Sexual Misconduct, including Title IX Violations
The University is committed to ensuring the safety and security of all its members. Sexual misconduct is a serious violation of the standards set by the University since it creates an atmosphere of distrust and inequality and will not be tolerated. Sexual misconduct includes sexual harassment, sexual abuse, sexual assault or rape, domestic violence, dating violence and stalking. A Sexual Misconduct policy has been established and can be found in the Student Handbook through a student’s or employee’s Midwestern University online portal. This policy/procedure establishes a protocol whereby those who believe they have been subjected to sexual misconduct may obtain redress promptly and equitably through the policies and procedures of the University.
This policy applies to all members of the University community, regardless of position/status, race; color; religion; creed; national origin or ancestry; ethnicity; sex (including pregnancy); gender (including gender expression, gender identity; and sexual orientation); marital status; age; disability; citizenship; past, current, or prospective service in the uniformed services; genetic information; or any other protected classes recognized by state or local laws, or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local laws.
Each member of the University community is expected to report promptly complaints about violations. Any student found to be in violation of the Title IX sexual misconduct policy shall be subject to disciplinary action, which may include, but is not limited to, disciplinary warning, disciplinary probation, suspension, or dismissal. Any action taken by the University does not preclude or limit other redress such as the University reporting to or working with law enforcement agencies. Midwestern University is independent of actions taken by external law enforcement agencies. Nothing about this policy is intended to limit the independent acts of law enforcement agencies.
Title IX
Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972 prohibits sexual discrimination. Sexual harassment and sexual violence are considered forms of sexual discrimination and are therefore violations of Title IX. The Title IX statute applies to persons in the United States with respect to education programs or activities that receive Federal financial assistance. Universities must respond when sexual harassment occurs in the University’s education program. Violations of the University Sexual Misconduct Policy must be reported to Dr. Shannon Sesterhenn, the Title IX Coordinator for the Illinois and Glendale campuses. In addition, students can report perceived Title IX violations to the Student Counselors, who serve as a confidential resource to students (see the Confidentiality section associated with this policy for details).
No Retaliation Statement
No action shall be taken against anyone who submits a complaint that they believe to be valid regardless of the outcome of the investigation; however, any person found to be intentionally dishonest in making the allegations or to have made them maliciously is subject to University discipline.
Title IX and Related Education
In accordance with 34 CFR Part 106, the Title IX Coordinator and Deputy Title IX Coordinators receive education on sexual misconduct and Title IX violations through courses provided by:
- National Association of Student Personnel Administrators (NASPA) - view course material
- National Association of College and University Attorneys (NACUA) - view course material
- National Association of College and University Attorneys (NACUA) - view training material, classes 1-6
Also, all employees and students of Midwestern University are required to complete and pass online courses through VectorLMS regarding related topics on Sexual Assault and Prevention, Harassment and Discrimination, and Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging. In addition, all Midwestern University students sign an agreement that they are responsible for the policies outlined in the Student Handbook, including it’s sections on the Code of Conduct and Sexual Misconduct - Title IX Violations policy.
Title IX Coordinator (AZ & IL)
Shannon Sesterhenn
Dean of Students
SSeste@midwestern.edu
Training course taken: NASPA Training Materials for Title IX Coordinators