Campus Policies

Title IX: Sex Discrimination and Sexual Misconduct Policy

Legal Requirements

Title IX is a federal law that applies to educational institutions receiving federal financial assistance and prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex in an educational institution’s programs or activities, including employment, academic, educational, extracurricular and athletic activities (both on and off campus). Title IX protects all people regardless of their gender or gender identity from sex discrimination, including sexual harassment and sexual violence, which are forms of sex discrimination. Title IX requires colleges to take necessary steps to prevent sexual assault on their campuses, and to respond promptly and effectively when an assault is reported.

The Clery Act requires colleges to report annual statistics on crime, including sexual assault and rape, on or near their campuses, and to develop and disseminate prevention policies. Violence Against Women Act (VAWA)/Campus Sexual Violence Elimination Act (SaVE) clarifies that “sexual violence” includes domestic violence, dating violence and stalking, which must be included in campus Clery reports, and also requires that institutional policies address and prevent sexual violence through training, education, and certain discipline procedures.
Together, these laws require PCC to:

1. Publish and widely disseminate a notice of nondiscrimination on the basis of gender or sex.
2. Designate employees to coordinate Title IX compliance (including compliance with VAWA/Campus SaVE Act, and all other relevant sexual discrimination/ harassment/ violence legislation).
3. Adopt appropriate complaint and investigation procedures. Implement education and prevention programs for students and employees.
4. Provide resource programs for Complainants and Respondents of sexual misconduct.
5. Provide written rights, options and information to Complainants and Respondents of sexual misconduct.
6. Provide training to the campus community on how to prevent, identify and report sex discrimination, including sexual misconduct.
7. Provide training to relevant staff and faculty who participate in the adjudication process of alleged violations of sex discrimination, including sexual misconduct.

Definitions

1. Complainant: A person who reports he or she has been subjected to, or has experienced, an alleged violation of sexual misconduct, and/or not limited to discrimination, harassment, or related retaliation.
2. Consent: 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 sexual activity with one person does not imply consent to engage in sexual activity with another. Consent can be withdrawn at any time. Coercion, force, or threat of either invalidates consent.
3. Domestic Violence: Domestic violence is abuse committed against someone who is a current or former spouse; current or former cohabitant; someone with whom the Complainant or Respondent shares a child; someone with whom the Complainant or Respondent has or had a dating or engagement relationship; or a person similarly situated under domestic or family violence law.
4. Gender Discrimination: Acts of intimidation, bullying, aggression, or hostility based on gender or gender stereotyping, even if the acts do not involve conduct of a sexual nature.
5. Intercourse: Vaginal or anal penetration by a penis, object, tongue or finger, or oral copulation (mouth to genital contact or genital to mouth contact), no matter how slight the penetration or contact.
6. Non-Consensual Sexual Contact: Any intentional sexual touching, however slight, by an individual upon another, or with an object, that is without consent and/or by force or coercion.
7. Non-Consensual Sexual Intercourse: Any sexual intercourse, however slight, by an individual upon another, or with an object, that is without consent and/or by force or coercion.
8. Relationship or Dating Violence: Violence committed by a person who is or has been in a social relationship of a romantic or intimate nature with the Complainant; and 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, and the frequency of interaction between the persons involved in the relationship.
9. Respondent: A person who is alleged to have committed acts of sexual misconduct, and/or not limited to discrimination, harassment, or retaliation.
10. Retaliation: an adverse action that is taken against an individual for engaging in protected activity.
11. Sexual Assault: An actual, attempted, or threatened sexual act with another person without the person’s consent.
12. Sexual Contact: Intentional contact with the breasts, buttocks, groin, or genitals such as touching another with any of these body parts or making another person touch you with or on any of these body parts, and/or any intentional bodily contact in a sexual manner, though not necessarily involving contact with breasts, buttocks, groin, genitals, mouth, or other orifice.
13. Sex Discrimination: Actions that subject individuals to improper and unequal treatment on the basis of their sex, including but not limited to the improper exclusion of individuals from College activities.
14. Sexual Exploitation: Occurs when a person takes non consensual or abusive sexual advantage of another for their own advantage or benefit, or to benefit or advantage anyone other than the one being exploited.
15. Sexual Harassment: Conduct of a sexual nature that includes unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, verbal, non-verbal, physical conduct of a sexual nature that creates a hostile environment that limits one’s ability to achieve their education goals and/or participate in or benefit from the services, activities or opportunities offered by the College.
16. Sexual Misconduct: Refers to sexual discrimination, assault, harassment, and/or other sexual violence.
17. Stalking: Engaging in a course of conduct directed at a specific person that would cause a reasonable person to fear for his or her safety or suffer substantial emotional distress.

