GCU Sexual Misconduct Policy

Grand Canyon University does not tolerate retaliation. Retaliation is any adverse effect against any person who is involved with the filing of, or investigation into, a claim of sexual harassment or sexual misconduct. Retaliation includes, but is not limited to, threats, menacing behavior, coercion or discriminatory actions. Retaliation is a serious violation and may result in immediate removal from GCU. 

GCU has a mandatory employee reporting policy for faculty and staff. All GCU employees must notify the Title IX office of any alleged or possible sexual harassment and sexual misconduct. If you would like the details of an incident to be kept confidential, you can seek help or advice from: 

• On Campus: licensed professional counselors, health services staff and medical providers at the Canyon Health and Wellness Clinic
• Off Campus: professional counselors, crisis counselors and other local agencies or resources

All other GCU staff and faculty are required to report any alleged or possible sexual harassment and sexual misconduct. 

GCU is required to thoroughly investigate all allegations of sexual misconduct and violence, taking any actions necessary to maintain your safety and that of the university at large, regardless of whether a formal complaint is made. You will be informed of whatever actions are taken. If a formal investigation takes place, only a certain degree of confidentiality can be assured. The students involved, including witnesses, will be apprised of the investigation to the degree necessary. University officials will be informed on a need-to-know basis. If a complainant requests confidentiality, GCU will do the utmost to respect their wishes, but ultimately it is at the Title IX coordinator’s discretion if a formal investigation will take place. 

To the extent permitted by law, publicly available recordkeeping will be accomplished without identifying the victim or accuser. Reports of crimes to the campus community will withhold the names of victims. Examples include Clery Act reporting and Federal Timely Warning Obligations.

• The right to an equitable investigation and resolution of all credible allegations of prohibited harassment or discrimination made in good faith to university officials.
• The right to timely written notice of all alleged violations, including the identity of the parties involved (if known), the precise misconduct being alleged, the date and location of the alleged misconduct (if known), the implicated policies and procedures and possible sanctions.
• The right to timely written notice of any material adjustments to the allegations (e.g., additional incidents or allegations, additional Complainants, unsubstantiated allegations) and any attendant adjustments needed to clarify potentially implicated policy violations.
• The right not to have any personally identifiable information released to the public without consent provided, except to the extent permitted by law.
• The right to be treated with respect by university officials.
• The right to have university policies and procedures followed without material deviation.
• The right not to be pressured to mediate or otherwise informally resolve any reported misconduct involving violence, including sexual violence.
• The right not to be discouraged by university officials from reporting sexual misconduct or discrimination to both on-campus and off-campus authorities.
• The right to be informed by university officials of options to notify proper law enforcement authorities, including on-campus and local police, and the option(s) to be assisted by university authorities in notifying such authorities, if the party so chooses. This also includes the right not to be pressured to report, as well.
• The right to have allegations of violations of this Policy responded to promptly and with sensitivity by university law enforcement and/or other university officials.
• The right to be informed of available interim actions and supportive measures, such as counseling; advocacy; health care; student financial aid; or other services, both on campus and in the community.
• The right to a university-implemented no-contact order [or a no-trespass order against a non-affiliated third party] when a person has engaged in or threatens to engage in stalking, threatening, harassing or other improper conduct that presents a danger to the welfare of the party or others.
• The right to be informed of available assistance in changing academic, living and/or working situations after an alleged incident of discrimination, harassment and/or retaliation, if such changes are reasonably available. No formal report, or investigation, either campus or criminal, needs to occur before this option is available. Such actions may include, but are not limited to:
  • Relocating an on-campus student’s housing to a different on-campus location
  • Changing an employee’s work environment (e.g., reporting structure, office/workspace relocation)
  • Exam, paper and/or assignment rescheduling or adjustment
  • Receiving an incomplete in, or a withdrawal from, a class (may be retroactive)
  • Transferring class sections
  • Temporary withdrawal/leave of absence (may be retroactive)
  • Campus safety escorts
  • Alternative course completion options
• The right to have the university maintain such actions for as long as necessary and for supportive measures to remain private, provided privacy does not impair the university’s ability to provide the supportive measures.
• The right to receive sufficiently advanced, written notice of any meeting or interview involving the other party, when possible.
• The right to ask the Investigator(s) and Decision-maker(s) to identify and question relevant witnesses, including expert witnesses.
• The right to provide the Investigator(s)/Decision-maker(s) with a list of questions that, if deemed relevant by the Investigator(s)/Chair, may be asked of any party or witness.
• The right not to have irrelevant prior sexual history or character admitted as evidence.
• The right to know the relevant and directly related evidence obtained and to respond to that evidence.
• The right to a fair opportunity to provide the Investigator(s) with their account of the alleged misconduct and have that account be on the record.
• In the case of a formal Title IX investigation - the right to receive a copy of the investigation report, including all factual, policy and/or credibility analyses performed and all relevant and directly related evidence available and used to produce the investigation report, subject to the privacy limitations imposed by state and federal law, prior to the hearing, and the right to have at least ten (10) business days to review the report prior to the hearing.
• In the case of a formal Title IX investigation, the right to respond to the investigation report, including comments providing any additional relevant evidence after the opportunity to review the investigation report, and to have that response on the record.
• The right to be informed of the names of all witnesses whose information will be used to make a finding, in advance of that finding, when relevant.
• The right to regular updates on the status of the investigation and/or resolution.
• The right to have reports of alleged Policy violations addressed by Investigators, Title IX Coordinators, and Decision-maker(s) who have received relevant annual training.
• The right to preservation of privacy, to the extent possible and permitted by law.
• The right to petition that any university representative in the process be recused on the basis of disqualifying bias and/or conflict of interest.
• The right to have an Advisor of their choice to accompany and assist the party in all meetings and/or interviews associated with the resolution process.
• The right to the use of the appropriate standard of evidence, preponderance of the evidence, to make a finding after an objective evaluation of all relevant evidence.
• The right to be present, including presence via remote technology, during all testimony given and evidence presented during any formal grievance hearing.
• The right to have an impact statement considered by the Decision-maker(s) following a determination of responsibility for any allegation, but prior to sanctioning.
• The right to be promptly informed in a written Notice of Outcome letter of the finding(s) and sanction(s) of the resolution process and a detailed rationale therefore (including an explanation of how credibility was assessed), delivered simultaneously (without undue delay) to the parties.
• The right to be informed in writing of when a decision by the university is considered final and any changes to the sanction(s) that occur before the decision is finalized.
• The right to be informed of the opportunity to appeal the finding(s) and sanction(s) of the resolution process, and the procedures for doing so in accordance with the standards for appeal established by the university.
• The right to a fundamentally fair resolution as defined in these procedures.

