The Office of Student Engagement supports the College’s mission of challenging the minds and inspiring the souls of its students by providing opportunities for co-curricular learning that complement and enhance traditional classroom education.  Student Engagement sponsors programming that is intentionally designed to support the College’s four pillars of civility, diversity, service, and excellence.

 

Goals

Civility

• Students will be exposed to the College’s mission and expectations for student conduct.
• Students whose behavior is not reflective of the College’s expectations for appropriate conduct will receive individual mentoring designed to promote the personal and ethical development of the student.
• Targeted programming that offers opportunity for student interaction will be sponsored to stimulate community building and the development of interpersonal relationships.

Diversity

• Targeted programming designed to promote multicultural appreciation and intercultural sensitivity among students will be sponsored.
• Student Engagement will serve as a clearinghouse for the campus community on issues pertaining to diversity-based educational programming, student mentoring, and campus climate.

Service

• Direct opportunities for individual and group community service projects will be sponsored.
• Student Engagement will serve as a clearinghouse for the campus community on matters related to connecting students with opportunities to engage in service both on campus and in the surrounding community.

Excellence

• Based on the Greek concept of Areté, students will have opportunities to explore, discover, and reach their potential; these opportunities include programming and available individual mentoring targeting students’ career aspirations, leadership, hobbies, identity, spiritual life, and personal choices.
• Student Engagement will serve as a clearinghouse for the campus community on co-curricular programming, student concerns, and personal development.

Student Engagement Units

For more information about individual programs and opportunities, please visit the College website and/or the Student Handbook

• Career Development Center
• Chaplain, Spiritual Life & Church Relations
• Counseling Center
• Disability Services
• Greek Life
• Leadership Development
• Multicultural Programming
• New Student & Family Orientation
• Residential Education & Housing
• Service
• Spiritual Life & Chaplain
• Student Conduct
• Student Government Association Advising
• Student Organizations

Student Conduct and the Social Code

As an institution whose mission is to challenge the mind and inspire the souls of its students, LaGrange College is committed to both the intellectual and ethical development of students.  To promote moral development and insure a safe environment conducive to learning, the College has established formal expectations for conduct as well as processes for resolving allegations of student misconduct.  Like the Honor Code, promotion and enforcement of the Social Code is a community responsibility shared by students, faculty, and staff. Not only are community members expected to hold one another accountable for their behavior, but known violations of the Social Code should be reported to the Dean of Student Engagement or the Social Council.

In general, the College’s jurisdiction for formally adjudicating allegations of misconduct is limited to instances that occur on College property.  The College and/or Social Council may, however, initiate the disciplinary process against a student for prohibited conduct that occurs while the student is participating in off-campus activities sponsored by or affiliated with the College (e.g., field trips, Jan Term, internships, clinical assignments, a campus organization social) or for any conduct that is deemed to potentially threaten the health/safety of the campus or disrupt the learning environment of the College no matter where such behavior may occur. College disciplinary action may be instituted against a student charged with conduct that potentially violates both criminal/civil law and College policy without regard to the pendency of civil or criminal litigation in court or arrest.  The College’s disciplinary process may be initiated prior to, simultaneously with, or following criminal/civil proceedings off campus and any disciplinary sanctions reached under the College’s process will not be reevaluated based on the results of a criminal/civil legal proceeding.

Although the College seeks to use the student conduct process as an educational experience that is grounded in promoting moral development, sanctions up to suspension and dismissal can be levied in appropriate situations.  As a private institute, the College reserves the right to remove any student whose continued presence in the community is deemed detrimental to the student, the student body, or the College itself on either an interim or permanent basis.

A complete description of the Social Code, its policies, and its processes can be found in the Student Handbook. Copies of the Handbook are available in the Office of Student Engagement as well as on the College’s PantherNet Web site under “Academic Resources.”

Administrative Withdrawal Policy

As an academic institution committed to challenging the minds and inspiring the souls of its students, LaGrange College treats with great seriousness any situation where a student exhibits behaviors indicating that the student may be a potential threat to self, others, or property, and/or engages in conduct that threatens to interfere with the academic processes of the institution.  Threats to oneself exist along a continuum, ranging from suicidal behavior with lethal intent or self-injurious behavior without lethal intent. No matter the type of potentially threatening behavior, even statements made in jest, are considered serious matters and will receive appropriate clinical attention from authorized personnel as they pose a threat to the academic processes of the College.

LaGrange College’s Administrative Withdrawal Policy may be utilized in the following situations: (a) when the student engages in behavior or threatens to engage in behavior that poses a potential threat to self, others, or property; (b) when the impaired functioning of a student is sufficiently disturbing so as to interfere with the educational process of other constituents and/or the orderly operation of the College; and (c) when a student has failed to satisfy requirements of a prior Interim Disciplinary Action issued by the College.

It must be noted that the College’s administrative withdrawal policy is intended to apply to all students in a nondiscriminatory fashion.  Students with documented disabilities on file with the institution or who later provide such documentation to the institution will receive an individualized assessment.  This assessment may first be conducted by a qualified College employee such as a licensed counselor to make determinations based on observations of the student’s conduct, actions, as well as statements, and not stereotypes or unfounded fears.  The College may also require consultations with qualified healthcare professionals to assist the institution judge the risk of substantial harm.  Such assessments will enable the institution to determine if the individual is “otherwise qualified” to remain on campus or take classes based on the student’s observed conduct, actions, and statements; decisions will not be based on a slightly increased, speculative, or remote risk of substantial harm.  Throughout the evaluation process, College officials and consulting qualified healthcare professionals will also evaluate what reasonable accommodations, if justified by law, may be offered to the student.