College Commitment

PCC students, faculty, staff, guests, and visitors have the right to be free from all violence, on and off the campus community, as it relates to PCC’s sexual discrimination and misconduct policy. All members of campus are expected to conduct themselves in a manner that does not infringe upon the rights of others. PCC is committed to eliminating sexual misconduct in all forms to include, but not limited to, sexual assault, sexual harassment, sexual discrimination, stalking, relationship violence, and domestic violence. PCC provides reporting options, investigations, disciplinary processes, and prevention training to ensure the safety of students, faculty, staff, and visitors.

Whom to Contact

Students, faculty, staff, bystanders, guests, and visitors are encouraged to report sexual misconduct or sexual discrimination that occurs on or off campus. Campus contacts are as follows:

Student Point of Contact

Jasmin Spain, Title IX Compliance Officer/Decision-Maker 
Assistant Vice President, Student Support
Telephone: 252-493-7211
E-mail: jlspain125@my.pittcc.edu

Dr. Kimberly Williamson, Title IX Coordinator
Senior Director, Student Advocacy
Telephone: 252-493-7217
E-mail: kfwilliamson542.my.pittcc.edu

C. Brian Jones, Title IX Appellate Officer
Assistant Vice President, Enrollment Services
Telephone: 252-493-7867
E-mail: cbjones0288@my.pittcc.edu

Doug Collins, Title IX Investigator
Assistant Director, Financial Aid
Telephone: 252-493-7326
E-mail: jdcollins282@my.pittcc.edu

Erin Harvey, Title IX Investigator
PCS Early College HS Liaison
Telephone: 252-493-7827
E-mail: emharvey909@my.pittcc.edu

Dr. Travis Kinsey, Title IX Investigator
Director, TRiO Programs
Telephone: 252-493-7762
E-mail: tlkinsey532@my.pittcc.edu

Olivia Sutton, Sexual Misconduct Complainant Advocate
Lead Counselor, Counseling Services
Telephone: 252-493-7222
E-mail: omsutton339@my.pittcc.edu

Campus Police
252-493-7777

Employee Point of Contact

Please contact PCC Human Resources
Telephone: 252-493-7289

For employees, see the Pitt Community College Employee Manual for information about sexual misconduct.

Confidentiality

The College will respect the confidentiality of the Complainant and the Respondent as much as possible. Students who wish to report sexual misconduct should be aware that employees on campus have reporting responsibilities and are required to contact the College’s Title IX Coordinator when they become aware of sexual misconduct. The Title IX Coordinator, with the Complainant’s consent, will contact the necessary parties and discuss the issues surrounding the case if it becomes apparent that an alleged violation has occurred. The Title IX Coordinator may also refer the Complainant to the College’s Sexual Misconduct Victim Advocate for support and counseling. The relationship between the Complainant and the advocate is confidential in nature, and information is only shared with the Complainant’s consent.

Bystander “Duty to Report”

Pitt Community College students and employees have a “duty to report” sexual misconduct or sex discrimination that occurs on or off campus. Bystanders/Witnesses are required to:

1. Report what they know to the Title IX Coordinator.
2. Give accurate and truthful information about what was reported, witnessed, and/or shared.
3. Maintain documentation regarding any matters involving sexual misconduct, discrimination, or harassment.
4. Maintain impartiality through avoidance of expressing opinions about all parties involved.
5. Maintain privacy, however, not make promises regarding complete confidentiality.

Any act of retaliation by a Pitt Community College employee, or student, against another involved party using the applicable procedures, interferes with free expression and violates PCC policy. Accordingly, members of the college community are prohibited from acts of retaliation against those who file or are involved as Bystanders/Witnesses. If someone feels that they have been retaliated against because of their participation in this process, it is their right to file a complaint of retaliation to the Title IX Coordinator.

Reporting Process

If a student or employee has knowledge of an alleged sexual misconduct violation, all parties have a duty to report this violation to the Title IX Coordinator via the Student Code of Conduct Report Form.

When an individual reports sexual misconduct (that occurred on or off campus), he or she has the right to expect the college to take immediate and appropriate steps to investigate and resolve the matter promptly and equitably. Pitt Community College strongly encourages individuals to report sexual violence or discrimination directly to the appropriate campus Title IX Coordinator. The Title IX Coordinator will inform the Complainant and Respondent of the initiation of an investigation prior to starting an investigation and will, to the extent possible, only share information with people responsible for handling the college’s response to the incident.

The Title IX Coordinator will remain mindful of the Complainant’s and Respondent’s well-being and will take ongoing steps to attempt to protect both parties from retaliation or harm, and work with them to create a safety plan. Retaliation, whether by students, employees or third parties, will not be tolerated.

After the initial report, the Title IX Coordinator will strongly make an attempt to adjudicate and notify the Complainant and the Respondent of the outcome of the investigation within 60 days from the date of the report. Please note that this timeline may be extended. If so, all parties will be informed.

