Search Results for 'student complaint'

• Student Complaint Process

  February 24, 2019 1:42 pm Comments Off on Student Complaint Process

  Thomas University has policies and procedures in place to address and resolve student grievances in an efficient and timely manner. Students are advised to follow the student complaint processes outlined below.

  Students wishing to file a complaint concerning academics should follow the process outlined in the University catalog.

  Students wishing to file a grievance concerning violations of the Student Code of Conduct should following the process outlined in the Student Handbook.

  Students wishing to file an administrative complaint should following the process outlined in Appendix C of the Student Handbook.

  If unable to satisfactorily resolve issues with the university using the aforementioned procedures, students may file a complaint with the Georgia Nonpublic Postsecondary Education Commission. More information is available at https://gnpec.georgia.gov/student-complaints.

  An online student that is a Non-Georgia resident may file a complaint of significant noncompliance with standards, policies, or procedures with their relevant state agency, official, and/or accreditor; students may file complaints with the Georgia department of education.  The student must have exhausted all available grievance procedures with the institution and must complete a Grievance Form with the State.  Additional information is available at https://gnpec.georgia.gov/student-resources/student-complaints/ga-sara-student-complaint-rules.

  Military personnel who receive Tuition Assistance (TA) or Veterans benefits have additional processes available.  Students may submit a grievance through the Postsecondary Education Complaint System when his/her school fails to follow the Principles of Excellence established by Executive Order 13607. Additional information is available at https://www.militaryonesource.mil/education-employment/for-service-members/choosing-a-college/postsecondary-education-complaint-system.  

  If a student wishes to lodge a complaint against Thomas University for significant noncompliance with standards, policies, or procedures governed by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) Principles of Accreditation, the student may submit a formal grievance in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges as outlined in the Complaint Policy. For specific guidelines regarding complaint submissions to SACSCOC, a complainant may visit their website: sacscoc.org. 

  Note: Because the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges’ complaint procedures are for the purpose of addressing any significant noncompliance with the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges standards, policies, or procedures outlined in and aligned to the Principles of Accreditation, the procedures are not intended to be used to involve the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges in disputes between individuals and member institutions, or cause the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to interpose itself as a reviewing authority in individual matters of admission, grades, granting or transferability of credits, application of academic policies, fees or other financial matters, disciplinary matters or other contractual rights and obligations.

• State Authorization for Online and Distance Education

  February 8, 2018 10:38 am Comments Off on State Authorization for Online and Distance Education

  Thomas University complies with federal and state law regarding the delivery of distance education.

  State Reciprocity

  Thomas University complies with federal and state law regarding the delivery of distance education.

  Thomas University has been approved by the State of Georgia to participate in the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements. NC-SARA is a voluntary, regional approach to state authorization and oversight of post-secondary distance education.

  

  Participation in NC-SARA allows students from states outside of Georgia to take advantage of TU’s quality online programs.  For a list of participating states please visit NC-SARA.

  Non-SARA States and Territories

  An overview of Thomas University’s ability to offer online programs and other activities in states and territories that are not members of SARA is below.

  • California: Thomas University may offer distance education programs to CA residents. Because Thomas University does not meet the definition of physical presence in CA, field/clinical experiences, practica, student teaching, and internships are allowed.
  • Federated States of Micronesia: The Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) has no regulations, policies, or laws that restrict US institutions providing distance education, including online courses, to citizens of FSM.
  • Republic of the Marshall Islands: There are no regulations or rules in the Republic of the Marshall Islands regarding the authorization of distance education programs.

  Information is currently unavailable for the following: American Samoa, Guam, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, and the Republic of Palau. This site will be updated as information becomes available.

  Academic Programs Leading to Licensure

  Participation in SARA has no effect on state professional licensing requirements. It is the responsibility of the student to contact the appropriate licensing agency or Board in his or her state of residency, prior to beginning a course of study, to understand the requirements as it applies to a specific situation. Refer to Professional Licensure and Professional Licensure Directory for more information.

  Thomas University programs leading to licensure or certification are listed below. Refer to each one for more information about professional licensure and certification.

  Master of Science in Counseling
  Bachelor of Science in Medical Laboratory Science.

  Student Complaints

  Students who have questions, concerns or complaints about online education, please consult Thomas University’s Student complaint Process.

• Consumer Information

  10:38 am Comments Off on Consumer Information

  The following consumer information is provided for the benefit of our current and prospective students and employees.

  +General Institutional Information

  • Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)
  • European Union General Data Protection Regulation
  • Students with Disabilities
  • Majors and CIP Codes
  • Accreditation, Approval and Licensure of Institution and Program
  • Student Complaint Process

  +Financial Aid and the Cost of Attendance

  • Price of Attendance
  • Net Price Calculator
  • Types of Financial Aid Available
  • Student Loan Information
  • Initial Loan Counseling for Student Borrowers
  • Exit Counseling for Student Borrowers
  • Institutional Code of Conduct for Education Loan
  • Financial Aid Penalties for Drug Violations
  • Constitution Day
  • Add/Drop and Refund policy

  +Health and Safety

  • Drug and Alcohol Abuse Prevention Program
  • Immunization Policy
  • Annual Security and Fires Safety Report
  • On Campus Facility Fire Safety Systems
  • Missing Student Notification Policy
  • Missing Student Notification Form
  • Sexual Harassment and Assault Support

  +Student Achievement

  • Student Population and Diversity
  • Graduates by major
  • Outcome Measures
  • Retention Rates
  • Graduation Rates
  • Program Completion
  • Clinical Mental Health Counseling
  • Education
  • Nursing
    • RN-BSN Trend Data
    • MSN Role Specific Competencies 2017-2020
    • MSN 2017-2020
  • Medical Laboratory Science
  • Social Work

  +Intercollegiate Athletic Program Participation Rates and Financial Support Data

  • Equity in Athletics Disclosure Act

  +Voter Registration

  • Applications for voter registration for Georgia residents 
  • Residents of other states

• Collections Specialist – Temporary

  September 10, 2024 12:26 pm Comments Off on Collections Specialist – Temporary

  Full-time                                                                                                                           Hourly, Non-Exempt

  The Student Accounts Collections Specialist is an important role within the Student Accounts department.  This role works directly with students and parents regarding their ledger and coordinates with financial aid and other internal departments to ensure accuracy of posting to their accounts. This is posted as a temporary position.

  Primary responsibilities:

  • Monitor student accounts receivables.
  • Work with financial aid and other departments to ensure accuracy of student ledger.
  • Contact students via phone, text and email who have accounts showing outstanding balances and are not participating in payment plans or who are not current on their payment plan.
  • Resolve issues and complaints concerning student ledger.
  • Negotiate payment plan adjustments as necessary.
  • Maintain records of contacts and attempted contacts.
  • Maintain excellent customer relations through professional conduct.

  Skills and Experience:

  • High school diploma required, bachelor degree preferred.
  • Excellent communication skills
  • Experienced problem-solver
  • Must possess critical thinking skills
  • Highly organized
  • Microsoft Office skills
  • Must abide by the Fair Debt Collection Privacy Act (FDCPA)
  • Prior collections experience preferred.

  Reports to:          Vice President for Enrollment Management

  Interested parties should complete the Thomas University Employment Application

• Sexual Misconduct Policy Title IX

  August 10, 2020 9:05 am Comments Off on Sexual Misconduct Policy Title IX

  

  
  
  

  AUGUST 2024 TITLE IX POLICY (Pending final federal adjudication)

  As a recipient of federal funds, Thomas University is required to comply with Title IX of the Higher Education Amendments of 1972, 20 U.S.C. § 1681 et seq. (“Title IX”), which prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex in educational programs or activities, admission and employment. Under certain circumstances, sexual misconduct constitutes sexual discrimination prohibited by Title IX.

  Inquiries concerning the application of Title IX may be referred to Thomas University’s Title IX Coordinator. Title IX Coordinator is Dr. Scott Grubbs, whose office is located on the Forbes campus, 1501 Millpond Pond, Thomasville, GA 31792. Dr. Scott Grubbs be contacted by phone at (229) 226-1621 ext 1118 or by email at sgrubbs@thomasu.edu . Questions may also be directed to a Deputy Title IX Consultant, Anna Benefield at 229-516-3774, or by email at abenefield@thomasu.edu.

  +What is Title IX?

  Title IX is the federal law prohibiting sex-based discrimination at colleges and universities. In accordance with our institutional mission and values and Title IX, Thomas University seeks to create a culture that fosters fair and equitable treatment, free from sex or gender based discrimination and/or sexual misconduct. Our Title IX team is dedicated to providing a complete approach in response to allegations of discrimination.

  +Non-Discrimination Policy

  Thomas University complies with federal and state law, and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, religion, national origin, age, sexual orientation, disability, medical condition, pregnancy, citizenship, or veteran status. The University also prohibits sexual harassment as well as harassment based on any of these characteristics. This nondiscrimination policy applies to all employment practices at Thomas University, and to the admission, access in and employment in Thomas University education programs and activities.

  +Sexual Misconduct Policy

  It is the policy of Thomas University to maintain an environment that is free of all forms of discrimination and harassment, including sexual misconduct for students, faculty, administrators, staff, volunteers, and visitors that is free of all forms of discrimination and harassment, including sexual misconduct. The University has enacted this Sexual Misconduct Policy to reflect and maintain its institutional values and community expectations, to provide for fair and equitable procedures for determining when this Policy has been violated, and to provide recourse for individuals and the community in response to violations of this Policy.

  This Policy prohibits all forms of sexual or gender-based discrimination, harassment, and misconduct, including sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking. This Policy also prohibits retaliation against a person who reports, complains about, or who otherwise participates in good faith in any matter related to this Policy. All of the foregoing conduct shall be referred to as “Prohibited Conduct.” Thomas University does not discriminate on the basis of sex in its educational, extracurricular, athletic, or other programs or in the context of employment. Sex discrimination is prohibited by Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, a federal law that provides:

  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 is also prohibited under Title IX and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, and other applicable statutes. This Policy prohibits sexual harassment against Thomas University community members of any sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression in the context of education or employment. This Policy also prohibits gender-based harassment that does not involve conduct of a sexual nature.

  Upon receipt of a formal written complaint, the University will take prompt and equitable action to eliminate the Prohibited Conduct (if any), prevent its recurrence, and remedy its effects. In addition, the University will fulfill its obligations under the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act of 2013 (“VAWA”) amendments to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act (“Clery Act”) in response to reported Prohibited Conduct. Students or employees who are found to have violated this Policy may face disciplinary action up to and including expulsion (students) or termination of employment (faculty or staff).

  Thomas University also prohibits other forms of discrimination and harassment as described in Policy Equal Employment Opportunity in the Employee Handbook.

  Prior to the articulation of the Policy, it is important to note options for assistance following an incident of sexual violence. Whether or not an individual chooses to formally report an incident, receiving immediate medical attention and/or counseling is vital to the individual’s overall health and wellness. Likewise, seeking immediate medical attention is vital to preserve evidence if an investigation is to follow. More detailed information on resources is also available at the end of this Policy.

  Scope of Policy

  This Policy applies to all reports of Prohibited Conduct occurring on or after the effective date of this Policy (August 14, 2020).

  When used in this Policy, “Complainant” refers to an individual who is alleged to be the victim of conduct that could constitute sexual harassment.

  “Respondent” refers to an individual who has been reported to be the perpetrator of conduct that could constitute sexual harassment.

  A “Third-Party” refers to any other participant in the process, including a witness or an individual who makes a report on behalf of a Complainant.

  The process begins with a Formal Complaint filed by a Complainant or signed by the Title IX Coordinator alleging sexual harassment against a Respondent and requesting that the University investigate the allegation of sexual harassment. At the time of filing a Formal Complaint, a Complainant must be participating in or attempting to participate in the education program or activity of the University.

