10225 E. Via Linda
Scottsdale, AZ 85258 St. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center
350 W. Thomas Road
Phoenix, AZ 85013
Crisis Hotlines
You can speak to one of the national hotlines that specializes in assisting those in the immediate aftermath of sexual violence in complete confidence.
- National Sexual Assault Hotline: 800-656-HOPE or chat online at online.rainn.org
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 800-799-SAFE
- EMPACT Sexual Assault Hotline: 480-736-4949
Continuing Support
- Counseling Services: Make an appointment at GCU's Student Care Office by calling 855-GCU-LOPE.
- GCU No-Contact Order: GCU can issue a "no-contact order" which prohibits all in-person and electronic contact between the parties involved. We can also assist with changes to academic, living or work situations.
- Protective Order: You may be able to obtain a protective order from a court; a violation of the protection order can result in criminal charges being issued. GCU will enforce external protective orders. You can reach GCU's Department of Public Safety at 855-GCU-LOPE for more information.
The Canyon Health and Wellness can assist with basic medical needs, but cannot perform sexual assault forensic exams. Anything reported to GCU's Health and Wellness Center can be done in complete confidence. Call 855-GCU-LOPE for an appointment.
Reporting an Incident
You have multiple options when reporting sexual misconduct. You can choose to pursue all, some or none of these options. While you are not required to file the report immediately after the incident, it is important to preserve any evidence. If you report the issue to GCU, we are obligated by law to investigate and respond, even if you also file a criminal complaint.
Criminal Complaint
To file a criminal complaint, contact the Phoenix Police Department or GCU’s Department of Public Safety. Public Safety can help you obtain information regarding reporting to the police or obtaining an order of protection as well as assist you with filing a criminal complaint. You may also contact the Phoenix Police Department directly at 602-262-6151. A criminal complaint is subject to the applicable criminal laws and statutes. A policy violation does not always equate to a criminal violation, but in many cases overlap may occur. It is important to note that GCU is required to conduct their own university investigation, regardless of a criminal complaint being filed with the police or not.
Anonymous Complaint
To file a complaint anonymously, use the TIPS Online Reporting Tool on the Public Safety website. If you choose to provide your contact information, GCU will contact you to offer information and support. If you do not provide contact information, GCU's ability to thoroughly investigate and respond to the report will be severely limited.
University Complaint
- The Title IX Coordinator at TitleIX@gcu.edu or 602-639-5900
- A deputy Title IX Coordinator
- Public Safety at 855-GCU-LOPE
- Any resident assistant (RA) or resident director (RD)
- Any staff or faculty member
This complaint process is governed by the Title IX and Non-Discrimination Policy. The standard of proof is “a preponderance of the evidence” or “more likely than not,” and GCU can institute penalties ranging from a formal warning to expulsion. For more information, review the Title IX and Non-Discrimination Policy.
If you do not wish to file a formal complaint but do want help with finding resources to assist you, contact the Canyon Health and Wellness Clinic or Student Care Office. Anything discussed with medical personnel, licensed mental health counselors or office staff will remain completely confidential. In addition to offering medical and counseling services, both the Health and Wellness Clinic and the Student Care Office can connect you with other campus resources that may be beneficial to you. It is important to note that all other campus faculty and staff are mandatory reporters.
GCU thoroughly investigates sexual harassment and sexual violence complaints, regardless of if the incident occurred on or off campus. In most cases, GCU provides multiple options for investigation and resolution of complaints based on how the Complainant wishes to proceed. Investigations are required to utilize the preponderance of evidence standard (“more likely than not”).
GCU is committed to:
- Grievance procedures that provide for the prompt, effective and equitable resolution of sexual harassment and sexual violence complaints
- Ensuring staff thoroughly, reliably and impartially investigate all complaints
- Taking prompt and immediate steps to end the harassment, prevent its recurrence and address its effects
- Protecting the Complainant, Respondent and campus community during and upon the conclusion of the investigation
Providing specific information on how investigations are conducted is found in the Title IX and Non-Discrimination Policy.
