Because we value the safety of all members of the Vassar College community, Vassar College, in compliance with the Clery Act, publishes the Annual Security and Fire Safety Report (ASFSR). The ASFSR includes statistics for the previous three years concerning reported crimes that occurred on campus; in certain off-campus buildings owned or controlled by Vassar College; and on public property within, or immediately adjacent to and accessible from, Vassar College. Our Annual Security and Fire Safety Report also outlines various campus safety, fire safety, and security policies, such as those concerning crime reporting, prevention and response to sexual and gender violence, alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, emergency response and evacuation procedures, and other matters. The ASFSR also includes important tips to help every member of the community remain safe and avoid becoming a victim of crime.

From the President

To the Vassar College Community:

I am writing regarding this year’s report on campus safety at the College. This is an important topic and each of us has a role in fostering a campus environment where individuals feel safe to visit, learn, work, and live.

This publication contains information about campus safety measures and reports statistics about crime at Vassar. It also describes our efforts to address unsafe use of alcohol and drugs. The report includes important information on efforts to prevent and respond to sex- and gender-based violence, as well as information about fire safety and reporting.

Please take the time to read this report and let me know if you have comments or suggestions.

Regards,
Elizabeth H. Bradley, President

From the Director of Campus Safety

On behalf of the members of the Vassar College Campus Safety Office, I want to thank you for your interest in our Annual Fire Safety and Security Report. We publish this report because it contains valuable information for our campus community. We also publish the report to comply with the important provisions of the Clery Act. Campus safety and compliance with the Clery Act should be a part of everyone’s responsibility at Vassar College.

We encourage you to review the information we have made available to you in this booklet. You will find information about our organization, including descriptions of certain services that we provide. You will also become familiar with our strong commitment to victims of crimes and the specific extensive services we make available to crime victims. Further, you will find important information about safety policies and procedures on our campus, crime data, and crime prevention information. Lastly, you will find important information about fire safety and reporting.

We join the President in the commitment to foster a safe and supportive environment at Vassar College. We are proud to be an integral part of Vassar’s tradition of excellence. Campus safety is a collaborative effort at Vassar College. We partner with the many departments at the College that have a critical role in fostering campus safety. It has always been our goal to provide the highest quality of safety services to the College constituents, and we are honored to collaborate with the entire Vassar community. The Campus Safety Office is committed to creating a secure environment where you can focus on your education and personal growth.

Arlene Sabo,
Director of Campus Safety

Preparation of the Annual Security Report and Disclosure of Crime Statistics

The College prepares this report to comply with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security and Crime Statistics Act (20 USC § 1092(f) the “Clery Act”), using information maintained by the Campus Safety Office; information provided by other College offices, including Residence Life and Student Wellness, Office for Institutional Equity, Office of Health Promotion and Education, and Campus Security Authorities; and information provided by local law enforcement agencies surrounding the main campuses and relevant Clery Act geography.

This report provides statistics for the previous three years concerning reported crimes that occurred on campus, on public property surrounding the campus, in certain off-campus buildings, or on property owned, leased, or controlled by Vassar College. It also includes institutional policies concerning campus security, such as policies regarding sexual assault, alcohol, and other drugs. Finally, it includes important information about residence hall fire safety and reporting.

Vassar College distributes a notice of the availability of this Annual Security and Fire Safety Report by October 1 of each year to every member of the Vassar community. Anyone, including prospective students and employees, may obtain a paper copy of this report at the Campus Safety Office, located in the New Hackensack Building, 2500 New Hackensack Road, or by contacting Campus Safety at 845-437-5200 or by visiting https://offices.vassar.edu/campus-safety/statistics/.

About the Campus Safety Office

The Campus Safety Office strives to provide high-quality security, safety, and crime prevention services that meet the needs and standards of the institution. Campus Safety Officers are not sworn Peace or Police Officers; they do not carry firearms and do not possess the power to make warrantless arrests. Campus Safety Officers are given yearly training to adhere to the strict standards as set forth by New York State law. Campus Safety is responsible for providing security and safety for the entire College community. Campus Safety Officers provide 24-hour, 7-day-a-week service consisting of vehicle patrol and foot patrol as well as access to closed circuit television cameras (CCTV). Officers also staff a Campus Response Center (CRC), which provides for the centralized response to alarms and other dispatching functions for the College.

The Campus Safety Office is currently staffed by the Director, five full-time shift supervisors, two part-time shift supervisors, three specialized supervisors, one investigator, twenty-one full-time officers, and three part-time officers. In addition, the department is supported by one full-time and one part-time administrative assistant. Campus Safety contracts with an outside firm and maintains a pool of certified per-diem security officers for extra support during events and special details. Campus Safety does not have jurisdiction outside of Vassar-owned and operated property.

Vassar Campus Safety also runs the shuttle service that provides warm, dry transportation between on-campus locations on a regular schedule posted throughout campus.

Vassar College takes great pride in the community and offers students, faculty, and staff many advantages. This community is a great place to live, learn, work, and study; however, this does not mean that the campus community is immune from all of the other unfortunate circumstances that arise in other communities. With that in mind, Vassar College has taken progressive measures to create and maintain a reasonably safe environment on campus.

Though Vassar College is progressive in its policies, programs, and education, it is up to each one of us to live with a sense of awareness and take reasonable precautions when living, working, or visiting campus.

Working Relationship with Local, State, and Federal Law Enforcement Agencies

The Campus Safety Office maintains a highly professional working relationship with the Town of Poughkeepsie Police Department and local law enforcement. Campus Safety follows all applicable policies and laws regarding the confidentiality of records. It reserves the right to provide police with any information obtained as a result of a criminal investigation. Campus Safety strongly encourages any victim or witness to any crime to report the incident to the Campus Safety Office promptly. Accuracy, promptness, and completeness in reporting will allow Campus Safety and the Town of Poughkeepsie Police Department or other agencies (where relevant) to best respond to any incident or report. It is the right of any member of the College community to contact the Town of Poughkeepsie Police Department to investigate any crime. Assistance in contacting the Police Department may be arranged through the Campus Safety Office.

A formal written agreement has been completed with the Town of Poughkeepsie Police Department, ensuring mutual cooperation in reporting crimes and investigation of missing college students and violent felony offenses that may occur on or near the College Campus.

Security of and Access to College Facilities

At Vassar College, most campus buildings and facilities are accessible to members of the College community, guests, and visitors during regular business hours, Monday through Friday, and for limited designated hours on weekends and holidays. Facilities are maintained, and their security is monitored 24/7. Access hours for academic buildings are based on the needs of the academic departments. Faculty and staff offices are only open to the general public with an appointment.. The Campus Safety Office provides routine, random patrols of all non-residential College facilities 24 hours per day. Many areas of the College with limited access require a key or card swipe access. Card swipe access is monitored and recorded. Annually, the Campus Safety Advisory Committee conducts a safety walk to assess security issues on campus grounds.

The Campus Safety Office seeks to enhance campus safety by utilizing security cameras professionally and ethically, consistent with the legal rights of privacy. Our security cameras are in use and are located throughout all College properties.

Intrusion alarms are in place throughout campus to detect unauthorized access. Alarms are monitored 24/7, and Campus Safety will respond to all activations. If necessary, local police will be called for assistance.

Special Considerations for Residence Hall Access

The residential life staff prioritizes the security of the resident student population. Security policies and procedures are outlined in printed regulations and discussed with residents in meetings and trainings organized by Residential Life and Campus Safety.

Should an emergency arise, a staff member is on call 24/7. House advisors (trained residence life professionals) and house fellows (faculty members) live in the residence halls and are also available to meet students’ needs. Each residence hall has a card entry system. Only individuals with proper ID or guests accompanied by their hosts are authorized to enter the residence halls.

In addition, safety officers conduct regular rounds both inside and outside each residence hall during evening and night hours. They also patrol the grounds of the Town Houses, South Commons, and Terrace Apartments at night.

Security Considerations for the Maintenance of Campus Facilities

Vassar College is committed to campus safety and security. Campus locks, landscaping, and outdoor lighting are updated with safety and security in mind. Sidewalks and building entrances are illuminated to provide well-traveled, lighted routes from parking areas and building to building. We encourage community members to promptly report any security concerns, including concerns about locking mechanisms, lighting, or landscaping, to the Campus Safety Office at 845-437-5221 or Facility Operations at 845-437-5555.

Reporting Crimes and Other Emergencies

Vassar College has several ways for campus community members and visitors to report crimes, serious incidents, and other emergencies to appropriate College officials. Regardless of how and where you decide to report these incidents, it is critical for the safety of the entire Vassar community that you promptly and accurately report all incidents. In the event of an emergency or crime in progress on or near College property, students, faculty, and staff are directed to contact the appropriate law enforcement/emergency response agency via 911 and then to contact Campus Safety at 845-437-7333 to allow for an effective investigation and appropriate follow- up actions, including issuing a Crime Alert or emergency notification, where applicable.

Prompt reporting gives responders the most complete picture before arrival and allows the appropriate emergency response resources to be activated. It also facilitates evidence collection and timely recovery from insurance. Both prompt and accurate reporting are essential and may save lives. It is equally important for anyone witnessing a crime or other emergency to confirm assistance is coming, especially when victims may be unable to make that critical call themselves. Prompt reporting also allows for timely Crime Alerts and emergency notifications.

Voluntary, Confidential Reporting

If crimes are never reported, it is more difficult to help other community members avoid becoming victims. We encourage Vassar College community members to report crimes promptly and to participate in and support crime prevention efforts. The Vassar community is much safer when all community members participate in safety and security initiatives.

If you are the victim of a crime or want to report a crime you are aware of but do not want to pursue action within Vassar or the criminal justice system, we ask that you consider filing a voluntary, confidential report. Depending upon the circumstances of the crime you are reporting, you may be able to file a report while maintaining your confidentiality. The purpose of a confidential report is to comply with your wish to keep your personally identifying information confidential while taking steps to provide for your safety and the safety of others. The confidential reports allow the College to compile accurate records on the number and types of incidents occurring on campus. Reports filed this way are counted and disclosed in the Annual Security and Fire Safety Report. In limited circumstances, the Campus Safety Office may be unable to ensure confidentiality and will inform you in those cases.

Anyone may call local law enforcement via 911 and Campus Safety at 845-437-7333 to report concerning information. Callers may remain anonymous.

Reporting to Campus Safety

We encourage all members of the Vassar community to report all crimes and other emergencies promptly and accurately to the Campus Safety Office at 845-437-7333 or from a campus phone at ext. 7333. Criminal incidents requiring attention beyond Campus Safety will be referred to the local law enforcement agency having jurisdiction over that location. Prompt reporting to Campus Safety will allow timely warnings or emergency notifications (if necessary) to be issued and help ensure that proper disclosures of crime statistics are provided.

Emergency Phones

The Vassar campus is equipped with emergency phones (also known as blue phones), which are strategically located throughout College properties. The emergency phones are easily identified by their blue lights. When the emergency button is pushed, the caller immediately contacts the Campus Safety dispatcher. In addition to providing voice contact with the security dispatcher, the emergency phone allows the dispatcher to see the caller’s location on our campus.

Anonymous Reporting

If you have information about a crime or other improper activity and would like to report it anonymously, please use https://offices.vassar.edu/campus-safety/forms/report/ or https://offices.vassar.edu/savp/reporting/form/.

For crimes in progress or matters that need immediate attention, call 911 or Campus Safety at 845-437-7333. Email is not monitored live.

Reporting to Other Campus Security Authorities

While the College prefers that community members promptly report all crimes and other emergencies to Vassar’s Campus Safety Office or 911, we also recognize that some may make a report to other College officials or offices. The Clery Act recognizes certain College officials and offices as Campus Security Authorities (CSA). In addition to CSAs who are a part of Campus Safety and those designated explicitly by Vassar as a CSA, the Act defines a CSA as “an official of an institution who has significant responsibility for student and campus activities, including, but not limited to, student housing, student discipline, and campus judicial proceedings.” An official is defined as any person with the authority and the duty to take action or respond to particular issues on behalf of the institution.”