If you’ve experienced or witnessed discriminatory behavior, this is a safe space to share your concern. Reports can be submitted anonymously, but full disclosure helps us respond more effectively. Help promote a safe and welcoming campus community by reporting misconduct or discrimination, including sex-based violations, protected class discrimination and pregnancy-related concerns.

Report a Concern: Title IX & Non-Discrimination 

The following locations can provide medical care and also preserve evidence through a sexual assault forensic exam. 

Phoenix Baptist Hospital
2000 W. Bethany Home Road
Phoenix, AZ 85015

Phoenix Family Advocacy Center
2120 N. Central Ave. (2nd Floor)
Phoenix, AZ 85004

Maryvale Hospital
5102 W. Campbell Ave.
Phoenix, AZ 85031

John C. Lincoln North Mountain Hospital
250 E. Dunlap Ave. 
Phoenix, AZ 85020

Scottsdale Family Advocacy Center
10225 E. Via Linda
Scottsdale, AZ 85258

St. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center
350 W. Thomas Road
Phoenix, AZ 85013

You can speak to one of the national hotlines that specializes in assisting those in the immediate aftermath of sexual violence in complete confidence.

• National Sexual Assault Hotline: 800-656-HOPE or chat online at online.rainn.org 
• National Domestic Violence Hotline: 800-799-SAFE
• EMPACT Sexual Assault Hotline: 480-736-4949

• Counseling Services: Make an appointment at GCU’s Canyon Health and Wellness Clinic by calling 855-GCU-LOPE.
• GCU No-Contact Order: GCU can issue a “no-contact order” which prohibits all in-person and electronic contact between the parties involved. We can also assist with changes to academic, living or work situations. 
• Protective Order: You may be able to obtain a protective order from a court; a violation of the protection order can result in criminal charges being issued. GCU will enforce external protective orders. You can reach GCU’s Department of Public Safety at 855-GCU-LOPE for more information. 

