Mandatory Reporters
The Department of Education's Office for Civil Rights (OCR), which puts forth guidance for educational institutions in meeting their Title IX obligations, states that any "Mandatory Reporter" that knows or should have known about possible sexual harassment (including sexual violence), must report it to the institution's Title IX Coordinator so that the institution can eliminate the harassment, prevent its recurrence, and address its effects.
Mandatory Reporters include any employee who has the authority to address sexual harassment, has the duty to report such conduct to the institution, or whom a student could reasonably believe has this authority or duty.
At Appalachian, any employee of the University who has supervisory responsibilities, any employee of the Office of Human Resources, the Athletics Department and any employee of the University's Residence Life staff is considered a Mandatory Reporter. This includes faculty members, adjunct instructors, academic advisors, supervisors, graduate student teaching assistants, and resident assistants.
Our students form important and influential connections with our faculty. Students view their faculty as trusted mentors and guides along their educational and professional journey. Because of this, students often look to their faculty for support and advice during times of distress.
Mandatory Reporters at Appalachian are:
- Athletics Staff
- Faculty
- Residence Life Staff
- Supervisors
- Office of Human Resources Staff
Reporting Obligations
Reports of Sexual and Relationship Violence
- Any Mandatory Reporter who obtains knowledge of conduct that falls under sexual misconduct, dating violence, domestic violence, or stalking must report such information within 72 hours .
- The primary purpose of making such a report is to ensure that the person affected by the alleged prohibited conduct receives information about available resources and support, as well as processes to address the prohibited conduct. Title IX Mandatory Reporters will safeguard an individual's privacy, but may not promise confidentiality.
Reports of Child Abuse and Neglect
- In North Carolina, any person or institution who knowingly or wantonly fails to report a case of juvenile abuse or neglect, or inhibits its reporting by another, may be charged with a Class 1 misdemeanor. This law is often referred to as the Mandatory Reporting Law.
- Mandatory Reporters are required to report suspected and/or alleged child abuse and neglect to the County Department of Social Services as soon as possible.
- Reporting does not require proof that child abuse or neglect occurred.
Disclosing Reporting Options
Mandatory Reporters are encouraged to provide notice to all colleagues, students, and visitors of their reporting obligations as appropriate. This may include including this obligation in the signature line of their email, documenting reporting obligations in course syllabi, or providing a general reminder when conversations may include or prompt disclosure. For additional assistance, please contact the office.