Effective August 18, 2025
This new policy governs conduct that falls under federal Title IX regulations. Key features include:
- A dedicated policy and grievance process for sexual harassment under Title IX
- Continued commitment to provide support and efforts to stop, prevent, and remedy sexual harassment
View Grievance Procedures (PDF)
When Do These Procedures Apply?
The Sexual Harassment Grievance Procedures are applicable when:
- The reported behavior meets the definition of sexual harassment as outlined in the University’s Sexual Harassment Policy.
- The conduct took place in the context of a University program or activity.
- The individual impacted was participating in or seeking to participate in a University program at the time of the report.
If a report doesn’t meet these criteria, it may still be addressed under other University policies, such as the Discrimination, Harassment, and Retaliation Procedures. Title IX Coordinator is available to help determine the appropriate process.
What to Expect from the Process
Initial Response at the University of Montana Western
When a report is submitted, the following steps typically occur:
1. Outreach
The Title IX Coordinator will contact the individual impacted to share information about available resources, offer supportive measures, and discuss options.
2. Intake Meeting
The Title IX Coordinator may meet with the individual impacted to gather preliminary information, explain applicable policies, discuss jurisdiction, and review available resolution options.
3. Supportive Measures
Supportive measures are offered regardless of whether a formal complaint is filed.
Formal Complaint and Grievance Process
If a formal complaint is filed, the formal grievance procedures will be administered by the University of Montana’s Office of Conflict, Resolution & Policy (CRP).
The formal grievance process generally includes:
- Written notice to both parties
- An investigation conducted by a trained investigator
- A live hearing before a neutral decision-maker
- A written determination
- An opportunity for appeal on specified grounds
Hearings are conducted virtually.
For detailed information about the investigation, hearing procedures, evidentiary standards, advisor participation, and appeal rights, please visit UM’s Equal Opportunity & Title IX webpage.
Adaptive Resolution Process
After a formal complaint is filed, the parties may voluntarily agree to participate in an Adaptive Resolution Process, such as mediation, restorative practices, or facilitated dialogue, when appropriate and consistent with federal regulations.
Adaptive Resolution cannot be used to resolve allegations that an employee sexually harassed a student.
Support Throughout the Process
Navigating a report of sexual harassment — whether you are the individual impacted or the individual responding — can feel overwhelming. You do not have to navigate it alone.
At the University of Montana Western, the Title IX Coordinator provides clear communication, coordination of supportive measures, and ongoing assistance throughout the process.
The Title IX Coordinator can help with:
- Explaining your rights and available options
- Coordinating supportive measures
- Connecting you with confidential and non-confidential campus or community resources
- Providing updates about procedural steps
- Supporting continued access to education or employment
Once a formal complaint is filed, staff from the University of Montana’s Office of Conflict, Resolution & Policy (CRP) will guide the investigation and hearing process and remain available to answer procedural questions.