College Statements, Policies, and Disclosures

Urban College of Boston is committed to promoting student learning in a stable and peaceful environment. Students are responsible for conducting themselves in a manner that is appropriate and non-threatening to others. Specifically, students should refrain from disruptive behavior, theft, falsification of records, possession of weapons, destruction of property, hazing, physical and verbal abuse, and acts of harassment towards anyone. Students who violate this code of conduct are subject to expulsion, suspension, or other penalties. Additional information is available in the Student Handbook .

Urban College of Boston complies with the requirements of:

• Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990
• The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)
• Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act Amendments of 1989 Voter Registration Act (Mass. General Laws, Chapter 51, Sect. 42E)
• The Jeanne Cleary Disclosures of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act
• Hazing (Mass. General Laws, Chapter 269, Sections 17, 18, 19)
• Policy on Nondiscrimination and Affirmative Action
• Massachusetts Clean Indoor Air (Mass. General Laws, Chapter 270, Sect. 22)
• Student Absences Due to Religious Beliefs (Mass. General Laws, Chapter 151C, Sect. 2A)

Student Rights & Responsibilities

Each student is guaranteed the privilege of exercising his/her rights within the College and Federal policies without fear of reprisal. Such rights include the following: 

• Students are free to pursue their educational goals, both inside and outside the classroom. 
• Academic evaluation of student performance shall be fair and clear; it shall not be arbitrary. 
• Free inquiry, expression, and assembly are guaranteed to all students, provided their actions do not interfere with the rights of others or violate established college policies. 
• Members of the Urban College community have the right to expect safety, protection of property, and the continuity of the educational process. 
• Students have the responsibility to respect and comply with the College’s policies and procedures. 
• Students must comply with local, state, and federal law. 
• Students are responsible to act in a manner that promotes an atmosphere of learning and free expression. 
• The responsibility to respect the human rights of every individual in the College community. 

Computer and Network Usage

General Principles

Access to the College’s computer systems and networks, including email, imposes certain responsibilities and obligations and is granted subject to College policies, and local, state, and federal laws. Acceptable use always is ethical, reflects academic honesty, and shows restraint in the consumption of shared resources. It demonstrates respect for intellectual property, ownership of data, system security mechanisms, and individual rights to privacy.

Users include - but are not limited to - all students, faculty, staff, and administrators, who have been granted access to college-owned or college-licensed computers, networks, software, or any peripherals associated with the College’s computing facilities and/or equipment (“computer resources”). This policy applies to all Users.

The College’s computer resources are the property of the College. Such equipment and resources, including email, shall be only used for academic, educational, or professional purposes, which are related to official College business and in support of the College’s mission.

No Expectation of Privacy

Users shall have no expectation of privacy when using College computer resources, including email. The President of the College may also authorize the network administrator to inspect any user’s computer, any data contained in it, and any data, including email communications, sent, or received by that computer, on a case-by-case basis.

Guidelines

In making acceptable use of resources, users MUST:

• use resources only for College business, for purposes authorized by the College;
• be responsible for all activities on your user ID or that originate from your system that result from your negligent failure to protect your user ID or to protect against such unauthorized use; Users should not give a password to anyone;
• access only files and data that are your own, that are publicly available, or to which you have authorized access;
• use only legal versions of copyrighted software in compliance with vendor license requirements; and
• be considerate in your use of shared resources. Examples include not monopolizing systems, overloading networks with excessive data, or wasting computer time or resources, disk space, printer paper, manuals, or other resources.

In making acceptable use of resources, users MUST NOT:

• use another person’s system, user ID, password, files, email address, or data without permission; use computer programs to decode passwords or access control information;
• download, transmit, or display obscene material;
• circumvent or subvert, or attempt to circumvent or subvert system or network security measures;
• engage in any activity that unreasonably interferes with the normal operation of the college;
• engage in any activity that might be harmful to systems or to any information stored thereon, such as creating or propagating viruses, disrupting services, distributing chain letters, or damaging files;
• use College systems for commercial or partisan political purposes, such as using electronic mail to circulate advertising for products, political candidates, or any profit-making company or enterprise;
• make or use illegal copies of copyrighted software, store such copies on College systems, or transmit them over College Resources;
• engage in unauthorized use or distribution of copyrighted material, including unauthorized peer-to-peer file sharing; or download any online software without appropriate authorization.
• use the network for purposes that place a heavy load on scarce resources;
• use the College’s computers or networks to libel, slander, or harass any other person. The following shall constitute Computer Harassment:
  • Intentionally using the computer to harass, intimidate, or threaten another person by conveying obscene language, pictures, or other materials or threats of bodily harm to the recipient or the recipient’s immediate family;
  • Intentionally using the computer to contact another person repeatedly, whether or not any actual message is communicated, and/or where no purpose of legitimate communication exists, and where the recipient has expressed a desire for the communication to cease;
  • Intentionally using the computer to contact another person repeatedly regarding a matter for which one does not have a legal right to communicate, once the recipient has provided reasonable notice that he or she desires such communication to cease (such as debt collection);
  • Intentionally using the computer to disrupt or damage the academic research, administrative, or related pursuits of another;
  • Intentionally using the computer to invade privacy, academic or otherwise;
• use the College’s systems or networks for personal gain; for example, by selling access to your user ID or to College systems or networks, or by performing work for profit with College resources in a manner not authorized by the College;
• use the College’s systems or networks to transmit any material in violation of United States or Massachusetts laws or regulations;
• engage in any illegal or unethical act, including violation of any criminal or civil laws or regulations, whether state or federal;
• engage in any conduct that violates the College’s other policies; and
• engage in any other activity that does not comply with the General Principles presented above.

College Email

The College provides Users with electronic mail (email) communication. Email communication is intended primarily for educational and College business-related communications, and shall be used by all students, faculty, staff, administrators, and contractors in a manner consistent with this policy.

Student email accounts will be created for each new student upon registration. Students are required to use and check their College email account regularly.

Important College information will be communicated to students through the student email system. The College will not allow students to update their email addresses with private or other email addresses, but they can forward their Urban College email to another email account. Only the assigned College email address will be used by the College for email communications with students.

College email accounts remain active while a student is enrolled at the college. Accounts are deactivated one year after the last term of enrollment, whether or not a student receives a credential. If a student re-enrolls, the account will be reactivated.

Social Media

The use of all College computer resources for social media activities, including but not limited to, Facebook, YouTube, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, blogs, or other forms of social media, shall comply with this policy. Use of the College’s computer resources by students for educational and social activities consistent with the College’s mission shall comply with this policy.

Enforcement

College officials will review alleged violations of acceptable use policies on a case-by-case basis. Violations of policy will result in appropriate actions, consideration of appropriate disciplinary measures, and/or referral to appropriate authorities responsible for enforcing local, state, and federal laws. Users who breach this policy may be denied access to the College’s computer and communications networks and may be subject to further disciplinary action.

To prevent further possible unauthorized activity, the College reserves the right to disconnect that user from the network. If this is deemed necessary by College staff, where appropriate, reasonable effort will be made to inform the user prior to the disconnection. Breaches of this Computer and Network Usage Policy will be referred to appropriate administrators for consideration of discipline in accordance with applicable College policies and procedures.

The College considers any violation of acceptable use of principles or guidelines to be a serious offense and reserves the right to copy and examine any files or information resident on the College systems allegedly relating to unacceptable use.

Violators are subject to disciplinary action as prescribed in student and employee policies, handbooks, or contracts.

Online Course Etiquette

Online etiquette rules are a set of shared expectations for online interactions that help create a safe and productive learning environment for the class to share ideas, express opinions, make mistakes, and learn together.

Here are a few things to remember:

• Access to Urban College systems including Urban College emails, student information systems (SONIS), and learning management system (Brightspace) is an earned privilege and students are advised to use these with caution. Never provide your Urban College login information to any other individual, including friends or family.
• Please refer to the Academic Honesty section of this catalog for academic honesty policies that apply to all students, including those in online classes.
• If you have a question about assignment deadlines or closed assignments in a course for your instructor, please do not submit a helpdesk ticket. Instead, reach out to your instructor directly with your specific request. An IT Helpdesk Ticket should be submitted only for true IT problems, such as email or Brightspace login issues.
• When communicating online, remember that your classmates who are reading your words deserve to be treated with respect. Without the benefit of facial cues and other physical indications, your readers may not interpret your words as you intended. Before sending any communication, ask yourself if you would say the same thing if you were face-to-face.
• Behavior standards are the same in face-to-face and online courses. This includes:
  • following the copyright laws and Urban College of Boston codes of conduct and civility
  • responding honestly but thoughtfully and respectfully
  • using language that others will not consider foul or abusive
  • being constructive when providing feedback to classmates
• Communication which is acceptable on one platform (texting) may not be appropriate in an academic setting. If you are not sure if a method is appropriate, you should ask your instructor.
• Your communication should be relevant and concise. Your classmates and instructor will need to be able to read your work within a reasonable amount of time. Avoid attaching large files or images that might take a lot of time to download. Your instructor will let you know what to expect in terms of response time and feedback.
• Make sure your written work is well-crafted, relevant to the topic, and proofread before submitting. Follow your instructor’s guidance for the class. When appropriate, share your expertise, resources, and reference materials so others can learn from you as well. Handling disagreements:
• It is okay to disagree with a classmate, but interactions must remain respectful. Focus on the issue and not on any individual.

Privacy considerations:

Never share a classmate’s personal information; always respect their privacy. This privacy extends to all aspects of the course. Sharing screenshots, videos, or audio of your classmates without their permission is a violation of student privacy rights as well as state and federal law. Similarly, you should not share any of your classmates’ classwork, group work, presentations, or other educational materials without their explicit permission.

A Few Communication Tips:

• Stay actively engaged with each class you are taking at the College. This means checking your Urban College courses and email daily. Check your course’s syllabus to see what expectations and policies the instructor has set around communication.
• Don’t be shy. If you have a question, concern, comment, or suggestion, make sure that you speak up. Even though you cannot raise your hand online, you can send an email to your instructors or post a message to the discussion board. It is your responsibility to communicate with your instructors when you have a question or issue that needs to be addressed.
• Follow the online etiquette rules set out in your courses.
• You can expect your instructor to respond to communications within 2 business days.

Civil Rights Compliance

Urban College, in compliance with Title VI and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964; Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972; Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended; the Age Discrimination Act of 1975; the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990; and other applicable federal and state civil rights laws, does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, color, age, religion, sexual orientation, political affiliation, national origin, marital status, veteran status, or disability in any of its policies, practices, or procedures. This includes, but is not limited to, admission, employment, financial aid, and educational services.

Accessibility and Accommodations

The Director of Student Services and Support at Urban College of Boston provides services to students who qualify as having a disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The Director of Student Services and Support is responsible for accommodations in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, and applicable state law. The ADA defines a person with a disability as someone who: “has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities, has a history or record of such an impairment (such as cancer that is in remission), or is perceived by others as having such an impairment (such as a person who has scars from a severe burn).”

The services provided to registered students with disabilities may include, but are not limited to:

• Providing advocacy support for students with documented disabilities,
• Coordinating services for students with disabilities, which includes verifying eligibility for academic accommodations based on documentation,
• Providing assistance to members of the campus community in responding to disability- related issues and concerns,
• Working with the larger campus community to overcome architectural, attitudinal, and administrative barriers,
• Educating and training students on assistive technology resources,
• Coordinating peer note-taking services,
• Providing exam accommodations,
• Assisting students with academic strategies
• Assisting with the diagnostic evaluation referral process

Questions and Contact Information: The Director of Student Services and Support, may be reached by email at studentservices@urbancollege.edu or by phone at 617-449-7380.

Here is the link to the Accommodation Request Form: https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=HnCdJ2cNiUupTrgmGCPjKzt0agm94stErG3OXo8chiNUQjlIRkpXVks5MEU2UU5QUUFMV0Y5Vk1LSy4u

Here is the link to the Medical Provider Form: https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=HnCdJ2cNiUupTrgmGCPjKzt0agm94stErG3OXo8chiNUMjNJMk41V040S0czMURXVzBERlRYU0tNMC4u

Educational Records and Privacy

Privacy rights, regarding access to information, are observed in accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act, commonly known as the Buckley Amendment.

In accordance with the provisions of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) (Section 438 of the General Education Provisions Act 20 USC 1232), below are the regulations that Urban College has adopted to protect the privacy rights of its students. Revisions and clarifications will be published as experience with the law and the institution’s policy warrants.

Students are informed of their rights under this act through the College Catalog and Student Handbook . In compliance with this federal law, the college has established a policy to protect students from misuse of information in their education records and to allow students access to their own education records.