Determinations as to when the circumstances meet the conditions of this policy shall be made by the Dean of Student Engagement in consultation with the Director of the Counseling Center, the Vice President for Academic Affairs (VPAA), or any other appropriate College personnel.  In the situation that the Dean of Student Engagement seeks to implement the Administrative Withdrawal Policy, one of the following actions may occur:

1.  Voluntary or Involuntary Referral for Evaluation – The student may be referred for clinical services by a licensed physician and/or mental health provider in the community. Any costs associate with the evaluation will not be covered by the College.  If such occurs, the student must submit the identity and credentials of the professional to the Dean of Student Engagement for approval.  The student must also authorize the College to have permission to speak with the professional prior to and following the evaluation and/or treatment.  In the case of an evaluation, the student must permit the professional to provide the College with a copy of the evaluation results as well as any treatment plan recommended.  The College may mandate that the student follow any treatment plan recommended as a condition of continued enrollment.  Any student who fails to complete the evaluation process as required is subject to withdrawal as noted below.  After receiving the evaluation, the Dean of Student Engagement may at his discretion:

• Allow the student to continue with no mandated treatment.
• Allow the student to continue pending on-going treatment (failure to comply with required treatment may result in withdrawal) or other accommodations deemed appropriate if applicable.
• Allow the student to take a medical withdrawal from the College.
• Implement an interim administrative withdrawal.
• Dismiss the student from the College.
• Determine other actions deemed appropriate under the circumstances.

2.  Medical Withdrawals – A student who elects to take a medical withdrawal after being contacted with conditions under this policy may be required by Admissions to submit documentation from the Dean of Student Engagement or designee verifying that the student is eligible to re-enroll.

3.  Interim Administrative Withdrawal – The Dean of Student Engagement or designee may place a student on an interim administrative withdrawal at his/her discretion under this policy. The College may also place a student on an interim administrative withdrawal pending the completion of a referral for evaluation and corresponding decision by the institution and/or for failure to meet any conditions issued under a Disciplinary Interim Action.  Notice of the withdrawal may be issued in person, over the phone, via certified mail, or an e-mail to the student’s College e-mail account.  The Dean of Student Engagement or designee has the discretion to issue the interim administrative withdrawal for a designated period of time, until the completion of conditions issued, or a combination of the two.  During the period of withdrawal, the student may be denied access to College property without written permission from the Dean of Student Engagement, access to the residence halls or academic classes, or privileges for which the student may be otherwise eligible.

After an interim administrative withdrawal, re-enrollment may be requested after demonstrated evidence that the conditions stipulated have been met or after the expiration of any time limit imposed at the time of the withdrawal - whichever is longer.  An on-campus interview with appropriate personnel may be required before authorization for re-admittance is issued to Admissions, if necessary.

4.  Administrative Withdrawal – If, based on the evidence available and/or submitted for consideration by the student, it is the opinion of the Dean of Student Engagement, in consultation with the Director of the Counseling Center, Vice President for Academic Affairs (VPAA), or other appropriate medical personnel, that the student constitutes a potential risk, the student may be placed on an administrative withdrawal for a designated period of time (typically a period of semesters or years). Following an administrative withdrawal, authorization from the Dean of Student Engagement or designee must be issued before the student can be considered for readmission from the College’s admission staff.

Additionally, any student who does not attend all of his or her classes for two weeks – without a medical reason – may be administratively withdrawn at the discretion of the Vice President for Academic Affairs (VPAA).

5.  Dismissal of Student – If, based on the evidence available and/or submitted for consideration by the student, it is the opinion of the Dean of Student Engagement, in consultation with the Director of the Counseling Center, VPAA, or other appropriate medical personnel, that the student constitutes a substantial risk, the student may be permanently dismissed from the institution without the potential to re-enroll.

Sexual Harassment/Sexual Violence Policy

All members of the College community have the right to be free from sex discrimination in the form of sexual harassment; as dictated by the Office for Civil Rights, acts of sexual violence are a form of sexual harassment.  Sex discrimination, sexual harassment, sexual assault, dating violence, domestic/family violence, and stalking are prohibited by federal and state law as well as College policy.  The College is committed to appropriately addressing alleged acts of sexual harassment and sexual violence that impact students, faculty, staff, and visitors to campus if such activity occurs while on College property.

Prior to the articulation of the policy, it is important to note options for assistance following an incident of sexual violence.  Whether or not an individual chooses to formally report an incident, receiving immediate medical attention and/or counseling is vital to the student’s overall health and wellness.  Likewise, seeking immediate medical attention is vital to preserve evidence if an investigation is to follow.  More detailed information on resources is also available at the end of this policy.

On-Campus Resources

• Campus Security (706-880-8911): available 24 hours a day; can connect the student to resources and procure medical attention
• Dawn Coker (706-880-8267): as the College’s Title IX Coordinator, Ms. Coker can connect the student to resources and procure medical attention as well as explain the institution’s policies and procedures pertaining to reporting; the Title IX Coordinator may also take any immediate interim actions (no contact orders, alteration of academic or non-academic schedules, etc.)
• Pamela Tremblay (706-880-8313): as the Director of the Counseling Center, Ms. Tremblay can assist the student to seek resources and maintain a confidential relationship with the student following the incident
• Brandi Cameron (706-880-8177): as a counselor, Ms. Cameron can assist the student seek resources and maintain a confidential relationship with the student following the incident.
• Adam Roberts (706-880-8004): as the Chaplain, Rev. Roberts can assist the student to seek resources and maintain a confidential relationship with the student following the incident

Off-Campus Resources

• Harmony House: Domestic/Sexual Violence Shelter (LaGrange, GA): 24 hour hotline 706-885-1525 / General 706-882-4173 – an advocate can assist a student to seek medical treatment at the Health Clinic where the student can be seen by a Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) as well as provide additional advocacy and support following the incident
• LaGrange Police Department (LaGrange, GA): dial 911 for emergencies or contact the domestic violence investigator, Investigator Brown at 706-883-2606 – the department can assist a student to seek medical treatment at the Health Clinic where the student can be seen by a Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) as well as provide additional information about options moving forward (if a student visits West Georgia Health, the hospital will call the police for assistance)
• Sexual Assault Support Center, Inc. (Columbus, GA): Crisis line 706-571-6010 / General 706-221-1033
• West Georgia Rape Crisis Center (Carrollton, GA): Crisis line 770-834-7273 / General 770-834-8905
• National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233 (SAFE)
• Domestic abuse Helpline for Men & Women: 888-7HELPLINE (888-743-5754)