Vassar designates the following offices as Campus Security Authorities, where campus community members may report crimes:Pastoral and Professional Counselors

Campus Safety Office Campus Response Center
Main Building, first floor, lobby
845-437-5221

Campus Safety Office Campus Response Center
Emergencies
845-437-7333

Office of Residential Life
Main Building, first floor, C-121
845-437-5315

Office of the Dean of the College
Main Building, second floor, C-215
845-437-5600

Office for Institutional Equity
Main Building, first floor, S-182
845-437-7924

Office of Athletics and Physical Education
Athletic Fitness Center
845-437-7450

Office of the Dean of Studies
Main Building, first floor, N-128
845-437-5255

Office of Student Growth and Engagement
Main Building, first floor, C-110
845-437-5953

Office of the Dean of Faculty
Main Building, first floor, N-171
845-437-5300

Office of Human Resources
Baldwin Hall, 3rd Floor
845-437-5820

According to the Clery Act, pastoral and professional counselors appropriately credentialed and hired by Vassar College to serve in a counseling role are not considered Campus Security Authorities when they are acting in the counseling role. As a matter of policy, the College encourages pastoral and professional counselors to notify those they are counseling about the voluntary, confidential reporting options available to them.

Crimes Involving Student Organizations at Off-Campus Locations

Vassar College does not have jurisdiction over or recognize any off-campus student organizations; nevertheless, it relies on its close working relationships with local law enforcement agencies to receive information about incidents involving Vassar students while off campus.

Disclosure to Victims

Upon written request, the College will disclose to the alleged victim of a crime of violence or a non-forcible sex offense the report on the results of any disciplinary proceeding conducted by the College against a student who is the alleged perpetrator of such crime or offense. If the alleged victim is deceased as a result of such crime or offense, the next of kin of such victim shall be treated as the alleged victim for purposes of this paragraph.

Emergency Alerts and Responses

Timely Warning Reports

Vassar has long recognized the importance of keeping its community members and others well informed about public safety issues. Vassar College’s Campus Safety Office provides timely notification of potential and actual occurrences of criminal activity to the Vassar community in conjunction with other law-enforcement agencies and other College departments. Campus Timely Warnings intend to provide timely warnings of crimes that pose an ongoing threat to faculty, staff, and students. These Warnings contain a brief description of the date, time, and location of the incident, and precautions to take.

Other Campus Advisories are also issued when the community should be aware of potential safety issues and other emergencies.

Emergency Notification

The College has developed multiple means of communicating emergency information, including the Vassar College website at https://offices.vassar.edu/campus-safety/safety/alerts, automated telephone and text messaging, an emergency siren, emails, and digital signage emergency messaging.

Automated Telecommunications/Email/Text Message Systems

In collaboration with the Offices of Communications and Campus Safety, the Office of Computing and Information Services (CIS) maintains and tests emergency communications systems capable of sending automated telephone calls, emails, and text messages to the entire student body and workforce.

The College tests automated telephone and text systems twice yearly by communicating with registered users’ phones. Users are asked to update their registered contact information whenever their contact information changes.

Responses to Emergency Siren on Campus

None of us expects to experience a violent incident on campus, so preparation for what to do in such instances is essential. The College provides information sessions for students and employees. Except for testing announced in advance, the emergency siren will be sounded only in response to an imminent life-threatening event, such as the presence of an active shooter. Check your phone and/or email for an emergency alert, assess your circumstances, and take appropriate protective action given the emergency and your proximity to it. The College will use its emergency communications system to send information as quickly as it can via text message.

Remember: RUN, HIDE, and FIGHT.

RUN: If the location of the problem is clear and it is obvious you can flee to a safer location, your best option may be to RUN.

HIDE: If fleeing does not seem like a safe option, HIDE in the most effective way you can:

Lock or barricade your door, turn out the lights, and silence your cell phone or other device that could indicate your presence. Move away from doors and windows. If you are in an office, hide under your desk if you can and pull your desk chair under the desk.

FIGHT: If you are near the source of the gunfire, you may need to DEFEND yourself. Look around for suitable objects that you can use to disarm or disable the perpetrator—fire extinguisher, chair, or other furniture, for example. If you are with other people, form a plan to protect yourselves.

Whether or not you hear the siren, if you hear what sounds like gunshots, assume they are gunshots and consider your immediate options to avoid the perpetrator.

Emergency Management and Evacuation Procedures

Vassar Safety Officers are trained responders and are prepared to take action in emergencies that may arise on campus. A Crisis Response Team and a broader Crisis Communication Planning Team are in place to allow immediate response by individuals performing specific roles and functions already predefined.

The College has developed a crisis communication plan as part of its ongoing effort to protect Vassar College students, faculty, and staff. This plan is based on a realistic assessment of potential incidents that could affect our community and the capabilities to react to those situations.

The Vassar College emergency response plan permits the simultaneous distribution of broadcast emails, text messages, and voice calls (including voice mails for unanswered calls). The system is used to distribute emergency notifications without delay in situations where an active (i.e., in-progress) threat or emergency exists that impacts the community and where it is recommended that the recipients take some form of action in response to the active threat or emergency. Our emergency siren and emergency notification system is tested twice a year. Tests are always announced. Upon hearing the siren, one should check for an emergency alert and take protective action.

More detailed information on emergencies, fire, evacuation, and shelter-in-place drills can be found here on the Residential Life website.

Drills, Exercises, and Training

The College prepares for various emergency situations under the leadership of the Crisis Response Planning Group. The group meets regularly throughout the year, organizes teams to study resources and procedures, conducts tabletop and other exercises with public safety agencies, and develops the College’s Crisis Management Plan. Vassar College tests emergency response and reviews evacuation procedures at least annually. These tests include regularly scheduled drills, exercises, and appropriate follow-through activities, designed for assessment and evaluation of emergency plan capabilities. At various times per year, the College advertises its emergency response procedures to the campus community through seminars, email and other publications, and at least once in conjunction with a test of its emergency response and evacuation procedures. The College maintains and tests its Crisis Communications Plans on an annual basis.

For questions and comments, please contact Campus Safety, 845-437-5200. Information is also available at https://offices.vassar.edu/campus-safety/resources/emergency-resources/.

In an emergency, call 911 and the Campus Response Center at 845-437-7333.

Campus Security Policies

Weapons/Dangerous Items

Possession, storage, and/or use of a firearm(s) of any description (including, but not limited to, air rifles, airsoft guns, paintball guns, pellet guns, pistols, ammunition, and gunpowder) at Vassar College is prohibited and subject to immediate termination of the Housing Agreement and removal from residence, as well as an interim suspension and processing through the Vassar Community Expectations system and/or criminal prosecution.

In addition, possession, storage or use of a dangerous weapon (including but not limited to clubs, dangerous knives, martial arts weapons), hazardous chemicals or biological substances, explosive devices of any description (including but not limited to fireworks, regardless of size or type), incendiary devices specifically modified to be used as a weapon, hunting equipment, and other dangerous articles, weapons, or substances in the residences is prohibited and may be subject to immediate termination of the Housing Agreement and removal from residences, as well as an interim suspension and processing through the Vassar Community Expectations system and/or criminal prosecution.

Missing Student Policy

The Missing Student Policy has been established concerning students who live in College-owned campus housing and who, based on the facts and circumstances known at the time to College officials, are presumed to be missing. Reports of a missing student should be made to one of the following Vassar College officials: Director of Campus Safety, 845-437-7333; Associate Dean of the College for Residential Living and Wellness, 845-437-5315; Dean of the College, 845-437-5600, Director of Residential Education, 845-437-5860. While the policy, pursuant to the Clery Act, covers residential students missing for at least 24 hours, Vassar encourages anyone to report missing on-campus residential students immediately, regardless of how long it’s been.

Other College officials receiving a missing person’s report relating to a student must immediately notify the College’s Associate Dean for Residential Living and Wellness or Campus Safety. Any missing student report will be fully investigated by appropriate College personnel under the coordination of the Associate Dean of the College for Residential Living and Wellness and/or the Director of Campus Safety. To determine if a student is missing, College officials will check a student’s card access records, class attendance, and student residence and use other methods to determine the status of a missing student. Vassar will notify appropriate local law enforcement agencies no later than 24 hours after a student is determined to be missing (unless it was the local law enforcement agency that already made the determination that the student was missing). If the student has designated a confidential emergency contact person, the College will also notify that individual. If a student is under the age of 18, Vassar will notify their parents or guardian not later than 24 hours after the time a student is determined to be missing, regardless of whether they have designated a confidential contact (if so designated, the confidential contact would be notified as well). Local law enforcement will be notified regardless of the age of the residential student and/or whether they have designated a confidential contact. The College may conduct a brief investigation after receiving a report to help determine whether the student is a missing person.

Confidential Emergency Contact Information

In compliance with the Federal Higher Education Opportunity Act, federal law, 20U.S.C § 1092j, a student may identify a confidential contact to be contacted by the College not later than twenty-four (24) hours after the time circumstances indicate that the student may be missing. The student should notify the confidential contact they have been designated as such. Confidential contact information will be considered private and only accessible to authorized Vassar College individuals or law enforcement if the student is reported missing. Confidential contact information is distinct from general emergency contact information. It is kept by the Office of Residential Life. For students under age eighteen (18) and not emancipated, Vassar is required to notify the custodial parent or guardian not later than twenty-four (24) hours after the time the student is determined to be missing. All enrolled students at the College should designate an emergency contact person regardless of their living circumstances. Students who have not designated an emergency contact person should email the information to registrar@vassar.edu. Students should update their personal and emergency contact information whenever changes occur.

Daily Crime and Fire Log

The College maintains a public Daily Crime Log at the Campus Safety Office located at The New Hackensack Building, 2500 New Hackensack Rd., Poughkeepsie, NY. The Crime Log is available for public inspection (during normal business hours). The log contains all reported crimes on Vassar’s Clery Act reportable property. The Crime Log includes information on the nature of reported crimes, the date and time the reported crime occurred, the general location of the reported crime, and the disposition of the complaint (where known). The appropriate information is logged in the Crime Log within two business days of being reported. The Crime Log shall contain the required reporting information for 60 days. Crime Log information older than 60 days shall be furnished upon request, provided that this information shall only be provided for the period prescribed by law for which Vassar must maintain and provide such historical data. The Office of Environmental Health and Safety maintains the Daily Fire Log. It may be accessed through their office at 25 Skinner Lane, Poughkeepsie, NY.

Crime Prevention/Safety Awareness Programs

To address the importance of the security of oneself and others, Vassar College Campus Safety, through its Community Engagement Initiative, works closely with the Dean of the College area, including Residential Life, and other constituencies to facilitate crime prevention and safety awareness programs on campus.

Campus Safety members designated for community engagement activities present periodic Crime and Safety Programs to College Administrators, Residence Life Staff and Students, First-Year Students, Exploring Transfer Staff and Students, Summer Programs Staff and Students, and all Staff and Students as requested. Topics include Violence Prevention and Intervention, Response to Active Shooter training (Run, Hide, Fight), Personal Safety, and Crime Prevention Events, such as annual club, registration, and health events typically held in the College Center.

To promote safety awareness, the Campus Safety Office maintains a strong working relationship with the community, and each year, Campus Safety provides valuable information to students at their Orientation.

Below is a list of some of the programs available at Vassar:

Annual Violence Prevention, Intervention, and Response Training for Administrators and Staff focused on providing attendees with information to help detect, prevent, and, if need be, respond to an active shooter situation;
Annual introduction of the Campus Safety Office, with a description of the office and the role of Campus Safety on campus and a discussion on ways to help prevent crime and maintain personal safety and awareness for student constituencies, including House Teams (Student Staff), Summer Program Participants, and First-Year Students;
Year-round Bike Registration Program, informing students of the best practices (methods and materials) for properly securing bikes on campus and documents needed to aid in stolen bike recovery;
An annual Table-Top Program allows for a simulated emergency incident to take place, during which discussions and decisions are made by College administrators to respond to the incident. A member from The Town of Poughkeepsie Police Department leads the scenario and discussion and;

Safety Assessments

Year-round Personal Safety evaluation for crime victims. Campus Safety evaluates specific needs and concerns for victims of crimes (Students, Faculty, and Staff) as needed.
Safety assessments of specific work locations, such as when a particular location on campus experiences criminal or suspicious activity at that location or if an employee would like personal workspace safety information. The assessment includes recommendations from Campus Safety to help protect the location and those who work inside it.