  Nothing in this Policy derogates the legal right of a parent or guardian acting on behalf of the Complainant, Respondent, or Third-Party, including, but not limited to filing a Formal Complaint.

  A possible violation of the Sexual Misconduct Policy is handled through an administrative process. A Complainant may also pursue criminal or civil legal recourse concurrently. One is not dependent upon another.

  Persons Covered

  This Policy applies to all Thomas University community members, including students, faculty, administrators, staff, volunteers and visitors.

  The University strongly encourages reports of Prohibited Conduct regardless of who engaged in the conduct. Even if the University does not have jurisdiction over the Respondent, the University will take prompt action to provide for the safety and well-being of the Complainant and the broader campus community.

  The University will provide Supportive Measures with or without a Formal Complaint.

  Locations Covered

  This Policy applies to the University’s educational program or activity which includes locations, events, or circumstances over which the University exercises substantial control over both the Complainant and Respondent and the context in which the sexual harassment occurs.

  This Policy applies to all on-campus conduct. The University strongly encourages reports of Prohibited Conduct. Even if the Policy does not apply to the conduct because of it location, the University will take prompt action to provide for the safety and well-being of the Complainant and the broader campus community under applicable University policies.

  On-Campus Conduct. This Policy applies to conduct that occurs on-campus, including conduct which occurs on property owned or controlled, leased, or managed by the University. This policy also applies to any building owned or controlled by a student organization that is officially recognized by the University.

  University Programs. This Policy applies to conduct that occurs in the context of University employment or education programs or activities, including, but not limited to, internship programs, graduate assistantships, or athletic travel.

  Off-Campus Conduct. This Policy applies to all conduct that occurs on University premises and at University-sponsored activities.  The College also has the discretion to discipline a student for conduct that occurs off campus, if that conduct adversely affects the University community and/or the pursuit of its objectives. 

  +Prohibited Conduct and Definitions

  Sex or Gender-Based Discrimination Sex or gender-based discrimination refers to the disparate treatment of a person or group because of that person’s or group’s sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression.

  Sexual Harassment. Sexual Misconduct is conduct of a sexual nature or conduct based on sex or gender that is nonconsensual or has the effect of threatening, intimidating, or coercing a person. The University prohibits the following specific conduct (defined below):

  • An employee of the University conditioning the provision of an aid, or services of the Thomasville on an individual’s participation in unwelcome sexual conduct.
  • Unwelcome conduct determined by a reasonable person to be so severe, pervasive, and objectively reasonable that it effectively denies a person equal access to the University’s education program or activity.
  • Sexual Assault (defined below); or Dating Violence (defined below); or Domestic Violence (defined below) or Stalking (defined below)

  Sexual harassment quid pro quo occurs when a position of authority is used threaten to impose a penalty or to withhold a benefit for sexual favors, whether or not the attempt is successful. Sexual harassment may involve behavior by a person of either gender against a person of the same or opposite gender. It should be noted that the potential of sexual harassment exists in any of the following relationships: student/student, employee/student, student/employee, and employee/employee. Here and subsequently, “employees” refers to faculty, staff, and administration. Because of the inherent differential in power between University’s employees and students, sexual relationships between employees and students are prohibited.

  A hostile, demeaning, or intimidating environment exists when sexual harassment is so severe, pervasive, and objectively reasonable that it effectively denies a person equal access to the University’s education program or activity. A hostile environment can be created by anyone involved in a University’s program or activities (e.g., administrators, faculty members, staff members, campus visitors).

  Explicit behaviors constituting sexual harassment include but are not limited to requests for sexual favors, physical assaults of a sexual nature, sexually offensive remarks, and rubbing, touching or brushing against another’s body. More subtle behaviors may be experienced as intimidating or offensive, particularly when they recur, or one person has authority over another. Such behaviors may include but are not limited to unwelcome hugs or touching, inappropriate staring, veiled suggestions of sexual activity, requests for meetings in non-academic settings, and risqué jokes, stories or images.

  These behaviors may range from the most egregious forms, such as sexual violence, to more subtle forms. The University defines acts of sexual violence as physical sexual acts perpetrated against a person’s will or where a person is incapable of giving consent (e.g., due to the individual’s age or use of drugs or alcohol, or because an intellectual or other disability prevents the individual from having the capacity to give consent; For full definition of consent, please refer to the section below.

  Additional Definitions.

  Complainant. Complainant refers to an individual who is alleged to be the victim of conduct that could constitute sexual harassment.

  Coercion. Coercion is inappropriate pressure for sexual activity. Coercive behavior differs from seductive behavior based on the type of pressure someone uses to get consent from another. When a person makes clear that they do not want sex, wants to stop, or that going past a certain point of sexual interaction is unwanted, continued pressure beyond that point can be coercive.

  Consent. Consent is a clear, unambiguous, and voluntary agreement between participants to engage in specific sexual activity. Consent is active, not passive, and is given by clear actions or words. Consent may not be inferred from silence, passivity, or lack of active resistance alone. Instead, consent is affirmatively given. A current or previous dating or sexual relationship is not sufficient to constitute consent, and consent to one form of sexual activity does not imply consent to other forms of sexual activity. Being intoxicated does not diminish one’s responsibility to obtain consent. In some situations, an individual may be deemed incapable of consenting to sexual activity. Examples of such situations include, but are not limited to, incompetence, impairment from alcohol and/or other drugs, fear, unconsciousness, intimidation, coercion, confinement, isolation, or mental or physical impairment. In Georgia, minors under the age of 16 years of are generally unable to provide consent, with narrow exceptions. See Georgia Code Ann. Section 16-6-3, Statutory Rape. The University recognizes the following aspects regarding consent:

  • consent is a voluntary agreement to engage in sexual activity,
  • someone who is incapacitated cannot consent;
  • past consent does not imply future consent,
  • silence or an absence of resistance does not imply consent,
  • consent to engage in one form of sexual activity does not imply consent to engage in other forms of sexual activity;
  • consent to engage in sexual activity with one person does not imply consent to engage in sexual activity with another;
  • consent can be withdrawn at any time, and
  • coercion, force, or threat of either invalidates consent.

  Dating violence. The term “dating violence” means violence committed by a person – (a) who is or has been in a social relationship of a romantic or intimate nature with the victim; and (b) where the existence of such a relationship shall be determined based on a consideration of the following factors:

  • The length of the relationship.
  • The type of relationship.
  • The frequency of interaction between the persons involved in the relationship. (34 USC 12291(a)(10).

  Domestic violence. The term “domestic violence” includes felony or misdemeanor crimes of violence committed by a current or former spouse or intimate partner of the victim, by a person with whom the victim shares a child in common, by a person who is cohabitating with or has cohabitated with the victim as a spouse or intimate partner, by a person similarly situated to a spouse of the victim under the domestic or family violence laws of the jurisdiction receiving grant monies, or by any other person against an adult or youth victim who is protected from that person’s acts under the domestic or family violence laws of the jurisdiction. [34 U.S.C. 12291(a)(8)].

  Gender identity. A person’s deeply felt internal sense of being male or female, regardless of their sex assigned at birth.

  Gender expression. The manner in which a person represents or expresses gender to others, often through behavior, clothing, hairstyles, activities, voice or mannerisms.

  Incapacitation. Incapacity can result from mental disability, sleep, involuntary physical restraint, or from intentional or unintentional taking of alcohol and/or other drugs. An incapacitated person does not have the ability to give knowing consent. Sexual activity with a person who one should know to be – or based on the circumstances should reasonably have known to be – mentally or physically incapacitated, constitutes a violation of this Policy. The perspective of a reasonable person will be the basis for determining whether one should have known about the impact of the use of alcohol and/or drugs on another’s ability to give consent (see full definition of “consent” above).

  Retaliation No person may intimidate, threaten, coerce, or discriminate against any individual for the purpose of interfering with any right or privilege secured by Title IX, or because the individual has made a report or complaint, testified, assisted, or participated or refused to participate in any manner in an investigation, proceeding, or hearing.

  Intimidation, threats, coercion, or discrimination, including charges against an individual for code of conduct violations that do not involve sex discrimination or sexual harassment, but arise out of the same facts or circumstances as a report or complaint of sex discrimination, or a report or formal complaint of sexual harassment, for the purpose of interfering with any right or privilege secured by Title IX, constitutes retaliation.

  Charging an individual with a code of conduct violation for making a materially false statement in bad faith in the course of a grievance proceeding under this policy does not constitute retaliation prohibited, provided, however, that a determination regarding responsibility, alone, is not sufficient to conclude that any party made a materially false statement in bad faith.

  Reasonable Person. Reasonable person refers to an ordinary person who exercises care while avoiding extremes of boldness and carefulness (Replevin, Black’s Law Dictionary, 10th ed. 2014).

  Respondent. Respondent refers to an individual who has been reported to be the perpetrator of conduct that could constitute sexual harassment.

  Sexual Assault. “Sexual Assault” means an offense classified as a forcible or non-forcible sex offense under the uniform crime reporting system of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, as defined in 20 U.S.C. 1092(f)(6)(A)(v).

  CRIME DEFINITIONS FROM THE NATIONAL INCIDENT-BASED REPORTING SYSTEM (NIBRS) USER MANUAL FROM THE FBI’S UCR PROGRAM

  Sex Offenses

  Any sexual act directed against another person, without the consent of the victim, including instances where the victim is incapable of giving consent.

  • Fondling – The touching of the private body parts of another person for the purpose of sexual gratification, without the consent of the victim, including instances where the victim is incapable of giving consent because of his/her age or because of his/her temporary or permanent mental incapacity.
  • Incest – Sexual intercourse between persons who are related to each other within the degrees wherein marriage is prohibited by law.
  • Rape – The carnal knowledge of a person, without the consent of the victim, including instances where the victim is incapable of giving consent because of his/her age or because of his/her temporary or permanent mental or physical incapacity.
  • Sexual Assault with an Object – To use an object or instrument to unlawfully penetrate, however slightly, the genital or anal opening of the body of another person, without the consent of the victim, including instances where the victim is incapable of giving consent because of his/her age or because of his/her temporary or permanent mental or physical incapacity.
  • Sodomy – Oral or anal sexual intercourse with another person, without the consent of the victim, including instances where the victim is incapable of giving consent because of his/her age or because of his/her temporary or permanent mental or physical incapacity.
  • Statutory Rape – Sexual intercourse with a person who is under the statutory age of consent.

  Stalking. The term “stalking” means engaging in a course of conduct directed at a specific person that would cause a reasonable person to— (A) fear for his or her safety or the safety of others; or (B)suffer substantial emotional distress. [34 USC 12291(a) (30)]

  Student. The term student means any person pursuing academic studies at the University; this includes: (a) a person not currently enrolled but who was enrolled in the fall, spring, or summer terms preceding the alleged violation; (b) a person who, while not currently enrolled, was previously enrolled at Thomas University and who is reasonably anticipated to seek enrollment at a future date; (c) a person who has applied to or been accepted for admission to Thomas University and has accepted an offer of admission or may reasonably be expected to enroll; or (d) a person enrolled in a Thomas University program on a credit or non-credit basis.

  +Confidentiality

  The University encourages individuals who have experienced what they believe could constitute sexual harassment to speak with someone about what happened so that support can be offered, and the University can respond appropriately. Different individuals associated with the University have different abilities to maintain confidentiality in this area.

  • Some are required to maintain near complete confidentiality; talking to them is sometimes called a “privileged communication.”
  • Some employees are required to report all the details of an incident (including the identities of both the Complainant and Respondent to the Title IX Coordinator. A report to these employees (called “Responsible Employees”) constitutes a report to the Title IX Coordinator or an Official with Authority and generally obligates the University to investigate the incident and take appropriate steps to address the situation including implementing corrective measures (Title IX Coordinator and Deputy Title IX Coordinators).
  • It is also possible to report to a third-party counselor or advocate off campus who may maintain confidentiality and only inform the school that an incident has occurred. As reporting requirements vary, it is important to discuss confidentiality with the third party prior to speaking with that individual.