Sexual harassment is unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature, including but not limited to unwelcome sexual advances; requests for sexual favors; or other verbal or nonverbal conduct of a sexual nature, including acts of sexual violence.  Based on guidance from the Federal government, dating violence, domestic violence, and stalking may, depending on the facts, be forms of sexual harassment. Sexual harassment may take two forms: (1) quid pro quo, and (2) creating a hostile environment. 

Sexual harassment quid pro quo occurs when a position of authority is used to threaten to impose a penalty or to withhold a benefit for sexual favors, whether or not the attempt is successful.  Sexual harassment may involve behavior by a person of either gender against person of the same or opposite gender.  It should be noted that the potential of sexual harassment exists in any of the following relationships: student/student, faculty/student, student/faculty, and faculty/faculty.  Here and subsequently, “faculty” refers to faculty, staff, and administration. Because of the inherent differential in power between faculty and students, sexual relationships between faculty and students are prohibited.

A hostile, demeaning, or intimidating environment exists when sexual harassment is sufficiently serious to deny or limit an individual's full and free participation in the life of the College.  A hostile environment can be created by anyone involved in a College’s program or activities (e.g., administrators, faculty members, and campus visitors).

These behaviors may range from the most egregious forms, such as sexual violence, to more subtle forms. The College defines acts of sexual violence as physical sexual acts perpetrated against a person’s will or where a person is incapable of giving consent (e.g., due to the student’s age or use of drugs or alcohol, or because an intellectual or other disability prevents the students from having the capacity to give consent).  The College recognizes the following aspects regarding consent: (a) consent is a voluntary agreement to engage in sexual activity, (b) someone who is incapacitated cannot consent; (c) past consent does not imply future consent, (d) silence or an absence of resistance does not imply consent, (f) consent to engage in sexual activity with one person does not imply consent to engage in sexual activity with another; (g) consent can be withdrawn at any time, and (h) coercion, force, or threat of either invalidates consent. Sexual violence includes rape, sexual assault (both non-consensual sexual contact and non-consensual sexual intercourse), sexual abuse, sexual coercion, and sexual exploitation. Other than “rape, definitions of the proceeding terms will be the State of Georgia definition governing at the time of the incident.  By Federal dictate, the College will use the FBI definition of “rape” included in the most current version of the Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Summary Reporting System, which encompasses the categories of rape, sodomy, and sexual assault with an object; the current definition used therein is as follows, “Penetration, no matter how slight, of the vagina or anus with any body part or object, or oral penetration by a sex organ of another person, without the consent of the victim.”

Explicit behaviors constituting sexual harassment include but are not limited to requests for sexual favors, physical assaults of a sexual nature, sexually offensive remarks, and rubbing, touching or brushing against another’s body.  More subtle behaviors may be experienced as intimidating or offensive, particularly when they recur or one person has authority over another.  Such behaviors may include but are not limited to unwelcome hugs or touching, inappropriate staring, veiled suggestions of sexual activity, requests for meetings in non-academic settings, and risqué jokes, stories or images.

As noted above, Federal guidance has confirmed that, depending on the facts, dating violence, domestic/family violence, and stalking may also be forms of sexual harassment. While definitions of the proceeding terms are included in the definition section of this policy, the College will use the most current definition used by the State of Georgia governing on the date of the alleged incident.

Accusations of sexual harassment that are made without good cause shall not be condoned.  Such accusations are indeed considered grievous and can have damaging and far-reaching effects upon the careers and lives of individuals.  The College has a duty to investigate complaints arising either on or off campus and shall proceed without respect to any pending legal or criminal matters arising from the incident.  The institution’s sexual harassment and sexual violence policy applies to all students and employees, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, as well as third parties.  Individuals are encouraged to read the section at the end of this policy regarding reporting and confidentiality.

Any member of the College community having a complaint of sexual harassment may raise the matter informally and/or file a formal complaint.  The informal process is an attempt to mediate between the parties in order to reach a mutually agreeable solution without entering into the formal hearing process; the informal process will not be used in situations of sexual violence.

The following informal procedures may be followed:

• Clearly say "no" to the person whose behavior is unwelcome.
• Communicate either orally or in writing with the person whose behavior is unwelcome. The most effective communication will have three elements:
  • A factual description of the incident(s) including the time, place, date and specific behavior
  • A description of the complainant's feelings, including any consequences of the incident
  • A request that the conduct cease
• Speak with a department chair, Vice President for Academic Affairs (VPAA), director, counselor or chaplain who may speak to the person whose behavior is unwelcome. The name of the complainant need not be disclosed. The purpose of such conversation is the cessation of the unwelcome behavior.
• In the case of harassment of a student, it may be appropriate first to seek the advice of his or her advisor.