Vassar College’s Response to Sex- and Gender-Based Violence

Members of the Vassar College community, including students, faculty, staff, guests, and visitors, have the right to an environment free from sexual violence and other forms of sexual misconduct. Sexual misconduct is an umbrella term that includes sex-based harassment, which is prohibited under federal and state law. Sex-based harassment may take many forms, including sexual harassment or harassing conduct based on sex stereotypes, sex characteristics, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. It also includes discrimination related to pregnancy or associated conditions. Such acts may be committed by any person against any other person, regardless of sex, sexual orientation, or gender identity.

Federal and State Responsibilities

Vassar’s responsibilities are guided not only by its institutional mission but also by federal and state law. Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex in educational programs and activities and requires schools to respond to reports of sexual harassment and sex-based discrimination. The Violence Against Women Act requires colleges and universities to define and address sexual assault, dating violence, domestic violence, and stalking. New York State’s Enough is Enough law further affirms these obligations by mandating clear policies and procedures, comprehensive prevention and education initiatives, and supportive measures for students. Together, these standards provide the framework for Vassar’s prevention, education, and response efforts, reinforcing both the College’s legal responsibilities and its broader mission to sustain a learning environment that protects the safety, respect, and well-being of its community.

New York State’s “Enough is Enough” Bill

New York State’s “Enough is Enough” law (Article 129-B), signed on July 7, 2015, requires all colleges and universities in the state to adopt uniform definitions of sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking, as well as consistent prevention programs and response procedures. The law applies to student conduct on and off campus, ensuring institutions maintain clear and comprehensive standards for addressing sexual misconduct.

New York State’s Enough is Enough law establishes a uniform, statewide definition of affirmative consent to sexual activity.

“Affirmative consent is a knowing, voluntary and mutual decision among all participants to engage in sexual activity. Consent can be given by words or actions, as long as those words or actions create clear permission regarding willingness to engage in the sexual activity. Silence or lack of resistance, in and of itself, does not demonstrate consent. The definition of consent does not vary based upon a participant's sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.”

Consent: Guiding Principles and Expectations

Consent involves knowing, voluntary, and mutual decisions among all participants to engage in sexual activity:

For consent to be valid there must be a clear expression in words or actions that the other individual consented to that specific sexual conduct.
It is the responsibility of each party to determine that the other has consented before engaging in the sexual activity.
Consent to a sexual act does not necessarily mean there is consent for other sexual acts.
Prior consensual sexual activity between or with any party does not mean there is automatic consent to current or future sexual activity.
Consent may be initially given but withdrawn at any time during a sexual encounter. If a person seeks to withdraw consent, they must make that clear through word or action.
When consent is withdrawn or can no longer be given, sexual activity must stop.
Consent cannot be given when a person is incapacitated.
Consent is required regardless of whether the Respondent is under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol.
Coercion, intimidation, force, or threat of harm can, if sufficiently severe, remove a person’s ability to consent.
If an individual expresses conditions on their willingness to consent (e.g., the person consents to sexual penetration as long as the other person uses a condom) or limitations on the scope of their consent (e.g., consenting to vaginal penetration, but not anal penetration), those conditions and limitations must be respected.
Behaviors such as “stealthing,” where a person secretly removes a condom during penetration, are a violation of this consent policy.
While clear communication from the outset is strongly encouraged, consent can be given or ratified by word or action at some point during the interaction or thereafter.
Consent is evaluated from the perspective of what a reasonable person would conclude are mutually understandable words or actions.
In making findings on whether consent was present, the College focuses on the totality of the circumstances evaluated from the perspective of a reasonable person in the same or similar circumstances.
If the Respondent neither knew nor should have known the Complainant to be physically or mentally incapacitated, the Respondent is not in violation of the College’s Title IX Policy.

Campus Sexual Harassment and Sexual Violence Training Initiatives

Many campus departments and offices collaborate to provide prevention and awareness programs that educate the community about sexual violence, sexual assault, relationship and domestic violence, stalking, sexual exploitation, affirmative consent, healthy relationships, and effective communication. Vassar implements a range of campaigns, strategies, and initiatives to promote education, risk reduction, and prevention for students. Programs are offered to all incoming students and employees, as well as throughout the year, and are tailored to reflect the cultural contexts of different communities on campus. These efforts build on existing expertise, foster collaboration between the College and community partners, and strengthen shared responsibility for addressing sexual harassment, sexual violence, intimate partner violence, stalking, and other forms of sexual misconduct and abuse.

Student and Employee: Sexual Harassment and Sexual Misconduct Prevention and Awareness Programming

To comply with Title IX, the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), and New York State Education Law Article 129-B (“Enough Is Enough”), the College requires first-year students and all employees to complete interactive online trainings and live presentations. These programs establish a foundation for a safe and respectful campus environment and are reinforced by ongoing education throughout the year. Training includes:

Modules on affirmative consent, healthy relationships, bystander intervention, and strategies for responding to sexual assault, harassment, stalking, and alcohol-related risks.
Education on alcohol use and its impact on decision-making, relationships, and well-being, with a focus on reducing harm and encouraging healthier choices.
Hazing prevention and ethical leadership, including how to recognize warning signs, respond appropriately, and foster positive group dynamics.
Guidance on the Title IX complaint process, including what happens when a complaint is filed and the potential consequences for individuals found responsible.
Integration of the College’s Title IX policies, definitions, procedures, and resources, including:

When conduct is considered unwelcome under Title IX
When unwelcome sexual conduct creates a hostile environment
Availability of support and resources on- and off-campus, including confidential support
Reporting options, including formal reporting and confidential disclosure
How faculty, staff, and administrators can support a student or colleague who discloses an incident of interpersonal violence
Mandatory reporter responsibilities for employees (faculty, administrators, and staff)

These trainings are supplemented by ongoing educational programming throughout the academic year. Together, they reinforce a culture of respect, accountability, and safety, while fulfilling state and federal requirements for prevention education. Requests for customized training should be sent via email to equity@vassar.edu.

Title IX Student Advisory Committee

The Office for Institutional Equity convenes a Title IX Student Advisory Committee to support compliance with Title IX, the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), and New York State Education Law Article 129-B ("Enough Is Enough"). Beyond meeting regulatory requirements, the committee reflects the College’s commitment to addressing and responding to sexual harassment, discrimination, and sexual misconduct, while also strengthening prevention and education efforts. The committee meets monthly with the Institutional Equity Team to provide student perspectives and to:

Advise on the design and promotion of the biennial Campus Climate Survey, helping support that it is meaningful, widely shared, and that institutional findings are openly reported.
Co-create and review the year-round education and awareness campaign, aligning student messaging with Affirmative Consent standards, amnesty policies, and the Students’ Bill of Rights.
Assist with accessible framing of reporting rights, disclosure options (confidential vs. private), and community resources, reinforcing clarity and transparency.
Function as a feedback loop by surfacing student concerns, participation barriers, or language confusion in institutional processes.

Campus Sexual Misconduct Climate Survey

The College conducts a campus climate survey every two years. Article 129-B requires that the survey be developed using recognized research methods, administered in a way that protects student anonymity, and designed to measure both the prevalence of sexual assault and misconduct as well as student knowledge of institutional policies, reporting procedures, and resources. The survey also assesses student attitudes about affirmative consent, bystander intervention, and confidence in the College’s ability to respond appropriately to reports of sexual harassment, discrimination, and sexual misconduct.

The Title IX Student Advisory Committee advises on the design and promotion of the campus climate survey, helping support that it is meaningful, widely shared, and that institutional findings are reported openly. In compliance with Article 129-B, aggregate results are made available to the public and presented to the College community the following spring. These findings guide the College in evaluating the effectiveness of its prevention and response programs, strengthening education and awareness initiatives, and improving accessibility of resources and reporting processes. The survey results also help the College monitor campus culture over time, identify barriers to reporting, and reinforce transparency and accountability in its Title IX and Article 129-B obligations.

The Support, Advocacy, and Violence Prevention (SAVP) Office

The Support, Advocacy, and Violence Prevention (SAVP) Office provides violence prevention workshops to the Vassar campus community throughout the academic year. Workshops include education and training on topics of consent, sexual assault, relationship abuse, healthy communication, stalking, the impact of rigid gender norms and stereotypes, and effective bystander intervention tools to confront interpersonal violence in your community. The SAVP Director and SAVP Program Coordinator work alongside a team of 10 student employees who work with the SAVP Office to develop, coordinate, and facilitate this programming. Workshops, facilitated by peers and administrators, are tailored to fit the needs of student groups or organizations, faculty, administrators, and staff. The programming, which is developed, facilitated, and coordinated by The SAVP Office, includes:

First-Year Orientation All first-year students are required to participate in two sessions on topics of consent education, healthy relationships, violence prevention, and bystander intervention during First-Year Orientation.
Culture of Consent I - Boundaries, Communication, and Respect: Culture of Consent I is a small-group discussion-based consent-education and violence-prevention training facilitated by student Orientation Leaders, alongside Vassar employees, who are trained by the SAVP Office to deliver this programming. The training uses interactive activities and practice scenarios to cover topics such as Vassar’s affirmative consent policy, skills for practicing affirmative consent, verbal and nonverbal signals of consent, respecting boundaries, and healthy communication.
Culture of Consent II - Exploring Sex, Relationships, and Pleasure: Culture of Consent II is a small-group discussion-based consent-education and violence-prevention training facilitated by student Orientation Leaders, alongside other student leaders, who are trained by the SAVP Office to deliver this programming. The training uses interactive activities to cover societal influences upon people’s views of sex and relationships, alcohol’s impact on consent, sexual health resources available on campus, and reflection upon individual boundaries.
House Team Student Leader Training All student leaders on the House Team, Student Fellows, and other students with leadership responsibilities in campus housing are required to participate in training facilitated by the SAVP Office before the beginning of the fall semester.

Bystander Intervention
Supporting a Survivor
Behind Closed Doors role-plays

Culture of Respect Campus Leadership Team: Culture of Respect is a NASPA initiative that builds the capacity of educational institutions to end sexual violence through ongoing, expansive organizational change. Vassar College is a member of the Culture of Consent Collective Cohort 8. The collective is an ambitious two-year program that brings together higher education institutions dedicated to ending campus sexual violence and guides them through a rigorous process of self-assessment and targeted organizational change. Each diverse cohort relies on an expert-developed public health framework, cross-campus collaboration, and peer-led learning to make meaningful programmatic and policy changes. Participating institutions receive strategic support and technical assistance throughout the process, as well as detailed documentation of campus-initiated changes that support survivors, prevent sexual violence, and communicate that violence is unacceptable. Vassar College has formed a Culture of Respect Campus Leadership Team (CLT) co-led by the Directors of the SAVP Office and LGBTQ Center. The CLT includes representatives from the SAVP Office, Campus Safety, Office for Institutional Equity, Athletics, CARE Office, Office of Health Promotion and Education, Residential Life, Dean of Studies Office, ALANA Center, LGBTQ Center, Women’s Center, Office of Engaged Pluralism, and multiple student representatives.

Reporting Options for Sexual Misconduct and Sexual Violence

Vassar College offers many resources that are available to provide both immediate and ongoing support and guidance. Individuals are encouraged to use resources best suited to their needs, whether on- or off-campus, and regardless of whether the incident occurred recently or in the past.

A reporting party may request:

Information about or assistance with arranging resources for support on- and off-campus.
Assistance with supportive measures to help parties continue with their academic studies or work; supportive measures are individually tailored to meet each individual’s unique needs.
Facilitation of an alternative resolution process.
Information about the formal complaint and resolution process.
Help to file a formal complaint and request a College investigation and formal resolution and grievance process.
Information or assistance about options for reporting off-campus.

