As NWMSU Bearcats, we are committed to fostering a safe and welcoming campus community. Free expression, academic freedom, and diversity of perspectives are all crucial to the fulfillment of our core mission. In turn, it is the responsibility of each person to contribute in creating a thriving learning environment.
The Bearcat Equity Reporting Form should be used to report any alleged violation of Northwest Missouri State University's Non-Discrimination and Non-Harassment Policy (including harassment or discrimination based on race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other legally-protected class).
The Office of Title IX and Equity will review and respond to such reports in accordance with the NWMSU Non-Discrimination Policy. In addition, the Office of Title IX and Equity may refer reports to other appropriate University office(s) for investigation, such as University Police, Human Resources, Student Conduct, or university administrator, if the reported incident may be a violation of University policy (ex – Student Code of Conduct, ADA, etc.).
The Bearcat Equity report is not always a mechanism for investigative or disciplinary action. As some incidents reported via Bearcat Equity may not be violations of the law or University policy, the Office of Title IX & Equity generally utilizes an informal educational approach and/or provides appropriate supportive measures in its response. Informal educational approaches may include a variety of activities including discussion, mediation, training, counseling and consensus building. The Bearcat Equity process is not intended to discipline individuals for expression of views protected by the First Amendment of the Constitution of the United States. However, it enables the college to track bias incidents, collect aggregate data, identify educational responses, and connect individuals affected by bias incidents with supportive resources.
Please use the Title IX report form for situations involving harassment or discrimination based on sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, and/or pregnancy.
What Happens to My Bearcat Equity Report?
Reports will be treated as confidentially as possible. For all reports containing contact information, the AVP- Title IX & Equity will contact the reporting person and offer a meeting to discuss the incident in detail and to explore a plan for resolution. During this meeting, the reporting person can expect to obtain information about related University policies, procedures, and resources.
Your confidentiality and trust is very important to us. We will make every effort to respect your privacy. Please be aware, however, in certain circumstances involving safety or criminal action, we may not be able to guarantee complete anonymity. Regardless of the situation, matters will be handled discretely and in conformity with University privacy policies and the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). Information about individuals or situations will only be shared with individuals with a legitimate need to know. The University also prohibits retaliation against individuals who submit Bearcat Equity reports in good faith to the University, or who cooperate in an investigation.
We want to hear from you. Your perceptions or concerns are important. We are listening! Use the online app to share your equity concerns or experience, or email equity@nwmissouri.edu.
Disclaimer: The Bearcat Equity webpage and online form is not monitored 24/7.
If you are in imminent danger or need immediate action, please contact University Police at 660.562.1254 or call 911.
Thank you, BEARCATS, for helping all of us do better! We value EVERYONE in our Northwest community.