The policy is summarized as follows:

Student’s Rights: FERPA

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) affords students certain rights with respect to their educational records. These rights include:

• The right to inspect and review the student’s education records within 45 days of the day the college receives a request for access. Students should submit to the Registrar written requests that identify the record(s) that they wish to inspect. The Registrar will arrange for access and notify the student of the time and place where the record may be inspected.
• The right to request the amendment of the student’s education records that the student believes is inaccurate.
  
  A student may ask the College to amend a record that they believe is inaccurate. They should write to the college official that is responsible for the record, clearly identify the part of the record that they want changed, and specify why they believe that it is inaccurate.
  
  If the college decides not to amend the record as requested by the student, the college will notify the student of the decision and advise the student of their right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding the hearing procedures will be provided to the student when notified of the right to a hearing.
• The right to consent to disclosures of personally identifiable information contained in the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosures without consent. One exception, which permits disclosure without consent, is disclosure to school officials with legitimate educational interests. A school official is a person employed by the college in an administrative, supervisory, academic or research, or support staff position (including law enforcement unit personnel and health staff); a person or company with whom the college has contracted (such as an attorney, auditor, or collection agent); a person serving on the Board of Trustees; or a student serving on an official committee, such as a disciplinary or grievance committee, or assisting another college official in performing their tasks. A school official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record to fulfill their professional responsibility.
• The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failures by Urban College of Boston to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the office that administers FERPA is:

Family Policy Compliance Office
U.S. Department of Education
400 Maryland Avenue, SW
Washington, DC 20202-4605

Our FERPA waiver form is available here

Access to Education Records

Access to records is limited to school officials with a legitimate educational interest.

A school official is defined as follows:

• a person employed by the College in an administrative, counseling, supervisory, or academic, student support services position, or a support person to these positions; or
• a person employed by or under contract to the College to perform a special task.

Legitimate educational interest needed for a school official to access a record includes:

• The information requested is necessary for that official to perform appropriate tasks that are specified in their position description or by a contract agreement.
• The information is to be used within the context of official agency or school business and not for purposes extraneous to the official’s areas of responsibility or to the College.
• The information is relevant to the accomplishment of some task or to a determination about the student.
• The information is to be used consistently with the purposes for which the data are maintained.

Those with access to education records are required to maintain confidentiality of the contents of those records.

Directory Information

The following pieces of information are considered Directory Information and may be released with or without notice by the college except in cases where they have been specifically protected by written request from a student:

• Name as it appears in the College’s records
• Degrees or Certificates enrolled or conferred and Date of Graduation
• Dates of Attendance
• Enrollment status
• Urban College Email address
• College Honors, including Dean’s List (see “Dean’s List”).

Release of Education Records to Educational Partners

When outlined in official Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs), the college may release education records to organizations and institutions (Partners) sponsoring courses for their employees, patrons, or those with another recognized affiliation, except in cases where they have been explicitly protected by written request from the student. That may include, but is not limited to:

• Directory Information (see Directory Information above)
• Attendance and enrollment information for courses sponsored by the Partner
• Grades in courses sponsored by the Partner
• Personal Information allowing confirmation of student identity (e.g., the student’s Social Security Number, or Date of Birth)

The Partner may also act on behalf of the student to administratively withdraw the student from courses sponsored by the Partner for non-attendance (see Academic Policies ). The release of information will only apply to student education records specifically outlined in the relevant MOU. Partners will not have access to education records that are not directly related to the specified partnership.

Drug and Alcohol Policy

Urban College of Boston strives to achieve a healthy living, learning, and working environment. As part of this commitment and pursuant to the Federal Drug Free Workplace Act of 1988 and the Drug Free Schools and Community Act Amendments of 1989. The College also complies with all local, state, and federal regulations pertaining to alcohol and illicit drugs. The unlawful manufacture, dispensing, possession, use or distribution of alcohol or illicit drugs by students or employees on Urban College’s property is prohibited.

All members of the Urban College community are responsible for knowing and acting in accordance with the applicable laws and college policy concerning the purchase, possession, consumption, and sale of alcoholic beverages.

Urban College will continue to distribute materials to students and provide educational workshops/training as a means of prevention. Student Affairs personnel can provide referrals to other agencies and organizations for individuals experiencing or affected by persons with substance abuse issues.