  This Policy is intended to make individuals aware of the various reporting and confidential disclosure options available to them so they can make informed choices about where to turn if an incident occurs. The University encourages individuals to talk to someone identified in one or more of these groups. The options include:

  Privileged and Confidential Communications

  Professional, licensed counselors and pastoral counselors who provide mental-health counseling to members of the school community (and including those who act in that role under the supervision of a licensed counselor) are not required to report any information about an incident to the Title IX Coordinator without a Complainant’s permission. Following is the contact information for these on-campus individuals:

  • Rev. Corey Wise – Chaplain, cwise@thomasu.edu
  • Archbold Student & Employee Assistance Program (229-228-2210; Toll-Free 1-877-327-2724; or 24 hours Helpline 1-800-238-8661.

  While these professional and non-professional counselors and advocates may maintain a Complainant’s confidentiality vis-à-vis the University, they may have reporting or other obligations under state law, such as mandatory reporting to law enforcement in case of minors; imminent harm to self or others; requirement to testify if subpoenaed in a criminal case.

  If the University determines that the Respondent poses a serious and immediate threat to the University community, the Vice President of Student Life may be called upon to issue a timely warning to the community. Any such warning should not include any information that identifies the Complainant.

  Requesting Confidentiality from the University: How the University Will Weigh the Request and Respond.

  If an individual discloses an incident to a Responsible Employee but wishes to maintain confidentiality or requests that no investigation into a particular incident be conducted or disciplinary action taken, the Responsible Employee must disclose to the Title IX Coordinator.  The Title IX Coordinator (or Deputy) will contact the Complainant and determine if Complainant wishes to move forward, simply requests Supportive Measures, or wants to file criminal charges.  The Coordinator (or Deputy) will also assess the risk to the University and weigh that request against the University’s obligation to provide a safe, non-discriminatory environment for all Thomas University community members, including the reporting individual.

  If the University honors the request for confidentiality, an individual must understand that the University’s ability to meaningfully investigate the incident and pursue disciplinary action against the Respondent may be limited.

  Although rare, there are times when the University may not be able to honor an individual’s request in order to provide a safe, non-discriminatory environment for all Thomas University community members.

  The University has designated the following individual to evaluate requests for confidentiality once the institution on notice of alleged sexual harassment or sexual violence:

  Chris Lyons, Director of Human Resources & Title IX Coordinator (229-221-9154) clyons@thomasu.edu

  When weighing an individual’s request for confidentiality or that no investigation or discipline be pursued, The Title IX Coordinator will consider a range of factors, including the following:

  • The increased risk that the Respondent will commit additional acts of sexual or other violence, such as:
    • Whether there have been other sexual harassment or sexual violence complaints about the same responding party;
    • Whether the Respondent has a history of arrests or records from a prior school indicating a history of violence;
    • Whether the Respondent threatened further sexual violence or other violence against the Complainant or others;
    • Whether the sexual harassment or sexual violence was committed by multiple Respondents;
  • Whether the sexual harassment or sexual violence was perpetrated with a weapon;
  • Whether the Complainant is a minor;
  • Whether the University possesses other means to obtain relevant evidence of the sexual harassment or sexual violence (e.g., security cameras or personnel, physical evidence);
  • Whether the Complainant’s report reveals a pattern of perpetration (e.g., via illicit use of drugs or alcohol) at a given location or by a particular group.

  The presence of one or more of these factors could lead the University to investigate and, if appropriate, pursue disciplinary action. If none of these factors is present, the University will likely respect the Complainant’s request for confidentiality.

  If the University determines that it cannot maintain a Complainant’s confidentiality, the University will inform the Complainant prior to starting an investigation and will, to the extent possible, only share information with people responsible for handling the University’s response.

  The University will remain ever mindful of the Complainant’s well-being and will take ongoing steps to protect the Complainant from retaliation or harm and work with the Complainant to create a safety plan. Retaliation against the reporting individual, whether by students or University employees, will not be tolerated. The University will provide supportive measures as described in Section VI of this policy.

  Because the University is under a continuing obligation to address the issue of sexual harassment and sexual violence campus-wide, reports of sexual harassment and sexual violence (including non-identifying reports) will also prompt the University to consider broader remedial action – such as increased monitoring, supervision or security at locations where the reported sexual violence occurred; increasing education and prevention efforts, including to targeted population groups; conducting climate assessments/victimization surveys; and/or revisiting its policies and practices.

  If the University determines that it can respect a Complainant’s request for confidentiality, the University will also take immediate action as necessary to protect and assist the Complainant.

  +Title IX Coordinator, Deputy Coordinators & Responsible Employees

  Thomas University has designated the following Title IX Coordinator:

  Scott Grubbs: Title IX Coordinator; 229-977-6563, sgrubbs@thomasu.edu

  Thomas University’s Title IX Coordinator oversees University compliance regarding all Title IX related matters, including the investigation of complaints. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Ensuring Title IX compliance.
  • Assessing initial intake reports.
  • Understanding University policies and procedures.
  • Providing information about resources available to both the Complainant and Respondent.
  • Assigning appropriate investigators to individual cases.
  • Identifying the appropriate University Policy to resolve the complaint in a prompt and equitable manner.
  • Tracking and monitoring incidents of sex discrimination and sexual misconduct.
  • Providing information on options for complaint resolution.
  • Coordinating education and prevention efforts.

  Thomas University has designated the following Deputy Title IX Coordinator:

  Anna Benefield: Deputy Title IX Coordinator; 229-516-3774, bbohman@thomasu.edu

  Thomas University’s Deputy Coordinator are trained to receive initial intake and, if designated by the Title IX Coordinator, investigate complaints. Deputy Coordinator responsibilities include the following:

  • Supporting and assisting the Title IX Coordinator.
  • Understanding University policies and procedures.
  • Providing information about resources available to both the Complainant and Respondent.
  • Hearing and/or receiving initial intake (fact-gathering).
  • Reporting intake reports to Title IX Coordinator for assessment.
  • Investigating complaints (if designated by the Titles IX Coordinator).
  • Providing information to the Clery Act administrator regarding Clery Act reportable crimes.

  Responsible Employees

  All University employees who do not have legally protected confidentiality are considered Responsible Employees.

  Official with Authority

  An Official with Authority means any official of the College who has authority to institute corrective measures on behalf of the College (§106.30). Thomas University has designated the following positions as Officials with Authority:

  • Title IX Coordinator
  • Deputy Title IX Coordinator
  • Director of HR
  • Dean of Students 

  Responsible Employee means any employee with the obligation to report sexual harassment or the responsibility to inform a student how to report sexual harassment. The College requires that all Responsible Employees share any report of misconduct with the Title IX Coordinator. A Responsible Employee is anyone who:

  • Has the authority to take action to redress the harassment.
  • A student could reasonably believe has the responsibility to assist them. All College employees who do not have legally protected confidentiality are considered Responsible Employees. The mere ability or obligation to report sexual harassment or to inform a student about how to report sexual harassment, or having been trained to do so, does not qualify an individual as one who has authority to institute corrective measures on behalf of the College.
  • A Responsible Employee is any employee with supervisory or leadership responsibilities on campus, including, but not limited to, all faculty (full time, part time, and adjunct) Athletic staff (coaches, assistant coaches, trainers, and athletic administrators) administrators (those with responsibilities for administering a program or service); staff members, including Residence Life Coordinators and Resident Assistants.

  A responsible employee, excluding confidential resources, must report to the Title IX Coordinator all relevant details about the alleged sexual harassment or sexual violence shared by the individual and that the University will need to determine what happened – including the names of the victim and alleged perpetrator(s), any witnesses, and any other relevant facts, including the date, time and specific location of the alleged incident.

  All University employees who do not have legally protected confidentiality are considered Responsible Employees.

  +Reporting

  The University strongly encourages all individuals to seek assistance from a medical provider and/or law enforcement immediately after an incident of sexual violence. This is the best option to ensure preservation of evidence and to begin a timely investigative and remedial response.

  

  The University also strongly encourages all individuals or third-party witnesses to report any incident to the University and to local law enforcement, although neither is required. These reporting options are not mutually exclusive. Both internal and criminal reports may be made simultaneously.

  In order for the process to begin, the University must have actual knowledge. Actual knowledge means notice of sexual harassment or allegations of sexual harassment to the University’s Title IX Coordinator or any University official who has authority to institute corrective measures on behalf of the recipient. Making a report means telling the Title IX Coordinator or Title IX Deputy Coordinator what happened—in person, by telephone, in writing, or by email. But, ultimately there must be a formal writing. 

  At the time a report is made, a Complainant does not have to request any particular course of action, nor does a Complainant need to know how to label what happened. Choosing to make a report, and deciding how to proceed after making the report, can be a process that unfolds over time. The University provides support that can assist Complainant’s in making these important decisions and will respect a Complainant’s autonomy in deciding how to proceed to the extent possible. In this process, the University will balance the Complainant’s interest with its obligation to provide a safe and non-discriminatory environment for all members of the University community.

  The University will investigate and resolve all formal complaints of Prohibited Conduct in a fair and impartial manner. The Parties will be treated with dignity and respect. In response to all reports of Prohibited Conduct, the University will make an immediate assessment of any risk of harm to the Parties, or the broader campus community and will take steps necessary to address those risks. These steps may include Supportive Measures and/or Emergency Removal or administrative leave of the Respondent to provide for the safety of the Complainant and the campus community.

  Emergency and External Reporting Options

  Complainants have the right to notify or decline to notify law enforcement. The University strongly encourages all individuals to seek assistance from law enforcement immediately after an incident of sexual misconduct. The University will help any Thomas University community member to get to a safe place and will arrange transportation to the hospital, coordination with law enforcement, and information about on- and off-campus resources and options for resolution.

  Emergency Assistance: 911
  Thomasville Police Dept. 229-227-3249
  Campus Security (Securitas): Observed and Report Only

  If you do not wish to make a report to the police, you are still encouraged to seek professional medical advice.

  Additional off-campus assistance is available through the following:

  Archbold Student & Employee Assistance Program 229-228-2210, Toll-Free 1-877-327-2724 or 24-Hours Helpline 1-800-238-8661 or at www.archold.org

  Halcyon Home, Inc.: Domestic/Sexual Violence Shelter: 600 E. Clay Street, Thomasville, GA 31792. (229-226-5096). Services are available to respond to allegations of a domestic violence upon male victims. These supports for adult male victims does not include residential. Residential is for women only.

  The Treehouse Advocacy Center: Provides adult sexual assault services in Thomas County. (229)977-1639). (CRISIS). Website: www.treehousecac.com or email: the treehousecac@gmail.com.

  National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233 (SAFE). Rape Crisis Center in Thomas County: (866) 577-3600.

  DHR Protective Services (child/disabled adult); (866-552-4464. Provide individual investigation of all allegations and present if necessary to the court for action as recommend by investigators.

  Campus Reporting Options

  The University recommends that individuals report Prohibited Conduct to an Official with Authority or Responsible Employee or any of the following offices or individuals:

  Dean of Students – Dr. Scott Grubbs – Student Life Building, Forbes Campus 229-977-6563; sgrubbs@thomasu.edu

  Human Resources Director – Anna Benefield- Forbes Building – Main Campus 229-516-3774; abenefield@thomasu.edu

  The University reserves the right to grant amnesty from drug, alcohol, or other violations of the Social Code for parties reporting allegations under this Policy (i.e., if alcohol was involved in the incident, the reporting party would not then be charged with an alcohol infraction). Decisions regarding amnesty under the Policy will be made by the Title IX Coordinator.

