Confidentiality and Responsible Employees

Understanding Privacy and Confidentiality

The University is committed to protecting the privacy of all individuals involved in a report of Prohibited Conduct. The University will take reasonable steps to protect the privacy of the parties and witnesses during the pendency of the University’s applicable Grievance Process, provided that the steps do not restrict the ability of the parties to: obtain and present evidence, including by speaking to witnesses; consult with their family members, confidential resources, or advisors; or otherwise prepare for or participate in the Grievance Process. 

Confidential Resources

At the University, reports of Prohibited Conduct made directly to the Director of Campus Ministry or to a staff member in the Health and Wellness Center are confidential. These are the ONLY resources at the University where confidential reports can be made. Confidential means that the information is protected from being disclosed to anyone else, unless required or permitted by law.

The Office of Campus Ministry can be contacted at gtsmith@sjf.edu or (585) 889-3781.

Staff members in the Health and Wellness Center can be contacted at healthcenter@sjf.edu or (585) 385-8280.

Privacy

Privacy may be offered by an individual when such individual is unable to offer confidentiality under the law but will still not disclose information learned from a Complainant or witness more than necessary to comply with the law, including informing appropriate University officials. Even University officials and employees, including Responsible Employees, who cannot guarantee confidentiality, will maintain your privacy to the greatest extent possible. The information you provide to a non-confidential resource will be related only as necessary for the Title IX Coordinator to investigate and/or seek a resolution.

Responsible Employees

With the exception of those employees specified as Confidential Resources, all University employees, including faculty, staff, administrators, and students who are Resident Assistants, and Peer Mentors are Responsible Employees. Responsible Employees are mandatory reporters who are required to share fully with the Title IX Coordinator, as promptly as practical, any disclosure of Prohibited Conduct of which they are aware. The information that should be reported includes but is not limited to the identities of the parties involved, if known.

When any student informs any employee of the student’s pregnancy or related condition, unless the employee reasonably believes that the Title IX Coordinator has been notified, the employee will promptly provide that person with the Title IX Coordinator’s contact information and inform them that the Title IX Coordinator can coordinate specific actions to prevent sex discrimination and ensure the student’s equal access to University education programs or activities.