UHD

Your Role: Respond, Refer, and Report

What to do when you witness possible misconduct or someone shares a concern with you.

Your First Response Matters

Stay calm, listen with respect, and be honest about your reporting responsibilities. You are there to support and connect—not investigate.

Remember These Four Steps

1

Receive

Listen calmly and avoid judgment.

2

Support

Thank the person for sharing.

3

Refer

Connect them with Title IX / EOS.

4

Report

Share required information promptly.

What Information Should I Share?

Report the information you know, including:

Who was involved, if known
What was shared with you
When and where it may have happened, if known
Whether the person requested confidentiality
Any immediate safety or support concern

Do not delay because the information seems incomplete. Share what you know and let the appropriate office assess it.

What Should I Avoid?

Do not investigate or interview witnesses.
Do not ask for unnecessary details.
Do not decide that a concern is too minor to report.
Do not blame the person or question why they waited.
Do not promise complete confidentiality if you may need to report.

Other Important Protections

Support may be available without a formal complaint.
A person may ask questions, learn about options, request supportive measures, or discuss accommodations.

Pregnancy and parenting protections matter.
Employees may contact their supervisor, Human Resources, or Title IX / EOS for guidance about accommodations and related support.

Power differences matter.
Romantic relationships may violate policy when one person teaches, supervises, advises, manages, evaluates, coaches, or otherwise has authority over the other.

Helpful Words to Use

“I’m glad you told me. I want to support you, and I may need to share this information with the appropriate office. They can explain your options and available support.”

When in Doubt, Ask

You do not need to solve the concern yourself. Contact Title IX / Equal Opportunity Services and let the appropriate process handle the next steps.

Title IX / Equal Opportunity Services
One Main Street, Suite S370
713-221-5771
titleix@uhd.edu

More Information and Reporting Options →