Roles and Responsibilities

Role of Title IX Compliance Officer
Oversees all complaints of sexual misconduct and sex discrimination, including related investigations, interim and/or ultimate remedies, resolution, and coordination with disciplinary decision-makers regarding any resulting discipline against the Respondent.

Works with appropriate campus committees to provide employees and students with educational programs and information, as required by Title IX, the VAWA/Campus SaVE Act, and other applicable laws.
Reviews the outcome of employee and student disciplinary proceedings involving cases of alleged sexual misconduct and sex discrimination, to determine whether any additional remedies need to be provided to the Complainant.

Makes the determination whether there are grounds for an appeal if a Complainant or Respondent chooses to appeal the outcome of a case.

Role of Title IX Coordinator
Receives all initial complaints of sexual misconduct and sex discrimination and makes the determination if the alleged sexual misconduct or sexual discrimination warrants an investigation. Assigns investigators to each Title IX case. Receives and reviews all investigative reports and renders the outcome of the investigation to the Complainant and the Respondent. Tracks and monitors incidents of sex discrimination, gender-based harassment, and sexual misconduct.

If an appeal is granted, the process of convening a Judicial Review Board will be coordinated by the Title IX Coordinator. The Title IX Coordinator will provide all information pertaining to this convening in an effort for all parties involved to have reasonable time for preparation.

Identifies, and addresses, any systemic or other patterns of sexual misconduct and sex discrimination, and implementing corrective measures, as appropriate.

Role of Title IX Investigator
Investigates allegations related to the Title IX policy against students and employees from assignment to suggested findings. This includes creating an investigative plan, conducting witness interviews, making credibility assessments, preparing, and presenting the Title IX Investigation report and appropriate supporting documents, and communicating with the parties’ while protecting the neutrality, integrity, and privacy of the investigation.

Meets with all parties involved on a regular basis to determine what interim steps should be taken to protect him/her from any hostile or unsafe environment resulting from alleged violations of sexual misconduct and sex discrimination and ensures that such steps are taken. PCC cannot guarantee an individual’s safety but will make reasonable accommodations to help prevent such activities from occurring.

Provides on-going updates regarding the status of complaints and investigations to the Title IX Coordinator, and appropriate College employees assisting with the College’s response to Title IX matters.

Role of Campus Police
Any individual has the right to report an alleged violation of sexual misconduct (that occurs on or off campus) to the College’s Campus Police Department as a crime. A delay in reporting may result in the loss or destruction of evidence; so it is important that the individual report an incident as soon as possible. Immediate reporting is also important if the Complainant wishes to take further action against the Respondent.

When a Complainant makes an immediate report regarding sexual misconduct or sex discrimination, the need for medical attention is considered a top priority. Decisions surrounding police investigations do not need to be made prior to receiving medical care; however, receiving medical care as soon as possible can help preserve evidence in the event that the Complainant decides to take further action against the Respondent. Once the Complainant decides to file charges, the College’s Campus Police Department will take a report and conduct an investigation.

The Campus Police Department can be contacted at 252-493- 7777.

Role of the Sexual Assault Victim’s Advocate
When a Complainant makes a report of sexual misconduct or sex discrimination (that occurs on or off campus), he or she should be encouraged to seek the support of the Sexual Misconduct Victim Advocate. The advocate provides free and confidential counseling services to the Complainant. They are also able to connect Complainants to resources on and off campus aimed at supporting individuals who have experienced sexual misconduct or sex discrimination. The victim’s advocate will explain the campus’ “duty to report” policy and will help the Complainant access additional resources, such as medical care, roles of the Title IX office, Campus Police, assist with academic issues, and community support programs as needed.

For Complainants, Olivia Sutton can be contacted at 252-493- 7222 or omsutton339@my.pittcc.edu.

Support is also offered to the Respondent by contacting PCC Counseling Services at 252-493-7809 or pcccounseling@email.pittcc.edu.

Complainant Rights

1. A Complainant may file a police report at any time during the duration of a Title IX investigation. The Title IX investigation will continue to move forward during a criminal investigation.
2. The Complainant will be encouraged to submit a written formal complaint against the Respondent.
3. The College will protect the Complainant and take immediate action to protect individuals in the educational setting.
4. The Title IX Coordinator and/or designee will notify the Respondent that they are to have no contact with the Complainant.
5. If the Complainant does not wish to proceed with a formal written complaint, the Title IX Coordinator will continue the formal investigation should the preliminary facts warrant. The Title IX Coordinator and/or designee will explain to the Complainant that without their cooperation, a full investigation will be limited. The Title IX Coordinator and/or designee will also explain that the College’s obligation is to investigate and document the allegations.
6. The Title IX Coordinator and/or designee may decide that provisions will be put in place to attempt to ensure that the Complainant remains safe from retaliation or harm during the investigation.
7. The Complainant will be given guidance at the start of the investigation, ensuring due process rights for all parties.
8. Should the Title IX Coordinator find that a conflict of interest exists between the Complainant and any member of the Title IX staff assigned to a particular case, before or during the investigation process, an alternate designee will be assigned.
9. The Title IX staff will abide by the College’s FERPA standards in all investigative processes as it relates to Title IX cases involving a student.
10. The Complainant and the Respondent will be provided with a resolution that is supported by the preponderance of evidence. The Title IX Coordinator will provide a written summary of the resolution to the Complainant and Respondent following the completion of the investigation.
11. Upon completion of the investigation, all parties will have the right to appeal within 10 business days.

Respondent Rights

1. The Respondent will have the right to bear witness.
2. The Title IX Coordinator and/or designee may decide that provisions will need to be put in place to attempt to ensure that the Respondent remains safe from retaliation or harm during the investigation.
3. The Respondent will be given guidance at the start of the investigation, ensuring due process rights for all parties.
4. Should the Title IX Coordinator find that a conflict of interest exists between the Respondent and any member of the Title IX staff assigned to a particular case, before or during the investigation process, an alternate designee will be assigned.
5. The Title IX Office will abide by the College’s FERPA standards in all investigative processes as it relates to Title IX cases involving a student.
6. The Complainant and the Respondent will be provided with a resolution that is supported by the preponderance of evidence. The Title IX Coordinator will provide a written summary of the resolution to the Complainant and Respondent following the completion of the investigation.
7. Upon completion of the investigation, all parties will have the right to appeal within 10 business days.

Appeal Process

Complainants or Respondents who question the outcome of the investigation are entitled to submit an appeal. This process is initiated via submission of a written appeal to the Title IX Compliance Officer within 10 business days of the rendered outcome of the case. The provisions of the appeal process will be applicable to all actions involving warning, probation and dismissal (suspension/expulsion).

Grounds for appeal include the ability to (1) prove that there was a procedural error in the investigation, (2) provide new evidence not reasonably available at the time of the investigation, which had it been, may have altered the outcome, and (3) prove that the outcome was determined by arbitrary, capricious, discriminatory or otherwise unreasonable means. Exercising one’s right not to attend the hearing, nor participate in it, does not constitute new evidence.

Students who appeal sanctions of sexual misconduct may be provided the opportunity to present their case to the Judicial Review Board but is not guaranteed. This decision will be made within the Office of the Assistant Vice President of Student Support. If a hearing is granted, the Board’s decision is considered final.

Judicial Review Board and Hearing Process

In an effort to share the responsibility and ensure the due process that all students have a right to, there are also formal judicial board hearings. This Board is composed of two separate entities, which are tied to specific violations. The Judicial Review Board for violations of non-sexual misconduct are composed of the Board Chair, faculty, staff, as well as students. The Judicial Review Board for violations of sexual misconduct are composed of the Board Chair, faculty, and staff. This board also includes a host of alternates in the event there is a conflict of interest, including representatives from each of the College’s academic divisions.

Complainants and Respondents involved in the judicial review board process for sexual misconduct must be aware of the following:

1. All participants are asked to familiarize themselves with the College’s Title IX: Sex Discrimination & Sexual Misconduct Policy printed in the Pitt Community College General Catalog.
2. Participants and Board members will be informed of the convening of a Judicial Review Board hearing no less than 10 business days of the scheduled hearing.
3. The purpose of the hearing is to address the outcome of a case.
4. If participants are unavailable to attend this hearing, they are required to request a reasonable postponement by contacting the Title IX Coordinator in writing no less than five (5) business days prior to the hearing. This request should include a justifiable explanation for this request, as well as an alternate date and time. The approval of this postponement will be determined by the Title IX Coordinator. If the postponement request is not received by this deadline, the Judicial Review Board Hearing will continue as scheduled and a determination will be made in the participant’s absence.
5. If participants have any witnesses that will testify on their behalf relating only to the appeal in question, participants are required to submit those names to the Title IX Coordinator no later than five (5) business days prior to the hearing, including the nature of their testimony.
6. Participants have the right to bring an advisor/consultant to the hearing. This individual may not speak on the participants behalf; their role is only to counsel, advise and support. Participants are required to submit those names to the Title IX Coordinator no later than five (5) business days prior to the hearing.
7. Please note that the conduct sanctions that have been previously applied prior to the board hearing will remain until told otherwise based on the outcome of the hearing.
8. Participants will be notified of the Board’s outcome no later than three (3) business days of the conclusion of the hearing. The Judicial Review Board’s decision is considered final.

Judicial Review Board Hearing Script

During a Judicial Review Board hearing, a script is drafted in order for the Board Chair to facilitate the meeting. The Judicial Review Board Hearing Script will be provided to all participants no later than five (5) business days of the convening of a Judicial Review Board Hearing.

For any questions regarding the Judicial Review Board or the Judicial Review Board hearing process, please contact the Title IX Coordinator.

Preventing Sexual Harassment

Pitt Community College strives to create an academic community conducive to the development of each student by fostering an educational process committed to excellence and equity. Students, faculty, and staff are citizens of the local, state, and national governments and of the academic community and are therefore, expected to conduct themselves as law abiding members of each community at all times.

Admission to a College carries with it special privileges and imparts special responsibilities apart from those rights and duties enjoyed by non-students. Students are expected to behave in a manner that is conducive to the mission of the College. In recognition of the special relationship that exists between the College and the academic community, Pitt Community College’s Board of Trustees has authorized the President to take such action that may be necessary to maintain campus safety and preserve the integrity of the College.

Prevention and Training Programs

Institutions must provide primary prevention and awareness programs for all incoming students and new employees, along with ongoing prevention and awareness campaigns that include the following:

1. A statement that the institution prohibits sexual misconduct
2. The definition of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking in their jurisdiction (the institution must still follow the federal definitions when collecting statistics, offering victims assistance, and conducting disciplinary proceedings)
3. The definition for sexual activity in their jurisdiction
4. Bystander intervention
5. Risk reduction
6. Information about disciplinary proceedings and victims’ rights as required by SaVE.

Campus programming will be facilitated by the Men’s Resource Center and Women’s Resource Center.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. To whom should I report that I have experienced an act of sexual misconduct?
   If you have experienced an act of sexual misconduct, and you would like to make a report, contact the appropriate Title IX Coordinator or Campus Police.
2. What should I do if I have been sexually assaulted?
   Seek medical attention immediately. Upon reporting to the hospital, the medical staff will alert the Pitt County Sexual Assault Response Team (SART). SART consists of nurses, police officers, investigators, and sexual assault victim advocates who are specifically trained to work with victims of sexual assault. This does not obligate you to pursue charges against the Respondent. Once you return to PCC, contact the appropriate Title IX Coordinator to make a report of sexual misconduct that occurred on or off campus. If you wish to make a report to Campus Police, the appropriate Title IX Coordinator can assist you with this process and link you to campus resources for support.
3. Will my complaint remain confidential?
   Your privacy is a priority; however, some information must be disclosed in order to fully investigate a complaint. PCC employees are also required to follow the “duty to report” policies. You are welcome to discuss your concerns regarding confidentiality with the appropriate Title IX Coordinator or the campus Sexual Misconduct Victim Advocate.
4. What if I want to make an anonymous report?
   PCC honors anonymous reporting options. If you wish to remain anonymous but would like to make a report against a PCC employee or student, contact the appropriate Title IX Coordinator. Please keep in mind remaining anonymous will make it difficult to conduct a thorough investigation.
5. Do I have to identify the Respondent?
   In order to conduct a thorough investigation, the alleged Respondent must be identified. If you do not know the Respondent’s name, you may be asked to provide information to help identify this individual.
6. If I report to the appropriate Title IX Coordinator, do I also have to contact the police?
   If you have experienced an act of sexual misconduct and would like to pursue charges against the Respondent, you are encouraged to contact Campus Police. However, you are not obligated to do so.
7. Can the College investigate if the sexual misconduct occurs off campus?
   Yes, if the incident has sufficient ties to PCC. For example, if it occurred at a PCC event, or if the incident involved a PCC student or employee.
8. If I am a PCC employee, what should I do if someone tells me they have experienced an act of sexual misconduct?
   If someone reports sexual misconduct to you, explain the “duty to report” policy, and contact the appropriate Title IX Coordinator to submit a report. The appropriate Title IX Coordinator will refer the individual, to campus resources including the Campus Police, and/or the Sexual Assault Victim Advocate for support, as needed.
9. What should I do if someone has filed a complaint against me?
   If someone files a report of sexual misconduct against you, it is important that you DO NOT contact the alleged Complainant by any means including, but not limited to, phone, mail, electronic communication, by another party, or in person. Familiarize yourself with PCC policies surrounding sexual misconduct so you know what to expect. Direct any questions or concerns to the appropriate Title IX Coordinator. If you need emotional support, please contact PCC Counseling Services. Also, fully cooperate with campus officials, if contacted.

Student Code of Conduct and Employee Handbook

Students should review the Student Code of Conduct located in the Student Handbook for more information. This Code of Student Conduct is applicable to every student enrolled at the College, and may at times, apply to persons off campus when using College facilities or participating in PCC programs or activities, including off campus trips and clinical sites. The Employee Handbook is applicable to every employee that is employed by the college; therefore, all employees should review the Employee Handbook for more information.

Title IX Policy on Pregnancy

Per Title IX regulations, students who are pregnant and parenting are granted excused absences due to pregnancy and related conditions as long as the doctor deems necessary. Students do not need to provide a doctor’s note to be excused. Instructors must allow students to make up their missed work from excused absences.For more information, please contact the Title IX Coordinator.

College/Workplace Anti-Violence Policy

Safety and security of all students, staff, faculty, and customers is a primary concern of Pitt Community College. Therefore, acts of violence made by or against any of the aforementioned will not be tolerated. Students, staff, faculty, and customers committing acts or threats of violence will be subject to disciplinary action that may result in dismissal/suspension from the college and/or having privileges suspended.

Pitt Community College has a zero tolerance for violence and therefore prohibits the following behaviors:

1. any act or threat of violence made by an employee, student or customer against another;
2. any act or threat of violence, including, but not limited to, intimidation, harassment, or coercion;
3. any act or threat of violence which endangers the safety of employees, customers, vendors, contractors, or the general public;
4. any act or threat of violence made directly or indirectly by words, gestures, or symbols;
5. use of weapons on the college campus.

It is required of all students, staff, faculty, and customers to be familiar with this policy and to report, in accordance with this policy, any behavior that compromises the college’s ability to maintain a safe work/learning environment. All reports will be investigated and kept confidential except where there is a legitimate need to know.

A violence prevention team has been established to oversee policies regulating violence on campus. There is also on-going training that is required of all students, staff, and faculty.

Behavioral Intervention Team (BIT)

Pitt Community College’s Behavioral Intervention Team (BIT) is established to investigate upon information on signs of a potential threat displayed by students at Pitt Community College and/or citizens on any sites operated by our institution. These threats must be either imminent (about to happen), capricious (subject to, led by, or indicative of a sudden, odd notion or unpredictable change; erratic), or arbitrary (subject to individual will or judgment without restriction; contingent solely upon one’s discretion).

Behavioral Intervention Team members are selected for their expertise and are trained in key areas to address a response to extreme abnormal behaviors that may be otherwise identified as a threat to the College community. Any suggestions or recommendations made by committee members will be taken into consideration based upon their expertise and leaning on that expertise immediate action will follow.

The Behavioral Intervention Team is a cross-unit group whose members consist of College staff from Campus Police, Counseling Services, Accessibility Services, and Student Conduct.

If you have a concern of an immediate threat, please call Campus Police at 252-493-7777.

Firearms Policy

In accordance with NC GS 14-269.2(k), a handgun is permissible on Pitt Community College’s campus only under the following limited circumstances:

1. The person has a concealed handgun permit valid under NC GS 14-415.24 or is exempt from obtaining a permit pursuant to NC GS 14-415.25; AND
2. The person has a handgun in a closed compartment or container within the person’s locked vehicle or in a locked container securely affixed to the person’s vehicle and only unlocks the vehicle to enter or exit the vehicle while the firearm remains in the closed compartment at all times and immediately locks the vehicle following the entrance or exit; OR
3. The person has a handgun concealed on the person and the person remains in the locked vehicle and only unlocks the vehicle to allow the entrance or exit of another person; OR
4. The person is within a locked vehicle and removes the handgun from concealment only for the amount of time reasonably necessary to do either of the following:

• Move the handgun from concealment on the person to a closed compartment or container within the vehicle.
• Move the handgun from within a closed compartment or container within the vehicle to concealment on the person.

Substance Abuse and Communicable Disease Policy

Pitt Community College recognizes its responsibility to provide:

1. A wholesome environment of health education awareness for students, faculty, and staff; and
2. A climate which discourages alcohol and substance abuse and the spread of communicable diseases; and
3. The implementation of those measures which foster good school/community relations in the pursuit of maximized learning experiences for all its students.

Pitt Community College will conduct educational programs as needed to inform students, staff, and faculty about substance abuse and communicable diseases, including warning signs and preventive measures.

The educational program may include, but not limited to, written publications, audio and video presentations, guest speakers, seminars, workshops, health fairs, and other similar publications and activities.

The College will also appoint a task force, as needed, composed of representatives from all segments of the institution, to advise and assist in implementing policies, programs, and procedures in support of these endeavors. Substance abuse assistance will focus on actions such as:

1. Providing existing human resources for early intervention for individuals with chemical problem,
2. Offering educational drug abuse prevention programs,
3. Referring persons needing assistance to existing community agencies, while preserving the dignity of the individual and the confidentiality of their student record, and
4. Referring students exhibiting erratic and/or disruptive behavior to the Office of the Assistant Vice President of Student Support where students will be subject to disciplinary action.