Formal complaint process and procedure:

Upon receipt of a formal written complaint that alleges a violation of the College’s policy against sexual harassment, the College’s Title IX Coordinator, Deputy Title IX Coordinator, or designee shall begin an investigation of the charge(s). In cases of sexual violence involving students, the College may begin an investigation without a written complaint from the student. Upon beginning an investigation, the College may take any immediate interim actions deemed appropriate that may remain in effect until a decision is reached; these actions could involve the alteration of class schedules, extracurricular activities, or residential location; removal from classes; or restrictions from communicating with involved parties. Likewise, the College may work with a reporting student to provide additional academic support or even withdrawing from class(es) without penalty.  An investigation shall include an interview with the person filing the complaint, the person(s) accused of violating the anti-harassment policies and any person designated by either of the principle parties as witnesses to the incident in question. Throughout the entire process, the College prohibits retaliation against any person involved in the investigation; as a separate violation of college policy, serious sanctions, including separation from the institution may result from any act that could be reasonably deemed retaliation for participation in the process. The investigation shall be completed within 30 days of the receipt of the complaint unless extraordinary circumstances arise that delay in the investigation. The matter shall then be presented to the President in the form of written recommendations. At the President’s discretion, he may accept the recommendations, interview the persons involved, direct further investigation by the investigator and/or hold formal hearings on the matter.  Hearings will not be held for instances of student sexual violence.  All evidentiary decisions made regarding the complaint will be based on a preponderance of evidence standard.  If formal hearings are ordered, no party is allowed to be represented by legal counsel. This process shall be completed and the President shall make a final decision on the merits of the complaint and communicate that decision simultaneously to both parties in writing within 60 days of receipt of the complaint by the College. In matters involving students, staff, or administration, the decision of the President shall be considered final unless there are grounds to grant an appeal.  The only grounds upon which a student, staff, or member of the administration may appeal are: (a) denial of due process indicating that the institution has failed to follow articulated policy in reaching a decision; (b) presentation of significant and relevant evidence not made available during the investigation with a potential to alter the final decision – this does not include information that one voluntarily failed to present during the investigation; and (c) unduly harsh or arbitrary sanctions that are not consistent with case precedent.  Student, staff, or member of the administration will make the appeal in writing to the college’s Title IX coordinator within 72 hours of the time the final decision was communicated.  The specific reason for the appeal and a detailed explanation should be included in the appeal.  The Title IX coordinator will review only matters pertaining to the appeal justification as listed above.  The Title IX coordinator will make a determination as to whether the appeal should be denied, reopen the internal investigation if new and relevant evidence exists, or refer the matter to an outside and neutral party.  There is no definitive timeline for receiving an appeal response – it depends on the complexity of the case and the information mentioned in the appeal.  Faculty may appeal a final decision regarding the complaint in writing within 10 days to the Executive Committee of the Board of Trustees. Throughout this process, the college will keep the identities of the complaining party and accused confidential. The College will not require a party to abide by a nondisclosure agreement, in writing or otherwise, that would prevent the re-disclosure of information related to the outcome of the proceeding.

Possible outcomes of the investigation are

1. that the allegation is not warranted and cannot be substantiated,
2. a negotiated settlement of the complaint or (3) that the allegation is substantiated requiring a recommendation to the President that disciplinary action be taken. 

In the case of students, disciplinary sanctions include those listed in the College’s Social Code policy.

If the President of the College is the accused, the case is referred to the Executive Committee of the Board of Trustees.

If the chairperson of the Review Committee is the accused, the complaint shall be submitted to the President of the College. If any member of the Review Committee is the accused or for reason of prejudice must be recused, the President of the College shall appoint another member.

The right to confidentiality of all members of the College community will be respected in both formal and informal procedures insofar as possible.

LaGrange College is committed to preventing sexual harassment.  To that end, this policy and these procedures will be printed in appropriate College publications.  In addition, educational programs will be conducted annually by the College to (1) inform students, faculty, staff and administration about identifying sexual harassment and the problems it causes; (2) advise members of the College community about their rights and responsibilities under this policy; (3) train personnel in the administration of this policy.  The Sexual Harassment / Sexual Violence Policy and Procedures will be issued to all incoming students and personnel.

Reporting

The College’s Title IX Coordinator is Dawn Coker, Vice President for Human Resources (Quillian Building; 706-880-8267; dcoker@lagrange.edu).  The College encourages individuals to immediately consult with or report incidents of sexual discrimination, sexual harassment, or sexual violence to Ms. Coker, or to one of the institution’s Deputy Title IX coordinators:

Issues involving students: Dr. Brian Carlisle, Vice President for Student Engagement (Smith Hall, Room 125; 706-880-8269; bcarlisle@lagrange.edu);

Issues involving faculty or staff: Dawn Coker, Vice President for Human Resources (Quillian Building, Room 225; 706-880-8267; dcoker@lagrange.edu)

Students may also report incidents of sex discrimination, sexual harassment, or sexual violence to any “responsible employee” (see below), who is then responsible to promptly notify any of the above Title IX coordinators of the reported incident.

The College reserves the right to grant amnesty from drug, alcohol, or other violations of the social code for parties reporting allegations under this policy (i.e., if alcohol was involved in the incident, the reporting party would not then be charged with an alcohol infraction).  Decisions regarding amnesty under the policy will be made by the dean of students in conjunction with the Title IX coordinator.

Complaints or allegations of student-to-student sexual discrimination, sexual harassment, or sexual violence will be handled by the dean of students.  Students may also contact the U.S. Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights to complain of sexual discrimination, sexual harassment, or sexual violence; see: http://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/complaintintro.html.

Cases of sexual violence may also be reported to the LaGrange Police Department; the College’s Title IX coordinators can assist individuals with contacting the Police Department.  The College reserves the right to share any information from its own investigation with the Police Department at the discretion of the Title IX coordinator.

Complaints of sexual discrimination, sexual harassment, or sexual violence involving non-students will be handled by the Vice President for Human Resources.

Confidentially Disclosing Instances of Sexual Harassment or Sexual Violence

The College encourages individuals who have experienced what they believe could constitute sexual harassment or sexual violence to speak with someone about what happened so that support can be offered and the College can respond appropriately.  Different individuals associated with the College have different abilities to maintain confidentiality in this area.

