Confidential Reporting - Washburn University

Getting help without filing a formal complaint

Washburn recognizes that not every individual is ready to file a formal complaint. Confidential resources are available for those who want to talk through their experiences, explore options, and receive support without automatically triggering a University investigation. This page explains the difference between confidential and non-confidential reporting, and connects you to both on-campus and off-campus confidential services.

Confidential vs non-confidential reporting

Confidential reporting allows you to share information with certain professionals who are not required to report what you tell them to the University's Title IX Coordinator. These individuals—such as licensed counselors, health service providers, or the campus advocate—can listen, offer support, explain your options, and connect you with resources without triggering a formal University investigation.

Confidential resources are a good option if you want to talk through what happened, seek emotional support, or gather information before deciding on next steps.

Non-Confidential (or "Responsible Employee") reporting

Non-confidential reporting means that when you share information with most University employees—such as faculty, staff, supervisors, or advisors—they are required to notify the Equal Opportunity/Title IX Coordinator. This ensures that the University can offer support, take appropriate action, and address any potential safety concerns.

While these employees must report what they learn, the University will protect your privacy and only share information with those who need to know to respond appropriately.

Confidential reporting services

If an individual wishes to discuss a specific incident confidentially without filing a complaint, he or she should contact these areas that provide free services:

University Counseling Services (on-campus)
Student Health Services (on-campus)
Campus Advocate & Washburn Tech Campus Advocate (on-campus)
For employees: Employee Assistance Program (off-campus)
Center for Safety and Empowerment (YWCA) (off-campus)

The University can assist individuals with finding other confidential resources upon request and may designate further confidential resources as appropriate.

Who is a mandatory (or "Responsible Employee") reporter?

Most University employees, known as "Responsible Employees," are required to share information about possible sexual harassment, sexual violence, or discrimination with the Equal Opportunity/Title IX Coordinator. This helps ensure that the University can provide support, take appropriate action, and maintain a safe campus environment.

Responsible Employees include:

Faculty members
Administrators, deans, directors, chairpersons, and supervisors
Academic advisors
Washburn Tech instructors
Coaches and advisors to student groups
Resident assistants and peer educators
Employees who accompany students on University-sponsored trips
Anyone designated as a Campus Security Authority under the Clery Act in the Campus Security Report

Employees with legally recognized confidential roles (such as licensed counselors or medical providers) are not considered Responsible Employees and are not required to report.

Reports should be made to the EOD/Title IX Coordinator—ideally by the end of the next business day. Responsible Employees need only share the name of the individual affected, though they may include additional details if known.

The University protects the privacy of all individuals involved and will keep names confidential to the extent allowed by law. Reports made through class assignments or public awareness events (such as Take Back the Night) do not require reporting.

Supportive & interim measures

Learn how Washburn supports individuals through supportive measures. You can request these measures even if you choose not to file a formal complaint or while an investigation is still in progress.