COVID-19 and Title IX FAQs

Through the duration of the COVID-19 outbreak, the Title IX Office will continue to provide resources and services to members of our campus community. All policies and procedures associated with Title IX, Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) and NYS Education Law 129B remain in effect. 

The Title IX Office has provided a list of Frequently Asked Questions for students, faculty and staff. Our office will continue to monitor and follow the guidance directed by campus leadership and provide updates as necessary.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the Title IX Coordinator, Maggie Wetter at 607-753-4550 or titleix@cortland.edu

For the most up-to-date information on SUNY Cortland's response to COVID-19, visit the SUNY Cortland Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) Information Page.

FAQs for Students

Can I still make a report to the Title IX Office?

Yes. Students can make a report to the Title IX Office at any time. Reports can be made through the following options:

Do Title IX policies still apply while not on campus?

Title IX applies to all SUNY Cortland students regardless of their location. Title IX resources are available to students who are enrolled in coursework, whether the material is delivered on-campus, online or abroad. 

What rights do I have while studying remotely?

Students who experience sexual or intimate partner violence have all the rights afforded to them, as outlined in the New York State Students' Bill of Rights, regardless of where they are located. These rights include but are not limited to:

  • The right to make a report to law enforcement or choose not to report.
  • The right to report an incident to the institution.
  • The right to be protected by SUNY Cortland from retaliation.

SUNY Cortland is committed to providing students with available resources and reasonable accommodations, to the best of our ability. For questions about resources or request, please contact the Title IX Coordinator at titleix@cortland.edu.

Can I still pursue disciplinary action if I file a report?

Yes. Students who report an act of sexual violence, interpersonal violence, stalking and/or sexual harassment, may request an investigation into the incident. Investigations may be conducted by the Title IX Investigator, Human Resources and/or law enforcement, depending on the incident. The Title IX Coordinator will work with each student to ensure the appropriate investigator is assigned to each incident. 

Can the Title IX Office still assist with accommodations?

The Title IX Coordinator can continue to identify interim measures and accommodations to protect the parties involved in a report or investigation that is taking place. The Title IX Office will offer accommodations in accordance with the current guidance and legislation related to COVID-19.

What resources are available in my local area?

Though resources will vary depending on your location, the Title IX Office will help students find resources and services in their local area including advocacy centers, medical facilities and mental health services. 

To find local and national resources, visit the SUNY Sexual Assault and Violence Response (SAVR) website.

FAQs for Faculty and Staff

Is the Title IX Office open?

Though our staffing operations continue to be adjusted due to COVID-19 outbreak, the Title IX Office is still able to receive and respond to reports of sexual and interpersonal violence as well as provide resources and accommodations to students, faculty, staff and visitors. Our office will follow all guidelines set by the institution and will notify the campus community of any possible changes to our operation. 

Have reporting requirements change?

All faculty and staff should continue to abide by the reporting requirements previously set by the University, SUNY and their respective bargaining units. Faculty and staff who are designated as "responsible employees" or Campus Security Authorities (CSA) are still obligated to submit a report when they witness or learn about a Title IX violation. If you are unsure if you are requited to report, please contact the Title IX Coordinator

Are students still able to submit reports?

Yes. Students are still able to have reports of sexual violence, interpersonal violence and/or sexual harassment submitted to the Title IX Office. Students may opt to report via a campus employee or self-report via:

Can the Title IX Office still assist with accommodations?

The Title IX Coordinator will work with each students on a case-by-case basis in order to provide accommodations that will ensure a limited hindrance to their academic coursework. We understand that our ability to provide accommodations may be impacted by the COVID-19 outbreak and the Title IX Coordinator will work closely with faculty and associate deans as necessary. 

What resources can I offer my students if necessary?

In addition to the Title IX Office, SUNY has provided an online resource that may assist members of our community with finding local and national resources. Faculty and staff are encouraged to inform students to visit the SUNY Sexual Assault and Violence Response (SAVR) website. 

What does a disclosure look like in an online classroom.

Students may disclose information regarding a current or previous experience through a discussion board response, essay, presentation or group activity. Faculty should report any potential Title IX violation to the Title IX Coordinator. 

It is strongly encouraged that faculty notify students of their reporting obligation. Additionally, it is important to remind students that they are not required to meet with the Title IX Coordinator and that their information will be kept private. 

Updated March 30, 2020

Contact Us

Office Hours: 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 
Location: Miller Building, Suite 309
Phone: 607-753-2263

Maggie Wetter
Title IX Coordinator
Miller Building, 309

Samuel Halligan
Deputy Title IX Coordinator
Miller Building, 309

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