The possession and/or use of any drug as defined under the North Carolina Controlled Substance Act, NC GS 89-90 through NC GS 90-94 in or on any part of the Pitt Community College campus will not be tolerated. For any infraction which is a violation of Federal or N.C. Law student will be turned over to local authorities. Policies regarding communicable diseases are as follows:

1. Persons infected with a communicable disease will not be excluded from enrollment or employment or restricted in their access to college services or facilities unless medically- based judgments in individual cases establish that exclusion or restriction is necessary to the health and safety of the individual or to the health and safety of other members of the College community.
2. Any student, college employee (either full-time or part-time) and any employee of contractors or contracted services who knows or has reasonable basis for believing that he or she is infected with a communicable disease has the responsibility of reporting this fact on a confidential basis, to the appropriate supervisor.
3. Persons who know or have reasonable basis for believing that they are infected with a communicable disease are expected to seek expert advice about their health circumstances and are obligated ethically and legally to conduct themselves responsibly in accordance with such knowledge for the protection of other members of the community.
4. The College will widely publicize and carefully observe the safety guidelines established by the U.S. Public Health Service and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for the handling of blood and other body fluids and secretions in all areas of the College where such fluids or secretions may be encountered.

Smoke-Free and Tobacco-Free Policy

Pitt Community College is a smoke-free and tobacco-free campus. Smoking is prohibited by students, staff, faculty, or visitors in/on all campus grounds; buildings; facilities; or property owned, leased, or operated by Pitt Community College. Smoking includes the use of cigarettes, cigars, all forms of e-cigarettes, and hookah. Smokeless tobacco use, including, but not limited to, chew, snuff, and dipping tobacco, is also prohibited in/on all college facilities and grounds.

Canvassing, Peddling, and Soliciting Policy

Canvassing, peddling, and soliciting are not allowed on the PCC campus. Door to door sales, distribution of handbills, and placement of materials on automobiles are not allowed on the PCC campus.

Student organizations and non-student organizations or individuals must request permission from Assistant Vice President of Student Support and his/her designee to hold special sale campaigns, solicitation activities, or to post materials on the campus.

Skateboards and Similar Vehicles Use on Campus Policy

Out of concern for property and pedestrian safety, the College prohibits the use of skateboards, roller skates, rollerblades, scooters and similar non-motorized devices on campus.  No person shall ride or operate such vehicles upon properties owned, leased or occupied by Pitt Community College, including but not limited to buildings, grounds, sidewalks, streets and parking facilities.  Bicycles shall not be ridden on any campus sidewalks.  This policy applies to all members of the campus community and visitors.

Institutional Review Board Policy Statement

The Institutional Review Board (IRB) for Human Subject Research at PCC has responsibility to oversee procedures for carrying out the Colleges commitment to protect human subjects in research. The role of the IRB is to review proposed research projects that involve the use of human subjects; ensure that the individuals involved in the project are treated ethically; ensure that all subjects are provided with substantial information about the study and consent to be a subject in the study; and, ensure that all private information will be handled with confidentiality. The IRB is authorized to review, approve, require modifications in, or disapprove research activities conducted by or through the College using human subjects..

Fiscal Control of Externally Funded Programs Policy

The PCC Office of Sponsored Programs (OSP) is responsible for coordination externally sponsored programs campus wide to ensure compliance with regulations and guidelines prescribed by the sponsoring agencies and with institutional policies. The OSP cooperates with the Administrative Services Division to ensure the integrity of accounting and financial information and reports. Externally funded grants and program funds adhere to purchasing
and financial guidelines established by the grant awarding and state audit reviews. Proper fiscal control over externally funded programs shall be appropriately documented.

Computer Network Acceptable Use Policy

Mission

The primary purpose of the Pitt Community College computer network is educational. The College’s mission is to educate and empower people for success. This mission will be achieved by encouraging lifelong learning, establishing positive learning environments, ensuring academic excellence, enhancing economic development and quality of life, and emphasizing multicultural experiences. All users must understand this purpose.

Code of Conduct for Users of PCC’s computer resources and computer network

The users of all of PCC’s computer resources and computer network must rely on the honesty, integrity, and respect for the rights of others and on a conscious effort to be of service to others and the community. The College does not attempt to define all acceptable or unacceptable uses of the network. Acceptable conduct must be assessed by individual users. The following information assists the users in making such assessments.

Examples of Acceptable Use Encouraged by Pitt Community College

Acceptable Use of Information Technology Resources for:

1. Obtaining and spreading knowledge;
2. Gathering research material and data;
3. Analyzing research material and data;
4. Providing data and research in support of public service;
5. Preparing course materials;
6. Enhancing educational approaches and teaching methods;
7. Enhancing course work; and
8. Developing surveys and administering targeted demographic surveys.