Deciding whether to make a report on- or off-campus and knowing how to proceed are personal decisions, and the College recognizes that the process can take time. When making a report, an individual does not have to decide on any specific course of action, nor do they have to label what happened (e.g., bias incident, discrimination, harassment, sexual harassment, sexual assault, stalking, retaliation, etc.). The College is committed to working with a Reporting Party or Complainant in a manner that respects their autonomy and privacy. Furthermore, a Complainant has the right to report, or decline to report, potential criminal conduct to law enforcement. Under limited circumstances, posing a threat to the health or safety of any individual, or to comply with applicable law, the College may independently notify law enforcement.

For more information on reporting and support, go to: https://offices.vassar.edu/institutional-equity/get-help.

Reporting Directly to the Office for Institutional Equity

Anyone can report incidents of discrimination or harassment based on a protected identity, sexual harassment, sexual assault, dating or domestic violence (intimate partner violence), or stalking to the Office for Institutional Equity.

Reports may come directly from:

The person who experienced the conduct (Complainant), or
A third-party reporter, such as a friend, student, faculty member, staff member, parent, administrator, or someone outside the College.

When the Office for Institutional Equity receives a report, staff will:

Contact the Complainant or the person who made the report and invite them to meet with a member of the Institutional Equity Team. This meeting is entirely voluntary.
Conduct an initial assessment,
Offer and provide supportive measures, and
Explain the options for next steps through the College’s Resolution Process.

Reporting parties have autonomy in deciding how to proceed. They may accept supportive measures without starting a formal process, or they may choose to pursue an informal or formal resolution. Making a report does not automatically trigger an investigation.

Reports may be submitted at any time, including outside of business hours, using the following options:

Online (secure form): go.vassar.edu/report-sexualmisconduct
By mail: Office for Institutional Equity, Vassar College, Box 645, 124 Raymond Avenue, Poughkeepsie, NY 12604-0645
By phone: 845-437-7924
In-person: Office for Institutional Equity, Main S-182
By email: equity@vassar.edu
Scheduling help: Email equity@vassar.edu

Reporting to a College “Official with Authority”

The College has identified certain leaders who are “Officials with Authority” (OWAs). These individuals can receive reports of discrimination or harassment based on a protected identity, sexual harassment, sexual assault, dating or domestic violence, or stalking, and any report they receive will be promptly shared with the Office for Institutional Equity.

Officials with Authority include:

President of the College
Members of the President’s Senior Leadership Team
Associate Dean of the College for Student Living and Wellness
Associate Vice President of Human Resources and Chief People Officer
Campus Safety

Reporting to a Mandated Reporter

All faculty, administrators, and staff at the College are considered mandated reporters. This means that if they become aware of discrimination or harassment based on a protected identity, sexual harassment, sexual assault, dating or domestic violence, or stalking, they are required to share that information with the Office for Institutional Equity. Mandated reporters cannot promise confidentiality. However, they will treat all information with sensitivity and will only share it with the appropriate College officials who need to know in order to respond and offer support.

Confidential Resources

Some campus resources are confidential. Confidential means the information shared will not be disclosed to anyone else at the College without the individual’s permission (except in rare situations involving immediate safety concerns, such as risk of harm to self or others, or child abuse/neglect). Only a small number of campus professionals have this legal and professional ability to maintain confidentiality, such as licensed counselors, medical providers, and clergy. Speaking with a confidential resource allows a person to get emotional support, medical care, and information about options without starting any College process.

Confidential resources on-campus include:

Counseling Service (for students): Metcalf House, 845-437-5700, counseling@vassar.edu. If you are experiencing an immediate emergency and need to speak with a counselor after normal business hours, you may reach the Counselor On Call by calling the Campus Response Center at 845-437-7333.
Health Service (students): Baldwin Hall, 845-437-5800, health@vassar.edu.
On-campus members of the clergy/chaplains working within the scope of their licensure or ordination.
Employees of Vassar College may also contact the Employee Assistance Program (EAP). EAP is a confidential resource available to help free of charge and may be consulted on an emergency basis during normal business hours by faculty, administrators, and staff.

Private Resources

Private resources are College employees who cannot promise complete confidentiality but will handle all information with care and discretion. Private resources will handle any shared information with discretion, disclosing only what is necessary to investigate or resolve the matter, and alerting the Title IX Coordinator as required to track patterns or systemic concerns and for Clery reporting purposes.

The following College employees and departments have been designated as “Private”:

Support, Advocacy & Violence Prevention (SAVP). The director, program coordinator, and SAVP Advocates are confidential resources. SAVP is located in Main Building, S-185, 845-437-7863, savp@vassar.edu. To contact a confidential SAVP Advocate 24/7, call the Campus Safety Campus Response Center (CRC) at 845-437-7333 and ask for an SAVP Advocate.
Care Coordination, Advocacy, Resources, and Education (Care Office), Main Building, S-180, 845-437-7825.
Health Promotion & Education Office: The director and program coordinator/health educator are confidential resource providers. Main Building, S-180, 845-437-7769.
Director for Restorative Practices for Engaged Pluralism: College Center, 3rd floor, room 333, 845-437-5606.
Student Fellows & House Student Advisors (HSAs) are confidential student resource providers.

Reporting Anonymously to SAVP

Reports can also be made anonymously. Anyone may report discrimination or harassment based on a protected identity, sexual harassment, sexual assault, dating or domestic violence, or stalking without giving their name.

To submit an anonymous report, complete the SAVP reporting form: https://offices.vassar.edu/savp/reporting/form/.

Report to External Agencies

Report to Law Enforcement

Reports of a crime may be made to law enforcement or Campus Safety. The College strongly encourages individuals to report crimes, including hate or bias crimes, to law enforcement. Reports may be made to any law enforcement agency, which will ensure that the appropriate jurisdiction becomes involved.

Campus Safety staff can assist any member of the College community in filing a criminal complaint with local authorities. Campus Safety is not law enforcement and does not have the authority or power to make arrests. Reports may be submitted for purposes of criminal investigation and prosecution or for documentation only. The Institutional Equity Office Team and confidential resources are also available to assist reporting parties with this process.

Parties may access supportive measures and College resources before, during, or after any civil or criminal proceedings.

New York State Police Campus Sexual Assault Victims Unit

To report a sexual assault, dating violence, domestic violence, and/or stalking incident within a college campus in New York State, call the NYSP CSAVU hotline.
Emergencies: 911
NYSP CSAVU Hotline (24/7): 1-844-845-7269

Town of Poughkeepsie Police

The Town of Poughkeepsie Police Department can assist survivors in filing a police report. Campus staff can assist you and accompany you to make a report, or you can contact the police directly. The Center for Victim Safety and Support also has an advocate who is co-located within the Town of Poughkeepsie Police Department.
Emergencies: 911
Town of Poughkeepsie Non-Emergencies: 845-485-3666

Dutchess County District Attorney’s Office Special Victims Bureau

The Special Victims Bureau prosecutes through trial Sex Offense cases, including Child Sex Abuse, Domestic Violence crimes, and Elder Abuse cases.
Phone: 845-486-2300

College Coordination with Law Enforcement

When a Report is made to both the College and law enforcement, the College will cooperate fully with law enforcement and may temporarily delay its own proceedings for a reasonable period to allow law enforcement to collect evidence of the alleged criminal misconduct. The decision to initiate a criminal investigation and pursue prosecution is made by law enforcement in conjunction with the District Attorney’s Office. In certain situations, the College is legally required to report violent crimes, hate crimes, and other offenses to local law enforcement. The College maintains a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Town of Poughkeepsie Police Department. This agreement facilitates communication and coordination with law enforcement while ensuring that the privacy of individuals who report incidents is protected following applicable laws.

Reporting to External Federal and State Agencies

Inquiries made to federal and state agencies can be addressed to:

U.S. Department of Education, Assistant Secretary of Education within the Office for Civil Rights (OCR), Office for Civil Rights (OCR), U.S. Department of Education, 400 Maryland Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20202-1100, Customer Service Hotline #: (800) 421-3481, Facsimile: (202) 453-6012, TDD#: (877) 521-2172, OCR@ed.gov, www.ed.gov/ocr
Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), (800) 669-4000, TTY: (800) 669-6820, info@eeoc.gov, www.eeoc.gov
U.S. Department of Justice, Civil Rights Division: https://civilrights.justice.gov/
New York State Division of Human Rights (DHR), One Fordham Plaza, Fourth Floor, Bronx, New York 10458, (718) 741-8400. To file a complaint: https://dhr.ny.gov/complaint

No Time Limits for Reporting to the College

There is no time limitation on reporting, providing Notice to the College, or filing a Complaint. However, if the Respondent is no longer subject to the College’s jurisdiction and/or significant time has passed, the ability to investigate, respond, and/or provide remedies may be more limited or impossible. Acting on Notice/Complaints may also be impacted by the passage of time (including, but not limited to, the rescission or revision of a College policy, or federal or state law). The College, however, will work with the Complainant to identify appropriate supportive measures and/or available remedies.

Emergency Removal

The College may remove a student respondent from its education program or activities, partially or entirely, on an emergency basis when an individualized safety and risk analysis has determined that an imminent and serious threat to the health or safety of any student or other individual justifies removal. This risk analysis is performed by the College’s Behavioral Intervention Team using its standard objective violence risk assessment procedures.

Procedures for Victims of Sexual Assault, Intimate Partner Violence, and Stalking

If an incident of sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, or stalking occurs, the College’s first concern is for one’s safety and well-being. Victims are encouraged to consider the following procedures:

Get to a safe place where you feel as physically and emotionally safe as possible.
If one is not sure what to do or where to start, call an SAVP Advocate.
SAVP Advocates are trained faculty, administrators, and staff who can provide 24-hour support. SAVP Advocate can be reached by calling 845-437-7333 and asking to speak with the “advocate on-call.”
Seek medical attention for any physical injuries, potential pregnancy, or potential sexually transmitted infections. One can visit the health center on campus, a local emergency room, or seek off-campus medical assistance.
If an incident of sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, or stalking occurs, it is important to preserve evidence to aid in the possibility of a successful criminal prosecution or obtaining a protection order. It is most helpful to get evidence collected quickly—before one eats, drinks, showers, uses the bathroom, etc.
In order to do so, the victim of a sexual assault should not wash, douche, use the toilet, or change clothing prior to a medical exam. Any clothing removed should be placed in a paper bag. Evidence of violence, such as bruising or other visible injuries following an incident of domestic or dating violence, should be documented, including through the preservation of photographic evidence. Evidence of stalking, including any communication such as written notes, voicemail, or other electronic communications, should be saved and not altered in any way.
Sexual Assault Forensic Exams (SAFE Exams) can be conducted at both Vassar Brothers Medical Center and Mid-Hudson Regional Hospital in Poughkeepsie. SAFE Exams provide compassionate, patient-centered, and professional care for sexual assault survivors after an assault. Survivors are treated by trained Department of Health certified sexual assault forensic examiners in a private examination room. Exams include evaluation, treatment, referral, and follow-up. The exam allows for the quality of collection, documentation, preservation, and custody of physical evidence. This service is free of charge for survivors. Having a SAFE Exam completed does not mean that you need to press charges with law enforcement. Further, SAFE Exams include a crucial medical response that goes beyond identifying and preserving evidence.
An exam may reveal the presence of physical injury of which the victim is unaware. Following a sexual assault, antibiotics are typically given at the time of the exam to help prevent the victim from acquiring certain sexually transmitted infections. Emergency contraceptive pills are offered to victims at the time of the exam (if the victim presents within 120 hours) to help prevent pregnancy from occurring as a result of the rape. Victims over age 18 will be offered a seven-day starter pack of HIV PEP (a post-exposure prophylaxis, meaning a medicine taken to prevent HIV after a possible exposure. PEP should be used only in emergency situations and must be started within 72 hours after a recent possible exposure to HIV), and victims under the age of 18 will be offered the full twenty-eight day supply of PEP. If the victim reports memory loss, loss of consciousness, or other circumstances suspicious for a drug-facilitated assault, a urine test may be done if the victim presents within 96 hours. Some of the commonly used “date rape” drugs, however, are only detectable in the urine for 6 to 8 hours after ingestion. Note that under New York State law, a reporting victim has the right to be accompanied by an advocate at no cost. Under New York State law, a victim can elect to have the hospital or medical provider seek direct reimbursement from the New York State Office of Victim Services for the cost of an exam (regardless of whether the victim chooses to press criminal charges), regardless of whether the victim has health insurance or is insured on their parent or guardian’s plan. The Office of Victim Services offers other programs that can assist victims and survivors with reimbursement for certain costs when they are an innocent victim of crime. An advocate can provide additional information. Advocate information and program details may be found at ovs.ny.gov.

If a victim would like to learn about options and receive assistance in changing academic, living, transportation, or work situations, one can contact the Title IX Coordinator, the SAVP Director, or a SAVP Advocate. One can also learn about how to apply for a leave of absence, get questions answered about financial aid, and learn how to request protective measures on campus from the Title IX Coordinator, the SAVP Office, or a SAVP Advocate. Vassar College will provide student and employee victims of dating violence, domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking with a written explanation of their rights and options.
If a victim would like to learn about or access off-campus resources, they can receive assistance from the Center for Victim Safety and Support or Grace Smith House, both located in Poughkeepsie, NY. Both service agencies provide counseling resources, advocacy with reporting, and additional individual assistance. Grace Smith House also provides off-campus shelter housing for victims of domestic violence. More information is located below.
If a victim would like to learn about their options to report the incident to law enforcement, one can contact the New York State Police Campus Sexual Assault Victims Unit (844-845-7269) or the Town of Poughkeepsie Police Department to file a report. The SAVP Director, SAVP Advocates, and/or off campus resources can accompany students if they would like to file a report with law enforcement.
Victims can also access national hotline resources, including RAINN at rainn.org or 800-656-HOPE (4673), the Stalking Resource Center at 855-4-VICTIM, or and the National Domestic Violence Hotline at thehotline.org or 800-799-7233.

Preservation of Evidence

The College recognizes that making the decision to report discrimination, harassment, sex- or gender-based harassment, sexual harassment, sexual assault, domestic and dating violence, stalking, sexual exploitation, or other forms of sexual misconduct often takes time. Nevertheless, pending the decision to report, individuals are strongly encouraged to take immediate steps to preserve all evidence that might support a future report or an investigation by the College, law enforcement, or both.

General Preservation

How to preserve evidence depends on circumstances, but in all cases, documentation is important.

Document dates, times, witnesses, and descriptions of incidents in a journal or log.
Save electronic exchanges (e.g., text messages, phone call logs, emails, and Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, or other social media posts, to the extent that they can be captured or preserved).
Photographs (including photographs stored on smartphones and other devices).
Voicemail messages and other physical, documentary, and/or electronic data that might be helpful or relevant in an investigation.
Electronic and photographic evidence that may be lost through the upgrade or replacement of equipment (including smartphones), software, and/or accounts or may simply be lost to the passage of time.

Preservation Following a Sexual Assault

Seek forensic medical assistance at the nearest hospital, ideally within 120 hours of the incident (sooner is better).

Avoid urinating, showering, bathing, washing hands or face, or douching, if possible, but evidence may still be collected even if you do.
If oral sexual contact took place, refrain from smoking, eating, drinking, or brushing teeth.
If clothes are changed, place soiled clothes in a paper bag (plastic destroys evidence) or a secure evidence container (if provided one by law enforcement).
Seeking medical treatment can be essential, even if it is not for the purpose of collecting forensic evidence.

Stalking, Dating Violence (Intimate Partner violence), and/or Domestic Violence or Other Forms of Harassment

Evidence in the form of text and voice messages will be lost in most cases if the Complainant changes their phone number.
Make a secondary recording of any voice messages and/or save the audio files to a cloud server.
Take screenshots and/or a video recording of any text messages or other electronic messages (e.g., Instagram, Snapchat, Facebook).
Save copies of email and social media correspondence, including notifications related to account access alerts.
Take time-stamped photographs of any physical evidence, including notes, gifts, etc., in place when possible.
Save copies of any messages, including those showing any request for no further contact.
Obtain copies of call logs showing the specific phone number being used rather than a saved contact name, if possible.

On-Campus Resources

The Office of Support, Advocacy and Violence Prevention (SAVP)

The Office of Support, Advocacy and Violence Prevention (SAVP) provides individualized support and advocacy to survivors of sexual violence, intimate partner violence, relationship abuse, dating violence, or sexual harassment, past or present. The SAVP Office also provides support to friends, family, or other direct supporters of someone impacted by interpersonal violence. In addition to providing support and advocacy, the SAVP Office oversees campus prevention programming, including bystander intervention trainings, consent education, healthy relationship education, community awareness, and other workshops for students, faculty, staff, and administrators. The SAVP Office includes the SAVP Director, SAVP Program Coordinator, and SAVP Advocates. These individuals provide individual support, advocacy, and information to students who have experienced sexual assault, relationship abuse, dating/domestic violence, and/or stalking.

The SAVP Office

The SAVP Office prioritizes a survivor-centered approach. SAVP Advocates will discuss your options with you, even if you are not ready to take any action. They will go over your rights, give you support, help connect with resources, and provide information so that you can make the decisions that are best for yourself.

The Counseling Service

The Counseling Service is available during the week for confidential individual or group counseling. Call 845-437-5700 or visit the office at Metcalf House to make an appointment. A Counselor-on-Call is available when the Counseling Center is closed and may be contacted through the Campus Response Center, 845-437-7333.

Student Support Network (SSN)

The Associate Dean of the College for Student Living and Wellness convenes weekly meetings of the Student Support Network (SSN) to coordinate resources for students whose behavior indicates they may be in serious trouble. The core SSN consists of the Associate Dean of the College for Residential Life and Wellness, the Dean of Studies, and the Director of Counseling, but other administrators are invited as appropriate.

SSN members may share information about students who appear to be in trouble (e.g., who appear to be at risk to themselves or others, whose academic situation is dire, who are experiencing significant personal problems, or whose behavior is alarming other members of the College community). The group then determines if action by individual members of the group is warranted and might be helpful.

The SSN Reporting Form is available to bring situations to the attention of Vassar College so that these situations may be addressed.

Campus Safety

Campus Safety promotes safety and security on campus, including around-the-clock protection by uniformed, unarmed Campus Safety officers, additional evening and weekend support by contract security when needed, escort and shuttle services during evening hours, and crime prevention programs. For campus emergencies, contact 845-437-7333, or otherwise, dial 845-437-5221.

The Campus Response Center (CRC)

The Campus Response Center (CRC) is operated by Campus Safety. It is located in the Main building lobby and can be reached 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. For campus emergencies, contact 845-437-7333.

Vassar College Emergency Medical Services (VCEMS)

Vassar College Emergency Medical Services (VCEMS), reachable at 845-437-7333, provides quality, confidential, emergency medical care for the Vassar College community after hours during the academic year. Emergency Medical Technicians are on-campus to provide emergency medical care 7 days per week during academic breaks.

The Health Service

The Health Service, reachable at 845-437-5800, is open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday–Friday and from noon to 4:00 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday during the academic year, and is staffed by physician assistants, nurse practitioners, nurses, and medical assistants.

The Health Service provides routine primary and acute medical care to Vassar students. STI testing, HIV pre- and post- exposure prophylaxis, reproductive health counseling, and emergency contraception are all available through the Health Service. When the Health Service is not open, Vassar EMS and/or community medical services can be reached for emergencies by calling 845-437-7333. For non-emergency medical concerns when the Health Service is closed, call 845-435-5221. A Health Service clinical staff member will provide medical triage and assistance. There is a Vassar College on-call provider available for emergency consultation after hours year-round, including weekends and holidays.

The Office of Health Promotion and Education

The Office of Health Promotion and Education is staffed by a director, a program coordinator/health educator, and several student Wellness Peer Educators (WPE). Students are encouraged to make an appointment at hpe@vassar.edu for a one-on-one personalized consultation designed to fit their needs for self-improvement and knowledge of health and self-enhancement. WPEs are also available in the office or the houses to seek out education, referrals, or advice on all aspects of student health.

The Associate Dean of the College for Student Living and Wellness and the Dean of Studies are also available to provide support and academic advice for students.

Off-Campus Resources

Center for Victim Safety and Support at Family Services (CVSS)

The Center for Victim Safety and Support at Family Services provides 24 hour non-residential, comprehensive services to survivors of relationship abuse, sexual assault, and other crimes. Services include confidential support, advocacy, accompaniment, counseling, rape crisis services (SAFE Exam accompaniment), financial reimbursement through the NYS Office of Victim Services, emergency assistance for survivors, and two 24-hour hotlines. All services are free of charge. CVSS also specializes in enhancing the system’s response to victims of crime as well as prevention of crimes.

Rape Crisis/Crime Victims 24/7 Hotline: 845-452-7272

Domestic Violence 24/7 Hotline: 845-485-5550

Website: www.familyservicesny.org

Grace Smith House

Grace Smith House is a shelter for survivors of relationship abuse and their families in need of safety and protection. Services include: emergency shelter, safety, housing advocacy, information and referrals, parenting discussions, children’s groups and advocacy, crisis and supportive counseling, and a 24-hour hotline.

24/7 Hotline: 845-471-3033

Website: www.gracesmithhouse.org

Sexual Assault Forensic Exams Sexual Assault Forensic Exams (SAFE Exams)

Sexual Assault Forensic Exams (SAFE Exams) provide compassionate, patient-centered, and professional care for sexual assault survivors after an assault. Survivors are treated by trained Department of Health certified sexual assault forensic examiners in a private examination room. Exams include evaluation, treatment, referral, and follow-up. The exam allows for the quality of collection, documentation, preservation, and custody of physical evidence. This service is free of charge for survivors. Having a SAFE Exam completed does not mean that you need to press charges with law enforcement.

Note that under New York State law, a reporting victim has the right to be accompanied by an advocate at no cost. Under New York State law, a victim can elect to have the hospital or medical provider seek direct reimbursement from the New York State Office of Victim Services for the cost of an exam (regardless of whether the victim chooses to press criminal charges), and regardless of whether the victim has health insurance or is insured on their parent or guardian’s plan. The Office of Victim Services offers other programs that can assist victims and survivors with reimbursement for certain costs when they are an innocent victim of crime. An advocate can provide additional information. Advocate information and program details may be found at ovs.ny.gov.

SAFE Exams can be conducted at both Vassar Brothers Medical Center and Mid-Hudson Regional Hospital in Poughkeepsie.

Vassar Brothers Medical Center SAFE Exam: 845-454-8500 (24/7)
Mid-Hudson Regional Hospital SAFE Exam: 845-483-5000 (24/7)
Website: https://www.health.ny.gov/professionals/safe/

Victims can also access national hotline resources, including RAINN at rainn.org or 800-656-HOPE (4673), the Stalking Resource Center at 855-4-VICTIM at https://victimsofcrime.org/stalking-resource-center/, and the National Domestic Violence Hotline at thehotline.org or 800-799-7233.

Vassar College Reporting Duties

Different people on campus have different reporting responsibilities and different abilities to maintain confidentiality, depending on their roles at the College and College policy (Mandatory Reporters, Private Resources, Confidential Resources). At Vassar, some individuals and campus resources can offer confidentiality while others have specific obligations to respond when they receive a report of a crime or a campus policy violation. Even offices and employees who cannot guarantee confidentiality will maintain your privacy to the greatest extent possible. The information you provide to a non-confidential resource will be relayed only as necessary for the Title IX Coordinator to investigate and/or seek resolution.

Clery Act Reporting Obligations

Certain campus officials (called Campus Security Authorities, or CSAs) also have a duty to report sexual assault and other crimes for federal statistical reporting purposes; and to determine if there is a continuing threat to the safety of the campus community, which would require an alert. These reports may also need to be included in Campus Safety Office logs.

All personally identifiable information is kept confidential. General incident location (on- or off-campus, in the surrounding area, but no addresses are given) must be included for publication in the Annual Security and Fire Safety Report. This report helps to provide the community with a clear picture of the extent and nature of campus crime, supporting greater community safety.

CSAs include employees who have significant responsibility for students, student groups, and campus activities. Pastoral and professional counselors who receive a report in their role are generally exempt from reporting.

All Clery reports of sexual assault and other crimes should be reported to Campus Safety, 845-437-7333, or by using the Clery Act Crime Incident Report Form.

