Carthage is committed to maintaining the privacy of everyone involved in a report of sexual misconduct. In every investigation, hearing, and appeal, Carthage will make every effort to protect the privacy of the parties while balancing the need to investigate the alleged sexual misconduct.

Information related to a report of sexual misconduct will be shared only with those Carthage employees who are involved with the investigation, hearing, or appeal. All Carthage employees who are involved in these processes have received training regarding the safeguarding of private information. Carthage will not release information about an investigation, hearing, or appeal except as required or permitted by law or Carthage policy.

Students who wish to obtain confidential assistance through on-campus or off-campus resources without making a report to Carthage may do so by speaking with professionals who are obligated by law to maintain confidentiality. The Resources section of this policy identifies such professionals. As a reminder, students may seek confidential assistance on campus through the Health and Counseling Center or the Campus Pastor.

If Carthage receives a report of an incident sexual misconduct, but the complainant requests that their identity remain confidential, or declines to participate in the discipline process, Carthage will balance the requests with its responsibility to provide a safe and non-discriminatory environment for all community members. Carthage will take all reasonable steps to investigate and respond to the report consistent with such requests, while acknowledging that its ability to investigate may be limited by such requests.

If a report of sexual misconduct reveals an immediate threat to the Carthage community, Carthage may issue a notice to the community to protect the health or safety of the campus community. This notice will not contain any identifying information about the person who experienced sexual misconduct. Immediate threats include, but are not limited to, allegations of sexual misconduct that include the use of force, a weapon, or other circumstances that represent a serious and ongoing threat to the Carthage community.