• Some are required to maintain near complete confidentiality; talking to them is sometimes called a “privileged communication.”
• Some employees are required to report all the details of an incident (including the identities of both the survivor and alleged perpetrator) to the Title IX Coordinator. A report to these employees (called “responsible employees”) constitutes a report to the College and generally obligates the College to investigate the incident and take appropriate steps to address the situation.
• It is also possible to report to a third-party counselor or advocate off campus who may maintain confidentiality and only inform the school that an incident has occurred. As reporting requirements vary, it is important to discuss confidentiality with the third party prior to speaking with that individual.

This policy is intended to make students aware of the various reporting and confidential disclosure options available to them so they can make informed choices about where to turn if an incident occurs.  The College encourages students to talk someone identified in one or more of these groups.  The options include:

A. Privileged and Confidential Communications

Professional and Pastoral Counselors

Professional, licensed counselors and pastoral counselors who provide mental-health counseling to members of the school community (and including those who act in that role under the supervision of a licensed counselor) are not required to report any information about an incident to the Title IX Coordinator without a victim’s permission. Following is the contact information for these individuals:

• Pamela Tremblay, Ed.S., LPC - Director of the Counseling Center (706-880-8313; ptremblay@lagrange.edu)
• Brandi Cameron, Ed.S., LPCS – Counselor, Counseling Center (706-880-8177; bncameron@lagrange.edu)
• Adam Roberts– Chaplain and Director of Spiritual Life (706-880-8004; aroberts@lagrange.edu)

NOTE: While these professional and non-professional counselors and advocates may maintain a victim’s confidentiality vis-à-vis the College, they may have reporting or other obligations under state law, such as mandatory reporting to law enforcement in case of minors; imminent harm to self or others; requirement to testify if subpoenaed in a criminal case.

ALSO NOTE: If the College determines that the alleged perpetrator(s) pose a serious and immediate threat to the College community, campus security, the president, or dean of students may be called upon to issue a timely warning to the community. Any such warning should not include any information that identifies the victim.

B. Reporting to “Responsible Employees.”

A “responsible employee” is a College employee who has the authority to redress sexual harassment and/or violence, who has the duty to report incidents of sexual violence or other student misconduct, or whom a student could reasonably believe has this authority or duty.

When a student tells a responsible employee about an incident of sexual harassment or sexual violence, the student has the right to expect the College to take immediate and appropriate steps to investigate what happened and to resolve the matter promptly and equitably.

A responsible employee must report to the Title IX coordinator all relevant details about the alleged sexual harassment or sexual violence shared by the student and that the College will need to determine what happened – including the names of the victim and alleged perpetrator(s), any witnesses, and any other relevant facts, including the date, time and specific location of the alleged incident.

To the extent possible, information reported to a responsible employee will be shared only with people responsible for handling the College’s response to the report. A responsible employee should not share information with law enforcement without the student’s consent or unless the student has also reported the incident to law enforcement.

The following employees (or categories of employees) are the College’s responsible employees:

• Members of the President’s Cabinet
• Employees of the Human Resources Staff
• Employees of the Student Engagement Staff
• Head Athletic Coaches
• Student Resident Advisors
• Faculty Advisors

Before a student reveals any information to a responsible employee, the employee should ensure that the victim understands the employee’s reporting obligations – and, if the student wants to maintain confidentiality, direct the victim to confidential resources.

If the student wants to tell the responsible employee what happened but also maintain confidentiality, the employee should tell the victim that the College will consider the request, but cannot guarantee that the College will be able to honor it. In reporting the details of the incident to the Title IX Coordinator, the responsible employee will also inform the Coordinator of the victim’s request for confidentiality.

Responsible employees will not pressure a student to request confidentiality, but will honor and support the student’s wishes, including for the College to fully investigate an incident. By the same token, responsible employees will not pressure a student to make a full report if the student is not ready to.

Requesting Confidentiality from the College: How the College Will Weigh the Request and Respond.

If a student discloses an incident to a responsible employee but wishes to maintain confidentiality or requests that no investigation into a particular incident be conducted or disciplinary action taken, the College must weigh that request against the College’s obligation to provide a safe, non-discriminatory environment for all students, including the reporting student.

If the College honors the request for confidentiality, a student must understand that the College’s ability to meaningfully investigate the incident and pursue disciplinary action against the alleged perpetrator(s) may be limited.

Although rare, there are times when the College may not be able to honor a student’s request in order to provide a safe, non-discriminatory environment for all students.

The College has designated the following individual to evaluate requests for confidentiality once a responsible employee is on notice of alleged sexual harassment or sexual violence:

When weighing a student’s request for confidentiality or that no investigation or discipline be pursued, The Title IX Coordinator will consider a range of factors, including the following:

• The increased risk that the alleged perpetrator will commit additional acts of sexual or other violence, such as:
  • Whether there have been other sexual harassment or sexual violence complaints about the same alleged perpetrator;
  • Whether the alleged perpetrator has a history of arrests or records from a prior school indicating a history of violence;
  • Whether the alleged perpetrator threatened further sexual violence or other violence against the victim or others;
  • Whether the sexual harassment or sexual violence was committed by multiple perpetrators;
• Whether the sexual harassment or sexual violence was perpetrated with a weapon;
• Whether the victim is a minor;
• Whether the College possesses other means to obtain relevant evidence of the sexual harassment or sexual violence (e.g., security cameras or personnel, physical evidence);
• Whether the victim’s report reveals a pattern of perpetration (e.g., via illicit use of drugs or alcohol) at a given location or by a particular group.

The presence of one or more of these factors could lead the College to investigate and, if appropriate, pursue disciplinary action. If none of these factors is present, the College will likely respect the victim’s request for confidentiality.

If the College determines that it cannot maintain a victim’s confidentiality, the College will inform the student prior to starting an investigation and will, to the extent possible, only share information with people responsible for handling the College’s response.