- If you request that the university pursue a formal investigation or other responsive action, you can submit a signed, formal complaint.
- During an investigation, the assigned Investigator will interview the Complainant, Respondent and any relevant witnesses. The Investigator will also collect relevant evidence from the parties.
- Both parties can appoint an advisor at any point in the process.
- At the conclusion of a formal investigation, a conduct hearing will be scheduled with the Complainant, Respondent and their advisors. Witnesses who participated in the investigation, as well as the assigned Investigator and Title IX Coordinator will also be present.
- Both Complainants and Respondents are required to have an advisor present if a hearing occurs to conduct a cross-examination of the other party. If either party is unable to find an advisor, GCU will provide one to the party.
- The preponderance of the evidence standard, “more likely than not,” is used to determine if a policy violation did or did not occur.
- Complainants and Respondents will receive a written determination after the hearing is held.
- Upon the determination of a policy violation, appropriate sanctions are promptly issued to the Respondent.
- GCU may also take responsive action to address any verifiable claims of retaliatory behavior towards any individual who complains of or is involved in the filing, investigation or resolution of a sex-based harassment or discrimination claim.
- When the parties agree to resolve the matter informally, in a manner agreeable to all parties;
- When the Respondent accepts responsibility for violating policy and desires to accept a sanction and end the resolution process; or
- When the Title IX Coordinator can resolve the matter informally by providing supportive measures to remedy the situation.
Applies to complaints pertaining to allegations of harassment or discrimination based on protected class status, involving students, staff, faculty members or third-parties, that are not eligible for resolution under the Title IX Hearing Process.
Investigation:
- You may request the university respond to your complaint informally or formally. If you request a formal response, an investigation into the allegation will commence.
- During an investigation, the assigned Investigator will interview the Complainant, Respondent and any relevant witnesses (as applicable). The Investigator will also collect relevant evidence.
- The Complainant and Respondent can appoint an advisor at any point in the process.
Support and Assistance
If you have been a victim of sexual misconduct (including sexual violence), you have many services available to you so that you can obtain information and support. Below are just some of the resources at GCU to assist you with your health and safety.
- Medical assistance is available at the Canyon Health and Wellness Clinic. All discussions with medical professionals are considered completely confidential. Call 855-GCU-LOPE to schedule an appointment.
- Counseling services are also offered through the Student Care Office. Male and female counselors are available. All conversations with counselors are considered completely confidential. Call 855-GCU-LOPE to schedule an appointment.
- Further academic assistance can be obtained through GCU's Student Disability Services. Contact them at 855-GCU-LOPE.
- The Safety Escort Program provides a Public Safety officer to escort you upon request. Call 855-GCU-LOPE and provide them with your name, location and destination.
- Emergency blue light phones serve as a direct connection to Public Safety officers and should be used if you are feeling scared or have an immediate safety concern.
- The Department of Spiritual Life on campus is available to address any spiritual needs or concerns. Call 855-GCU-LOPE to learn more.
- Learning assistance is offered through our Academic Centers for Excellence (ACE) Centers.
GCU takes whatever measures necessary to create a safe environment for all students. During the course of the investigation and upon its completion, various measures may be taken by GCU in order to ensure the physical, mental and emotional well-being of students. You may request some of these measures be taken on your behalf, even if the university does not pursue a formal investigation; however, interim measures cannot be applied retroactively from the reporting date. These measures include, but are not limited to:
- Academic accommodations including, but not limited to:
- Transferring to another section of a lecture or laboratory
- Rescheduling an academic assignment or test
- Accessing academic support (i.e. tutoring)
- Arranging for incompletes, a leave of absence or withdrawal from campus
- Preserving eligibility for academic, athletic or other scholarships, financial aid, internships, study abroad or foreign student visas
- Providing medical and mental health services, including counseling
- Arranging changes in campus housing and/or dining locations
- Providing assistance in finding alternative housing
- Assistance in arranging for alternative employment arrangements and/or changing work schedules
- A "no-contact" directive pending the outcome of an investigation. Such a directive serves as notice to both parties that they must not have verbal, electronic, written or third-party communication with one another.
