Crime Prevention Safety & Awareness

GW offers programs designed to inform students and employees about campus security procedures and practices. A common theme of all awareness and crime prevention programs is to encourage students and employees to be responsible for their own safety and for the safety of others on campus. Such programs are sponsored by various campus organizations throughout the year. These general crime prevention and security awareness programs include safety education forums, programs, and discussions about topics such as alcohol abuse, dating violence, self-defense, fire safety, emergency response and evacuation procedures, sexual assault prevention, and theft prevention. 

GWPD, Campus Safety, the Title IX Office, and Division for Student Affairs, including Campus Living and Residential Education, provide programming and initiatives in three major categories:

Those Covering Campus Security Procedures and Practices 

Throughout the academic year, the university conducts programs on topics including but not limited to information regarding substance use education, GW substance use policies, as well as reporting crimes and other incidents. 

Substance Use Education Initiatives

• Alcohol eCHECKUP TO GO is an interactive online prevention program that provides personalized feedback about alcohol use patterns, social norms, and potential risk behaviors to encourage informed decision-making and harm reduction.
• Cannabis eCHECKUP TO GO is an interactive online prevention program that provides personalized feedback about cannabis use patterns, social norms, and potential risk behaviors to encourage informed decision-making and harm reduction.
• The Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) is a validated screening tool used to identify risky or hazardous alcohol use and potential alcohol use disorders.
• The Cannabis Use Disorders Identification Test (CUDIT) is an eight-item screening tool used to assess cannabis consumption patterns, potential dependence, and related consequences.
• Brief Alcohol Screening and Intervention for College Students (BASICS) is an evidence-based, harm-reduction intervention that uses personalized feedback and motivational interviewing strategies to help students examine alcohol and other substance use behaviors and reduce associated risks. The program typically includes two individual sessions.
• Cannabis Screening and Intervention for College Students (CASICS) is an evidence-based, harm-reduction intervention that uses personalized feedback and motivational interviewing strategies to help students examine cannabis use and reduce associated risks. The program typically includes two individual sessions.
• Additional Programs & Resources: The Office of Health Promotion & Education also spearheads a number of substance use educational, prevention, and intervention initiatives, through peer education, tabling activities, workshops, substance use consultations, and social media advocacy.

GW Alert Initiative 

GW advises new students and employees of the GW Alert system. Instructions for accessing the GW Alert system are as follows:

1. Log in to the GW Alert portal at alert.gwu.edu using your GW NetId and password. You may be asked to search for “George Washington University” when you first log in. This will bring you to the “My Account” page.
2. You will see your name, GW email, and any mobile numbers that were transferred from GWeb or GW Housing systems.
3. Click “add” next to the mobile phone or email boxes to add additional contact information. You may add up to 2 additional email addresses and 3 mobile phone numbers. You will be asked to verify your carrier information, as well as to confirm that the GW Alert system can send messages to your mobile device. Follow the instructions provided on the screen to complete the setup.
4. If you have a landline, you may add it to the “Voice Only Line Contacts” section to receive voice alerts. You may add up to 3 landlines. NOTE: Voice alerts are not used for every GW Alert.

Programs Encouraging Members of the Community to Look Out for Themselves and Others

Throughout the academic year, GW conducts programs on information regarding alcohol education, fire safety, personal safety, and crime prevention for the GW community. To address security procedures and practices, GWPD, Campus Safety, Student Affairs, and other GW offices provide programming including, but not limited to training for new students, their families, and new employees during their respective orientations. Topics include, but are not limited to, fire safety, personal safety, bystander intervention, active threat, and crime prevention. Other resources include GW Safe Ride, self-defense classes, and operation identification.

Self- Defense Classes

GWPD Self Defense instruction covers basic stance, strikes, and blocks. Each technique is specifically designed to be utilized in the event of an attack. The program assists participants in gaining confidence in their own abilities, as well as making them more aware of their surroundings. The course is offered several times during the academic year and is free to the female members of the GW community. To pre-register for a session, submit your request through safety.gwu.edu/training.

GW Safe Ride Program

GW Safe Ride provides a free and safe ride to/from Foggy Bottom Campus residence halls and academic buildings during late night hours for students, faculty, and staff who prefer to not walk alone. This safe ride service operates seven days a week (Sunday– Saturday) from 8:00 p.m. until 4 a.m. You can reserve a ride in three ways:

• Download the “GW Rider” app in the Apple or Google Play stores. Log into the app using GW’s Single Sign On (SSO) and request a ride.
• Log into the website using GW’s SSO and request a ride.
• Call (202) 994-RIDE (7433) between 8:00 p.m.–4:00 a.m. Please visit transportation.gwu.edu/safe-ride for more information.

