Diversity Statement
The College is committed to building a community in which diversity in all of its forms unites in a spirit of learning to celebrate the uniqueness of each individual and affirm human differences. We are dedicated to being leaders within our community by fostering an environment where the principles of personal responsibility, mutual respect, and the pursuit of social justice are vigorously pursued.
Anti-Discrimination
Non-Title IX Discrimination, Harassment, and Retaliation Policy
The College fosters an environment free from discrimination, harassment, and retaliation. This section outlines the process for addressing serious allegations not covered by the College’s Title IX Policy (e.g., discrimination or harassment based on race, religion, national origin, disability, age, veteran status, or any other characteristics protected by applicable law.
Definitions
- Discrimination: Unfair or unequal treatment of an individual or group based on a protected characteristic rather than on individual merit. Discrimination may be intentional or may result from policies or practices that have a disproportionate, adverse impact on individuals because of their protected characteristic.
- Harassment: Unwelcome conduct, verbal or physical, that is based on a protected characteristic and is sufficiently severe, pervasive, or objectively offensive that it effectively denies or limits an individual’s ability to participate in or benefit from the College’s educational programs or activities. Examples of harassment include, but are not limited to, offensive jokes, slurs, epithets or name-calling, physical assaults or threats, intimidation, ridicule or mockery, insults or put-downs, offensive objects or pictures, and interference with work performance.
- Retaliation: Any adverse action taken against an individual because they reported discrimination or harassment, assisted in an investigation, or opposed any practice forbidden under this policy. Retaliation can include, but is not limited to, adverse changes in academic standing, employment, or any form of intimidation or harassment. The College strictly prohibits retaliation.
Reporting Allegations
Students should report concerns about discrimination, harassment, or retaliation to their advisor, Track Coordinator, or any other trusted College employee.
Mandatory Employee Reporting
Any College employee who receives such an allegation (whether directly from a student, another employee, or through other means) must immediately report it to the Provost’s Office for review.
General Bias Reporting (HCA Ethics Line)
Students may also report incidents of discrimination or bias anonymously to the HCA Ethics Line:
- Call (800) 455-1996 (24 hours a day, 365 days a year)
- Submit a Concern
Allegations Against College Employees and Non-College Personnel
For allegations concerning a College employee, the Provost’s Office will conduct an administrative investigation. For allegations involving individuals not employed by the College (e.g., Clinical Site Staff, Patients, Visitors), the Provost’s Office will review the concern and provide appropriate student support.
Where applicable, engage the relevant external entity (e.g., clinical site management) to resolve the issue. Keep in mind that the College’s direct disciplinary authority over non-employees is limited to actions related to their presence on College property or affiliation with College activities.