TITLE IX

Who do I contact?

If you are in immediate danger, call 911. 

If you have been a victim of gender discrimination or harassment, sexual assault, relationship violence or stalking, it is helpful to reach out to someone that you know and trust. For information, assistance in accessing services, or to make a report, you may contact any one of the following people: 

You can also submit the Title IX Incident Report. This form is used to file a report regarding sexual misconduct. 

Sexual Misconduct Report Form

For information about your rights as a student or employee, visit the
U.S. Department of Education Office for Civil Rights website

What to do in the event of sexual assault?

Being forced into sexual activity, relationship violence or stalking, even if it is a date, a steady relationship or a casual acquaintance, is still sexual misconduct. Making decisions and regaining control are important to the healing process after an assault. There is no right way to prevent being sexually assaulted. You did all you could during the assault; you survived. 

Remember, you are not alone, and you are not to blame. Sexual misconduct can happen to anyone, regardless of age, gender, race, sexual orientation or socioeconomic status. In the event of sexual misconduct, DWU can offer interim protection measures and assistance to help individuals feel safe and move on with their life. 

What is sexual misconduct?

Sexual misconduct is a term used to describe a wide variety of unwanted behaviors related to gender ranging from harassment, stalking, relationship violence and exploitation, to sexual assault or rape. 

What to do if you have been sexually assaulted? 

Immediately: 

• Get to a safe place. Call 911 or the residence life on-call number at 605-770-1593 if you need help getting to safety. 

• Get medical attention as soon as possible. Medical examinations are essential to detect injuries, and for possible protection against diseases or pregnancy. Medical professionals can also help preserve evidence. Call Avera Queen of Peace Emergency Department at 605-995-2000, or during business hours, call the campus nurse at 605-995-2957. 
• Seek support. The Safe Place of Eastern South Dakota has a hotline, 605-996-4440, or 888-996-8909. You can also see the DWU campus counselor during business hours at 605-995-2896 or Dakota Counseling Institute at 605-996-9686. 

Sometimes victims of sexual assault will remain quiet for weeks, months or years before coming forward with an assault. If you are a victim who has been silent, seeking out support from someone you can trust and feel comfortable with is important. DWU encourages victims of sexual assault to talk to somebody in order to get the support they need. 

How to report sexual assault? 

Law Enforcement 

Please be advised that criminal processes are independent of Dakota Wesleyan University. 

Emergency 
911 

Mitchell Police Department 
605-995-8400 

Davison County Sheriff’s Office 
605-995-8630 

Responsible Employees at DWU 
Many employees (faculty members, administrators, residence assistants and directors, coaches, advisers) are able to offer emotional support to victims and help direct them to appropriate resources. Responsible employees, upon receiving notice of sexual misconduct, are required by law to notify the Title IX Coordinator the details of sexual misconduct. 

Title IX Coordinator at DWU 
Victims of sexual misconduct may file a report directly with the Title IX Coordinator. The Title IX Coordinator is available to offer ongoing support to victims of sexual assault in understanding DWU’s investigative and/or disciplinary processes or the criminal process as the victim chooses. 

The Title IX Coordinator has the duty to redress sexual violence and remedy the effects on the victim and the College community. The Coordinator will make every effort to maintain confidentiality, but may be required to investigate the incident. 

Contact Derek Driedger at 605-995-2635 or Derek.Driedger@dwu.edu. 

Confidential Employees 

DWU has employees who are available to offer victims of sexual assault support and guidance in a completely confidential environment. Individuals may choose this option if they want to talk about the incident but do not want any further action to be taken. Confidential employees can provide individuals with both immediate and long-term help. They will listen, help access additional assistance and explain options for obtaining support. 

• Campus counselor: appointments are scheduled by calling 605-995-2896 or 605-995-2656. Office is in lower level of Rollins Campus Center. 
• Campus nurse: drop in during business hours or call 605-995-2957 or 605-995-2656. Office is in lower level of Rollins Campus Center. 
• Campus pastors: drop in or call 605-995-2919. The office is on main level of Rollins Campus Center. 

In addition to the confidential resources provided by the university, individuals may speak with off-campus crisis counselors, domestic violence resources, private agencies, and off-campus members of the clergy, each of whom will maintain confidentiality, except in extreme cases that involve a minor. 

How do you help a friend? 
A person who has been assaulted needs an empathetic listener who is nonjudgmental. Remain calm, and let the victim do the talking. Encourage the victim to seek medical attention and counseling. 

Remember, it is the victim’s choice how and who to tell about the assault. Be clear and upfront about your ability to maintain confidentiality and reporting obligations. Listen without interrupting.