  Cases of sexual violence may also be reported to the Thomasville Police Department; the University’s Title IX Coordinator can assist individuals with contacting the Police Department. If an incident is criminal in nature, the University may be mandated to share certain information with law enforcement.

  Anonymous Reporting

  Although the University encourages victims to talk to someone, the University provides an alternative option for anonymous reporting. Campus Conduct Reporting can be directed to the Title IX Coordinator at, 229-221-9154, is a confidential, independent call-in service that provides all University community members a simple and anonymous way to report any incident.

  +Supportive Measures

  Upon receipt of a formal complaint, the University will provide reasonable and appropriate supportive measures designed to eliminate any existing hostile environment and protect all Parties involved. The University will make reasonable efforts to communicate with the Parties to ensure that all safety, emotional and physical well-being concerns are being addressed. Supportive measures may be implemented regardless of whether formal disciplinary action is sought by the Complainant or the University, and regardless of whether a crime is reported to local law enforcement. Supportive Measures are non-disciplinary, services offered as appropriate, as reasonably available, and without fee or charge to both the Complainant or Respondent before or after the filing of a Formal Complaint or where no Formal Complaint has been filed. These Supportive Measures are designed to restore or preserve equal access to the University’s education program or activity without unreasonable burdening Complainant and Respondent, including measures designed to protect the safety of all Parties or the University’s educational environment, or deter sexual harassment.

  Supportive measures may include no- contact directives, changes in class or work schedules, changes in University-owned living arrangements, or any other supportive measures that the University deems appropriate. Likewise, the University may work with a reporting student to provide access to on-campus counseling services, provide information regarding off-campus services, increased security monitoring, additional academic support or even withdrawal from class (or classes) without penalty. Supportive measures for employees may include changes in work schedules, relocating offices, provide information regarding off-campus services, increased security monitoring, or any other supportive measures that the University deems appropriate.

  The University will maintain the privacy of any supportive measures provided under this Policy to the extent practicable and will promptly address any violation of the supportive measures. All individuals are encouraged to report concerns about failure of another individual to abide by any restrictions imposed by a supportive measure. The University will take immediate and responsive action to enforce a previously implemented restriction if such restriction was violated.

  Emergency Removal

  Nothing in this Policy precludes the University from removing a Respondent from the University’s education program or activity on an emergency basis, provided that the University undertakes an individualized safety and risk analysis, determines that an immediate threat to the physical health or safety of any student or other individual arising from the allegations of sexual harassment justifies removal, and provides the Respondent with notice and an opportunity to challenge the decision immediately following the removal. This provision may not be construed to modify any rights under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, or the Americans with Disabilities Act.

  Administrative Leave

  Nothing in this Policy precludes Thomas University from placing a non-student employee Respondent on administrative leave during the pendency of this process. This provision may not be construed to modify any rights under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 or the Americans with Disabilities Act.

  +Prevention, Awareness Programs and Training

  Thomas University is committed to preventing sexual harassment. To that end, this Policy and these procedures will be printed in appropriate University publications. In addition, educational programs will be conducted annually by the University to (1) inform students, faculty, staff and administration about identifying sexual harassment and the problems it causes; (2) advise members of the University community about their rights and responsibilities under this Policy; (3) train personnel in the administration of this Policy. The Sexual Misconduct Policy and Procedures will be issued to all incoming students and personnel.

  +Resolution of Grievance

  The Title IX Team (Coordinator and/or Deputy) will coordinate resolution of all allegations of Prohibited Conduct defined in the Sexual Misconduct Policy using the procedures in this section. Prohibited Conduct (e.g., discrimination, harassment, retaliation) based on protected status other than sex (e.g., race, color, age, disability, other classification protected by federal or state law) is prohibited by other University policies. In the event of such complaints, the University will identify, based upon the allegation, the appropriate office to coordinate resolution of the report.

  The Respondent is presumed not responsible for the alleged conduct until a determination regarding responsibility is made at the conclusion of the grievance process.

  All investigations will be conducted in a timely and impartial manner. The Parties will be informed of the projected timeline for conclusion of the process. There may be temporary delays of the process and limited extensions of time frame for good cause. The Parties will be provided written notice of the delay and reasons for such delay.

  If the conduct alleged in the Formal Complaint would not constitute sexual harassment as defined in this Policy even if proved, did not occur in the University’s education program or activity, or did not occur against a person in the United States, then the University must dismiss the Formal Complaint with regard to that conduct for purposes of sexual harassment under this Policy. However, such a dismissal does not preclude action under another provision of the University’s Student or Employee Code.

  The University may dismiss the Formal Complaint or any allegations therein, if at any time during the investigation or hearing: A Complainant notifies the Title IX Coordinator in writing that the Complainant would like to withdraw the formal complaint or any allegations therein; the Respondent is no longer enrolled or employed by the University; or specific circumstances prevent the University from gathering evidence sufficient to reach a determination as to the Formal Complaint or allegations therein.

  Upon dismissal of the Formal Complaint either required or permitted, the University will promptly send written notice of the dismissal and reasons for the dismissal simultaneously to each Party.

  The University may consolidate Formal Complaints as to allegations of sexual harassment against more than one Respondent, or by more than one Complainant against one or more Respondents, or by one Party against another Party, where the allegations of sexual harassment arise out of the same facts or circumstances.

  Intake Meeting

  With or without a Formal Complaint, the Title IX Coordinator must promptly contact the Complainant to discuss the availability of Supportive Measures, consider the Complainant’s wishes with respect to supportive measures, and explain the Complainant the process for filing a Formal Complaint.

  Upon receipt of a formal complaint, the Title IX Team will conduct an Intake Meeting with the Complainant as soon as possible. At that meeting, the Coordinator or Deputy Coordinator will address the following topics, as appropriate:

  • Address immediate physical safety and emotional well-being needs.
  • Notify the Complainant of the right to contact law enforcement and seek medical treatment (and the right to decline to do so), and the importance of preservation of evidence.
  • Notify the Complainant of confidential and non-confidential reporting options on and off campus.
  • Provide the Complainant with information about:
    • On and off campus resources, including counseling, health, mental health, victim advocacy, and legal assistance.
    • The range of supportive measures, including changes to academic, living, transportation, and/or working situations, or other protective measures, which are available to the Complainant regardless of whether the Complainant files a formal complaint with the University, Campus Security or local law enforcement.
    • Provide an overview of the procedural options and process, including Informal Resolution and Formal Resolution. This overview should include explanation that the Complainant will receive written notice of the date, time, location, participants, and purpose of all hearings, investigative interviews, or other meetings, with sufficient time for the Complainant to prepare to participate.
    • Explain the right to object to the assignment of the Title IX Coordinator, Deputy Coordinator or Investigators based on bias or conflict of interest within 2 business days of a decision to proceed through the process.
    • Explain the right to a timely investigation and resolution.
    • Explain the right to inspect and review evidence.
    • Explain the University’s policy on retaliation.
    • Provide notice of any provision in the University’s Code of Conduct that prohibits knowingly making false statements or knowingly submitting false information during the grievance process.
    • Explain that the Complainant has a right to an Advisor of their choice during the process.
    • Explain the right to appeal.
    • Provide statement that the Respondent is presumed not responsible for the alleged conduct and that a determination regarding responsibility is made at the conclusion of the grievance process.

  At the Intake Meeting, the Coordinator or Deputy Coordinator will provide the Complainant with the above-listed information in writing. If the initial Intake Meeting is conducted by a Deputy Coordinator, the meeting report will be submitted to the Coordinator for consideration. As described in the Sexual Misconduct Policy, the Complainant has the right to request that the Title IX office not share the Complainant’s name (or other identifiable information) with the Respondent, or that the Title IX office take no formal action in response to the report.

   If the Complainant makes such a request, the Coordinator will balance the request with the dual obligation to provide a safe and nondiscriminatory environment for all University’s community members, and to remain true to principles of fundamental fairness that require the University to provide the Respondent with notice of the allegations and an opportunity to respond before action is taken against the Respondent.

  The Coordinator will make this determination consistent with the following considerations, namely:

  • The seriousness of the conduct;
  • The respective ages and roles of the Complainant and the Respondent;
  • Whether there have been other complaints or reports of Prohibited Conduct against the Respondent;
  • The right of the Respondent to receive notice and relevant information before disciplinary action is sought.

  Should the Coordinator determine that, in response to the Complainant’s request, the University can satisfy its obligations to the Complainant, the University community members, and the Respondent without proceeding through the Process described herein, the Coordinator has the discretion to do so.

  Absent a request for confidentiality as described above, the Coordinator or Deputy Coordinator will ask the Complainant questions to get a basic understanding of the reported Prohibited Conduct. The interview will include, but is not limited to, questions to understand the key facts upon which the Complainant bases the report (i.e., the who, what, where, and when) to appropriately assess how to proceed. At the conclusion of the Intake Meeting, and if the individual wishes to move forward with a formal complaint, the Coordinator and Deputy will decide:

  • Does the Complainant’s report state facts that, if true, could constitute a violation of the University’s Sexual Misconduct Policy?
    • If yes, an initial investigation will be conducted to determine if the University should proceed through Formal or Informal Resolution

  The Title IX Coordinator or Deputy will select a trained internal or external investigator or a two-person investigative team to conduct a reasonable, impartial, and prompt investigation of the complaint (“Investigation”). The Coordinator will select an Investigator based on several factors, including the Parties involved, the complexity of the complaint, the need to avoid any potential conflict of interest, and who may best conduct a fair and equitable investigation for all Parties involved. The Coordinator will notify the Complainant and Respondent, in writing, of the name of the designated Investigator(s). The Complainant will have 2 business days to object to the Investigator’s selection on the basis of bias or conflict of interest. If the Complainant or Respondent objects, the Coordinator will evaluate whether the objection is substantiated. The Coordinator will remove and replace any Investigator the Coordinator finds to have a bias or conflict of interest against either party.

  The Complainant and the Respondent are each permitted to select an Advisor to accompany his/her during any investigative meeting, pre-hearing conference and/or at any time following the filing of a formal complaint. The Advisor may be a mentor, family member, friend, attorney or any other supporter so long as they are not in any way involved in the resolution process, such as serving as a witness. Their role is to support the Complainant or the Respondent and, as such, are not permitted to speak in investigative meetings. However, during a live hearing, Advisors are permitted to cross examine the parties and witnesses. The University cannot guarantee equal advisory rights, meaning that if one party selects an advisor who is an attorney, but the other does not, or cannot afford an attorney, the University is not obligated to provide one.

  Role of the Advisor of Choice

  Both the Respondent and Complainant have the right to have an Advisor of Choice. It is the responsibility of the Complainant and Respondent to communicate with the Advisor regarding allegations, times and dates of meetings, hearings, outcomes and any other information regarding the case. The Investigators, Title IX Coordinator and Deputy Coordinator will not discuss the case with any Advisor. The Advisor may:

  • Attend any meeting or hearing with the respective Complainant or Respondent regarding the case, if invited by the respective Complainant Respondent;
  • May provide advice to the Complainant or Respondent he/she is advising through quiet conversation or written notes in any meeting or hearing related to the case;
  • May be a member of the University community, but is not required to be. May be an attorney, but, is not required to be;
  • During meetings with Investigators and the Title IX Team, Advisors may not represent the Complainant or Respondent; Parties are expected to respond to questions from investigators and the Title IX team directly;
  • During a live hearing, advisors may cross-examine the Parties and the Parties witnesses.

