FAQs

• What is Stony Brook University's position in light of the recent changes to Title IX guidance and regulations by the Department of Education?

  Stony Brook University is dedicated to providing a safe and welcoming educational environment for our community free from all forms of sex and/or gender based discrimination, including sexual violence. 

  We are confident that our sexual misconduct polices and process is fair, impartial and provides students with an opportunity to be heard.  We have also created a Title IX Grievance Process that complies with the requirements of regulations effective August 14, 2020.  We believe strongly in the progress we have made to raise awareness and help prevent sexual assault and gender-based violence including bystander intervention initiatives. We will continue to be proactive in communicating and educating around the prevention of gender based violence and to offer support and services for victims of sexual assault.

  More information and resources can be found on our   Sexual Misconduct and Office of Equity and Access websites.

• What is Title IX?
  The Law States: No person in the United States shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any education program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance - Title 20 U.S.C. section 1681
• Do I have to make an appointment or can I walk in?
  Even though appointment is not required, it is strongly encouraged to set aside the appropriate time to listen to any reports or concerns.
• Must I report it to the police?
  No, but you are strongly encouraged to do so. If you feel like you are facing an immediate threat or harm, you absolutely should report to the police.
• Will my information be kept confidential?
  In the event of major medical, disciplinary, or academic jeopardy, students are strongly encouraged to inform their parents. University officials will directly inform parents when requested to do so by a student. While the University takes seriously a survivor's request for confidentiality, in certain instances where a health or safety emergency exist, or if the University determines such communication is otherwise deemed appropriate, parents may be contacted.
• What is Affirmative Consent?
  Affirmative consent is a knowing, voluntary, and mutual decision among all participants to engage in sexual activity. Consent can be given by words or actions, as long as those words or actions create clear permission regarding willingness to engage in the sexual activity. Silence or lack of resistance, in and of itself, does not demonstrate consent. The definition of consent does not vary based upon a participant’s sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. NYS Education Law, art. 129B, §6441