Document
Owner
Office of the Title IX Coordinator
Effective Date
October 18, 2026
Last Reviewed
October 18, 2026
Next Review
October 2027
1. Statement of Non-Discrimination
Neponset University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, genetic information, disability, veteran status, marital status, pregnancy or pregnancy-related condition, or any other characteristic protected by law in admission, employment, instruction, or any institutional program or activity.
2. Compliance Framework
This policy implements the institution’s obligations under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, the Age Discrimination Act of 1975, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Massachusetts Fair Employment Practices Act (M.G.L. c. 151B), the Massachusetts Equal Rights Act (M.G.L. c. 93 s 102), and other applicable laws.
3. Title IX & Sexual Misconduct
Sexual harassment, sexual assault, dating violence, domestic violence, and stalking are forms of sex discrimination prohibited by Title IX and by this policy. Neponset prohibits these behaviors in all institutional settings, including online courses, communications, and any in-person activities, regardless of where they occur if they create a hostile educational environment.
Neponset has designated a Title IX Coordinator, who can be reached at hello@neponset.co. Reports may be filed by email or in writing.
4. Reporting Options
Confidential support: Learners may seek confidential support from licensed mental health, medical, or victim services professionals. Confidential resources are not required to report to Neponset.
Formal complaint: Learners may file a formal Title IX complaint with the Title IX Coordinator, who will explain the process and supportive measures available.
Law enforcement: Learners may report criminal conduct to law enforcement at any time.
External: Complaints may be filed with the U.S. Department of Education Office for Civil Rights, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, or the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination.
5. Supportive Measures
Whether or not a formal complaint is filed, Neponset offers supportive measures to all parties, including no-contact directives, course accommodations, deadline extensions, and counseling referrals.
6. Investigation & Resolution
Formal complaints are investigated and adjudicated under the procedures set forth in the institution’s separate Title IX Procedures Manual, which provides for written notice to all parties, the right to advisors, the right to review and respond to evidence, a live hearing where required by law, written findings, and the right to appeal.
7. Non-Retaliation
Retaliation against any person who reports, supports, or participates in a Title IX or non-discrimination process is prohibited and is itself a separate violation of this policy.
8. Training
All Neponset administrators, instructors, and staff complete annual training on this policy, including training specific to Title IX investigators and decision-makers.
9. Counsel-Required Review
This policy is a draft. Title IX is a heavily regulated area subject to evolving federal regulations. Before adoption, this policy and the accompanying Title IX Procedures Manual must be reviewed by counsel with current expertise in higher-education Title IX compliance.