  Prior to meeting with the Respondent, the University will provide written notice to the Respondent of the allegations of sexual harassment including sufficient details known at the time and with sufficient time to prepare a response before any initial interview. Additionally, the following must be provided in writing to the Respondent:

  • Notify the Respondent of the right to contact law enforcement and seek medical treatment (and the right to decline to do so), and the importance of preservation of evidence
  • Notify the Respondent of confidential and non-confidential reporting options on and off campus;
  • Provide the Respondent with information about:
    • On and off campus resources, including counseling, health, mental health, victim advocacy, and legal assistance;
    • The range of supportive measures, including changes to academic, living, transportation, and/or working situations, or other protective measures;
  • Provide an overview of the procedural options and process, including Informal Resolution and Formal Resolution. This overview should include explanation that the Respondent will receive written notice of the date, time, location, participants, and purpose of all hearings, investigative interviews, or other meetings, with sufficient time for the Respondent to prepare to participate.
  • Explain the right to object to the assignment of the Title IX Coordinator, Deputy Coordinator or Investigators based on bias or conflict of interest within 2 business days of a decision to proceed through the process
  • Explain the right to a timely investigation and resolution
  • Explain the right to inspect and review evidence
  • Explain that the Respondent has a right to an Advisor of their choice during the process
  • Explain the University’s policy on retaliation
  • Provide notice of any provision in the University’s Code of Conduct that prohibits knowingly making false statements or knowingly submitting false information during the grievance process
  • Explain the right to appeal
  • Provide statement that the respondent is presumed not responsible for the alleged conduct and that a determination regarding responsibility is made at the conclusion of the grievance process.

  Initial Fact-Gathering:

  The Investigator will interview both Parties and relevant witnesses and gather documentary evidence provided by the Parties and any identified witnesses. The Investigator will prepare a summary of each interview (“Interview Summary”). The University does not restrict the ability of either the Complainant or Respondent to discuss the allegations under investigation or to gather and present relevant evidence.

  Using the findings from this preliminary investigation, the Title IX Coordinator, and Deputy Coordinator will determine and notify the Complainant in writing as to whether the University should proceed through Formal or Informal Resolution using the following guidelines:

  • Any Formal Complaint that alleges sexual misconduct, including sexual assault and non-consensual sexual contact, or other forms of physical violence can proceed through the informal resolution process.
  • Complaints involving allegations that an employee sexually harassed a student are not permitted to proceed through an Informal Resolution process.
  • Some complaints that allege harassment may be appropriate for informal resolution. If the Coordinator determines that the complaint may appropriately be resolved through Informal Resolution, the Coordinator will ask the Complainant and Respondent, separately, whether they would agree to pursue resolution of the complaint informally. Any resolution reached through Informal Resolution will be confirmed in writing and provided to the Parties as soon as possible after reaching a resolution.

  Informal Resolution

  If the Coordinator determines that it is appropriate, the Parties may choose to resolve complaints through Informal Resolution. Informal Resolution must be mutually agreed upon, in writing, by both parties in case. Additionally, an Informal Resolution process cannot begin unless a formal written complaint is filed. The Informal Resolution process may recommend the following types of outcomes, where appropriate: facilitating an agreement between the Parties, separating the Parties, referring the Parties to counseling programs, conducting targeted educational and training programs, and mediation.

  To proceed with Informal Resolution, the University must provide the Parties with written notice disclosing the allegations, the requirements of the Informal Resolution process including the circumstances under which the Parties could be precluded from resuming a Formal Resolution process arising from the same allegations. No party can be required as a condition of enrollment or continuing enrollment, or employment or continuing employment, or enjoyment of any other right, to waive their right to an investigation and adjudication of a Formal Complaint.

  If the parties involved in the Informal Resolution process fail to reach a mutually agreeable outcome for the alleged conduct, the allegation will be resolved via the formal investigation process. In that event, the Title IX Coordinator will so notify the Parties in writing and will describe next steps and time frames for the Formal Resolution.

  Agreements reached via the informal resolution process shall be final following three (3) business days and cannot be appealed absent the discovery of new and material information or other similar circumstances, in which case a new investigation may be initiated.

  Any Party (including the Title IX Coordinator) may terminate the Informal Resolution process at any time.

  Formal Resolution

  If the Coordinator determines that the Complainant’s report must proceed through Formal Resolution, the Coordinator will make every attempt to notify both Parties, in writing, of the decision as soon as possible following the initial investigation. The Coordinator’s written notification to the Respondent will state facts sufficient to apprise the Respondent of the nature of the allegations, including, specifically:

  • Complainant’s name;
  • Nature of the report;
    • Specific policy violation(s) alleged (e.g., sexual assault, sexual harassment, retaliation)
    • Date(s) of alleged policy violation(s)
    • Location(s) of alleged policy violation(s)
    • Brief description of allegation(s)

  The notice of the complaint shall be accompanied with a request for a meeting with the Title IX Coordinator or Deputy Coordinator within 3 business days. If the Respondent does not respond to the meeting request or is unable to meet within 3 business days, the Coordinator shall provide the following information in writing:

  • On and off campus resources, including counseling, health, mental health, victim advocacy and legal assistance;
  • The range of Supportive Measures including changes to academic, living, transportation, and/or working situations, or other protective measures.
  • An overview of the procedural options and process, including Informal Resolution and Formal Resolution
  • Explain that the Respondent has a right to an Advisor of their choice during the process;
  • The University’s stance on alcohol and drug amnesty
  • The University’s policy prohibiting retaliation

  The Investigator will continue the investigation once the 3 business days has expired, or sooner if both Parties respond. The Investigator, in consultation with the Coordinator, will establish an expected, reasonable timeframe for the Formal Investigation process and notify the Parties of any delays.

  Formal Investigation

  The Investigator will review the documentation from the preliminary investigation and will prepare a Preliminary Report. The Preliminary Report is a written summary of the evidence gathered in the course of the Preliminary Investigation. This evidence will include both inculpatory and exculpatory evidence. The burden of gathering evidence sufficient to reach a determination regarding responsibility rests on the University and not on the Parties. The Investigator will state specific factual findings in the Preliminary Report (e.g., “Complainant was incapacitated” or “Respondent believed that Complainant was not incapacitated”). The standard for determining each factual finding is the “preponderance of the evidence,” (i.e., that it is more likely than not that the factual finding is true). The Investigator will not state ultimate findings as to whether the Respondent has, or has not, violated one or more of the University’s policies. The Investigator will attach as exhibits to the Preliminary Report all Interview Summaries and any documentary evidence gathered and relied upon in the Preliminary Investigation that is directly related to the allegations in the Formal Complaint, including any evidence upon which the University does not intend to rely in reaching a determination regarding responsibility and any inculpatory or exculpatory evidence whether obtained from a Party or other source. The University cannot access, consider, disclose, or otherwise use a Party’s records that are made or maintained by a physician, psychiatrist, psychologist, or other recognized professional or paraprofessional acting in the professional’s or paraprofessional’s capacity, or assisting in that capacity, and which are made and maintained in connection with the provision of treatment to the Party, unless the University obtains that Party’s voluntary, written consent to this evidence. When the Investigator determines that the Preliminary Investigation is complete, the Investigator will submit the Preliminary Report to the Coordinator. The Coordinator may require the Investigator to conduct additional investigation; if so, the Investigator will conduct additional investigation consistent with the following procedures:

  The Investigator may conduct follow-up interviews with both Parties and witnesses based upon testimonial and documentary evidence gathered during the Preliminary Investigation. The Parties and witnesses can expect that, in these follow-up interviews, the Investigator will seek responses to specific allegations or evidence. To the extent additional material, witnesses or evidence are identified during Rebuttal Fact-Gathering, the Investigator will conduct additional interviews and gather additional evidence. Rebuttal Fact-Gathering may be repeated as necessary to ensure a complete gathering of evidence.

  Notice of Findings and Response

  Once the Coordinator has agreed that the Investigation is complete, the Coordinator will provide the Preliminary Report to the Parties for review, as soon as possible after receipt of the Preliminary Report from the Investigator. Neither the Complainant nor the Respondent (or their Advisors, including but not limited to family members and/or legal counsel) may copy, remove, photograph, print, image, videotape, record, or in any manner otherwise duplicate or remove the information provided.

  The Parties may respond to the Preliminary Report; the Parties will submit any response within 10 calendar days of being notified of their opportunity to review the report. The Parties may respond in one or both of the following ways:

  • The Parties may provide a written response to the Preliminary Report, or any portion of it, including each Interview Summary. The Investigator will consider any written response provided by the Parties in preparing the Final Report.
  • The Parties may submit a written request for additional investigation. Such requests may include, but are not limited to, the following:
    • Request(s) for follow-up interview(s) with existing witnesses to clarify or provide additional information, including offering questions to the Investigator to pose to witnesses.
    • Request(s) to consider new evidence. Any request for additional investigation shall explain the reason for the request (e.g., new witnesses).

  If neither of the Parties requests additional investigation, the Investigator will prepare the Final Report. If either (or both) Parties request additional investigation, the Investigator will review the request(s) in consultation with the Coordinator. The Investigator will conduct the requested additional investigation if the Coordinator determines that the request(s) will assist the Investigator in completing the investigation.

  If the Investigator conducts additional investigation, the Investigator will prepare an Addendum to the Preliminary Report (“Addendum”). The Investigator will submit the Addendum to the Coordinator. The Coordinator may require the Investigator to conduct additional investigation before the Addendum is complete. Once the Coordinator has agreed that the Addendum is complete, the Coordinator will provide the Addendum to the Parties.

  Final Report

  Once the investigation is complete, the Investigator will prepare a Final Report. The Final Report, if different from the Preliminary Report, will have attached as exhibits the testimonial and documentary evidence from the Preliminary Investigation, the Preliminary Report, the Addendum (if applicable), and all of the Parties’ responses throughout the Formal Resolution proceeding. Once the Investigator is satisfied that the Final Report is complete, the Investigator will submit the Final Report to the Coordinator. The Coordinator will send to each Party and the Party’s Advisor, if any, a copy of the Final Report in an electronic format or hard copy, for their review and response.

  No earlier than 10 calendar days after sending the Final Report, the Coordinator will meet with the Complainant and Respondent individually. At the meeting the Coordinator will communicate the decision of the Coordinator on the findings and the sanctions (if any). The standard of proof will be preponderance of the evidence. If there is no objection by either Party to the findings and/or sanctions, the case is concluded. Parties will have 3 business days to submit to the Title IX Coordinator an objection regarding the findings and/or sanctions and request a live hearing on the matter. If no objections are submitted in writing within the 3 business days, the finding and/or sanctions are final.

  +Hearings and Appeals

  Hearing (Hearing Panel)

  If either of the Parties do not wish to participate in the Informal Resolution prior to an adjudication by the hearing panel, the Coordinator will schedule a hearing on the case not less than 10 (ten) Business Days from the meeting to discuss the findings with the Coordinator.  (this is the continuation of what was inserted above – making it clear that the Parties are not waiving their right to a Live Hearing.  So, might want to do a better job than I in weaving the above language into the process and then going on to the hearing process below.

  The Coordinator will set the date and time of the hearing, appoint a hearing panel consisting of three (3) trained hearing panelists and notify the Parties of the hearing date and option to call witnesses to the proceeding.  Three (3) panelists will serve on the panel and will ultimately make the determination by majority opinion as to whether or not, by the preponderance of the evidence the Respondent is responsible for the alleged Sexual Misconduct Policy violation.  The third panelist will serve as the panel chair and is responsible for maintaining order during the hearing panel proceeding.

  The hearing will be recorded.  The hearing will be live, but, may be conducted with all parties physically in the same geographical location or, at the University’s discretion or request of either Party, any or all of the Parties may appear at the live hearing virtually, with sufficient technology to enable participants to simultaneously see and hear each other.

