Schools that understand that sexual harassment can place them in violation of Title IX are in the best position to prevent harassment and to lessen the harm to students if harassment occurs. Use these suggestions to develop a safer, more responsive campus environment:

• Develop guidelines for complying with Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972
  Title IX is the federal law that prohibits sex discrimination in any educational program that receives federal funding. (Learn more about Title IX and sexual assault.)
  
  
• Develop guidelines for complying with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Crime Statistics Act (the "Clery Act")
  This federal law requires colleges and universities receiving federal funds to submit annual reports containing campus security policies and crime statistics, including rape and sexual assault, to the U. S. Department of Education. Learn more about the Clery Act from Security on Campus.
  
  
• Develop a sexual assault policy manual
  The manual should outline the school's positions, guidelines, and rules and include resources for students, faculty, and administrators. Western Illinois University has an example a sexual assault policy manual.
  
  
• Develop educational materials aimed specifically toward students
  Make the content accessible, current, and relevant, and ensure that students receive the information. For an example, see Wesleyan University's Sexual Assault Pamphlet for Students.
  
  
• Promote education and awareness from day one
  Starting with freshman orientation, include student awareness and education programs about sexual assault on campus. Require all freshmen, both athletes and nonathletes, to attend regular student orientation at the beginning of freshman year. Although many sports interfere with the freshman orientation schedule, the entire freshman class should be involved. Also ensure that all student athlete and athletic department employee handbooks include information on sexual assault and harassment. Norwich University has a sample of its policies for students.
  
  
• Develop response protocols that are clearly understood and disseminated
  Work to increase student awareness of these reporting and response options. For an example of how this can be done, read the response plan for the University of Cincinnati.
  
  
• Assess student activities on a regular basis
  Do this to ensure that the practices and behavior of students do not violate the institution's policies against sexual harassment and sexual assault. An example of this type of assessment is the Independent Investigative Commission Examining the University of Colorado's Athletic Recruitment Practices, Final Report to the University of Colorado Board of Regents, May 14, 2004.
  
  
• Establish an independent counsel
  Consider establishing a legal position outside of the college’s general counsel’s office to advise victims of their legal rights and options.

Note: All resources were verified September 28, 2004.