Policy and Rules

Urban College strives to achieve a healthy living, learning, and working environment. As part of this commitment and pursuant to the Federal Drug Free Workplace Act of 1988 and the Drug Free Schools and Community Act Amendments of 1989, Urban College of Boston uses multiple strategies to provide comprehensive education regarding alcohol and other drugs.

Legal Sanctions for Unlawful Possession of Alcohol and Drugs

Violation of the alcohol and drugs policy will result in actions ranging from mandated participation in drug counselling and rehabilitation programs to dismissal.

Drug-Related Crimes and Federal Financial Aid

In addition to these provisions, the Higher Education Amendments of 1998 included a new student eligibility provision. It provides that, effective July 1, 2000, a student is ineligible for federal student aid if convicted, under federal or state law, of any offense involving the possession or sale of a Controlled Substance (generally meaning illegal drugs, but not including alcohol or tobacco). The period of ineligibility begins on the date of the conviction and lasts until the end of the statutorily specified period. The student may regain eligibility early by completing a drug rehabilitation program that meets certain statutory and regulatory requirements (including two unannounced drug tests), or if the conviction is overturned.

Health Risk of Alcohol and Drug Use

The negative physical and mental effects of the use of alcohol and other drugs are well-documented. The use of these drugs may cause blackouts, poisoning, and overdose, physical and psychological dependence, damage to vital organs, as well as an inability to learn and remember information, and psychological problems. For more information about the health risks associated with the misuse of alcohol and illicit drugs, please visit www.drugabuse.gov/drugs-abuse/commonly-abused-drugs-charts. 

Drug and Alcohol Abuse Prevention Program

As required under the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act of 1989, Urban College of Boston uses multiple strategies to provide comprehensive education regarding alcohol and other drugs. Urban College will continue to distribute materials to students and provide educational workshops/training as a means of prevention. Student Affairs personnel can provide referrals to other agencies and organizations for individuals experiencing or affected by persons with substance abuse issues.

Free Alcohol, Drug, and Other Rehab Sources

Non-Smoking Policy

Urban College of Boston commits to being a smoke-free and tobacco-free campus to support the health and well-being of the College’s students, faculty, staff, and visitors. Per the Tenant Handbook provided by Colliers International New England, LLC (which manages the China Trade Center - 2 Boylston Street, Boston, MA 02116 - that houses Urban College), “China Trade Center is a smoke-free building. Smoking is not permitted in any area of the building. As a smoke-free environment, smoking is not permitted within 50 feet of any entranceway into the building.” In addition to maintaining a smoke-free environment, Urban College also bans the use of any tobacco products on all property owned, controlled, or leased by the college, as well as any tobacco-related advertising or sponsorship. The policy applies to products including - but not limited to - cigarettes, cigars, e-cigarettes, vape pens, hookah, and smokeless tobacco.

Safety and Security

Student safety is of the utmost importance at Urban College, and we all must work together to maintain a safe and secure campus community. Students should maintain awareness of campus safety and immediately report issues and circumstances that may reduce safety and security for our students.

Preparing the Annual Disclosure of Crime Statistics

Urban College prepares an annual report to comply with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Crime Statistics Act. The report is prepared in cooperation with the local law enforcement agencies surrounding our main campus and alternative learning sites.

The full report shall be accessible online on the college website: https://www.urbancollege.edu/. An annual email notification is sent to all enrolled students, faculty, and staff that provide the website to access this report. Copies may also be requested from the Office of Enrollment Services. All prospective employees may obtain a copy from Human Resources, and the website address will be attached to Urban College employment applications.

Notification of a Missing Student

If a member of the college community has reason to believe that a student is missing, they should immediately notify the Boston Police Department by calling 911 and notify the President by calling (617) 449-7037. The Boston Police Department will investigate, generate a missing person report, enter relevant student data into an appropriate database, and involve other law enforcement agencies as necessary.

Should the Boston Police Department confirm that the student is missing, the college will notify the student’s emergency contact no later than 24 hours after the student is determined to be missing by the Boston Police Department. If the missing student is under the age of 18 and is not an emancipated individual, the college must notify the student’s parent or legal guardian in addition to any other designated contact person within 24 hours of the determination that the student is missing.

