Understanding what happens after you file a complaint
Washburn University takes all reports of discrimination, harassment, sexual misconduct, and retaliation seriously. Once a complaint is submitted, the Equal Opportunity/Title IX Coordinator (EOD/Title IX Coordinator) works to ensure the process is fair, impartial, and supportive for everyone involved.
This page outlines what happens after a report is filed, what each step involves, and what resources and rights are available to both the Complainant (person making the report) and the Respondent (person accused of the conduct).
The role of the EOD/Title IX Coordinator
The EOD/Title IX Coordinator oversees the University's compliance with civil rights laws, manages investigations, and ensures that all parties understand their rights and available resources.
- The Coordinator is neutral—not an advocate for either party.
- Both parties are informed of their rights, confidentiality, and protections from retaliation.
- The Coordinator explains University procedures, appeal options, and available support services.
- In some cases, the Coordinator may form a Review Team to assist with the investigation.
If an individual chooses not to file a formal complaint, the Coordinator may still take steps to ensure the safety and well-being of the campus community.
To learn more about informal and formal paths for Equal Opportunity, ADA and Title IX complaints please email your inquiry or make an appointment with the EO Coordinator.
Complaint process overview
The Title IX complaint process is designed to be prompt, thorough, and fair, typically taking about 60 business days from the time a complaint is received to the completion of the final report. An initial meeting to review options and supportive measures may take about 30 minutes to a few hours, and if a formal complaint proceeds to a live hearing, the hearing is generally scheduled between 30 and 60 days after filing. Some cases may take longer due to University breaks, complex circumstances, or witness availability.
Both parties will receive regular updates throughout the process, including any changes to the expected timeline.
Steps of the complaint process
After a complaint is received, the EOD/Title IX Coordinator meets with the Complainant to gather details and determine next steps. The Coordinator will explain rights, options, and resources.
If the reported conduct, if true, would violate University policy, a formal investigation begins. If not, the Complainant will be referred to other support offices or resources.
The EOD/Title IX Coordinator (or Review Team) gathers evidence, interviews both parties and relevant witnesses and reviews documents such as messages, emails or other materials related to the case.
Both parties may provide evidence, suggest witnesses, and bring an advisor (including an attorney) to meetings. Advisors serve as support persons but may not speak on behalf of the individual.
The parties do not question each other directly. Only advisors and the decision-maker may ask questions, and the decision-maker ensures the hearing follows rules of decorum and that only relevant questions are allowed.
When the investigation is complete, the Coordinator reviews all information and determines—using the preponderance of the evidence standard—whether it is more likely than not that a policy violation occurred.
- If no violation is found, both parties are notified in writing with a summary of the findings.
- If a violation is found, the case moves forward to determine appropriate sanctions.
If a violation is confirmed, the Conduct Code Officer determines appropriate sanctions in consultation with the EOD/Title IX Coordinator.
Sanctions can include disciplinary action, educational requirements, restrictions, or other measures to address the behavior and maintain campus safety.
The Coordinator then issues a written final report to both parties summarizing:
- The allegations and evidence reviewed
- The findings and rationale
- Any sanctions (as applicable)
- The right to appeal
Appeals
Both the Complainant and the Respondent have the right to appeal the final decision. The appeal must be submitted within 12 business days for non-discrimination complaints and within 14 days for Title IX complaints.
Appeals related to non-discrimination complaints may be requested if:
- newly discovered evidence that may change the determination
- the complaint procedure was not appropriately followed for one of these reasons:
- conducted inappropriately
- investigation did not follow process as set out in policy
- decision is arbitrary and capricious; this failure led to an incorrect finding
- the sanction is inappropriate for the policy violation
Appeals related to Title IX complaints may be requested if:
- a procedural irregularity that affected the outcome
- newly discovered evidence that may change the determination
- the Title IX Coordinator, investigator, or decision-maker had a conflict of interest or bias against parties in general or the individual complainant or respondent.
After the investigation
Even after a case is resolved, the EOD/Title IX Coordinator may help arrange supportive and interim measures, such as academic adjustments, housing changes or referrals to counseling.
The University remains committed to ensuring continued safety and access for everyone involved.
Your rights during the process
Both the Complainant and Respondent have the right to:
- A fair, impartial, and timely process
- Access to support services and accommodations
- Bring an advisor or support person to meetings
- Submit evidence and witness names
- Receive regular updates about the case status
- Be protected from retaliation
- Appeal the final decision
(See section 16.6 of the Title IX Regulations and Procedure in the WUPRPM)
Reporting options
GET IN TOUCH WITH Equal Opportunity
Equal Opportunity
Morgan Hall, Room 200K
1700 SW College Ave
Topeka, Kansas 66621
Phone & Email
785.670.1509
eodirector@washburn.edu