- Providing an escort to ensure that you can move safely between school programs and activities upon availability.
- Transportation accommodations or parking arrangements to ensure safety and access to other services upon availability.
- Assistance identifying additional resources or assistance including off-campus and community advocacy, support and services
- In serious cases, an interim suspension may be considered in order to ensure overall campus safety
If you are in need of assistance, there are resources available to you outside of GCU. Any interactions with these community agencies remain confidential based upon their standards of privacy. Pursuing any of these resources in no way obligates you to pursue a formal investigation or otherwise act upon what happened.
Medical Resources
Phoenix Baptist Hospital
2000 W. Bethany Home Road
Phoenix, AZ 85015
abrazohealth.com/our-locations/abrazo-central-campus
Phoenix Family Advocacy Center
2120 N. Central Ave. (2nd Floor)
Phoenix, AZ 85004
Maryvale Hospital
5102 W. Campbell Ave.
Phoenix, AZ 85031
abrazohealth.com/our-locations/abrazo-maryvale-campus
John C. Lincoln North Mountain Hospital
250 E. Dunlap Ave.
Phoenix, AZ 85020
honorhealth.com/locations/hospitals/john-c-lincoln-medical-center
Scottsdale Family Advocacy Center
10224 E. Via Linda
Scottsdale, AZ 85258
St. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center
350 W. Thomas Road
Phoenix, AZ 85013
dignityhealth.org/stjosephs
Advanced Urgent Care
5201 N. 19th Ave., Suite 100
Phoenix, AZ 85015
fastmed.com/locations/fastmed-locations-by-state/arizona/phoenix-az-north-19th-avenue
Next Care Urgent Care
1701 E. Thomas Road, Suite A-104
Phoenix, AZ 85016
nextcare.com/locations/az/phoenix-thomas/
Law Enforcement Resources
Glendale Police Department Victim Assistance
623-930-3030
glendaleaz.com/advocacycenter/
Maricopa County Attorney - Victim Assistance Program
602-506-8522
maricopacountyattorney.org/serving-victims/
Peoria Police Department's Victim Assistance Services
623-773-7019
peoriaaz.gov/NewSecondary.aspx?id=45173
Phoenix Prosecutor's Office - Victim Services Program
602-261-8192
phoenix.gov/law/victims
Hotlines and Community Resources:
National Domestic Violence Hotline
800-799-SAFE
thehotline.org
RAINN National Sexual Assault Hotline
800-656-HOPE
rainn.org/get-help/national-sexual-assault-online-hotline
Arizona Coalition to End Sexual & Domestic Violence
602-279-2900
azcadv.org
EMPACT Arizona Sexual Assault Hotline
480-736-4949
empact-spc.com
How To Help as a Bystander
- Talk to your friends honestly and openly about sexual assault.
- Do not just be a bystander - if you see something, intervene in any way you can.
- Trust your gut. If something looks like it might be a bad situation, it probably is.
- Be direct. Ask someone who looks like they may need help if they are okay.
- Get someone to help you if you see something - enlist a friend, RA, teacher or parent to help step in.
- Keep an eye on someone who has had too much to drink.
- If you see someone who is too intoxicated to consent, enlist their friends to help them leave safely.
- Recognize the potential danger of someone who talks about planning to target another person at a party.
- Be aware if someone is deliberately trying to intoxicate, isolate or corner someone else.
- Create a distraction, draw attention to the situation or separate the people you are concerned about.
- Understand that if someone does not or cannot consent to sex, it is rape.
- Never blame the victim.
How To Keep Yourself Safe
- Be aware of your surroundings.