Crime Prevention Initiatives

New employee orientation includes the distribution of crime prevention and fire safety materials to all new employees on a monthly basis. Environmental Health and Safety participated in and/or conducts fire safety educational programs for students and employees.

GWPD, Campus Safety, and other units conduct crime prevention and general security and safety awareness presentations for students and employees of the university. During these presentations, information is provided on topics such as: crime prevention tips, statistics on crime at GW, fire safety, and campus security procedures and practices. Additionally, GWPD organizes and sets up crime prevention and education display tables at various locations throughout the year. This provides an opportunity for the staff to disseminate safety-related information, as well as to answer individual questions.

For more information, or to schedule a program with GWPD, please visit safety.gwu.edu/training or call: (202) 994-0205

Title IX Prevention Educational Programming

The George Washington University (GW) offers ongoing prevention and awareness programs for students, staff, and faculty on issues related to sexual harassment, sexual assault, dating and domestic violence, and stalking. 

Required Title IX Trainings

All incoming, undergraduate students are required to complete a mandatory two-part Title IX training. An online program is offered during the summer that focuses on Title IX policy, definitions of prohibited conduct and consent, coercion, and incapacitation, as well as how to report to the Office of Equal Opportunity, and on and off campus resources. During in-person orientation sessions held between June and August, students are also required to attend an in-person workshop that provides a review of the virtual session and focuses on bystander intervention. In addition to programs provided for incoming undergraduate students, GW offers Title IX: Fundamental for Graduate and Professional Degree Students, an online module that can be accessed on demand by visiting the Office of Equal Opportunity’s website. This module covers topics related to the definitions of prohibited conduct under the Title IX Policy, consent and incapacitation, how to report to the Office of Equal Opportunity, on and off campus resources, in addition to topics that are particularly relevant to graduate and professional degree students.

All incoming faculty and staff at GW are required to complete an online module, Anti-Discrimination and Title IX Basics for Faculty and Staff that includes content on the Title IX policy, definitions of prohibited conduct, designated and mandatory reporting responsibilities, supportive measures, best practices for responding to disclosures, and how to take proactive action to create protective environments for GW community members. After hire, all faculty and staff are assigned this mandatory training on an annual basis. All student employees are also assigned a mandatory Title IX: Fundamentals for Student Employees training upon hire.

In addition to these primary prevention and awareness programs, the Office of Equal Opportunity (OEO), as well as the Office of Advocacy and Support (OAS) offer ongoing training to the university community throughout the year.

Training topics include, but are not limited to:

• An overview of GW's Title IX Sexual Harassment and Related Conduct Policy
• Definitions of Prohibited Conduct
• Consent
• Supportive Measures
• Resolution Options
• Intoxication and Incapacitation
• Bystander Intervention
• Healthy Relationships
• Creating Cultures of Consent
• Building Communities of Support
• Title IX: Focus on International Students
• Title IX and Intersectional Response
• 50 Years of Title IX
• Responsibilities of Designated Reporters
• How to Respond to Disclosures
• Reporting Options on- and off-campus
• Resources on- and off-campus
• Title IX for Student Organizations

These ongoing educational programs collectively include definitions of prohibited conduct and consent, information on institutional policies and procedures, available supportive measures and resources, as well as information on positive options for bystander intervention and risk reduction strategies.

Bystander Intervention Programs and Risk Reduction Curriculum

GW’s bystander intervention curriculum focuses on helping community members to become AWARE of concerning situations that they observe that may lack consent, ACKNOWLEDGE personal barriers that may make it risky or unsafe to intervene, and to ACT in a way that is safe and reduces personal risk by using the three Ds:

• Direct: this involves directly addressing the situation or the people involved in a concerning situation. Examples include asking the person impacted by the incident if they are ok and/or asking a person to stop the behavior that they are engaged in;
• Delegate: this involves asking for help to intervene. Examples include calling a Community Coordinator in the residence halls and/or law enforcement.
• Distract: this involves creating a diversion to diffuse an incident. Examples include knocking on a door and asking a person to go for coffee with you.
• Students are also taught about proactive strategies to keep themselves and their communities safe and to create supportive environments.

GW’s bystander intervention curriculum serves as a key risk reduction strategy by equipping students with the knowledge and skills to recognize potentially harmful situations, assess personal safety, and intervene effectively. Through the AWARE, ACKNOWLEDGE, and ACT framework, students learn practical approaches to reduce the risk of harm, support community well-being, and foster a culture of shared responsibility for safety.