In addition to providing an emergency contact, students have the option to confidentially identify an individual to be contacted by the college in the event the student is determined to be missing. A student’s missing person contact information will be confidential and will be accessible only by authorized campus officials and law enforcement in the event of a missing person investigation. It may not be disclosed outside of a missing person investigation.

Reporting A Crime And Other Emergencies

Members of the community, including visitors, students, faculty, and staff are encouraged to report all crimes and emergencies in a timely manner. The reporting of a crime may occur even if the victim is not able or elects to do so. A crime is considered “reported” when it is brought to the attention of a Campus Security Authority (CSA) or law enforcement by a victim, a witness, another third party, or by the offender. The report must be made to the local public law enforcement entity, on-campus and off-campus, and Campus Security Authorities (CSA). Suspicious activities or individuals seen within the campus vicinity should also be reported to the relevant authorities. Crimes should be reported for the purpose of making timely warning reports to the community and for inclusion in the annual statistical disclosure.

Accurate Prompt Reporting

Community members, students, faculty, staff, and guests are encouraged to report all crimes and public safety-related incidents to Urban College staff in a timely manner. To report a crime or an emergency on the Urban College of Boston campus, call 911. To report a non-emergency security or public safety-related matter, call 617-449-7070. When a potentially dangerous threat to the Urban College community arises, timely reports or warnings will be issued through e-mail announcements, the posting of notices at buildings containing Urban College classrooms, in -class announcements, or other appropriate means.

To Report A Crime

Anyone can report a crime or emergency by contacting the local police by dialing 911 or the President at (617) 449-7037. To report any suspicious activity or person seen loitering inside buildings with Urban College classrooms, or to report non-emergencies, contact an Urban College CSA:

To Report Complaints of Sexual Violence

A victim of sexual violence has the right to file (or not file) an Affirmative Action Discrimination Complaint Form with the College. Contact the College’s Title IX Coordinator, the Director of Student Services and Support, Rosana Perella, Email: Rosana.Perella@urbancollege.edu For Title IX purposes, the Title IX Coordinator will keep information confidential to the full extent permitted by law.

Response To A Reported Crime

The Boston Police Department will work with individuals reporting a crime to obtain information and conduct a thorough investigation. When appropriate, crime suspects may be adjudicated through the criminal justice system and/or college.

Campus Law Enforcement

The Boston Police Department and/or respective law enforcement for alternative learning sites have full law enforcement authority, including the authority to effect arrests, on campus at Urban College of Boston and at alternative learning sites. Their jurisdiction includes all property owned or controlled by the college, as all streets within the city of Boston and all alternative learning sites. The main campus has a municipal building officer on site who is a sworn officer of the Boston Police Department. The Boston Municipal Protective Services are special licensed police officers with full arrest and investigation authority. Although there is no formal memorandum of understanding, Urban College maintains a healthy working relationship with the Boston Police Department, as well as other local and state law enforcement and emergency response agencies. Urban College personnel attend regular meetings with local law enforcement to exchange ideas and problems which may be of concern for the Urban College community.

Sexual Harassment Policy

Urban College prohibits sexual harassment of students, faculty, or staff. Sexual harassment is defined as unwelcome sexual advances; requests for sexual favors; or other physical conduct, verbal, non -verbal, or written communication of a sexual nature when the conduct of such is sufficiently severe, persistent, or pervasive that it denies or limits a student’s ability to participate in or benefit from the education program or that it creates a hostile or abusive educational environment.

Sexual harassment violates Urban College policy as well as state and federal law. Any incidents of sexual harassment should be reported to the Director of Student Services and Support so that prompt and effective actions can be taken. Urban College’s Title IX Coordinator is Rosana Perella. Students may contact the office by email at titleix@urbancollege.edu or by phone at 617-449-7380.

It is unlawful to retaliate or discriminate in any way against any person who has expressed concern or made any complaint regarding sexual harassment, and Urban College of Boston will not retaliate or discriminate against any person who expresses concern or files a complaint alleging sexual harassment or discrimination.

Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, or Stalking

The College is obligated to investigate all allegations of sexual violence, even if the alleged victim chooses not to file a formal complaint and/or participate in the investigation. Additionally, a complaint filed in another forum, including a criminal or civil complaint, shall not delay the college’s investigation of a complaint of sexual violence. The college shall promptly and thoroughly investigate all such allegations in accordance with the Policy on Affirmative Action’s Complaint Procedure and shall provide the victim with periodic updates on the status of the investigation.

