Victim/Survivor/Reporter Bill of Rights
Maria College is committed to maintaining a community environment that fosters respect for the dignity and worth of each individual. The dignity of the individual should never be violated in any way, and the College community views with seriousness offenses against any person. Maria College is committed to providing options, support and assistance to victims/survivors of sexual misconduct, sexual harassment, domestic violence, dating violence, and/or stalking so that they can continue to participate in college-wide and campus programs, activities, and employment.
Maria College is committed to addressing reports of sexual misconduct, sexual harassment, domestic violence, dating violence, and/or stalking in a prompt, fair, equitable, and impartial manner. All victims/survivors/reporters of these crimes and violations have the following rights regardless of whether the crime or violation occurs on campus, off campus, or while studying abroad.
Victims/Survivors/Reporters have the right to:
- Make a report to local law enforcement and/or state police;
- Have disclosures of domestic violence, dating violence, stalking and sexual assault treated seriously;
- Make decision about whether or not to disclose a crime or violation and participate in the conduct process and/or criminal justice process free from pressure by the institution;
Participate in a process that is fair, impartial, and provides adequate notice and a meaningful opportunity to be heard; - Be treated with dignity and to receive from the institution courteous, fair and respectful health care and counseling services, where available;
- Be free from any suggestion that the reporting individual is at fault when these crimes and violations are committed, or should have acted in a different manner to avoid such crimes or violations;
- Describe the incident to as few institution representatives as practicable and not be required to unnecessarily repeat a description of the incident;
- Be protected from retaliation by the institution, any student, the accused and/or the respondent, and/or their friends, family and acquaintances within the jurisdiction of the institution;
- Access to at least one level of appeal of a determination;
- Be accompanied by an advisor of choice who may assist and advise a reporting individual, accused or respondent throughout the conduct process including during all meetings and witness interviews related to such process;
- Exercise civil rights and practice of religion without interference by the investigative, criminal justice, or conduct process of the institution;
- Be provided with a written copy of the College’s policy and procedures regarding sexual misconduct.
Victims/survivors have many options that can be pursued simultaneously, including receiving services, such as counseling and medical attention on or off campus.
Community Resources
On-Campus:
Title IX Coordinator: 650-383-4753 ext. 158 (private, non-confidential)
Off-Campus:
Police 24-hour: 911
National Sexual Assault Hotline (RAINN) – 800-656-HOPE (4673)
Albany County Crime Victims and Sexual Violence Center Crisis Hotline: (518) 447-7716
Equinox Inc. Domestic Violence Services Crisis Hotline: (518) 432-7865
In Our Own Voices – LGBT Domestic Violence Support Line: (518) 432-4341 (Monday – Friday 9:00 AM -9:00 PM)
St. Peters Health Partners Crime Victim Services 24 Hour Crisis Hotline – 518-271-3257
New York State Police Campus Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-844-845-7269
Reporting Options
Anonymous Reporting: (518) 514-7050
College Official: Responsible Employee or Campus Security Officer
Law Enforcement: Police, Office of Civil Rights