Protection of Minors Policy

The Protection of Minors Policy requires any employee or volunteer for Vassar College who witnesses or has reasonable cause to suspect sexual abuse or mistreatment of a child occurring on a College property, or while off campus during official College business, or at Vassar-sponsored event, program, or activity to immediately report the concern by calling one of the numbers listed below. Such reports should include the names of the alleged victim and alleged assailant (if known), or other identifying information, the location of the activity, and the nature of the activity. It is not the responsibility of the reporting party to investigate.

If a child is in immediate danger, notify the police (911) immediately. Report any suspected or known child abuse and/or neglect immediately and call New York State Central Registry (Child Abuse Reporting Hotline) at 1-800-342-3720. Members of the College community should also contact the Vassar College Safety Department at 845-437-7333, but not before contacting local law enforcement or the Child Abuse Reporting Hotline. If you are deaf or hard of hearing, call TDD/TTY at 1-800-638-5163 or have your Video Relay System provider call 1-800-342-3720.

Hazing Prevention and Response Policy

Vassar’s Hazing Prevention and Response Policy and Federal Law define hazing as any intentional, knowing, or reckless act committed by a person (whether individually or in concert with other persons) against another person or persons regardless of the willingness of such other person or persons to participate, that (a) is committed in the course of an initiation into, an affiliation with, or the maintenance of membership in, a “student organization” and (b) causes or creates a risk, above the reasonable risk encountered in the course of participation in the institution of higher education or the organization (such as the physical preparation necessary for participation in an athletic team), of physical or psychological injury.

The federal Higher Education Act requires the college to compile statistics for hazing incidents that are reported to campus security authorities or local police agencies under the Jeanne Clery Campus Safety Act (the “Clery Act”). Such statistics shall be compiled per each single hazing incident, as defined below, provided that if the same person or persons commit more than one hazing act, and the time and place intervals separating each such act are insignificant, such acts shall be reported as a single hazing incident. Such statistics shall be included in Vassar’s Annual Safety and Security Report required by the Clery Act.

Resolution Options for Discrimination, Harassment, and Sexual Misconduct

The College's Resolution Process is used to address all reports of discrimination and harassment based on protected characteristics, harassment, sexual misconduct, Title IX sexual harassment, retaliation, and other prohibited conduct under the Interim Policy Against Discrimination, Harassment, Sexual Misconduct, and Title IX Sexual Harassment Policy.

Supportive measures are available even when a formal complaint is not filed or when an individual chooses not to pursue a resolution process. These measures are non-disciplinary and non-punitive. They may include academic adjustments, changes in housing, no-contact directives, or other steps to support safety and access to College programs and activities.

Supportive Measures

The College provides supportive measures to protect the safety and well-being of individuals and the campus community, while ensuring continued access to its educational programs and activities.

Supportive measures are designed to:

Be non-punitive, non-disciplinary, and free of charge
Restore or preserve access to educational programs and the work environment
Protect the safety of the parties and/or the campus community
Preserve the College’s educational, residential, and working environment
Deter harassment, discrimination, and retaliation
Remain confidential unless disclosure is necessary to provide the measures or preserve access
Minimize academic or employment impact and avoid unreasonably burdening either party

Examples of supportive and safety measures include:

Referrals to counseling, healthcare, or community-based services
Employee Assistance Program
Financial aid counseling
Visa and immigration assistance
Educational programming for the campus community
Adjustments to housing, work, or class schedules
Safety planning, escorts, and transportation support
Contact restrictions (no-contact directives)
Academic support or course adjustments
Trespass, BOLO (Be on the Lookout) orders, Orders of Protection, or timely warnings
Increased security and monitoring of certain campus areas
Other actions deemed appropriate by the Institutional Equity Team

The Office for Institutional Equity coordinates with campus partners to determine appropriate measures, maintain confidentiality when possible, and minimize burdens. Measures may be modified, ended, or extended beyond the resolution process as appropriate.

No Contact Directive

The College’s No Contact Directive (NCD) is an administrative measure designed to prohibit any direct or indirect contact between identified parties (such as a complainant, respondent, or others). NCDs are not disciplinary in nature when issued as a supportive measure, but they may also be included as part of a sanction when there is a finding of responsibility for violating College policies.

NCDs may be issued in the following situations:

Following a report of prohibited conduct under the Interim Policy Against Discrimination, Harassment, and Sexual Misconduct or the Title IX Policy (non-punitive, supportive in nature).
In Community Expectations/SAVP situations.
Following a finding of responsibility for violating College regulations or employment policies (as part of corrective or disciplinary action).
NCDs may also be implemented at the College’s discretion, including when requested as a supportive measure.

Requesting a No Contact Directive

Requests for a No Contact Directive may be directed to

Community Expectations
Campus Safety
Assistant Vice President for Institutional Equity & Title IX Coordinator, or another member of the Institutional Equity Office
SAVP
Human Resources
Dean of Faculty Office

Once approved, NCDs are issued and enforced by the appropriate College office:

Community Expectations Office (for students)
Dean of the Faculty Office (for faculty)
Human Resources (for administrators and staff)

Both parties will receive a copy of any NCD that involves them.

Terms of an NCD

The terms of an NCD will be tailored to the specific risks and needs of the parties. Prohibited contact may include restrictions on physical proximity, communication, or other forms of interaction. Examples include but are not limited to: in-person contact, phone calls, emails, text messages, electronic or social media communications, or third-party communications.

Duration, Scope, and Limits

An NCD is a College administrative directive. An NCD is generally a temporary measure that applies equally to all involved individuals. It may be extended as a long-term directive when circumstances require, and in some cases may serve as part of a disciplinary action. The scope of an NCD is limited to prohibiting contact. It is not intended to deny either party access to their education, workplace, or College activities, nor to impose an undue burden on either party. When possible, the College will adjust academic, residential, or work arrangements in a balanced way to allow all parties to continue participating fully in College programs while maintaining safety and equity.

Relationship to Orders of Protection

An NCD is issued and enforced by the College, and its scope is limited to the College’s campus, programs, and activities. Violations are handled internally through College disciplinary processes.

A civil or criminal order of protection, by contrast, is issued by a court and carries the authority of law enforcement. Orders of protection can impose broader restrictions, apply off-campus, and may result in arrest or criminal penalties if violated.

While NCDs and orders of protection serve similar purposes in prohibiting contact and supporting safety, they operate in different systems. An NCD offers immediate support within the College environment, while an order of protection provides legal enforcement beyond campus. Both may be pursued at the same time if appropriate.

The College offers several paths for resolution:

Administrative Resolution: Supportive and Remedial

In some cases, an individual may choose not to pursue an informal or formal resolution process and requests supportive measures only, or the circumstances may not require or allow one (for example, if the respondent is not a member of the College community, the respondent is unknown, the report was made anonymously, or the incident occurred outside of Vassar’s jurisdiction or control). In these situations, the College can still provide supportive and remedial responses, such as academic adjustments, housing changes, no-contact directives, safety planning, or other non-disciplinary measures designed to restore and protect equal access to College programs and activities.

Examples include:

Educational interventions, training programs, or conversations with individuals or groups
Coaching and counseling to encourage reflection and behavior
Supportive measures for affected individuals (such as academic adjustments, changes in housing, or no-contact directives)
Monitoring for patterns of behavior or broader climate concerns
Other steps designed to stop concerning behavior, prevent its recurrence, and address its effects without punitive action

These interventions are intended to be flexible and responsive to the needs of the community. They do not replace a Complainant’s or the College’s ability to move forward with a formal or informal resolution if circumstances require it, but they allow the College to address concerns promptly in a way that supports fairness, safety, and respect.

Informal Resolution

Informal Resolution is a voluntary process that can be used when both parties agree to resolve a matter without a full investigation or hearing. It provides a flexible alternative that may include mediation, facilitated dialogue, or agreements on future conduct. Informal Resolution focuses on collaborative solutions and repairing harm where possible. No one is required to participate, and either party may end the process at any time and request Formal Resolution.

Formal Resolution

Formal Resolution is the most structured process. It includes a full investigation, the opportunity for both parties to review and respond to evidence, and a hearing before a trained decision-maker who is external to the Institutional Equity Office.

Title IX Live Hearing: For conduct that falls under Title IX sexual harassment, the process includes a live hearing. At the hearing, each party’s advisor may cross-examine the other party and any witnesses by asking relevant questions. The decision-maker evaluates all testimony and evidence and issues a written determination of responsibility. If the respondent is found responsible, sanctions are determined by:

The Associate Dean of the College for Student Living and Wellness (for student respondents)
Human Resources (for administrator and staff respondents)
The Dean of the Faculty (for faculty respondents)

Administrative Hearing: For conduct that does not meet the jurisdictional requirements of Title IX but is still prohibited by College policy, the College may use an administrative hearing. In this process, the external decision-maker reviews the investigation report and any written responses, and may ask clarifying questions of the parties, witnesses, or investigator. The process does not include cross-examination by advisors. The decision-maker issues a written determination of responsibility.

If the respondent is found responsible, sanctions are determined by:

The Associate Dean of the College for Student Living and Wellness (for student respondents)
Human Resources (for administrator and staff respondents)
The Dean of the Faculty (for faculty respondents)

Role of the Office for Institutional Equity

The Office for Institutional Equity oversees the College’s response to reports of discrimination, harassment, sexual misconduct, Title IX sexual harassment, retaliation, and related prohibited conduct. The office is responsible for ensuring that all processes are conducted in a fair, neutral, and equitable manner for all parties involved.

Members of the Institutional Equity team, including investigators, serve as impartial administrators. Investigators are responsible for gathering and analyzing relevant evidence, interviewing parties and witnesses, and preparing an investigative report. Importantly, investigators and staff in the Office for Institutional Equity do not make findings of policy violations and do not determine sanctions. Their role is to ensure that the facts are documented thoroughly and presented clearly so that an external decision-maker can evaluate the information.

The College’s resolution system is designed with checks and balances to ensure fairness and transparency:

Separation of roles: The Office for Institutional Equity manages the process and investigation, while external decision-makers determine whether policy was violated.
Impartiality: Institutional Equity staff are trained to remain neutral and avoid conflicts of interest.
Transparency: Complainants and Respondents have the opportunity to review and respond to the evidence gathered during an investigation. Final decisions and sanctions are issued by the appropriate decision-maker outside the Office for Institutional Equity (e.g., Associate Dean of the College for Student Living and Wellness for student respondents, Human Resources for staff and administrators, Dean of the Faculty for faculty).
Consistency: The office ensures that policies are applied uniformly and that each case receives equitable treatment regardless of the individuals involved.

By structuring the process in this way, the College underscores its commitment to impartial investigations, fair outcomes, and accountability, while supporting the rights and safety of all community members.

When the College May Need to Proceed Without a Reporting Party’s Wishes

An essential priority of the College is to respect the autonomy and privacy of the person who reports harm. Individuals are encouraged to make the choices that feel right for them, including whether or not to participate in a resolution process or to report potential criminal conduct to law enforcement. The College will honor those choices whenever possible and will continue to offer supportive measures and resources regardless of the path taken.

There are rare circumstances, however, when the College may need to take action even if a reporting party does not wish to move forward. This step is only considered when necessary to protect the safety of the individual or the broader community, or to comply with the law.

Examples include:

Situations where the alleged conduct involves violence, threats, or use of weapons.
Circumstances where there is a credible and immediate threat to health or safety.
Reports suggesting a broader pattern of behavior that could place others at risk.
Legal requirements under Title IX, the Clery Act, or other applicable laws.
Cases involving employees in positions of trust or authority where action is needed to safeguard the community or workplace environment.

When the College proceeds in these limited circumstances, every effort is made to inform the reporting party in advance, explain the reasons for the decision, and continue to respect their privacy to the greatest extent possible. The College will also ensure that supportive measures remain in place, whether or not the reporting party participates in the process.

Prohibition of Retaliation

The College strictly prohibits all forms of retaliation related to the Title IX Policy; the Interim Policy Against Discrimination, Harassment, and Sexual Misconduct; and their associated resolution procedures. Retaliation includes any action that intimidates, threatens, coerces, or discriminates against an individual because they have engaged in protected activity under these policies.

