Sexual Assault Policy

Sexual assaultand sexual misconduct are incompatible with the climate of respect, trust, and inquiry integral to the Mount Holyoke College community. Faculty, staff, students, and visitors are expected to contribute to an intellectual, social, and employment environment that is free of unwelcome sexual behaviors and unwanted sexual experiences.

The College encourages members of the College community to report any incident of sexual assault or sexual misconduct promptly, and accepts third-party reports. All reports are taken seriously and will be investigated.

Maintaining confidentiality of survivors’ identities is an extremely high priority. Reporting an incident does not require that a survivor take legal action. The College’s primary concern is ensuring the safety of students and employees and providing access to services.

The College recognizes that sexual assault and sexual misconduct can occur between individuals of any gender identity/expression and/or sexual orientation, and does not discriminate in the provision of services and supports.

In this policy, the term “sexual assault” is inclusive of rape, sexual assault, sexual misconduct, and unwanted sexual experience.
In this policy, “woman,” “she,” and “her” refer to a person of any gender /gender identity/expression.

Definitions
Consent
Role of Alcohol and Other Drugs
Reporting