Procedures to Follow for Victims of Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, or Stalking

Ensure Safety

Call the Boston Police Department by dialing 911. It is imperative to ensure your safety and avoid remaining in a dangerous situation.

Seek Medical Care

Seek immediate medical treatment. It is important to receive medical attention, even if you feel you were not physically hurt. The survivor has the right to accept or reject any part of the medical exam. If you were the victim of a sexual assault, sexual assault nurse examiners (SANEs) are specially trained to care for survivors of sexual violence and to perform sexual assault evidence collection kits. The SANE program serves seven hospitals in the greater Boston area:

• Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
• Brigham and Women’s Hospital
• Boston Medical Center
• Cambridge Hospital
• Children’s Hospital
• Massachusetts General Hospital
• Newton-Wellesley Hospital

Preserve Evidence

It is important to preserve evidence in cases of sexual assault, dating violence, domestic violence, or stalking, if possible. Victims should take certain actions promptly to preserve evidence for criminal prosecution and/or to obtain a protective order.

Victim Identification

Personal identifiable information about a victim will be treated as confidential and only shared with persons with a specific need to know and/or who are investigating and/or adjudicating the complaint, delivering resources or support services to the victim or as public safety requires. The College does not publish the names or other identifiable information of victims. In accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act, a victim may request that no directory information maintained by the college be released without their prior written consent.

Report the Incident

In addition to contacting local law enforcement, you may also file a complaint with the college. A college complaint (Sexual Misconduct Complaint) may be submitted by contacting the Title IX Coordinator at 617-449-7380 or titleix@urbancollege.edu. Ultimately, it is the student’s choice whether or not to make a report and to decline to notify any of the above-listed entities.

Written Notification

Urban College will provide written notification to students and employees who report sexual assault, dating violence, domestic violence, or stalking about existing counseling, health, mental health, victim advocacy, legal assistance, visa and immigration assistance, student financial aid, and other services available on and off campus. Urban College will further provide written notification to survivors about options for requesting changes to academic or working situations, as well as how to request protective measures.

Disciplinary Actions

After a final determination has been made regarding sexual misconduct, domestic violence, dating violence, or stalking policies, Urban College is authorized to impose a sanction. In determining the appropriate sanction, Urban College shall consider the severity of the violation, the safety of the complainant and the community, and the education or changes needed from the respondent.

Possible sanctions for students include: a disciplinary warning, disciplinary probation, disciplinary suspension, disciplinary expulsion, required participation in educational seminars or programs, domestic violence education or treatment programs, restitution, directed study of a related topic, and no contact orders, as well as criminal prosecution.

Possible sanctions for employees include: a disciplinary warning, disciplinary probation, suspension from employment, termination of employment, required participation in educational seminars or programs, domestic violence education or treatment programs, restitution, directed study of a related topic, and no contact orders, as well as criminal prosecution.

Protections for Victims of Sexual Violence

A person subjected to sexual violence shall:

• Be provided with a copy of the college’s Sexual Violence - Victim’s Rights and Information Advisory, which shall include information concerning counseling, health, and mental health services, victim advocacy and support, law enforcement assistance, and other services available on and off campus;
• Have the right to pursue, or not pursue, assistance from campus administration officials or campus law enforcement;
• Not be discouraged by college officials from reporting an incident to both on-campus and off-campus authorities;
• Be provided assistance in contacting local law enforcement if requested and have the full and prompt assistance and cooperation of campus personnel should a civil and/or criminal complaint be pursued.
• Be free from any suggestion that they somehow contributed to or had a shared responsibility in the violent act.
• Receive the same level of support at any proceeding before college officials as is permitted to the accused party, including the presence of a personal advisor during any disciplinary proceeding and the right to be notified in a timely manner of the outcome of such proceedings and any appeal right available.
• Receive full and prompt cooperation from college personnel in obtaining and securing evidence (including medical evidence) necessary for any potential criminal proceedings.
• Have access to existing college advising, support services, and obtain referrals to off-campus counseling and support services if desired.
• Be permitted to attend classes, work, and participate in college activities free from unwanted contact or proximity to the respondent insofar as the College is permitted and able.
• Be permitted to request changes to an academic schedule if such changes are requested by the alleged victim and are reasonably available; and
• Be informed of any no-contact or no-trespass orders issued to the respondent by the college and the college’s commitment to honor any court-issued restraining or protective orders, to the extent permitted by law.