  The hearing will not be conducted as a court proceeding. The Parties have the right to present their opening and closing statements as well as to present their factual position and for the Panel to question the Parties and witnesses presented. However, the Parties may not cross-examine each other. The Advisor for both Parties have the right to cross-examine the other Party and all witness and ask all relevant questions and follow-up questions, including those challenging credibility. Only relevant cross-examination and other questions may be asked of a party or witness. Before a Complainant, Respondent, or witness answers a cross-examination or other question, the Chair of the hearing panel must first determine whether the question is relevant and explain any decision to exclude a question as not relevant.  If a Party does not have an Advisor present at the Live Hearing, the University will provide without fee or charge to that party, an Advisor of the University’s choice, who may be, but is not required to be, an attorney, to conduct cross-examination on behalf of that party. Questions and evidence about the Complainant’s sexual predisposition or prior sexual behavior are not relevant, unless such questions and evidence about the Complainant’s prior sexual behavior are offered to prove that someone other than the respondent committed the conduct alleged by the Complainant, or if the questions and evidence concern specific incidents of the Complainant’s prior sexual behavior with respect to the respondent and are offered to prove consent.

  If a Party or witness does not submit to cross-examination at the Live Hearing, the Hearing Panel must not rely on any statement of that Party or witness in reaching a determination regarding responsibility; provided, however, that the hearing panel cannot draw an inference about the determination regarding responsibility based solely on a Party’s or witness’s absence from the live hearing or refusal to answer cross-examination or other questions.  

  Hearing Panel Determination

  A written determination is required to be submitted by the hearing panel to the Title IX Coordinator, who will meet with the Respondent and Complainant separately to deliver the written determination. The written determination must include: (a) Identification of the allegations potentially constituting sexual harassment , (b) A description of the procedural steps taken from the receipt of the Formal Complaint through the determination, including any notifications to the parties, interviews with parties and witnesses, site visits, methods used to gather other evidence, and hearings held, (c) Findings of fact supporting the determination, (d) A statement of, and rationale for, the result as to each allegation, including a determination regarding responsibility, any disciplinary sanctions the University imposes on the respondent, and whether remedies designed to restore or preserve equal access to the University’s education program or activity will be provided by the University to the Complainant , (e) the University appeal process.

  Possible sanctions which may be assigned after a finding of Responsibility are those articulated in the Thomas University Student Handbook. This list is not exhaustive and may be modified to meet the particular circumstances of any given case:

  • Expulsion – Permanent severance of the student’s relationship with the University. This severance includes being barred from campus.
  • Disciplinary Suspension – Temporary severance of the student’s relationship with the University for a specified period of time.
  • Limited Suspension – A student may be denied certain privileges for a specified period of time. These privileges may include, but are not limited to, class attendance, housing, parking on campus, participation in extracurricular activities, ID card privileges, access to institutional facilities, and access to the campus.
  • Disciplinary Probation – Notice to the student that any further, major disciplinary violation may result in suspension. Disciplinary probation might also include one or both of the following: the setting of restrictions or the issuing of a reprimand.
  • Reprimand (either oral or written.)

  Counseling – The committee may request that a student meet a specified number of counseling sessions with the (SAP) Student Assistance Program thru Archbold Counseling for issues including, but not limited to, anger management, substance abuse, and extenuating personal circumstances.

  Appeal (Appeal Officer)

  Both Parties may appeal a determination made by the Hearing Panel. If the Respondent or the Complainant chooses to appeal either the Sanctions or the hearing panel’s decision, they may do so by submitting a written appeal statement to the Title IX Coordinator within 3 business days of the date the hearing report is sent to the parties. The Title IX Coordinator will turn over to the VP of Academic Affairs who serves as the Appeal Officer. The three grounds for appeal are:

  • Procedural irregularity that affected the outcome of the matter;
  • New evidence that was not reasonably available at the time the determination regarding responsibility or dismissal was made, that could affect the outcome of the matter; and
  • The Title IX Coordinator, investigator(s), or Hearing Panel member(s) had a conflict of interest or bias for or against Complainants or respondents generally or the individual Complainant or respondent that affected the outcome of the matter.

  The appeal statement must identify the ground(s) for appeal. Note that an appeal is not a re-hearing of the case.

  If the Appeal Officer determines that a ground of appeal is substantiated, the Appeal Officer will return the case to the Coordinator. When a case is returned to the Coordinator, the Coordinator may decide to dismiss the case (e.g., based on insufficient information to believe that a policy violation may have occurred), send the case to the original hearing panel for reconsideration, send the case to a new hearing panel with the same or different charges, and/or (re)implement any aspect of the disciplinary process. A different decision (i.e., the decision of responsibility and/or sanctions) may subsequently result. If the Appeal Officer finds the appeal is not substantiated, the decision of the hearing panel stands.

  +Trainings

  The Thomas University Title IX Team are regularly trained in accordance with law. Click below to view the agendas of recent trainings.

  Title IX Overview

  Investigator Training – Parts I, II and III

  Investigator Training – Part IV

  Investigator Training – Part V

  Resolution Mediator Training

  Hearing Panel Member Training

  Investigator Training

  Advisor Training

  Hearing Panel Member Training

  Investigator Training ANSI-ASIS-Investigation Standards

  Investigator Training Overview

  Hearing Panel Training Overview

  Investigator Training Title IX Scenarios

  Investigator Training Posting for Institutional Website

  Investigator Training Policy Overview

  2022-23 Investigator Training ASIS-ANSI Standards

  Investigator Training

  Investigator Training Scenarios-1

• Parents’ Corner

  October 22, 2019 9:56 am Comments Off on Parents’ Corner

  The Parents’ Corner is an information resource for families of current and prospective Thomas University Students. We understand that sending your student to college is a big step for both of you, and we want parents to have access to important information that will make that transition easier.

  Whether it’s your first child or your fifth child, the day you drop them off at campus and drive home never gets any easier. However, you and your student chose Thomas University, so you can rest assured that your child will have an exceptional educational experience.

  If you have additional questions, need assistance, or further information please contact Student Life at 229-226-1621 ext 1118 or the Office of Student Success at advising@thomasu.edu.

  +FERPA. Why you should care

  Without a FERPA Student Authorization Form on file with the Registrar’s office, we cannot discuss your student’s grades, finances, attendance or other details of their student record with you, even though you are the parents! This information is protected under FERPA. The FERPA form is available in the student portal, HawkLink, and must be submitted by the student.

  The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords students certain rights with respect to their education records. These rights include:

  • The right to inspect and review the student’s education records within 45 days of the day the University receives a request for access.
    • A student should submit to the registrar, dean, head of the academic department, or other appropriate official, a written request that identifies the record(s) the student wishes to inspect. The University official will make arrangements for access and notify the student of the time and place where the records may be inspected. If the records are not maintained by the University official to whom the request was submitted, that official shall advise the student of the correct official to whom the request should be addressed.
    • A student who wishes to ask the University to amend a record should write the University official responsible for the record, clearly identify the part of the record the student wants changed, and specify why it should be changed.
      If the University decides not to amend the record as requested, the University will notify the student in writing of the decision and the student’s right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the student when notified of the right to a hearing.
  • The right to provide written consent before the University discloses personally identifiable information from the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent.
    • The University discloses education records without a student’s prior written consent under the FERPA exception for disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official is a person employed by the University in an administrative, supervisory, academic or research, or support staff position (including law enforcement unit personnel and health staff); a person or company with whom the University has contracted as its agent to provide a service instead of using University employees or officials (such as an attorney, auditor, or collection agent); a person serving on the Board of Trustees; or a student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks.
    • A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibilities for the University.
      Upon request, the University also discloses education records without consent to officials of another school in which a student seeks or intends to enroll.
    • The University may disclose, without consent, “directory” information such as a student’s name, address, date and place of birth, degrees awarded, major field of study, honors and awards, and dates of attendance.
    • The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the University to comply with the requirements of FERPA.
  • The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failure by the University to comply with the requirements of FERPA.

  The name and address of the Office that administers FERPA is:

  Family Policy Compliance Office
  U.S. Department of Education,
  400 Maryland Avenue, SW
  Washington, DC 20202-5901

  Additional Information:
  U.S. Department of Education FERPA Website

  Please contact the Thomas University Registrar with any questions concerning the release of information under FERPA or to opt-out of having directory information shared. Students with complaints regarding their privacy rights are also encouraged to visit or contact the Registrar by e-mail (registrar@thomasu.edu) or by phone at 229-226-1621, Ext 1022.

  +What Parents need to Know

  • Textbooks
  • Security
  • Activities
  • Student Assistance

  Yes, they will need them! The list of textbooks and any online software required for each class are posted on the TU website before each semester on the Bookstore page.

  Students may purchase their books through our online bookstore. The convenient access and streamlined purchasing allow students to enjoy personalized shopping carts that build automatically as they select their course materials. Students have the ability to choose from digital, new and used print, and rentals all in one place. Flexible delivery and payment options are available so students are able to get what they need with ease.

  Students that are registered for courses may charge up to $1,000 in textbooks to their account. Students will be responsible for textbook charges. Charges will decrease the amount of any refunds.

  Security

  On-campus students should contact the Housing Manager, Resident Director or their Resident Assistant 24/7 in case of an emergency.

  Emergency System

  Thomas University has an emergency communications system in place to notify all students, faculty and staff in the event of an emergency situation.

  • In the event of an emergency:
    • The emergency system is updated each semester with each student's information from the registrar's office. It's important that a student updates his/her information in Hawklink.
    • An emergency message in the form of a text message, voice message and email will be sent to all cell phone numbers, home phone numbers and email addresses on file with the registrar's office. (Please make sure your student updates this information regularly in Hawklink.)
    • An emergency message will be sent to all computers on the TU network. This message interrupts any work on that computer. The message must be dismissed by the computer user or time out according to its programming.
    • Emergency notifications will be posted on the TU website, Facebook page, Twitter page and Instagram page.
  • Parents are welcome to sign up to be included in TU's emergency messaging system. To do so, please send the following information to marketing@thomasu.edu. Please send a separate email for each parent. You will be contact via email to verify that the information is correct.
    • Parent's name
    • Student's name
    • Parent's cell phone number(s)
    • Parent's email address(es)

  Student Activities

  TU's Student Activities Office holds events on campus for students to enjoy. We encourage students to participate in multiple activities. This is a great way for students to meet others and connect outside of their regular team or classroom.Some of the other events that Student Activities holds include:

  • Welcome Week
  • Thanksgiving Dinner
  • Food Drive
  • Bowling Night
  • Spring Week
  • Graduate Week

  TU also has many clubs and organizations in which students can participate. These include:

  • The Art Club is open to any students interested in discussing art, creating art projects and visiting area art museums.
  • Campus Activities Board is a group of student volunteers who plan activities for other students.
  • ENACTUS encourages students to collaborate with academic and business leaders in developing various community service projects.
  • Jazz Ensemble performs at events throughout the area.
  • Night Hawk Review is TU's annual creative arts journal, which highlights the creative work of students, staff, faculty and friends of TU.
  • Pep Band consists of trumpet, trombone, saxophone, percussion, bass (upright or guitar) and other instruments.
  • Psychology Club an organization open to psychology majors and those with a special interest in psychology.
  • TU Book Club meets monthly for a discussion on a selected book.
  • Thomasville Singers is a community chorus with weekly rehearsals on Monday nights in Smith-Bonvillian Hall.

  Be sure to follow TU's Student Activities pages on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to find out more about what's happening.

  • Thomas University on Facebook
  • Thomas University on Twitter
  • Thomas University on Instagram

  Disability Services

  The Student Disability Support Services Office serves as Thomas University’s entry-point into advocacy for on-campus, online, and distance students with disabilities. We work with faculty and staff to provide academic accommodations for the unique needs of students both in and out of the classroom at Thomas University. By providing support services to students with disabilities, TU offers an opportunity for students to achieve their academic and personal goals.If your student needs to request accommodations, please refer to the process and documents here.