Definition of Retaliation

Retaliation is defined as:

Adverse action, including intimidation, threats, coercion, or discrimination,
Against any person,
By the College, a student, faculty member, employee, or a person authorized by the College to provide aid, benefit, or service under the College’s education program or activity,
For the purpose of interfering with any right or privilege secured by law or Policy, or
Because the person has engaged in protected activity, including reporting information, making a report or Formal Complaint, testifying, assisting, or participating or refusing to participate in any manner in an investigation or resolution process.

What Is Not Retaliation

It is not retaliation for an individual to exercise their rights under these policies or to engage in conduct protected by the College’s policies on academic freedom and free expression. It is also not retaliation for the College to pursue policy violations against someone who makes materially false statements in bad faith during a resolution process under these policies.

Sanctions and Corrective Action

As outlined in the College’s Resolution Procedures, any person found responsible for violating the Interim Policy Against Discrimination, Harassment, and Sexual Misconduct or the Title IX Policy may receive a sanction ranging from a warning or probation to expulsion or termination. The severity of the sanction will depend on the circumstances of the incident and may take into account any concurrent or prior College conduct violations.

The sanctions described in these policies are not exclusive of, and may be in addition to, other corrective actions or measures imposed by the College. Sanctions, corrective action, and remedial measures are determined by the external Decision-maker in coordination with the appropriate College officer:

The Associate Dean of the College for Residential Life and Wellness (for student respondents)
The Dean of the Faculty (for faculty respondents) and appropriate faculty committee
The Associate Vice President for Human Resources/Chief People Officer and the relevant Senior Officer (for administrator or staff respondents)
The President (as appropriate for Senior Officers and members of the Senior Leadership Team)

Factors Considered in Sanctioning

When determining sanctions and responsive actions, the Decision-maker and appropriate College officer may consider, but are not limited to, the following factors:

The nature, severity, and circumstances surrounding the violation(s)
The respondent’s disciplinary history
The need to bring an end to the discrimination, harassment, and/or retaliation
The need to prevent future recurrence of discrimination, harassment, and/or retaliation
The need to remedy the effects of the conduct on the complainant and the community
The impact on the parties
The respondent’s acceptance of responsibility
Any other information deemed relevant by the Decision-maker(s)

Timing of Sanctions

Sanctions and corrective actions will be implemented as soon as feasible once a determination is final, either upon the outcome of any appeal or after the expiration of the appeal window when no appeal is requested by either party.

Transcript Notations

When a student is suspended or expelled because of a responsible finding for a violent offense,^[1] Vassar will make a notation on the student’s transcript that they were “suspended after a finding of responsibility for a code of conduct violation” or “expelled after a finding of responsibility for a code of conduct violation.” Individuals who withdraw from the College while such conduct charges are pending will have “withdrawn with conduct charges pending” on their transcript until the case is resolved. If a finding of responsibility is vacated for any reason, any such transcript notation shall be removed. Students may submit a written request to the Dean of Studies Office that the suspension notation be removed from the transcript. Notation for suspensions is not eligible for removal until one year after the suspension has been completed. In considering a student’s request, the College will look at whether there has been any further conduct violations in the year following conclusion of the suspension. The College will keep a confidential, internal record of the suspension. Notation for expulsions shall not be removed.

Victim Confidentiality

Vassar College recognizes the sensitive nature of sexual violence and is committed to protecting the privacy of any individual who reports an incident of sexual violence. Personally identifiable information about the victim will be treated as confidential and only shared with persons with a specific need to know who are investigating/adjudicating the complaint or delivering resources for support services to the complainant (for example, publicly available record-keeping for purposes of Clery Act reporting and disclosures will be made without inclusion of identifying information about the victim, as defined in 42 USC 1395 (a) (20)). Further, the institution will maintain as confidential any supportive measures or protective measures provided to the victim to the extent that maintaining such confidentiality would not impair the ability of the institution to provide the accommodations or protective measures.

The College does not publish the names of crime victims or house identifiable information regarding victims in the Campus Safety Office’s Daily Crime and Fire Log or online. Students may block the public disclosure of directory information by notifying the Office of the Registrar in writing. Requests for non-disclosure will be honored by the College until removed in writing by the student. Students may also control the types of directory information displayed in the online Student Directory by going to the Student Directory page of the Vassar College website and logging into “set student display preferences.”

Alcohol and/or Drug Use Amnesty

The health and safety of every student at the College is of utmost importance. The College strongly encourages students to report domestic violence, dating violence, stalking, or sexual assault to College officials. The College recognizes that students who have been drinking and/or using drugs (whether such use is voluntary or involuntary) at the time that violence, including but not limited to domestic violence, dating violence, stalking, or sexual assault occurs, may be hesitant to report such incidents due to fear of potential consequences for their own conduct. A bystander acting in good faith or a Complainant acting in good faith that discloses any incident of domestic violence, dating violence, stalking, or sexual assault to College officials or law enforcement will not be subject to College Regulations for violations of alcohol and/or drug use policies occurring at or near the time of the commission of the domestic violence, dating violence, stalking, or sexual assault.

Bystander Intervention and Risk Reduction

Bystanders play a critical role in the prevention of sexual and relationship violence. They are “individuals who observe violence or witness conditions that perpetuate violence. They are not directly involved but have the choice to intervene, speak up, or do something about it.” We want to promote a culture of community accountability where bystanders are actively engaged in the prevention of violence without causing further harm. We may not always know what to do even if we want to help. Below is a list of some ways to be an active bystander:

Watch out for your friends and fellow students/employees. If you see someone who looks like they could be in trouble or need help, ask if they are OK.
Confront people who seclude, hit on, try to make out with, or have sex with people who are incapacitated.
Speak up when someone discusses plans to take sexual advantage of another person.
Offer support to someone who discloses sexual assault, abusive behavior, or experiences with stalking.
Refer people to on- or off-campus resources listed in this document for support in health, counseling, or with legal assistance.
If you or someone else is in immediate danger, dial 911. This could be when a person is yelling at or being physically abusive towards another and it is not safe for you to interrupt. Further information regarding bystander intervention may be found at National Sexual Violence Resource Center.

Additionally, during first-year orientation students attend two workshops facilitated by student Orientation Leaders, trained by the SAVP Office, with information pertaining to Vassar’s policy, healthy relationships, bystander intervention, and available sexual health resources on campus.

The Support, Advocacy, and Violence Prevention (SAVP) Office is committed to providing both peer-to-peer and administrator-led violence prevention workshops to the Vassar campus community throughout the academic year. The SAVP Office employs a team of 10 student interns who support the development, coordination, and facilitation of this programming. Workshops include information and training around issues of consent, sexual assault, dating/domestic violence, stalking, the impact of rigid gender norms and stereotypes, and effective bystander intervention tools to confront gender-based violence in the community.

Workshops can also be tailored to fit the needs of your group or organization. If you would like more information or violence prevention resources please email the SAVP Office at savp@vassar.edu. Programs are available for student and employee groups.

Below is a list of some of the programs available at Vassar:

Annual Title IX/SAVP training on sexual misconduct/consent policies, prevention, bystander intervention, on-/off- campus support resources, reporting options and procedures, etc. for the following campus constituents:

Campus Safety, First-year Students, Student Organization Leaders, House Teams (Students and Professional Staff), Athletics, Summer program employees/participants, Health Promotion and Education, Health Services, Faculty, Staff.

Survivor Community Space (monthly) is a non-clinical support space where survivors can build connections and engage in healing-centered wellness activities. This monthly space is hosted by the Support, Advocacy, and Violence Prevention Office in partnership with Counseling Service.
Awareness Campaigns via tabling (e.g., for Relationship Abuse Awareness Month and Sexual Assault Awareness Month); Institutional Equity/SAVP participation in annual campus health and resource fairs; collaborations for campus participation in local and national initiatives (e.g., Take Back the Night, Denim Day).
SAVP Advocate training on protocols and survivor support (monthly).
Peer-to-peer student group training (as requested) on resources, consent, healthy relationships, bystander intervention, etc.

Sex Offender Registration – Campus Sex Crimes Prevention Act

In accordance with the “Campus Sex Crimes Prevention Act of 2000,” which amends the Jacob Wetterling Crimes Against Children and Sexually Violent Offender Registration Act, the Clery Act, and the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974, Vassar is providing contact information to the State of New York Sex Offender Registry. Federal and state laws require a person designated as a “sexual predator or offender” to register with the New York State Division of Criminal Justice. The State Division of Criminal Justice is required to notify the local law enforcement agency where the registrant resides, attends, or is employed by an institution of higher learning.

Vassar College’s Policies Governing Alcohol and Other Drugs

Alcohol and Drug Policy

Vassar’s policies and procedures are distributed to the entire College community. Please refer to Vassar College Policy Library. Federal law requires Vassar College to notify annually all faculty, staff, and students of the following:

Vassar College aims to create an environment that promotes the highest levels of learning alongside a healthy and vibrant social atmosphere. To this end, the College is constantly reevaluating the quality of life on campus. In order to protect all members of the Vassar Community, members should understand that the unlawful possession, use, distribution, or manufacture of illicit drugs by students and/or employees, on College property or as part of any school activity, is strictly prohibited by the College, as well as by New York State law.

Furthermore, members of the community should understand that Vassar College observes all laws and regulations governing the sale, purchase, and serving of alcoholic beverages by all members of its community and expects that these laws, regulations, and procedures will be adhered to at all events associated with the College. This includes activities on the Vassar campus, in any work area, and at off-campus functions sponsored and supported by Vassar College. The College will continue to work cooperatively with local police agencies to maintain an environment conducive to the learning and social development of our members. Except as specifically provided in New York State Education Law 129-B and in Vassar policy, the College cannot and will not protect any member of the Vassar community who has broken federal, state, and/or local law. The College Policy for Alcohol and/or Drug Use Amnesty in Sexual Misconduct and Interpersonal Violence Cases offers amnesty from drug and alcohol conduct violations to victims and bystanders who report sexual and interpersonal violence in good faith. Sanctions may include referral for prosecution, any of the sanctions outlined in College policies governing students and employees, up to and including suspension or expulsion of a student and termination of an employee, and/or the required completion of an appropriate rehabilitation program.

Illegal Substances (Drugs)

It is a violation of state and federal law and College policy to illegally possess, use, distribute, manufacture, sell, or be under the influence of illicit drugs. Students who violate this policy will be referred to the Office of Residence Life, the Office of Student Services, and/or Campus Safety.

Alcohol and Drugs Risks and Consequences

The College recognizes that alcohol and illicit drug abuse are harmful to relationships and family life, work and creativity, study and research, and the health and safety of our community members. Specifically the College would like to remind the community of the following risks associated with the use of illicit drugs and abuse of alcohol:

Interpersonal Problems: The more a person abuses alcohol or illicit drugs the greater potential for problems within relationships.
Academics: Difficulty meeting academic responsibilities is one of the most common consequences of alcohol and illicit drug use. Academic problems may include earning lower grades, doing poorly on exams or papers, missing classes, and falling behind on assignments.
Accidents: The use of alcohol and drugs can alter a person’s judgment, normal reaction, and perception; impair motor skills; lower inhibitions; and intensify emotions. All of these increase the chances of accidents either to the user or to others.
Illness and Health Problems: The use of alcohol and drugs can impact a person’s health by putting them at a greatly increased risk for health and psychiatric problems, as well as increased morbidity and mortality.

Alcohol and illicit drugs can interact negatively with over-the-counter and prescription drugs. Every individual reacts differently to alcohol and drugs, at different times.
Short-term alcohol and drug abuse can lower a person’s immune system, making them more susceptible to colds, illnesses, and injuries.
Long-term alcohol and drug abuse can lead to serious health risks such as addiction, liver disease, heart disease, and certain kinds of cancers.

Know the signs of alcohol/drug impairment:

Passed out or difficult to awaken
Cold, clammy, pale, or bluish skin
Slowed breathing
Vomiting (asleep or awake)
Blackouts
Impaired functioning
Change in behavior
Limp body

Know how to help:

Turn a person who has altered responsiveness or who is vomiting on their side to prevent choking.
Shout for nearby help and activate the emergency response system.
Get naloxone and an AED if available and use according to manufacturer’s instructions.
Continue to observe and NEVER leave the person unattended until help arrives.

