Systemwide Review of Draft Appendix E of Student Handbook: Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment Student Investigation and Adjudication Framework

To: UC Santa Cruz Community

From: Title IX Office Director Isabel Dees

The UC Office of the President is seeking review and comment on the proposed draft of the Student Handbook's Appendix E: Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment Student Investigation and Adjudication Framework. 
 
In January, an appellate court ruled that California colleges and universities must hold hearings to resolve sexual misconduct cases in which the respondent is a student, sanctions are potentially severe, and credibility is a central issue. UC took immediate steps to comply with this state ruling by issuing an interim version of Appendix E, which affords parties with a hearing when a case results in a suspension or dismissal. 
At the same time, the UC Office of the President formed a working group that included student, staff, and faculty representatives to identify the best way to meet the court’s requirements while providing a process that treats parties with respect and compassion, and results in just outcomes. The proposed draft reflects the efforts of the group, the input of key campus stakeholders, and the UC Office of General Counsel.
 
The draft version of Appendix E is available online.  
 
Our campus Title IX Office also will hold in-person workshops with campus partners to review the changes in policy and gather stakeholder comments. The office also will hold a public listening session to gather public comment. Announcements regarding these workshops will be posted on the Title IX website
 
Please submit comments to the Policy Coordination Office at pco@ucsc.edu by the end of business on July 8, 2019.