  Student Assistance Program

  Sometimes students need help dealing with the pressures and problems that come with college life. TU has partnered with Archbold Memorial Hospital to provide the Student Assistance Program (SAP). These services are at no cost, private, and confidential. The SAP provides services such as: Identification, assessment of problems/stressors consultation and problem resolution sessions. Referral to appropriate and accessible services and resources. Students who need assistance may call 877-327-2724 or contact a TU staff member.

  +Office of Student Success

  Students are assigned a student a Success Advisor based on their major which allows students to benefit from a deep understanding of the course progression and processes unique to that program.  Success Advisors assist in developing a graduation plan, registering in classes and identifying resources to assist in successful progression toward your degree.  They are available to assist students in a variety of ways beyond simply registering for classes. Any questions students have concerning their college experience can be addressed with their Success Advisor.  They will provide information and make referrals to appropriate resources.  Success Advisors will also reach out if students appear to be falling behind in their coursework so that students can get back on track quickly.

  Every student also has access to faculty advisors who provides information on career pathways specific to each major and can assist in determining appropriate elective credit, internships and other experiences that provide a deeper preparation in your chosen career.

  Students have access to free tutoringthrough TU’s Learning Commons.  This is available in-person or virtually for a wide variety of coursework.

  TU’s Career Center is also available free of charge to assist students in determining career pathways based on interests and skills, preparing students for interviews, developing resumes and job searches.

  +Important Dates

  The FAFSA application is available NOW.  If your student plans to attend college next academic year, please complete this form.  Some aid programs are first come, first serve!  Our school code is 001555.

  Parents trying to plan for when their students will be home for the holidays or over the summer can view the Academic Calendar.

  Housing. Student housing is assigned on a first-come first-served basis for students who have a completed housing application and have paid the housing deposit. The housing application and deposit can be completed in the student portal, HawkLink.

  +Financial Aid

  Here in the Office of Financial Aid & Scholarships, we are here to help evaluate college cost and apply for financial aid programs. Our mission at Thomas University is to make an exceptional TU education affordable with as simple and straightforward as possible process. Over 90% of students receive financial aid at Thomas University. Our staff is devoted to your success and anticipate supporting you with your financial aid application.

  Additionally, the student’s financial aid information is available 24/7 through HawkLink (our student portal).  Your child has been sent information on setting up their TU account for email and access to HawkLink.

  For more information on applying for financial aid, completing your financial aid file, accepting aid, types of aid and more, please visit the Financial Aid page.

  A variety of scholarships are available to new and returning students. These can be viewed here. Students must be accepted to be eligible to apply for these scholarships. The applications are available in HawkLink. Please note the deadline for applying for these is 3/1.

  Contact Us

  Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships
  Admissions Building
  1501 Millpond Rd.
  Thomasville, GA 31792

  FAFSA School Code: 001555

  Office Hours

  Monday-Friday 9:00 am-5:00 pm

  Email: finaid@thomasu.edu
  Phone: (229) 584-2460
  Fax: 229-584-2400

  Schedule a phone or video appointment

  +Student Accounts

  Thomas University’s Student Accounts Office is dedicated to helping students and parents understand their student account.  We can assist with questions about tuition, fees and refunds as well as determining whom to contact to correct errors on your account.  We are here to help!  Additionally, the student’s account information is available 24/7 through HawkLink (our student portal). 

  For information on when tuition is due, how to make a payment, payment plans and more, please visit the Student Accounts page. 

  Contact Us

  Student Accounts
  Smith Bonvillian Annex First Floor
  1501 Millpond Rd.
  Thomasville, GA 31792

  Office Hours

  Monday – Friday 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

  Email: student.accounts@thomasu.edu
  Phone: 229-227-6883
  Fax: 229-584-5398

  Schedule a phone or video appointment

  +Housing and Meal Plans

  Thomas University offers on-campus housing for full-time students.  There are three dormitories at two locations.

  Visit our Housing page for more information concerning housing, room layouts, ‘what to pack’ lists.  We encourage parents to bring their student to campus at move-in if possible and our orientation has a special track just for parents.

  PLEASE NOTE: On-campus housing is assigned on a first-come, first-serve basis. Students interested in housing should complete the Housing Application, including the $300 room reservation fee, as soon as possible.

  Dining and Meal Plans

  Students residing in the Pinetree Dormitory and all overflow housing must purchase a 21-meal plan. This includes breakfast, lunch and dinner Monday through Saturday and brunch and dinner on Sunday. Students may use their meal plan at either the Pinetree Dining Hall or at the Hawk’s Nest on the Forbes campus.

  Magnolia dormitory residents have a full kitchen in each apartment unit.  However, they too can purchase a meal plan.  A variety of meal plans are available.

  +Orientation

  +New Student Orientation

  All new students are required to participate in the Thomas University New Student Orientation (NSO) program. 

  NSO provides vital information regarding the many important student features one gains as they become a Night Hawk. Some highlighted features are:

  • using the Student Portal (Hawklink) including student account and financial aid information,
  • understanding Canvas, the online learning site that accompany all courses at TU,
  • review of the numerous Library resources available to Night Hawks on campus or as a distance student.
  • orientation to the TU Honor Code and our expectations for academic integrity,
  • academic support services
  • opportunities for student involvement here at TU.

  The Campus-based NSO is required for all undergraduate students, new to TU, taking one or more classes on TU’s Thomasville, Georgia, campus and beginning classes in the Fall semester. This includes transfer students. 

  +Administrative Department Contact Information

  Department	Email	Phone
  Admissions Click for individual contact information	admissions@thomasu.edu	844-862-6978
  Advising Click for individual contact information	advising@thomasu.edu	229-226-1621 x 1054
  Athletics	athletics@thomasu.edu	229-226-1621 x 1077
  Bookstore	tubookstore@thomasu.edu
  Human Resources	hr@thomasu.edu	229-226-1621 x 1080
  Financial Aid Schedule an Appointment	finaid@thomasu.edu	229-584-2460
  Library	tulibrary@thomasu.edu	229-227-6959
  Registrar	registrar@thomasu.edu	229-226-1621 x 1022
  Student Accounts Schedule an Appointment	student.account@thomasu.edu	229-584-2461
  Student Life	studentlife@thomasu.edu	229-226-1621 x 1118
  Veterans Services Schedule an Appointment	military@thomasu.edu	202-821-7249

• Copyright

  July 24, 2018 7:57 am Comments Off on Copyright

  The Thomas University Library actively promotes compliance with the U.S. Copyright Law (17 U.S.C) in conjunction with Fair Use guidelines and prohibits copying or use of copyrighted materials not specifically permitted or exempted by law.

  All reserve and interlibrary loan items must adhere to the United States Copyright Law.

  +Reserve Use

  It is the Library’s policy that a faculty member or department obtains permission from the copyright owner for reserve services when applicable. Documented proof of permission must be provided to the Library. All fees for copyright permission must be paid by the individual or the department to the copyright owner. The University places liability for willful infringement of copyright upon the person making or requesting the copy, or using the material. If concerns arise regarding an item’s copyright legality, library faculty or the university attorney will review copyright laws that pertain to the item or situation to determine whether or not the item can be used as intended.

  Typically, you can place the following items on reserve without owner permission:

  • Single copies of an article
  • One chapter of a book
  • An entire poem

  All items should contain a notice of copyright. All items shall become the personal property of the instructor at the end of the semester. If the item is to be placed on reserve every semester, advance written notice from the copyright owner is required.

  +Interlibrary Loan Use

  The library may photocopy for the purposes of Interlibrary Loan. More than five (5) requests from any one title published within the past five years from a magazine to which the library does not subscribe is considered excessive and interpreted as an evasion of the purchase of a periodical.

  Copyright Infringement

  Chapter 5 of Title 17 of the United States Code in part states:

  § 501. Infringement of copyright3

  (a) Anyone who violates any of the exclusive rights of the copyright owner as provided by sections 106 through 122 or of the author as provided in section 106A(a), or who imports copies or phonorecords into the United States in violation of section 602, is an infringer of the copyright or right of the author, as the case may be. For purposes of this chapter (other than section 506), any reference to copyright shall be deemed to include the rights conferred by section 106A(a). As used in this subsection, the term “anyone” includes any State, any instrumentality of a State, and any officer or employee of a State or instrumentality of a State acting in his or her official capacity. Any State, and any such instrumentality, officer, or employee, shall be subject to the provisions of this title in the same manner and to the same extent as any nongovernmental entity.

  (b) The legal or beneficial owner of an exclusive right under a copyright is entitled, subject to the requirements of section 411, to institute an action for any infringement of that particular right committed while he or she is the owner of it. The court may require such owner to serve written notice of the action with a copy of the complaint upon any person shown, by the records of the Copyright Office or otherwise, to have or claim an interest in the copyright, and shall require that such notice be served upon any person whose interest is likely to be affected by a decision in the case. The court may require the joinder, and shall permit the intervention, of any person having or claiming an interest in the copyright.

  Full text of Chapter 5 can be found at the US Copyright Office website.

  +Fair Use – US Code Title 17, Section 107

  The Fair Use Doctrine limits the exclusive rights defined in Section 106 of the U.S. Copyright Act and supports the use of copyrighted works in scholarship, teaching, and learning. Fair Use is the limited right of others to use copyrighted materials.

  “Notwithstanding the provisions of sections 106 and 106A, the fair use of a copyrighted work, including such use by reproduction in copies or phonorecords or by any other means specified by that section, for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching (including multiple copies for classroom use), scholarship, or research, is not an infringement of copyright…”

  Section 107 of U.S. Copyright Law further states that there are four factors to be considered when deciding if Fair Use is applicable:

  • The purpose and character of the use, including whether such use is of commercial nature or is for nonprofit education purposes
  • The nature of the copyrighted work
  • Amount and substantiality of the portion used in relation to the copyrighted work as a whole
  • The effect of the use upon the potential market for or value of the copyrighted work

  Fair use is applicable to both print and digital content. Fair Use must be considered when posting excerpts of copyrighted works in course management systems

  Fair Use Checklist
  The fair use checklist utilized within the University System of Georgia is a tool which can assist you in making a reasoned and balanced application of the four fair use factors in determining whether a given use of a work is a fair use. It outlines various circumstances that are important to the evaluation of fair use and derives from the four fair use factors and from judicial decisions interpreting copyright law. Faculty can fill out the checklist and keep it on file if questions arise about the particular classroom or other use.

  +Teach Act

  Digitized copyrighted materials are affected by the TEACH Act, regardless of the original format of the materials. The Technology, Education and Copyright Harmonization (TEACH) Act was enacted in November 2002 as an amendment to the Copyright Act of 1976. Found in section 110(2) of the Act, it covers distance education as well as face to face teaching which has an online, web enhanced, transmitted or broadcast component. It exempts from liability the transmission, including over a digital network, of a performance or display of a copyrighted work by an accredited non-profit educational institution to students officially enrolled in a course or a government body to officers or employees of government as a part of their official duties or employment.

  +Helpful Links

  Copyright Crash Course by University of Texas
  https://copyright.lib.utexas.edu/teachact.html

  Copyright Clearance Center and the Teach Act
  http://www.copyright.com/Services/copyrightoncampus/basics/

  North Carolina State University Teach Act Toolkit
  http://www.provost.ncsu.edu/copyright/toolkit/

  Title 17 of the U.S. Code
  http://www.copyright.gov/title17/

  Digital Millennium Copyright Act of 1998
  http://www.copyright.gov/title17/

  University System of Georgia Copyright, Fair Use, & Electronic Reserve Policy
  http://www.usg.edu/copyright

  (USG) Fair Use Checklist
  http://www.usg.edu/images/copyright_docs/fair_use_checklist.pdf

  Code of Best Practices in Fair Use by Association of Research Libraries
  http://www.arl.org/focus-areas/copyright-ip/fair-use/code-of-best-practices#.Vc0GC3nltD8

  Copyright Clearance Center basics of copyright
  https://www.copyright.com/Services/copyrightoncampus/

  Other copyright overviews can be found at the following URLs:

  Copyright at Kennesaw University:
  https://www.kennesaw.edu/library/copyright/fairuse.htm

  Copyright at Columbus State University:
  https://library.columbusstate.edu/copyright.php

• Registrar

  July 16, 2018 9:49 am Comments Off on Registrar

  The Registrar’s Office can help you with your academic needs during and after your educational career at TU.