Drug and Alcohol Education Programs/Resources

Vassar College has a deep-rooted respect for its students and employees, and for this reason seeks to share the responsibility of promoting a healthy, safe environment free of drug and alcohol abuse with all members of the Vassar community. Vassar conducts numerous passive and active evidence-based educational programs throughout the year for students, house teams, and peer educators.

Below is a list of some of the programs/resources available at Vassar:

The College provides an alcohol and drug education program for all new students, as well as ongoing programming about alcohol and drug use and abuse for students throughout the academic year;
The Office of Health Promotion and Education provides programs, outreach, and consultation for students around all areas of health and wellness. The office is committed to making sure that students feel comfortable accessing resources and are aware of the different resources on campus. The Office of Health Promotion and Education provides both small- and large-scale programs about sexual health, birth control, stress reduction, how to help a friend who may be struggling, and alcohol and other drugs. Some of our most popular programs include the Wellness Resource Health Fair, Spook-tacular Stroll, Birth Control 101, Destress Daze, and SEXpo;
“One Less,” a peer lead alcohol education program offered to all first-year students during Orientation week;
Annual assignment on Catharsis, an interactive online program that uses the latest evidence-based prevention methods to inspire students to make healthier decisions related to alcohol and other drugs, educate students on the mental and physical effects of alcohol, prepare students to engage in bystander intervention, etc., to incoming first-year students;
The Office of Residential Life and Student Wellness Office refers students to the Office of Health Promotion and Education for services such as “BASICS” (Brief Alcohol Screening for College Students), and provides educational workshops for students in student conduct violation of campus policy on the use of drugs and alcohol, as needed; and
Health and wellness resources, including STI testing, Personal Health Accessibility Project, and Biofeedback stations located in a variety of office spaces.
Information regarding resources for Faculty and Staff can be accessed through the Employee Assistance Program.

Annual Disclosure of Crime Statistics

The Clery Act requires colleges and universities across the United States to disclose information about crime on and around their campuses. The Campus Safety Office maintains a close relationship with local police departments to ensure that crimes reported directly to these police departments that involve Vassar College are brought to the attention of the Campus Safety Office.

The Campus Safety Office collects the crime statistics disclosed in the charts through a number of methods. The following statistics also include crimes that are reported to various Campus Security Authorities, as defined in this report. The statistics reported here generally reflect the number of criminal incidents reported to the various authorities. The statistics reported for the sub-categories on liquor laws, drug laws, and weapons offenses represent the number of people arrested or referred to campus judicial authorities for respective violations, not the number of offenses documented.

2025 Crime Disclosure

Murder and Nonnegligent Manslaughter

2022 – On Campus: 0 | Housing: 0 | Non-campus: 0 | Public Property: 0

2023 – On Campus: 0 | Housing: 0 | Non-campus: 0 | Public Property: 0

2024 – On Campus: 0 | Housing: 0 | Non-campus: 0 | Public Property: 0

Negligent Manslaughter

2022 – On Campus: 0 | Housing: 0 | Non-campus: 0 | Public Property: 0

2023 – On Campus: 0 | Housing: 0 | Non-campus: 0 | Public Property: 0

2024 – On Campus: 0 | Housing: 0 | Non-campus: 0 | Public Property: 0

Sex Offenses: Rape

2022 – On Campus: 6 | Housing: 4 | Non-campus: 0 | Public Property: 0

2023 – On Campus: 6 | Housing: 2 | Non-campus: 1 | Public Property: 0

2024 – On Campus: 6 | Housing: 3 | Non-campus: 0 | Public Property: 0

Sex Offenses: Fondling

2022 – On Campus: 5 | Housing: 2 | Non-campus: 0 | Public Property: 0

2023 – On Campus: 14 | Housing: 4 | Non-campus: 1 | Public Property: 0

2024 – On Campus: 4 | Housing: 2 | Non-campus: 0 | Public Property: 0

Sex Offenses: Incest

2022 – On Campus: 0 | Housing: 0 | Non-campus: 0 | Public Property: 0

2023 – On Campus: 0 | Housing: 0 | Non-campus: 0 | Public Property: 0

2024 – On Campus: 0 | Housing: 0 | Non-campus: 0 | Public Property: 0

Sex Offenses: Statutory Rape

2022 – On Campus: 0 | Housing: 0 | Non-campus: 0 | Public Property: 0

2023 – On Campus: 0 | Housing: 0 | Non-campus: 0 | Public Property: 0

2024 – On Campus: 0 | Housing: 0 | Non-campus: 0 | Public Property: 0

Robbery

2022 – On Campus: 1 | Housing: 0 | Non-campus: 0 | Public Property: 0

2023 – On Campus: 0 | Housing: 0 | Non-campus: 0 | Public Property: 0

2024 – On Campus: 0 | Housing: 0 | Non-campus: 0 | Public Property: 0

Aggravated Assault

2022 – On Campus: 0 | Housing: 0 | Non-campus: 0 | Public Property: 0

2023 – On Campus: 0 | Housing: 0 | Non-campus: 0 | Public Property: 0

2024 – On Campus: 0 | Housing: 0 | Non-campus: 0 | Public Property: 3

Burglary

2022 – On Campus: 1 | Housing: 1 | Non-campus: 0 | Public Property: 0

2023 – On Campus: 4 | Housing: 4 | Non-campus: 0 | Public Property: 0

2024 – On Campus: 5 | Housing: 2 | Non-campus: 0 | Public Property: 0

Motor Vehicle Theft

2022 – On Campus: 0 | Housing: 0 | Non-campus: 0 | Public Property: 0

2023 – On Campus: 4 | Housing: 0 | Non-campus: 0 | Public Property: 0

2024 – On Campus: 1 | Housing: 0 | Non-campus: 0 | Public Property: 0

Arson

2022 –On Campus: 0 | Housing: 0 | Non-campus: 0 | Public Property: 0

2023 – On Campus: 1 | Housing: 1 | Non-campus: 0 | Public Property: 0

2024 – On Campus: 0 | Housing: 0 | Non-campus: 0 | Public Property: 0

VAWA Offense: Dating Violence

2022 – On Campus: 3 | Housing: 1 | Non-campus: 0 | Public Property: 0

2023 – On Campus: 7 | Housing: 6 | Non-campus: 0 | Public Property: 0

2024 – On Campus: 5 | Housing: 3 | Non-campus: 0 | Public Property: 0

VAWA Offense: Domestic Violence

2022 – On Campus: 0 | Housing: 0 | Non-campus: 0 | Public Property: 0

2023 – On Campus: 0 | Housing: 0 | Non-campus: 0 | Public Property: 0

2024 – On Campus: 0 | Housing: 0 | Non-campus: 0 | Public Property: 0

VAWA Offense: Stalking

2022 – On Campus: 7 | Housing: 4 | Non-campus: 0 | Public Property: 0

2023 – On Campus: 7 | Housing: 5 | Non-campus: 0 | Public Property: 0

2024 – On Campus: 4 | Housing: 0 | Non-campus: 0 | Public Property: 0

Arrests & Disciplinary Referrals – Arrests

Arrest: Liquor Law Violations

2022 – On Campus: 0 | Housing: 0 | Non-campus: 0 | Public Property: 0

2023 – On Campus: 0 | Housing: 0 | Non-campus: 0 | Public Property: 0

2024 – On Campus: 0 | Housing: 0 | Non-campus: 0 | Public Property: 0

Arrest: Drug Abuse Violations

2022 – On Campus: 0 | Housing: 0 | Non-campus: 0 | Public Property: 0

2023 – On Campus: 0 | Housing: 0 | Non-campus: 0 | Public Property: 0

2024 – On Campus: 0 | Housing: 0 | Non-campus: 0 | Public Property: 0

Arrest: Illegal Weapons Possession

2022 – On Campus: 0 | Housing: 0 | Non-campus: 0 | Public Property: 0

2023 – On Campus: 0 | Housing: 0 | Non-campus: 0 | Public Property: 0

2024 – On Campus: 2 | Housing: 0 | Non-campus: 0 | Public Property: 0

Arrests & Disciplinary Referrals – Referrals

Referral: Liquor Law Violations

2022 – On Campus: 1 | Housing: 0 | Non-campus: 0 | Public Property: 0

2023 – On Campus: 1 | Housing: 0 | Non-campus: 0 | Public Property: 0

2024 – On Campus: 0 | Housing: 0 | Non-campus: 0 | Public Property: 0

Referral: Drug Abuse Violations

2022 – On Campus: 1 | Housing: 1 | Non-campus: 0 | Public Property: 0

2023 – On Campus: 1 | Housing: 1 | Non-campus: 0 | Public Property: 0

2024 – On Campus: 0 | Housing: 0 | Non-campus: 0 | Public Property: 0

Referral: Illegal Weapons Possession

2022 – On Campus: 0 | Housing: 0 | Non-campus: 0 | Public Property: 0

2023 – On Campus: 0 | Housing: 0 | Non-campus: 0 | Public Property: 0

2024 – On Campus: 3 | Housing: 1 | Non-campus: 0 | Public Property: 0

Notes

The statistics for Sex Offenses are also included in those incidents reported to Health Services, Health Education, the Title IX Office and the SAVP Coordinator.

In the year 2024, there were eleven (11) Hate Crimes, ten (10) were committed on Campus and one (1) on Public Property: Eight (8) counts of Vandalism in On Campus Student Housing Facilities and On Campus based on Religion, One (1) count of Vandalism in On Campus Student Housing Facilities and On Campus based on National Origin, One (1) count of Vandalism in On Campus Student Housing Facilities and On Campus based on Race and One (1) count of Aggravated Assault on Public Property based on Religion.

In the year 2023, there were two (2) Hate Crimes committed on Campus. One (1) On campus Vandalism based on Religion and One (1) On campus Intimidation motivated by Racial Bias.

In the year 2022, there were zero (0) Hate Crimes committed on Campus.

All Clery Statistics are based on the locations owned or controlled by Vassar College.

Annual Fire Safety Report

The Higher Education Opportunity Act enacted on August 14, 2008, requires institutions that maintain on-campus student housing facilities to publish an annual fire safety report that contains information about campus fire safety practices and standards of the institution. The following report details all information required by this act for Vassar College.

Definitions

The following terms are used within this report. Definitions have been obtained from the Higher Education Opportunity Act.

On-Campus Student Housing

A student housing facility that is owned or controlled by the institution, or is located on property that is owned or controlled by the institution, and is within a reasonable contiguous area that makes up the campus.

Fire

Any instance of open flame or other burning in a place not intended to contain the burning or in an uncontrolled manner.

Residence Hall Fire Drills

Fire drills are conducted in all residential buildings four times per year. New York State Office of Fire Prevention and Control staff inspect all campus buildings annually and the College corrects any identified violations consistent with the requirements of the inspection program.

Vassar College takes Fire Safety seriously and continues to enhance its programs to the College community through education, engineering, and enforcement. Educational programs are presented throughout the year to faculty, staff, and students so they are aware of the rules and safe practices. These programs, which are available at all campus locations, include identification and prevention of fire hazards, actual building evacuation procedures and drills, specific occupant response to fire emergencies, and hands-on use of fire extinguishers.

The College maintains and tests all fire alarms and automatic fire suppression systems in accordance with the appropriate New York State Fire Code and National Fire Protection Association Standard to insure system readiness and proper operation in the event of a fire emergency.

Description of Fire Safety System

Vassar maintains various fire safety systems in on-campus residential facilities.

Vassar College has adopted and developed numerous Safety Policies and Guidelines to help promote a safe living and work environment. These policies, guidelines, and other fire safety information can be accessed on the Internet at https://offices.vassar.edu/facilities-operations/ safety/fire/.

Additional information can be accessed using the following link: https://offices.vassar.edu/ residential-life/procedures/safety/fire-guide/.

Additional protection is provided by the Arlington Fire Department, who are trained for and respond to all fire incidents occurring at campus facilities.

HEOA Fire Safety Report– Description of Student Housing Fire Safety Systems