News & Statements
Interim Policy Prohibiting Discrimination, Harassment, and Misconduct
September 20, 2024
Dear Students and Colleagues,
Grand Valley State University is pleased to announce the implementation of an Interim Policy Prohibiting Discrimination, Harassment, and Misconduct for all faculty, students, employees, and third parties. This policy reflects our ongoing commitment to fostering a safe and equitable learning environment by expanding protections and resolution options for our entire community. In alignment with evolving federal law, the resolution processes that were previously limited to Title IX sexual harassment and misconduct incidents now apply to all forms of discrimination, harassment, and misconduct. We encourage you to review the interim policy, including its comprehensive list of protected characteristics. Reports of policy violations can be submitted through the online reporting form or by contacting the Office of Civil Rights and Title IX.
Additionally, I wish to inform you of an important personnel update. Dr. Kevin Carmody, who has served as our Title IX Coordinator since 2022, will not be returning following his medical leave. He has decided to prioritize his recovery, spend more time with his family, and pursue opportunities in adjunct teaching and consulting. We deeply appreciate Dr. Carmody’s dedication and contributions to GVSU and wish him well in his future endeavors.
Effective immediately, Dr. Kathleen VanderVeen, who has been serving as Acting Title IX Coordinator since June, will step into this role on a permanent basis. In addition to her responsibilities as Associate Vice President and Deputy Chief Inclusion and Equity Officer, Dr. VanderVeen brings a wealth of civil rights and compliance experience, as well as extensive Title IX training, ensuring continuity for the Office of Civil Rights and Title IX. I am also grateful to Deputy Title IX Coordinators MJ Creutz and Stacy Piasecki for their leadership and support during this time of transition.
Sincerely,
Jesse M. Bernal, Ph.D.
Vice President & Chief Strategy
Officer
Chief of Staff to the President
Grand Valley State University