Someone accused of sexual misconduct is considered “Not Responsible” for violating University policy, unless and until the evidence proves a violation has occurred. The burden is on Auburn University to gather evidence and investigate the allegations. In some instances, however, in which the alleged conduct is so egregious, the Title IX Coordinator may determine that a student should be interimly removed or an employee placed on paid administrative leave while the investigation takes place.
Student Counseling and Psychological Services is a free resource on campus for students. Their office is located in the Auburn University Medical Clinic. You can contact them directly by phone number is 334-844-5123 or visit their website at http://wp.auburn.edu/scs/. In addition, another confidential resource is the University Ombudsperson, Kevin Coonrod, who can answer questions regarding University policies and procedures and help you explore options. He can be reached during regular business hours at (334) 844-7170 or via email at ombuds@auburn.edu.
The university does not contact the parents of students involved in sexual misconduct incidents. However, the university will be able to share the details of your case with your permission and if you complete a FERPA release for your parent or guardian. We encourage students to tell their parents or guardians about these types of incidents.
You are allowed to have someone accompany you to any meeting with the investigating officers and to the hearing. We refer to those individuals as advisors. If you plan on bringing your own advisor, you should let the Title IX investigators know. You should also bring any evidence that will be beneficial for the investigators to see. This includes text messages, pictures, videos, social media messages, and any other information that you deem important. Bring a list of witnesses if you have any.
You should be careful about immediately contacting the Complainant. If there is a No Contact Directive in place and you contact the Complainant, you may be in violation of that directive. Even if there is not a No Contact Directive in place, your contact may be viewed as Retaliation against the Complainant for filing the complaint. The best course of action is to contact the Title IX office with questions.
Last updated: 10/20/2023