The College will remain ever mindful of the student’s well-being, and will take ongoing steps to protect the student from retaliation or harm and work with the victim to create a safety plan. Retaliation against the reporting student, whether by students or College employees, will not be tolerated. The College will also:

• Assist the student in accessing other available victim advocacy, academic support, counseling, disability, health or mental health services, and legal assistance both on and off campus (see portion of policy identifying these);
• Provide other security and support, which could include issuing a no-contact order, helping arrange a change of living or working arrangements or course schedules (including for the alleged perpetrator pending the outcome of an investigation) or adjustments for assignments or tests; and
• Inform the student of the right to report a crime to campus or local law enforcement – and provide the victim with assistance if the victim wishes to do so.

Because the College is under a continuing obligation to address the issue of sexual harassment and sexual violence campus-wide, reports of sexual harassment and sexual violence (including non-identifying reports) will also prompt the College to consider broader remedial action – such as increased monitoring, supervision or security at locations where the reported sexual violence occurred; increasing education and prevention efforts, including to targeted population groups; conducting climate assessments/victimization surveys; and/or revisiting its policies and practices.

If the College determines that it can respect a student’s request for confidentiality, the College will also take immediate action as necessary to protect and assist the student.

Miscellaneous

Take Back the Night and other public awareness events

Public awareness events such as “Take Back the Night,” the Clothesline Project, candlelight vigils, protests, “survivor speak outs” or other forums in which students disclose incidents of sexual violence, are not considered notice to the College of sexual violence for purposes of triggering its obligation to investigate any particular incident(s). Such events may, however, inform the need for campus-wide education and prevention efforts, and the College will provide information about students’ Title IX rights at these events.

Anonymous Reporting

Although the College encourages victims to talk to someone, the College provides an online option for anonymous reporting. The system will notify the user (before the individual enters information) that entering personally identifying information may serve as notice to the College for the purpose of triggering an investigation. The anonymous reporting link may be accessed at http://www.lagrange.edu/titleIX

Off-campus Counselors and Advocates.

Off-campus counselors, advocates, and health care providers will also generally maintain confidentiality and not share information with the College unless the student requests the disclosure and signs a consent or waiver form.

Following is contact information for these off-campus resources:

• Harmony House: Domestic/Sexual Violence Shelter (LaGrange, GA): 24 hour hotline 706-885-1525 / General 706-882-4173
• Sexual Assault Support Center, Inc. (Columbus, GA): Crisis line 706-571-6010 / General 706-221-1033
• West Georgia Rape Crisis Center (Carrollton, GA): Crisis line 770-834-7273 / General 770-834-8905

Additional information regarding how to respond to instances of sexual violence that also include other service providers include:

• Georgia Network to End Sexual Assault (GNESA): http://gnesa.org/
• The Federal Government’s “Not Alone” Website: http://www.notalone.gov/
• National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233 (SAFE)
• Domestic abuse Helpline for Men & Women: 888-7HELPLINE (888-743-5754)

NOTE:While these off-campus counselors and advocates may maintain a victim’s confidentiality vis-à-vis the College, they may have reporting or other obligations under state law. Such as mandatory reporting to law enforcement in case of minors; imminent harm to self or others; requirement to testify if subpoenaed in a criminal case.

Clery Act and FERPA

In compliance with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act (Clery Act), the College is required to post three years of data pertaining to instances of sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking.  The College’s compliance with the Clery Act does not constitute a violation of section 444 of the General Education Provisions Act (20 U.S.C. 1232g), commonly known as the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA).

Definitions

Coercion. Coercion is inappropriate pressure for sexual activity. Coercive behavior differs from seductive behavior based on the type of pressure someone uses to get consent from another. When a person makes clear that they do not want sex, wants to stop, or that going past a certain point of sexual interaction is unwanted, continued pressure beyond that point can be coercive.

Consent. Consent is clear, unambiguous, and voluntary agreement between participants to engage in specific sexual activity. Consent is active, not passive, and is given by clear actions or words. Consent may not be inferred from silence, passivity, or lack of active resistance alone. A current or previous dating or sexual relationship is not sufficient to constitute consent, and consent to one form of sexual activity does not imply consent to other forms of sexual activity. Being intoxicated does not diminish one’s responsibility to obtain consent. In some situations, an individual may be deemed incapable of consenting to sexual activity because of circumstances or the behavior of another, or due to their age.* Examples of such situations include, but are not limited to, incompetence, impairment from alcohol and/or other drugs, fear, unconsciousness, intimidation, coercion, confinement, isolation, or mental or physical impairment.

* In Georgia, minors under the age of 16 years of are generally unable to provide consent, with narrow exceptions.  See Georgia Code Ann. Section 16-6-3, Statutory Rape.

Dating violence. Violence committed by a person: who is or has been in a social relationship of a romantic or intimate nature with the victim; and where the existence of such a relationship shall be determined based on a consideration of the following factors: the length of the relationship; the type of relationship; and the frequency of interaction between the persons involved in the relationship.

Domestic violence. A felony or misdemeanor crime of violence committed by: a current or former spouse or intimate partner of the victim, a person with whom the victim shares a child in common, a person who is cohabiting with or has co-habitated with the victim as a spouse or intimate partner, a person similarly situated to a spouse of the victim under the domestic or family violence laws of the state of Georgia, or any other person against an adult or youth victim who is protected from that person’s acts under the domestic or family violence laws of the state of Georgia.

Incapacitation. Incapacity can result from mental disability, sleep, involuntary physical restraint, or from intentional or unintentional taking of alcohol and/or other drugs. An incapacitated person does not have the ability to give knowing consent. Sexual activity with a person who one should know to be – or based on the circumstances should reasonably have known to be – mentally or physically incapacitated, constitutes a violation of this policy. The perspective of a reasonable person will be the basis for determining whether one should have known about the impact of the use of alcohol and/or drugs on another’s ability to give consent.