Examples of Unacceptable Use

Users are responsible for their actions and activities on www.pittcc.edu, including responsibility for becoming informed of and complying with license and copyright provisions of the software they use. Unacceptable use of the network will result in suspension or revocation of those privileges.

Unacceptable Use Includes:

1. Using the network for any illegal activity, including violation of copyright or other contracts;
2. Using the network for financial or other commercial gain;
3. Degrading or disrupting equipment or system performance;
4. Vandalizing the data of another user;
5. Wastefully using finite resources;
6. Gaining unauthorized access to resources or entities, including unauthorized use of others’ passwords;
7. Invading the privacy of individuals;
8. Posting anonymous messages;
9. Creating and displaying threatening, obscene, racist, sexist, or harassing (persistently annoying of another user) material, including broadcasting unsolicited messages or sending unwanted mail;
10. Using the network in support of groups outside the College when such use is not in keeping with the mission of the College; and
11. Using personal web pages not primarily focused on the mission of the College.

Network Procedures

• Manners - Appropriate network manners include being polite, using appropriate language, and not revealing personal addresses or phones numbers of students or colleagues. Remember: Electronic mail (e-mail) is not guaranteed to be private. In addition, system operators log network use (WWW, e-mail, etc.). However, all communication and information accessible on the networks can be assumed to be private (following the dictates of common politeness and common sense).
• Authorization - Students, faculty, and staff must have appropriate authorization to use the network.
• Priority of Access - Students, faculty, and staff must have appropriate authorization to use the network.
• Conflicts - In the case of conflicts among users of computing resources and the network, resolution will follow the PCC Network Administration Hierarchy.
• Disclaimer - Information obtained through www.pittcc.edu is at the user’s own risk. PCC is not responsible for the accuracy or quality of information obtained. Users need to consider the source of any information obtained, and, as this is a global network, accept responsibility for accessing inappropriate material as described under Unacceptable Uses.
• Penalties for Improper Use - Users violating guidelines, including applicable state and federal laws, are subject to loss of network privileges. In addition, violation of state or federal statutes could make the users subject to criminal prosecution.

Distribution of the Policy

The PCC Information Technology Resources Acceptable Use Policy will be distributed to all employees and all students. It will be posted electronically on PCC’s computers which are available for use by the general public and students. It will also be posted in computer labs. It will be printed in student orientation materials and the PCC General Catalog.

Electronic Signature Policy

Pitt Community College (PCC) recognizes an electronic signature as a valid signature from faculty, staff, and students.

An electronic signature is defined as any electronic process signifying an approval to terms, and/or ensuring the integrity of the document, presented in electronic format. An electronic signature is not acceptable on specific forms such as the US Department of the Homeland Security Employment Eligibility Verification (I-9) form and government tax withholding forms.

Students may use electronic signatures to register, check financial aid awards, pay student bills, obtain unofficial transcripts, update contact information, log into campus computers, complete forms, submission of class work, tests, etc.

Faculty and staff use electronic signatures for submitting grades, viewing personal payroll data, logging into campus computers, accessing protected data through the administrative computing system and web applications provided by the college, etc.

An electronic signature is considered valid when the following conditions are met:

• Institution provides student or employee with a unique username
• Student or employee sets his or her own password
• Student or employee logs into the campus network and secure site using both the username and the password

It is the responsibility and obligation of each individual to keep their password private so others cannot use their credentials.

Once logged in, the student or employee is responsible for any information they provide, update, or remove. PCC will take steps to ensure the password is protected and kept confidential. Furthermore, users are responsible for logging out of all systems and exercising the necessary precautions when using publicly accessible computers.

This policy is in addition to all applicable federal and state statutes, policies, guidelines, and standards.

Intellectual Property Policy

Pitt Community College must support the incubation and nurturing of innovative ideas in order to further the mission of the College. New discoveries and creations, which are subject to or eligible for intellectual property protection, may emerge in the pursuit of the mission. The stewardship of such intellectual property, consistent with the mission of the College, is an important responsibility of both the College and all covered individuals under the policy including students, faculty, and staff. The intent of the Intellectual Property Policy is to define the rights and responsibilities of all full-time and part-time faculty, staff members, and students. These rights and responsibilities will be administered by the College’s Technical Licensing Office, (Vice President of Institutional Advancement).

The Pitt Community College Board of Trustees has adopted an Intellectual Property Policy and a participation agreement that confirms acceptance of the Intellectual Property Policy by all covered individuals and assigns to the College all rights in any Intellectual Property in which the College asserts ownership.

The Intellectual Property Policy includes detailed information about (1) the College’s ownership, (2) covered individual’s ownership, (3) disclosure of intellectual property, and (4) revenue sharing. A complete copy of this policy is available at the PCC website homepage, each Dean’s office, the college’s Human Resources Office, and the Technical Licensing Office, (Room 118, Vernon White Building).