Interim Protective Measures

Title IX requires the college to take reasonable steps to ensure equal access to its education programs and activities and protect individuals from Prohibited Conduct, including taking interim protective measures before the final outcome of an investigation. The college shall take these steps promptly once it has notice of an allegation of Prohibited Conduct, including sexual violence.

Examples of interim protective measures include, but are not limited to, the following:

• access to counseling services and assistance in scheduling an appointment, on or off campus.
• imposition of an interim suspension or on-campus “no-contact” order.
• rescheduling of exams and assignments.
• providing alternative course completion options.
• changing class schedules, including withdrawing from a course without penalty.
• changing work schedules or job assignments.
• limiting access to certain college facilities or activities pending resolution of the matter.
• voluntary leave of absence.
• providing an escort to ensure safe movement between classes and activities; and/or
• providing academic support services, such as tutoring.

Amnesty

Students may be hesitant to report sexual violence out of concern that they, or witnesses, might be charged with violations of the college’s drug/alcohol policies. While the college does not condone such behavior, it places a priority on addressing allegations of sexual violence. Accordingly, the college may elect not to pursue discipline against a student who, in good faith, reports, witnesses or possesses personal knowledge of an incident of sexual violence.

Retaliation

Urban College of Boston prohibits retaliation against any person who presents a formal or informal complaint of sexual violence or who testifies or offers evidence connected with a complaint. Retaliation is a violation of this policy whether or not the underlying claim of sexual violence is confirmed.

Programs & Prevention

Resources for Survivors of Sexual Assault, Dating Violence, Domestic Violence, and Stalking

Current contact information on rape crisis centers in Massachusetts can be found at the Commonwealth’s Executive Office of Health and Human Services’ Website under Consumer Information at https://www.mass.gov/orgs/executive-office-of-health-and-human-services.

Greater Boston Area

Boston Area Rape Crisis Center, Cambridge, 617-492-7273 Hotline, 617-492-6434 TTY
Reach Beyond Domestic Violence, Waltham, 800-899-400 Hotline

Northeastern Massachusetts

North Shore Rape Crisis Center, Beverly, 800-922-8772 Hotline, 978-921-8729 TTY 
Rape Crisis Services of Greater Lowell, 800-542-5212 Hotline, 978-452-8723 TTY 
YWCA of Greater Lawrence, 877-509-9922 SA Hotline, 978-686-8840 TTY

Central Massachusetts

Rape Crisis Center of Central Mass., Worcester, 800-870-5905 Hotline, 508-852-7600 TTY 
Rape Crisis Center of Central Mass., Fitchburg, 800-870-5905
Wayside Victim Services, Milford, 800-511-5070 Hotline, 508-478-4205 TTY 
Voices Against Violence, Framingham, 800-593-1125 Hotline, 508-626-8686 TTY

Southeastern Massachusetts

A Safe Place, Nantucket, 508-228-2111 Hotline, 508-228-0561 TTY 
Independence House, Hyannis, 800-439-6507 Hotline, 508-778-6782 TTY 
Women Support Services, Vineyard Haven, 508-696-7233 
Greater New Bedford Women Center, New Bedford, 888-839-6636 Hotline, 508-996-1177 TTY 
New Hope, Attleboro, 800-323-4673 Hotline/TTY
Stanley Street Women Center, Fall River, 508-675-0087 Hotline, 508-673-3328 TTY 
Woman’s Place Crisis Center, Brockton, 508-588-8255 SA Hotline, 508-894-2869 TTY

Western Massachusetts

Elizabeth Freeman Center, Pittsfield, 413-443-0089 Hotline, 413-499-2425 TTY 
Everywoman Center, Amherst, 413-545-0800 Hotline, 888-337-0800 TTY 
NELCWIT, Greenfield, 413-772-0806 Hotline/TTY
YWCA, Springfield, 800-796-8711
YWCA of Western Mass, Westfield, 800-479-6245 Hotline/TTY

Transition House

www.transitionhouse.org
Call 617-661-7203 for emergency shelter and transitional and supported housing

Casa Myrna Vazquez, Support for survivors 617-521-0116

www.casamyrna.org