Supportive Measures

Supportive measures are individualized, non-disciplinary services designed to restore or preserve equal access to the University’s education program or activity without unreasonably burdening the other party. Supportive measures are provided as appropriate, as reasonably available, and without fee or charge.

Supportive measures may help protect the safety of the parties and/or the University’s educational environment; deter sexual misconduct and retaliation; and/or provide support to the parties during the grievance process. 

Who can request supportive measures?

Anyone who has been impacted by sexual misconduct may request supportive measures, regardless of when or where the alleged sexual misconduct occurred. Supportive measures can be requested with or without engaging in the Sexual Harassment and Other Sexual Misconduct Grievance Process. 

Supportive measures may be also requested by the complainant or respondent before, during, or after the grievance process, regardless of whether a formal complaint is filed.

How do I request supportive measures?

Individuals who are already working with a Civil Rights Compliance (CRC) staff member should discuss supportive measures they may need with that staff member. 

If you are not currently in communication with CRC, you can request supportive measures by submitting an online Report to Civil Rights Compliance.

You may also file a report with the Title IX Coordinator by mail, phone, or email using the contact information below. Reports may also be made in person at the CRC office on business days when a CRC staff member is available.

Director of Civil Rights Compliance and Title IX Coordinator
006 Lindley Hall
Ohio University
Athens, OH 45701
740.593.9140 (phone)
civilrights@ohio.edu or titleIX@ohio.edu

What are examples of possible supportive measures?

Supportive measures may include, but are not limited to:

  • Referral to campus and community counseling, medical, and/or healthcare services, including the employee assistance program, as appropriate;
  • Implementing mutual no-contact orders between the parties;
  • Altering campus housing assignments;
  • Altering work arrangements for employees, including student employees;
  • Academic support, extensions of deadlines, or other course/program-related adjustments;
  • Class schedule modifications, withdrawals, or leaves of absence;
  • Safety planning;
  • Providing campus safety escorts and/or transportation assistance;
  • Visa and immigration assistance;
  • Student financial aid counseling;
  • Increased security and monitoring of certain areas of campus; and
  • Other individualized measures determined to be appropriate by the Title IX Coordinator.
Who will know if I request supportive measures?

Civil Rights Compliance strives to protect the privacy of individuals who request supportive measures. Information will be shared only as necessary to evaluate, implement, or maintain supportive measures, and only with those who have a legitimate need to know. Information may also be shared as permitted by the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) or as required by University policy or law. 

Some supportive measures require coordination with other University offices or personnel, such as Human Resources, Housing, or faculty members. Certain supportive measures may also require communication with another involved party. For example, implementing a mutual no-contact order requires notifying both parties.

What is a mutual no-contact order?

Mutual no-contact orders are administrative measures, not university sanctions. They may be implemented to help both parties fully participate in their educational or employment experience without concerns about unwanted communication from the other person. 

Mutual no-contact orders direct both parties to refrain from direct or indirect contact with one another. This includes attempting to communicate in person, by email, text message, social media, or any other method of communication. It also includes indirect communication through third parties. 

Additional restrictions may be included in a mutual no-contact order when appropriate. For example, the order may include instructions regarding the use of shared spaces, such as recreational facilities or dining halls. Likewise, exceptions may be included under narrowly tailored circumstances, such as permitting communication about specific subjects through approved channels. 

Failure to comply with the terms of a mutual no-contact order may constitute a violation of Ohio University policy, including the Student Code of Conduct, where applicable. Depending on the circumstances, such conduct may also be considered retaliation under University policy.

Can I obtain a court-ordered restraining order?

Individuals impacted by sexual misconduct have the right to seek protection orders, no-contact orders, restraining orders, or similar lawful orders issued by criminal, civil, or tribal courts. 

If you obtain a protection order, restraining order, or similar court order, you are encouraged to notify the Ohio University Police Department (OUPD) so that OUPD can assist with enforcement of the order, as needed.