Title IX & Sexual Misconduct Support And Reporting
Title IX: Sex Discrimination, Harassment, And Sexual Violence
Mount Wachusett Community College (MWCC) is committed to maintaining a safe, inclusive, and respectful learning and working environment. The College does not discriminate on the basis of sex, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, or pregnancy status in its education programs or activities.
MWCC encourages the prompt reporting of all forms of sex discrimination, sexual harassment, sexual assault, dating violence, domestic violence, and stalking, and is committed to the timely and equitable resolution of all reports.
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What Is Title IX?
Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 is a federal civil rights law that 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.
Sexual harassment and sexual violence are forms of sex discrimination prohibited under Title IX.
Confidential resources can provide support without triggering a formal report to the College.
MWCC Mental Health Counselor
Leeanne Hadsel, M.Ed., CAGS
Arthur F. Haley Academic Center
First Floor, Room H113
[email protected]
978-630-9292
Mandatory Reporting
Most MWCC employees are considered Responsible Employees and are required to report known or suspected Title IX concerns to the Title IX Coordinator.
Students and community members may report concerns directly and are not required to file a formal complaint to receive supportive measures.
Reporting Options – Campus Resources
Emergency or Immediate Assistance
MWCC Campus Police (24/7)
Gardner Campus
978-630-9150
Title IX Coordinator
Peter Sennett
Title IX Coordinator
978-630-9160
Arthur F. Haley Academic Center
First Floor, Room H102A
Alternate Contact (if the Title IX Coordinator is unavailable)
Beth Austin
978-630-9487
Dr. Daniel M. Asquino Science Center
First Floor, Room S111
A Responsible Employee is any College employee who:
- Has authority to take action to address Title IX issues
- Has been designated to report Title IX concerns
- A student could reasonably believe has such authority
Responsible Employees include, but are not limited to: trustees, administrators, department chairs, program coordinators, campus police, advisors, coaches, managers, and supervisors.
Responsible Employees must report Title IX-related concerns to the Title IX Coordinator or designee as soon as they become aware of them. Training is provided by the Title IX Coordinator and Investigator Training Program.
MWCC has a legal obligation to promptly respond to reports of sex discrimination and sexual misconduct, whether the incident occurs on or off campus. Reporting allows the College to:
- Address safety concerns
- Provide support and resources
- Limit the impact on the learning or work environment
- Prevent recurrence
Individuals may report concerns even if they are unsure whether the behavior violates policy.
External Resource Links
Note: These links will take you to external websites outside of the MWCC site.
- What’s a Responsible Employee ( Video)
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: 800-799-SAFE (7233)
- Clery Center for Security on Campus – Campus safety and victim support resources
- Campus SaVE Act – Federal law addressing sexual violence prevention and response
- Know Your IX – Student-focused Title IX education and advocacy
- Massachusetts Resources for Survivors of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault (needs to be accessible)
- https://mwcc.edu/wp-content/uploads/blogs.dir/39/files/2014/09/Sexual-Violence-Victims-Rights-and-Information.pdf
- Victims’ Rights and Support Information
Climate & Prevention Reports
Accessibility & Support
MWCC is committed to providing reasonable accommodations and accessible reporting options. Individuals who need assistance accessing Title IX resources may contact the Title IX Coordinator directly.