Mandatory Faculty & Staff Annual Training

How Does This Pertain to Me?

The Title IX statute prohibiting sexual harassment and discrimination in programs or activities receiving federal financial assistance is not the only statute requiring employers to train employees on matters involving sexual harassment. As of October 2018, New York State passed a law mandating all employers to provide written policy and sexual harassment training annually to all employees. One of the statutory requirements of the training is for it to be interactive. Beginning in the Fall 2023 semester, the Title IX Coordinator began providing in person and virtual training sessions to all Faculty and Staff in order to meet the compliance requirements set forth through SUNY, NYS and the United States.

Why Is This So Important?

The majority of University employees are mandated reporters; this means that when we receive actual knowledge of sexual harassment, sexual assault, dating/domestic violence and stalking that occurs on campus, we are legally obligated to make a report. 

Confidentiality vs. Privacy

It is of utmost importance to have a clear understanding of your role as a mandated reporter so you can in turn explain that to the one making the disclosure. Mandated reporters are also considered private resources; we can't keep the disclosure confidential or secret. Those incidents must be reported to the Title IX Coordinator.

The only people on campus who are confidential resources are counselors/medical professionals at Lauderdale, advocates through RESTORE and Chances & Changes or EAP professionals.

Click Here for a Descriptive Infographic: 

What Is Covered In The Training?

  • definition of sexual harassment according to NYS and Federal laws
  • examples of conduct constituting sexual harassment
  • explanation of remedies available for victims of sexual harassment
  • information of employee rights regarding processing and adjudicating sexual harassment complaints
  • role of mandated reporter and handling a disclosure

Click Here for a Guide to Handling a Disclosure: