Student Concerns about Athletic Programs and Activities

College of Southern Maryland is committed to ensuring that the college’s Athletics Department and all of its constituents, including staff, coaches, and student athletes, display, support, and comply with the principles of integrity, equity, inclusion, and with all applicable laws.

In support of the aforementioned principles and state law (MD Educ Code § 11-1601), the college shall establish and maintain a process through which students can share concerns regarding athletic programs and activities with the college administration, including senior officials, who are not directly involved in the management or supervision of athletic programs or activities. This process shall provide students with the opportunity to submit their concerns confidentially and without fear of discrimination or retaliation, both of which are prohibited. Student athletes and coaches will be updated on the college policies regarding student athletics each semester. This information will include how to submit a complaint, concern or inquiry electronically or in person, and where this information should be directed.

The college's Title IX official will review all athletic concerns or complaints submitted via the Student Complaint system and will handle accordingly. Responses to inquiries will occur within 5 business days of submission and will be reviewed by a senior administrative official outside of the athletic supervision chain. Another avenue for submitting a concern or complaint could be the EthicsPoint anonymous reporting electronic system that allows for confidential and anonymous reporting.

This policy shall be posted on the college’s website, with a copy provided to each student who participates in any athletic program or activity. On or before July 1, 2020, and each July 1 thereafter, the college shall report to the Maryland Higher Education Commission the number of students who shared concerns under this policy during the immediate preceding fiscal year.
The Board of Trustees hereby authorizes the president, or his/her designee, to develop and establish appropriate procedures to implement and enforce this policy and to maintain and keep current information required to be reported annually to the Maryland Higher Education Commission.