As set forth in this policy, PLU prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex in its programs and activities. As defined by Title IX, discrimination on the basis of sex includes discrimination on the basis of sex stereotypes, sex characteristics, pregnancy or related conditions, sexual orientation, and gender identity.
Consistent with other provisions of PLU’s Student Code of Conduct, this policy and procedures herein apply to all students enrolled in courses at Pacific Lutheran University. Enrolled individuals involved in sex-based harassment incidents prior to attending or during a break between successive terms of enrollment may be subject to action through the Title IX grievance procedures. Previously enrolled students alleging to have been impacted by sex discrimination while actively participating in a PLU sponsored program or activity may submit a report and complaint if the Respondent is still an active member of the PLU community.
Unless otherwise specified, any individual who is accused of engaging in Prohibited Conduct as defined by this policy who is not a student, faculty member, or staff member is generally considered a third party. PLU’s ability to take corrective action against a third party may be limited and will depend on the nature of the third party’s relationship, if any, to PLU. When appropriate, the Title IX Coordinator will refer such allegations against a third-party to the appropriate office.
The University will respond “promptly and effectively” once it obtains notice, or has available “knowledge of conduct that reasonably may constitute sex discrimination.”, and the alleged conduct meets the definition of Prohibited Conduct as articulated in this policy and the Title IX regulations. Prior to the University proceeding with any formal grievance process, a Complaint must be articulated (an oral or written statement requesting the university to investigate and make a determination about alleged sex discrimination) to the Title IX Coordinator.
A Title IX response will be initiated if the incident affects current or past community members while attempting or actively participating in an educational program or activity in which PLU exercises substantial control over, occurs in the U.S. or in a PLU sponsored program taking place in an international location, and meets the criteria defined in Title IX Final Rule by the U.S. Department of Education. This includes, but not limited to conduct occurring in a building owned or controlled by a student organization officially recognized by the university or during an off campus location understood to be the location for a PLU sponsored activity.
This policy may also pertain to instances in which the conduct is within the jurisdiction of its disciplinary authority or affects a substantial PLU interest, including access to the educational program or activity, safety and security, compliance with applicable law, and meeting its educational mission.
2024 Title IX regulations specifically extend the right for PLU to address Sex-based Hostile Environment Harassment under its education program or activity, even when some conduct alleged to be contributing to the “hostile environment” occurred outside the recipient’s education program or activity or outside the United States (i.e. private residence off campus, study abroad, athletic events).
The University reserves the right to follow the procedures outlined in the Student Code of Conduct procedures if a student’s behavior does not meet the above Title IX criteria, but does violate the Student Code of Conduct, regardless of where the behavior occurs, and the behavior raises concern for the safety of those on-campus, or the behavior jeopardizes the university’s interests in the community.
In addition, the University may follow the procedures outlined in the Student Code of Conduct or procedures defined by law enforcement whenever a student is accused of a criminal act, regardless of the location of its occurrence.