Members of the College of the Atlantic community, guests, and visitors have the right to be free from gender-based discrimination. If you were sexually assaulted; had an uncomfortable sexual encounter; are in a relationship that feels controlling or is emotionally or physically abusive; are being stalked online and/or in person or have otherwise been the target of sexual harassment or gender-based discriminatory conduct, you may be experiencing a wide range of emotions. You may feel confused, not sure where to turn, have questions, or want to understand your options.

You are not alone. We hope the Title IX section of this website provides some information and guidance to help you figure out what support options and next steps are best for you.

An instance of sexual misconduct is a violation of the rights of the individual as well as a significant betrayal of the fundamental trust and values of our community. The College will regard all reports as worthy of earnest response. It is our goal to provide prompt, effective, and sensitive assistance to anyone requesting support as a result of sexual misconduct.

Title IX and civil rights-related policies

COA is committed to maintaining a respectful environment for living, working, and studying. To that end, and in accordance with federal and state law as well as College policy, the College prohibits any form of sexual misconduct under our Sexual Misconduct Policy (PDF).

Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 prohibits any person in the United States from being discriminated against on the basis of the sex in seeking access to any educational program or activity receiving federal financial assistance. COA’s Policy for Addressing Formal Complainants Under the Title IX Regulations (PDF) describes COA’s process for addressing formal complainants made under the Department of Education’s 2020 updates to the Title IX regulations. Click here to learn more.

Support resources

Support options fall under three broad categories. Understanding these categories may empower you to make the choices that are best for you at any given moment in time. Click here to learn more about confidential, private, and anonymous support options.

Reporting information and locations

Any person may report incidents of sexual misconduct by contacting COA’s Title IX Coordinator. In addition, employees of the College, known as Responsible Employees, have an obligation to report to the Title IX Coordinator any information they receive about potential violations of COA’s Sexual Misconduct Policy or Policy for Addressing Formal Complaints Under the Title IX Regulations.

For more information about reporting options, please contact our Title IX Coordinator or click here to learn more.

Our team and training

Our team receives specialized training to respond to questions, incidents, and concerns that you may have related to Title IX and sexual misconduct. View our team and our training to contact a member if you have any questions or to view the training we have received. Please contact any of our team members for information on this site, COA’s policies and procedures, or if you would like to discuss a concern.

Education, prevention, and training

Learn more about sexual and relationship respect and find ways to engage and intervene. Topics include consent, navigating relationships, stalking, and preventing harm. You can also find additional information about student, faculty, and staff training. Click here to learn more


The Jeanne Clery Act

View The Annual Security Report and Annual Fire Safety Report that complies with the Jeanne Clery Act.