To file a criminal complaint, contact the Phoenix Police Department or GCU’s Department of Public Safety. Public Safety can help you obtain information regarding reporting to the police or obtaining an order of protection as well as assist you with filing a criminal complaint. You may also contact the Phoenix Police Department directly at 602-262-6151. A criminal complaint is subject to the applicable criminal laws and statutes. A GCU Title IX policy violation does not always equate to a criminal violation, but in many cases overlap may occur. It is important to note that GCU is required to conduct their own Title IX investigation, regardless of a criminal complaint being filed with the police or not. 

To file a complaint anonymously, use the TIPS Online Reporting Tool on the Public Safety website. If you choose to provide your contact information, GCU will contact you to offer information and support. If you do not provide contact information, GCU’s ability to thoroughly investigate and respond to the report will be severely limited. 

• The Title IX coordinator at TitleIX@gcu.edu or 602-639-5900
• A deputy Title IX coordinator
• Public Safety at 855-GCU-LOPE
• Any resident assistant (RA) or resident director (RD)
• Any staff or faculty member 

If you do not wish to file a formal complaint but do want help with finding resources to assist you, contact the Canyon Health and Wellness Clinic or Student Care Office. Anything discussed with medical personnel, licensed mental health counselors or office staff will remain completely confidential. In addition to offering medical and counseling services, both the Health and Wellness Clinic and the Student Care Office can connect you with other campus resources that may be beneficial to you. It is important to note that all other campus faculty and staff are mandatory reporters.

• Following the conclusion of an investigation, a formal investigation report will be prepared. The parties will have the opportunity to review prior to a determination.
• The designated decision makers will review the formal investigation report and determine if a policy violation has been established and will assign appropriate sanctions as needed.
• The preponderance of the evidence standard, “more likely than not,” is used to determine if a policy violation did or did not occur.
• Complainants and Respondents will receive a written determination.
• Upon the determination of a policy violation, appropriate sanctions are promptly issued to the Respondent.
• GCU may also take responsive action to address any verifiable claims of retaliatory behavior towards any individual who complains of or is involved in the filing, investigation or resolution of a sex-based harassment or discrimination claim.

View Policy Violation and Sanctioning 

• When the parties agree to resolve the matter informally, in a manner agreeable to all parties;
• When the Respondent accepts responsibility for violating policy and desires to accept a sanction and end the resolution process; or
• When the Title IX Coordinator can resolve the matter informally by providing supportive measures to remedy the situation.

Discrimination, misconduct and bias — whether based on sex, pregnancy or protected class status — undermine our campus values. Concerns can be reported confidentially or anonymously, though providing full information allows for a more effective response.

What to Expect: Reports may lead to an investigative process that includes interviews with involved parties and witnesses and a review of evidence. All findings are compiled into a final report to guide resolution. Your report can make a difference.

Report a Concern: Title IX & Non-Discrimination 

Below are just some of the resources at GCU to assist you with your health and safety.

• Medical assistance is available at the Canyon Health and Wellness Clinic. All discussions with medical professionals are considered completely confidential. Call 855-GCU-LOPE to schedule an appointment. 
• Counseling services are also offered through the Canyon Health and Wellness Clinic. Male and female counselors are available. All conversations with counselors are considered completely confidential. Call 855-GCU-LOPE to schedule an appointment.
• Further academic assistance can be obtained through GCU’s Student Disability Services. Contact them at 855-GCU-LOPE. 
• The Safety Escort Program provides a Public Safety officer to escort you upon request. Call 855-GCU-LOPE and provide them with your name, location and destination. 
• Emergency blue light phones serve as a direct connection to Public Safety officers and should be used if you are feeling scared or have an immediate safety concern. 
• The Department of Spiritual Life on campus is available to address any spiritual needs or concerns. Call 855-GCU-LOPE to learn more. 
• Learning assistance is offered through our Academic Centers for Excellence (ACE) Centers. 

GCU takes whatever measures necessary to create a safe environment for all students. During the course of the investigation and upon its completion, various measures may be taken by GCU in order to ensure the physical, mental and emotional well-being of students. You may request some of these measures be taken on your behalf, even if the university does not pursue a formal investigation; however, interim measures cannot be applied retroactively from the reporting date. These measures include, but are not limited to:

