Swarthmore revises sexual assault policies after Title IX suit

Swarthmore ― the small, private liberal arts college ― is updating its procedures for handling sexual assault allegations, following complaints by current students and alumni.

Swarthmore plans to hire a full time investigator and update policies and training for staff to improve how the college handles sexual assault.

Student Mia Ferguson, who led the filing of a Title IX suit earlier this year, is pleased with the changes and will watch closely as they are carried out.

“The most important piece is implementation, making sure that students are protected,” said Ferguson.

“Hopefully moving forward we’ll be really consistent and support to students will be ongoing.”

Ferguson’s complaint is part of a coordinated effort including students from the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill and Occidental College.

The Department of Education’s Office of Civil Rights is currently investigating the Title IX complaint against Swarthmore and those schools.

Swarthmore hired an outside consultant to conduct a review of its internal procedures.  More changes could come when the consultant submits a final report.