Sexual abuse occurs when a person employs, uses, persuades, induces, entices, or coerces a minor who is not that person's spouse to engage in any act that involves: (a) Sexual intercourse, including genital-genital, oral-genital, anal-genital, or oral-anal, whether between persons of the same or opposite sex; (b) Bestiality or masturbation; (c) Lewd exhibition of the genitals or pubic area of any person; (d) Flagellation or torture by or upon a person who is nude; (e) Condition of being fettered, bound, or otherwise physically restrained on the part of a person who is nude; (f) Physical contact in an act of apparent sexual stimulation or gratification with any person's clothed or unclothed genitals, pubic area, or buttocks or with a female's clothed or unclothed breasts; (g) Defecation or urination for the purpose of sexual stimulation; or (h) Penetration of the vagina or rectum by any object except when done as part of a recognized medical procedure.

Sexual Assault is a broad term and is used in Georgia to encompass any of the thirty one (31) individual offenses listed in Title 16 (Crimes and Offenses) Chapter 6 (Sexual Offences) of the Georgia Code.

Sexual Exploitation occurs when a student takes non-consensual or abusive sexual advantage of another for his/her own advantage or benefit, or to benefit or advantage anyone other than the one being exploited, and that behavior does not otherwise constitute one of other sexual misconduct offenses. Examples of sexual exploitation include, but are not limited to the following:

• invasion of sexual privacy;
• prostituting another student;
• non-consensual video or audio-recording of sexual activity or circulation of such video and video or audio recording;
• going beyond the boundaries of consent;
• observing unsuspecting individuals who are partly undressed, naked, or engaged in sexual acts;
• knowingly transmitting an STI or HIV to another student;
• exposing one’s breasts, buttocks, groin, or genitals, in non-consensual circumstances; inducing another to expose their breasts, buttocks, groin, or genitals;
• sexually-based stalking and/or bullying may constitute a form of sexual exploitation, as well as a form of sexual harassment, as discussed above.

Stalking. Behavior where a person follows, places under surveillance, or contacts another person without the consent of that person for the purpose of harassing and intimidating him or her. The term “contact” means to make or attempt to make any communication, including, but not limited to, communication in person, by telephone, by mail, by broadcast, by computer or computer network, or by any other electronic device. “Harassing and intimidating” refers to a course of conduct or communications directed at a person that causes the person to suffer emotional distress that would cause a reasonable person to fear for personal safety or the safety of others, and which serves no legitimate purpose. It does not require that an overt threat of death or bodily injury be made.

Student. The term student means any person pursuing academic studies at the university. The term also includes: (1) a person not currently enrolled who was enrolled in the fall, spring, or summer term preceding the alleged violation, or (2) a person who, while not currently enrolled, was previously enrolled at LaGrange College and who is reasonably anticipated to seek enrollment at a future date, (3) a person who has applied to or been accepted for admission to LaGrange College and has accepted an offer of admission or may reasonably be expected to enroll, or (4) a person enrolled in an LaGrange College program on a credit or non-credit basis.

Disabilities Services

The Counseling Center assists in attaining accommodations for students with physical, mental, and learning disabilities and helps students successfully create both short- and long-term goals towards their academic, personal, and career objectives. Students can call the Counseling Center at 706-880-8925 and set up a weekly appointment to resolve issues when time slots are available. All discussions are confidential in keeping with professional standards.

The Counseling Center works to ensure that educational programs are accessible to all qualified   students in accordance with the provisions of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and as expanded by Title III of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. Reasonable and appropriate accommodations, academic adjustments, or auxiliary aids are determined on a case-by-case basis for qualified students who have a demonstrated need for these services. Brandi Cameron is the Section 504 coordinator. She collects proper documentation for learning and attention disorders, psychiatric disorders, chronic health impairments, physical disabilities, and any other physical or mental condition that substantially limits a major life activity. 

College Residency Requirement

As a residential, liberal arts institution of higher education, LaGrange College supports student learning both inside and outside the classroom.  Consistent studies have shown that students living in campus residence halls typically have higher graduation rates, grades, and connections with students, faculty, and staff.  The firm conviction that residing on campus is a crucial component of a student’s total educational experience supports the establishment of a campus residency requirement.  The LaGrange College residency requirement dictates that all undergraduate day students taking twelve (12) or more academic class hours must live in college housing unless they meet, verify one of the established exceptions, and receive approval to live off-campus from the director of housing.

To receive an exemption to the College’s residency requirement, you must receive written permission from the director of Residential Education and Housing.  An exemption form can be obtained from the Office of Residential Education & Housing (Smith Hall 215) and/or on the housing website: http://www.lagrange.edu/campus-life/housing/index.html.  The form must specify the reason why an exemption should be made and be signed by the student as well as her/his parent(s)/guardian(s). 

By signing this form, both student and parent(s)/guardian(s) verify that the information supplied is current, truthful, and accurate. If the College discovers that false information has been provided or that circumstances have changed without notice to the institution, the College reserves the right to bill for both room and board. Likewise, providing false information will be deemed to be a violation of the Honor Code and Social Code and the student will be referred for disciplinary action. Individuals failing to submit a form, even if an exemption is warranted, will have a hold placed on his/her account that will prevent class registration. Completion of this form and approval is necessary to receive a waiver from the Spring to Fall Room Hold Assessment of $200.

Exemption determinations are made by the Director of Residential Education & Housing. Appeals to such decisions should be directed to the Dean of Students within 48 hours of receiving notification of the decision.

Exemptions listed on the form are below:

• The student is 23 years of age or older on the first date of semester classes (does not require parent signature).
• The student is married and living with her/his spouse; please provide documentation of marriage license and documentation of joint residence at a single address.
• The student is responsible for a dependent child; please provide documentation of dependency.
• The student is a veteran with at least two years of active military service.
• The student resides exclusively with parent(s) or legal guardian(s) in their/her/his primary residence that is within a thirty-mile commute of the College; please provide documentation of ownership (power/utility bill, etc.) for parent(s)/guardians.
• Other (Please type and attach a written justification for exemption from the policy and supply all supporting materials necessary to justify consideration of the request – it should be noted that exemptions for reasons not articulated above will be rare and offered only in the most exceptional of circumstances).