• Academic accommodations including, but not limited to:
  • Transferring to another section of a lecture or laboratory 
  • Rescheduling an academic assignment or test 
  • Accessing academic support (i.e. tutoring) 
  • Arranging for incompletes, a leave of absence or withdrawal from campus 
  • Preserving eligibility for academic, athletic or other scholarships, financial aid, internships, study abroad or foreign student visas
• Providing medical and mental health services, including counseling
• Arranging changes in campus housing and/or dining locations
• Providing assistance in finding alternative housing
• Assistance in arranging for alternative employment arrangements and/or changing work schedules
• A “no-contact” directive pending the outcome of an investigation. Such a directive serves as notice to both parties that they must not have verbal, electronic, written or third-party communication with one another.
• Providing an escort to ensure that you can move safely between school programs and activities 
• Transportation accommodations or parking arrangements to ensure safety and access to other services
• Assistance identifying additional resources or assistance including off-campus and community advocacy, support and services
• In serious cases, an interim suspension may be considered in order to ensure overall campus safety

If you are in need of assistance, there are resources available to you outside of GCU. Any interactions with these community agencies remains confidential based upon their standards of privacy. Pursuing any of these resources in no way obligates you to pursue a formal investigation or otherwise act upon what happened. 

Law Enforcement Resources:

Glendale Police Department Victim Assistance
623-930-3030
glendaleaz.com/advocacycenter/

Maricopa County Attorney – Victim Assistance Program 
602-506-8522
maricopacountyattorney.org/serving-victims/

Peoria Police Department’s Victim Assistance Services
623-773-7019
peoriaaz.gov/NewSecondary.aspx?id=45173

Phoenix Prosecutor’s Office – Victim Services Program 
602-261-8192
phoenix.gov/law/victims

Medical Resources:

Phoenix Baptist Hospital 
2000 W. Bethany Home Road
Phoenix, AZ 85015
abrazohealth.com/our-locations/abrazo-central-campus

Phoenix Family Advocacy Center
2120 N. Central Ave. (2nd Floor)
Phoenix, AZ 85004

Maryvale Hospital
5102 W. Campbell Ave.
Phoenix, AZ 85031
abrazohealth.com/our-locations/abrazo-maryvale-campus 

John C. Lincoln North Mountain Hospital 
250 E. Dunlap Ave.
Phoenix, AZ 85020
honorhealth.com/locations/hospitals/john-c-lincoln-medical-center

Scottsdale Family Advocacy Center 
10224 E. Via Linda
Scottsdale, AZ 85258

St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center 
350 W. Thomas Road
Phoenix, AZ 85013
dignityhealth.org/stjosephs

Advanced Urgent Care 
5201 N. 19th Ave., Suite 100
Phoenix, AZ 85015 
fastmed.com/locations/fastmed-locations-by-state/arizona/phoenix-az-north-19th-avenue

Next Care Urgent Care 
1701 E. Thomas Road, Suite A-104
Phoenix, AZ 85016
nextcare.com/locations/az/phoenix-thomas/

Hotlines and Community Resources:

National Domestic Violence Hotline
800-799-SAFE
thehotline.org

RAINN National Sexual Assault Hotline
800-656-HOPE
rainn.org/get-help/national-sexual-assault-online-hotline

Arizona Coalition to End Sexual & Domestic Violence
602-279-2900
azcadv.org

EMPACT Arizona Sexual Assault Hotline
480-736-4949
empact-spc.com

• Talk to your friends honestly and openly about sexual assault.
• Do not just be a bystander – if you see something, intervene in any way you can.
• Trust your gut. If something looks like it might be a bad situation, it probably is.
• Be direct. Ask someone who looks like they may need help if they are okay.
• Get someone to help you if you see something – enlist a friend, RA, teacher or parent to help step in.
• Keep an eye on someone who has had too much to drink.
• If you see someone who is too intoxicated to consent, enlist their friends to help them leave safely.
• Recognize the potential danger of someone who talks about planning to target another person at a party.
• Be aware if someone is deliberately trying to intoxicate, isolate or corner someone else.
• Create a distraction, draw attention to the situation or separate the people you are concerned about.
• Understand that if someone does not or cannot consent to sex, it is rape.
• Never blame the victim.

• Be aware of your surroundings.
• Try to avoid isolated areas, and do not allow yourself to be isolated with someone you do not know or trust.
• Walk with a purpose. Even if you do not know where you are going, act like you do.
• Trust your instincts.
• Make sure your cell phone is with you.
• Try to stick with your friends. You can help keep each other safe.
• Do not leave your drink unattended, and do not accept drinks from people you do not know or trust.
• Be true to yourself. Do not feel obligated to do anything you do not want to do.
• Lie. If you are uncomfortable or afraid, make an excuse to leave.