- Try to avoid isolated areas, and do not allow yourself to be isolated with someone you do not know or trust.
- Walk with a purpose. Even if you do not know where you are going, act like you do.
- Trust your instincts.
- Make sure your cell phone is with you.
- Try to stick with your friends. You can help keep each other safe.
- Do not leave your drink unattended, and do not accept drinks from people you do not know or trust.
- Be true to yourself. Do not feel obligated to do anything you do not want to do.
- Lie. If you are uncomfortable or afraid, make an excuse to leave.
If you find yourself in the position of being the initiator of sexual behavior, you owe sexual respect to your potential partner. These suggestions may help you to reduce your risk for being accused of sexual misconduct, which can impact your ability to continue in school, or result in a criminal record:
- Clearly communicate your intentions to your sexual partner and give them a chance to clearly relate their intentions to you.
- Understand and respect personal boundaries.
- Do not make assumptions about consent; about someone’s sexual availability; about whether they are attracted to you; about how far you can go; or about whether they are physically and/or mentally able to consent. If there are any questions or ambiguity, then you do not have consent.
- Mixed messages from your partner are a clear indication that you should stop, defuse any sexual tension and communicate better. You may be misreading them. They may not have figured out how far they want to go with you yet. You must respect the timeline for sexual behaviors with which they are comfortable.
- Do not take advantage of someone’s drunkenness or drugged state, even if they did it to themselves.
- Realize that your potential partner could be intimidated by you or fearful. You may have a power advantage simply because of your gender or size. Do not abuse that power.
- Understand that consent to some form of sexual behavior does not automatically imply consent to any other forms of sexual behavior.
- Silence and passivity cannot be interpreted as an indication of consent. Read your potential partner carefully, paying attention to verbal and non-verbal communication and body language.
Orders of Protection
Orders of Protection are civil court orders that prohibit a specific person from making contact with you or even coming near you. They are issued by a judge and must be served by authorized personnel only. Orders of Protection are valid for 12 months from the date on which they are served. They are designed to keep a person from committing acts of violence and/or harassment. If the person violates the order, you have grounds to take legal action against them. It should be noted that while they are issued to minimize risk, they are not a guarantee of safety.
For more information on how to obtain an Order of Protection, contact GCU's Department of Public Safety, or visit the Maricopa County Superior Court website.
It's On Us: GCU's Campus Initiative to Reduce Sexual Assault
GCU has joined countless organizations, including the White House, NCAA and major entertainment networks, in the fight against sexual assault. The It's On Us campaign is a nationwide initiative to help you become part of the solution. Pledge to recognize, identify, intervene and create, and make a personal commitment to help keep men and women safe. Take the pledge now at itsonus.org
Training Materials and Resources
- The Title IX Office is committed to providing comprehensive training to university faculty, staff and students. The Title IX Office annually trains various student organizations, student leaders and campus clubs. Training can include but is not limited to case studies, bystander intervention and Title IX policy and procedure.
- All members of the Title IX Office are trained to impartially investigate reported conduct, objectively evaluate relevant evidence and follow the grievance procedures. All individuals serving in formal roles in the grievance process are trained per federal requirements.
- In accordance with 34 CFR Part 106.45(b)(10) of the 2020 Title IX Regulations that mandates the public sharing of materials used to train university Title IX team members, the GCU Title IX Office has included a link below to training materials that can be viewed by any member of the public. The website link provides any member of the public access to view a comprehensive list of trainings conducted by ATIXA after Jan. 1, 2018.
- 2020 Regulations Requirement: Posting of Training Materials
- 2018 Investigator Level 1
- 2018 Investigator Level 2
- 2019 Coordinator Level 1
- 2020 Investigator Level 2
- 2020 Coordinator Level 1
- 2020 Hearing Officer and Decision Maker
If you have any questions regarding the specific training background of a member of the Title IX Office, you can contact the Title IX Coordinator at TitleIX@gcu.edu or 602-639-5900.