Room Deposit

Full-time undergraduate day students entering the college are required to pay a $300 enrollment deposit to reserve their space in the incoming class. No deposit will be refunded after May 1. All students deposited by May 1 will be guaranteed campus housing pending space limitations. Campus housing assignments will be finalized and room/board charged will be applied by July 1. Students must have all required paperwork (including requests to live off campus) submitted by this date. Students who deposit after July 1 will be assigned housing, if available, on a first-come, first-served basis. Of this $300 enrollment deposit, $100 covers a residence hall damage deposit that may be refundable at the time that the student either graduates or receives permission to live off campus (less any assessed fees due to damages). The remaining $200 is used by the College to cover many of the services provided during the first year. Students who entered the institution prior to the 2014 Fall semester and who have a residence hall damage deposit pending with the college will receive a reimbursement of those monies as noted above.

Students that fail to check-out of their residence hall room at the end of the year will receive a fine and forfeit their $100 deposit that will no longer be refundable based on the non-check-outs.

Spring-to-Fall Room Hold Assessment

All full-time undergraduate day students will be required to pay a $200 Spring to Fall Room Hold charge. To participate in the housing lottery and/or to register for upcoming Fall classes, students must either: (a) pay the $200 charge to the college, or (b) submit the required documentation to the housing office and receive a waiver permitting that student permission to live off campus as directed by the college’s residency requirement. Those students who pay the $200 charge to reserve a campus residence hall room and who occupy that room during the Fall semester will have the monies credited to their account at the end of the first month of classes. The $200 charge may be paid at the College’s business office.

Note that students graduating in May or the summer will not be required to pay the $200 room hold fee and that the $200 Spring to Fall Room Hold charge is not refundable if students choose not to return to the college in the Fall semester.

Spiritual Life & Church Relations

The Office of Spiritual Life facilitates the college’s mission of “challenging the mind and inspiring the soul.”  The college’s historic connection to the United Methodist Church serves to strengthen this dual mission of rigorous academic pursuit, paired with a vibrant and maturing faith.  Methodist pioneer and hymn writer Charles Wesley once spoke of our need to “unite the two so long disjoined, knowledge and vital piety.” The Office of Spiritual Life fulfills this mission by providing opportunities for inspirational worship, community service, learning opportunities, theological reflection, leadership development, Bible study, prayer and relationship-building. 

Chaplain, Director of Spiritual Life and Church Relations

The Chaplain and Director of the Office of Spiritual Life and Church Relations is an ordained United Methodist minister who serves as a spiritual advisor to students, faculty and staff of all faiths.  The Chaplain is responsible for the overall spiritual health of the college, and as Director of Spiritual Life, supports and coordinates the activities of all student spiritual life groups on campus.  

As Director of Church Relations, the Chaplain schedules student-led worship teams for church visits, and preaches and teaches in United Methodist Churches throughout Georgia and beyond, and in local churches of all denominations.  

The Chaplain and Director of Spiritual Life and Church Relations' office is located on the first floor of Smith Hall.

Student Government and Other Organizations

The Student Government Association exists to serve as a medium for student expressions, to coordinate campus activities, to promote good citizenship, and to govern within the parameters granted by the President of the College. The SGA is an important part of student engagement. Upon acceptance into the College, a student automatically becomes a member of the association. All students are encouraged to become active members, so that the association is a truly representative body of student thought and opinion, voicing the needs and concerns of the student body.

The SGA, as a voice of the student body, promotes diversity and involvement through activities, entertainment, and service at LaGrange College and in the surrounding community.

In addition, Student Engagement works with numerous on-campus organizations in order to foster student growth, leadership, and involvement.

Student Health Services

LaGrange College offers students the ability to attend the WeCare clinic which is designed to provide urgent medical care and be a first stop for minor injuries and illness.  Operated by WeCare TLC, Health Services is located at the corner of Forrest Avenue and Dallis Street (directly across from the College’s soccer complex).  The clinic provides urgent care office visits with a physician or nurse practitioner, urgent care prescriptions (antibiotics), and in-house lab work.  A required fee of $150 per semester is assessed for the use of the facility.  Services do not include visits for chronic medical conditions or prescriptions for birth control or other maintenance medications.  Because the staff is dedicated to serving a small population, doctor visits usually take up less time.  And the clinic staff generally spends about 20 minutes with each patient, on average, compared to the seven minutes usually provided in other settings. The campus clinic offers a convenient health benefit to students.  However, these services do not replace the need to carry a personal health insurance policy.  Students are encouraged to call for an appointment at (706) 298-4914 option 1. However, a drop in is acceptable is the student is willing to wait and be worked into the schedule.

Student Appeal of Decisions

Recognizing that decisions must be made and that some students may feel aggrieved by some decisions, LaGrange College provides the following procedures:

A student must first attempt to resolve an issue with the College staff member first rendering a decision. If this does not resolve the issue, then a decision rendered by a College staff member may be appealed by a student as follows:

1. Student Engagement 
   • A disciplinary decision rendered by the Social Council may be appealed according to the Social Code appellate procedure. The Social Code may be found in full in the Student Handbook.
   • Any student who disagrees with a disciplinary decision reached by a member of the student engagement staff acting in their official capacity during a disciplinary conference may choose to have the disciplinary case sent to the Social Council for resolution.
   • Other grievances in the area of Student Engagement may be appealed to the Dean of Student Engagement. If the grievance involves an original decision rendered by the Dean of Student Engagement, then the decision may be appealed to the Vice President for Academic Affairs (VPAA).
2. Financial Aid. See the “Financial Aid” section.
3. Academic Matters. See the “Academic Policies” section.