  The Registrar’s Office serves students by evaluating transfer credit, providing official transcripts and commencement information.  The Registrar’s Office also works closely with Financial Aid, faculty and the Office of Student Success on a variety of academic related services.   Students should contact their Success Advisor for specific questions and processes.

  Please use the links below for helpful information and tools.

  +Catalog

  Fall 2024-2025 Catalog
  Fall 2023-2024 Catalog
  Spring 2024 Catalog Addendum
  Fall 2022-2023 Catalog
  Spring 2023 Addendum
  Summer 2023 Addendum
  2021-2022 Catalog
  Spring 2022 Addendum
  2020-2021 Catalog

  +Student Handbook

  Student Handbook

  +Course Schedule

  Fall 2024

  +Transcripts

  All transcript requests and payments (via debit or credit card only) are made by the student through Parchment. Official transcripts are $15 each and will be processed within 3-5 business days. Transcript delivery methods include regular mail and electronic delivery. Electronic delivery is the fastest and most reliable delivery method.

  We do not provide unofficial transcripts.  You are able to print your academic history in HawkLink.

  

  *Please note that fulfillment of transcript requests may be delayed during holidays and campus closures.

  +FERPA/Student Privacy Rights

  The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords students certain rights with respect to their education records. These rights include:

  • The right to inspect and review the student’s education records within 45 days of the day the University receives a request for access. A student should submit to the registrar, dean, head of the academic department, or other appropriate official, a written request that identifies the record(s) the student wishes to inspect. The University official will make arrangements for access and notify the student of the time and place where the records may be inspected. If the records are not maintained by the University official to whom the request was submitted, that official shall advise the student of the correct official to whom the request should be addressed.
  • The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the student believes are inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the student’s privacy rights under FERPA. A student who wishes to ask the University to amend a record should write the University official responsible for the record, clearly identify the part of the record the student wants changed, and specify why it should be changed. If the University decides not to amend the record as requested, the University will notify the student in writing of the decision and the student’s right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the student when notified of the right to a hearing.
  • The right to provide written consent before the University discloses personally identifiable information from the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent. The University discloses education records without a student’s prior written consent under the FERPA exception for disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official is a person employed by the University in an administrative, supervisory, academic or research, or support staff position (including law enforcement unit personnel and health staff); a person or company with whom the University has contracted as its agent to provide a service instead of using University employees or officials (such as an attorney, auditor, or collection agent); a person serving on the Board of Trustees; or a student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks. A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record in order to fulfill his or her professional responsibilities for the University. Upon request, the University also discloses education records without consent to officials of another school in which a student seeks or intends to enroll. The University may disclose, without consent, “directory” information such as a student’s name, address, date and place of birth, degrees awarded, major field of study, honors and awards, and dates of attendance.
  • The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by the University to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the Office that administers FERPA is: Family Policy Compliance Office, U.S. Department of Education, 400 Maryland Avenue, SW, Washington, DC 20202-5901.

  Additional Information:

  U.S. Department of Education FERPA Website

  Please contact the Thomas University Registrar with any questions concerning the release of information under FERPA or to opt-out of having directory information shared. Students with complaints regarding their privacy rights are also encouraged to visit or contact the Registrar by e-mail or by phone at 229-226-1621, Ext 1022.

  The FERPA Release Form is located in Hawklink under Academic Forms. The form must be completed by the student.

  +European Union General Data Protection Regulation (EU GDPR)

  GDPR Privacy Policy
  Privacy Policy for Students
  The European Union General Data Protection Regulations (“EU GDPR”) is a regulation governing the use of personal data. It imposes new obligations on entities that control or process personal data about people who are located in the European Union. This regulation applies both inside the European Union (“EU”) and outside of the EU and applies to data about anyone in the EU, regardless of whether they are a citizen or permanent resident of an EU country.

  The regulation took effect on May 25, 2018.

  Thomas University is committed to safeguarding the privacy of “personal data” of present and future students (a “student” is any person who presently attends Thomas University or has attended Thomas University in the past). “Personal data” is defined as any record created in the EU and transferred to Thomas University which is directly related to an identified or identifiable student, either directly or indirectly. Examples of “personal data” include, but are not limited to, directory information as defined in Thomas University’s FERPA Policy.

  This Privacy Policy outlines the collection, use, and disclosure of personal information provided to Thomas University by students.

  Students who reside in EU countries and who apply, or may apply, to Thomas University will need to provide consent for collection and use of personal data. To provide consent, use the following consent form:
  • Notice Regarding Protection of Personal Data and Request of Consent for Their Processing – Applicant Students Located in the European Union found at:Consumer Information.The Data Controller, under the GDPR law and with particular reference to the safety obligations related to automatic processing of student data, is Thomas University. All data will be processed by Thomas University in its capacity as Data Controller with the supervision of the Chief Information Officer, who you can reach at registrar@thomasu.edu

  Use of Information
  For purposes of this Privacy Policy, Sensitive Information is defined as race, ethnic origin, religious or philosophical beliefs, health data, sexual orientation, and criminal convictions.

  Thomas University Departments supporting students collect and process Information and Sensitive Information from individuals who are students only as necessary in the exercise of the College’s legitimate interests, functions, and responsibilities as a higher education institution.

  Information is collected from students and shared with internal and external parties to: register or enroll persons in the College, provide and administer housing to students, manage student accounts, provide academic advising, develop and deliver education programs, track academic progress, analyze and improve education programs, recruit students, make regulatory reports, audit, maintain of accreditation, and other related College processes and functions. Thomas University Departments supporting students also use Information and Sensitive Information to conduct general demographic and statistical research to improve the College’s programs.

  Sensitive Information is collected, processed, and shared internally and externally as necessary, applicable, and appropriate in order to: identify appropriate support services or activities, provide reasonable accommodations, enforce College policies, and comply with applicable laws. Information and Sensitive Information may be shared by the International Programs Office with third parties who have entered into contracts with the College in order to perform functions on behalf of the College while sponsoring or hosting programs, subject to the obligation of confidentiality and safeguarding from unauthorized disclosure.

  Third Party Use of Sensitive Information
  Thomas University may disclose a student’s Sensitive Information and other Information as follows:

  • Consent: Thomas University may disclose Sensitive Information and other Information if it has a student’s consent to do so.
  • Emergency Circumstances: Thomas University may share a student’s Information and Sensitive Information when necessary to protect the student’s interests when the student is physically or legally incapable of providing consent.
  • Employment Necessity: Thomas University may share a student’s Sensitive Information when necessary for administering employment benefits, subject to the imposition of appropriate safeguards to prevent further unauthorized disclosure.
  • Public Information: Thomas University may share a student’s Information and Sensitive Information if the student has manifestly made it public
  • Archiving: Thomas University may share a student’s Information and Sensitive Information for archiving purposes in the public interest, for historical research, and for statistical purposes.
  • Performance of a Contract: Thomas University may share a student’s Information when necessary to administer a contract the student has with the College.
  • Legal Obligation: Thomas University may share a student’s Information when the disclosure is required or permitted by international, federal, and state laws and regulations.
  • Service Providers: Thomas University uses third parties who have entered into a contract with the College to support the administration of College operations and policies. In such cases, the College will share a student’s Information with such third parties subject to the imposition of appropriate safeguards to prevent further unauthorized disclosure.
  • College Affiliated Programs: Thomas University may share a student’s Information with parties that are affiliated with the College for the purpose of contacting the student about goods, services, or experiences that may be of interest to the student.
  • De-Identified and Aggregate Information: Thomas University may use and disclosure Information in de-identified or aggregate form without limitation.

  Security
  Thomas University ensures that there are appropriate technical controls in place to protect your personal details. For example, College online forms are always encrypted and the College network is protected and routinely monitored. Thomas University undertakes regular reviews of who has access to information that it holds to ensure that your information is only accessible by relevant staff, volunteers and business partners.

  Thomas University appoints an external party to undertake a screening of information, any such arrangements are subject to a formal agreement between the College and that firm has measures to protect the security of all data.

  Individuals with questions about their personal data collected and processed by Thomas University’s Student Affairs Office and International Programs Office should contact mwendell@thomasu.edu.

  Retention and Destruction of a Student’s Information
  A student’s Information will be retained by the College in accordance with applicable federal laws and the College’s Record Retention Policy. A student’s Information will be destroyed upon the student’s request unless applicable law requires destruction after the expiration of an applicable retention period. The manner of destruction shall be appropriate to preserve and ensure the confidentiality of the student’s information given the level of sensitivity, value, and criticality to the College.

  A Student’s Rights
  Students have the right to request access to, a copy of, rectification of, restriction in the use of, or erasure of Information in accordance with all applicable laws. The erasure of a student’s Information shall be subject to the retention periods of applicable federal law and the College’s Record Retention Policy.

  If the student has provided consent to the use of his / her Information, the student has the right to withdraw consent without affecting the lawfulness of the College’s use of the Information prior to receipt of the request. Students may exercise these rights by contacting the Registrar.

  Information created in the EU will be transferred out of the EU to the College. If a student feels the College has not complied with applicable foreign laws regulating such Information, the student has the right to file a complaint with the appropriate supervisory authority in the EU.

  Updates to this Policy
  Thomas University may update or change this policy at any time. A student’s continued use of the College’s website and third party applications after any such change indicates the student’s acceptance of these changes.

  GDPR 2018 EU APPLICANT STUDENTS NOTICE CONSENT

  +Applying for Graduation

  Thomas University awards the associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and specialist degrees. Degrees will be conferred in the summer, fall and spring, upon the recommendation of the faculty, to students who have successfully completed all course requirements. The Commencement ceremony for all students graduating in summer, fall, and spring of an academic year is conducted at the end of the spring semester.To be eligible for graduation, all undergraduate students must have a minimum GPA of 2.0 and all graduate students must have a minimum GPA of 3.0.  At least 25% of all hours earned toward any degree must have been earned at Thomas University. Students completing the bachelor’s degree must earn 24 of the last 30 hours of upper-division coursework at Thomas University.

  Students who are awarded a bachelor’s degree may earn the distinction of graduating Summa Cum Laude (4.0 CGPA), Magna Cum Laude (3.75-3.99 CGPA), or Cum Laude (3.5-3.74 cumulative GPA). Associate degree honor graduates are those students who graduate with a cumulative grade point average of 3.50 or higher. GPAs for Latin honors are calculated using all attempted hours at Thomas University through the end of the fall semester preceding graduation. Honors will not be re-calculated after all grades are posted.

  Graduation Procedures

  Students who expect to graduate must:

  1. Students who intend to graduate must complete the Application for Graduation located in Hawklink by November 15^th of the academic year in which you anticipate completion of your degree. Students who graduate in the fall are eligible to participate in the commencement ceremony the following spring.  Students who graduate in the summer and are taking 10 credit hours or less are eligible to participate in the commencement ceremony the prior spring.
  2. Pay graduation fees — ALL students pay a graduation fee of $175.
     Note: Graduation fees cover all expenses associated with graduation, including your diploma.  This is a required fee regardless of the application process or participation in the Commencement ceremony.
  3. Clear all accounts in the Business Office.
  4. Complete a graduating student exit survey. Graduating students will receive a link to the survey via email in mid to late April.
  5. Degrees will not be conferred until ALL requirements have been met.

  The Application for Graduation is available in Hawklink.

  Commencement Information