The Title IX processes and procedures can seem overwhelming and complicated, especially if you are in the midst of a crisis. The Title IX team is available to answer any questions you have about the process and how Title IX can support you through various resources and accommodations. This FAQ page serves to clarify some commonly asked questions about the informal and formal processes.
Reach out to titleix@stolaf.edu if you have any questions.
Click on the questions below to learn more:
Informal Process FAQ
*For more information about the Informal Resolution Process, please look at this flowchart: Informal Process and reach out to titleix@stolaf.edu with any questions.
The Informal Process allows the Reporting and Responding Parties to develop a College-approved agreement that addresses the Formal Complaint, and the process only proceeds if all parties agree to participate. Either party can withdraw from the process at any point.
If you want to start the Informal Resolution Process, reach out to the Title IX Coordinator at titleix@stolaf.edu or at 507-786-3465. The reporting individual gets to choose how to move forward, and they can change their mind at any point.
The process is overseen by a trained facilitator appointed by the Title IX Coordinator.
During the Informal Resolution, the College will not compel the Reporting Party or the Responding Party to interact directly with each other.
Yes. Each party has a right to choose and consult with an advisor during this process. The advisor may be any person, including an attorney, who is not otherwise a party or witness to the reported incident.
Normally the process commences prior to the investigation phase and is completed within thirty (30) calendar days.
If the matter is not resolved during the Informal Process, it will proceed to the Investigation and Hearing Process unless the Reporting Party withdraws the Formal Complaint or the College dismisses the Formal Complaint.
Formal Processes FAQ
*For more information about the Investigation and Hearing Phases, please look at this flowchart: Formal Processes and reach out to titleix@stolaf.edu with any questions.
The Investigation Phase is initiated when a Reporting Party reports sexual harassment through a Formal Complaint. A Notice of Allegations will be issued by the College to both parties. The Investigation may be temporarily suspended if the parties agree to attempt to resolve the matter through the Informal Resolution Process (see above for FAQ and details).
In most cases, the College will retain an external investigator to conduct the investigation in a prompt, thorough, fair, and impartial way. All investigators have received annual training on issues related to sexual and gender-based harassment, sexual assault, dating violence, domestic violence, and stalking.
Yes. Each party has a right to choose and consult with an advisor of their choice (who may be, but is not required to be, an attorney) during this process. The advisor’s role is to provide advice and support to their advisee.
No. The College may dismiss a Formal Complaint or any allegations contained therein, if at any time a Reporting Party notifies the Title IX Coordinator in writing that the Reporting Party would like to withdraw the Formal Complaint or any allegations therein.
If you want to start the the Formal Grievance Process, reach out to the Title IX Coordinator at titleix@stolaf.edu or at 507-786-3465. The reporting individual gets to choose how to move forward, and they can change their mind at any point.
The hearing will be conducted by a three-person Hearing Panel. The Hearing Panel will receive annual training regarding the College’s definition of sexual harassment, the scope of the College’s education programs and activities, how to conduct a hearing, and how to serve impartially, including by avoiding prejudgment of the facts at issue, conflicts of interest, and bias.
During the Hearing, the College will not compel the Reporting Party or the Responding Party to interact directly with each other. Hearings are done virtually and during the hearing and all parties will be able to be seen on screen.
Initiating the formal process is not the same as reporting to the police. They are two separate processes.
Individuals who believe they have been subject to sexual violence (including sexual assault and sexual exploitation), dating violence, domestic violence and/or stalking are strongly encouraged to notify the Northfield Police Department. Meetings can normally be arranged on campus or at the Northfield Police Department depending upon the wishes of the Reporting Party. In most instances, reporting to the police does not require filing criminal charges, and the individual reporting to the police maintains control over whether and when criminal charges will be pursued. If the Reporting Party would like an advocate, advisor, parent or Title IX Team member to attend the meeting with the Northfield Police Department, assistance with these arrangements will also be made.
Sexual misconduct may be reported to law enforcement by contacting the Northfield Police Department:|
Emergency Number: 911
Non-Emergency Number: 507-645-4475
Parents are not notified if a reporting party and initiates a process or is a responding party in a case.
Supportive measures are available regardless of whether a report proceeds to the Grievance Process.