College approves new sexual misconduct policy

Fighting sexual assault on college campuses is a growing national concern thanks to advocates and victims who are working to make sexual crimes easier to report.
Addressing these crimes is part of the college’s responsibility, Cynthia Jacobson, vice president of student affairs at Allen Community College, explained to trustees Tuesday night.
Dealing with sexual assault falls under Title IX, Jacobson said, the same law that deals with equality in athletics. Both have to do with the nondiscrimination policy at the college.
Sexual misconduct violates Title VII of the Civil Rights Acts of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 and the Kansas Act Against Discrimination.
Jacobson went through the college’s policies and procedures for sexual misconduct and said a definition of sexual misconduct and consent were needed. This policy applies to students, faculty and staff.
“The individual filing a complaint is encouraged by the college to report it to the college and law enforcement,” Jacobson said.
Jacobson said the college will take prompt action to protect and support the complainant. An investigation will be conducted by an individual who has been trained in the policy. She said in the past the college has waited to act until the accused is dealt with in court. This is no longer acceptable.
The college may now impose a “no contact” order while the investigation is ongoing. Before, if a student felt uncomfortable in class they could ask to be removed. Now the perpetrator can be removed from the class.
Disciplinary proceedings against a student may result in sanctions imposed by the college including written warnings, change in academic or employment status, suspension, expulsion, etc.
Either party of the investigation may make a petition to appeal within 10 days of the disciplinary outcome.
ACC President John Masterson said he understands why the policy is put in place but feels the college doesn’t belong involved in matters like this, law enforcement does.
“The problem we’ve had in the past is treating the victim and accused accurately,” Jacobson said. “We’re not law enforcement nor do we have that training.”
The policy was approved by trustees.

ALLEN hosted a meeting with Washburn University to focus on student transfer and student transitions. Twenty-two individuals from Washburn attended. Jon Marshall, vice president of academic affairs, said course outlines were shared along with transfer guides and transcript processes. There will be a follow-up summit on the Washburn campus in spring 2015.
Bob Reavis, Dean of Burlingame campus, said he has reached out to Coffey County site coordinators. As part of economic development the Burlingame campus is trying to offer evening classes for adults and those who are interested.
Tosca Harris, Dean of Iola campus, said the music department is working with Labette Community College over a video class. Labette offers music theory and teaches it to Allen students via video.
Sherrie Riebel, Allen County Clerk, sent the trustees a letter stating the ACC tax levy for 2014 is 18.752 mills, a drop from the estimated 18.770 mills.