 

Tips for Your Safety

GW encourages community members to assist in keeping our community safe. Below are some tips and safety precautions to stay vigilant (for more information, visit safety.gwu.edu/safety-tips):

• Report all suspicious activity to GWPD immediately.
• Download the GW Guardian app.
• Program the GW emergency services phone numbers into your cell phone:
  • Foggy Bottom Campus: (202) 994-6111
  • Mount Vernon Campus: (202) 242-6111
• Limit your alcohol consumption and leave social functions that appear to be getting out of control. Call GWPD or MPD for help at the first sign of trouble.
• Try to avoid walking alone at night. Travel with friends or use university transportation services.
• Always lock the door to your residence hall room, whether or not you are there.
• Keep windows closed and locked when you are not at home.
• Do not hold doors open to residence halls or other protected locations.
• Be aware of your surroundings. Instead of texting or looking down at the ground, watch the cars and people around you.
• Never leave valuables unattended.
• Always carry your keys and GWORLD ID and do not lend them to anyone.
• Lock up bicycles and motorcycles. Lock car doors and close windows when leaving your car.
• Do not leave valuables in your car, especially if they can be easily noticed.
• Engrave serial numbers or owner’s recognized numbers, such as a driver’s license number, on items of value.
• Inventory your personal property and insure it appropriately with personal insurance coverage.

Notification of Missing Students

If a member of the university community has reason to believe that a student who resides in on-campus housing has been missing, they must immediately notify GWPD at (202) 994-6111. GWPD will generate a missing person report and initiate an investigation. A community member may contact GWPD, regardless of how long they believe the student to have been missing, ideally within 24 hours. When a student is determined to be missing, GWPD will notify MPD as soon as is practicable, but no later than 24 hours after this determination. Additionally, GWPD will also contact the staff within Campus Living and Residential Education, who will notify the student’s emergency contact as soon as is practicable, and no later than 24 hours after the student is determined to be missing. If the missing student is under the age of 18 and is not an emancipated individual, GW will also notify the student’s parent or legal guardian as soon as practicable, and no later than 24 hours after the student is determined to be missing.

In addition to registering an emergency contact, students residing in on- campus housing have the option to identify, confidentially, an individual to be contacted by GWPD in the event the student is determined to be missing for at least than 24 hours. If a student has identified such an individual, GW will notify that individual as soon as practicable and no later than 24 hours after the student is determined to be missing. A student who wishes to identify or change their confidential contact person can do so by sending an email to clregwu [dot] edu. The student’s confidential contact information will be accessible only by authorized campus officials and law enforcement in furtherance of an investigation.

Reporting a Missing Student

To report a missing student, please call GWPD or local law enforcement: 

• Foggy Bottom: 202-994-6111
• Mount Vernon: 202-242-6111
• Virginia Science and Technology Center: 703-777-1021
• Alexandria Education Center: 703-838-4444
• Arlington Education Center: 703-358-4610

Sexual Harassment and Related Conduct 

The George Washington University (GW) is committed to maintaining a positive climate for study and work, in which individuals are judged solely on relevant factors, such as skill and performance, and can pursue their activities in an atmosphere that is free from discrimination, harassment, and violence. As such, GW prohibits sexual harassment, sexual assault, dating and domestic violence, and stalking.

Scope and Jurisdiction 

GW’s Title IX Sexual Harassment and Related Conduct Policy applies to Sexual Harassment that occurs in the university’s Programs or Activities. This Policy may also apply to Sexual Harassment that occurs outside the university’s Programs or Activities when, in the discretion of the Title IX Coordinator:

1. there is close proximity between the reported conduct and the university community;
2. there is a sufficient nexus between the reported conduct and the university’s Programs or Activities; and/or
3. the reported conduct has alleged continuing adverse effects or creates a hostile environment on campus or in the university’s Programs or Activities.

Where reported conduct involves a potential violation of both this Policy and another university policy, the university may choose to investigate and/or adjudicate all of the potential misconduct under the procedures set forth in this Policy, provided that doing so would not unduly delay a prompt or equitable resolution of the report.

This Policy applies to all reports of Sexual Harassment that are received by the university on or after the effective date of this Policy, regardless of when the Sexual Harassment is alleged to have occurred.

Where the date of the reported Sexual Harassment precedes the effective date of this Policy, the definition of Sexual Harassment in existence at the time of the alleged incident(s) will be used, except where use of such definition would be contrary to law. The procedures under this Policy, however, will be used to investigate and resolve all reports of Sexual Harassment subject to this Policy made on or after the effective date of this policy, regardless of when the alleged incident(s) occurred, except where the use of such procedures would be contrary to law.

Allegations of discrimination and other misconduct on the basis of sex, or allegations that are determined not to be on the basis of sex, that are not covered by this Policy may be governed by other university policies or processes, including but not limited to the Code of Student Conduct, the Student Grievance Procedures, the Employee Handbook, the Faculty Code, the university’s Policy on Equal Opportunity, Nondiscrimination, Anti-Harassment and Non-Retaliation, the Prohibited Relationships with Students Policy, and the Nepotism and Personal Relationships in Employment Policy.

This Policy supersedes any conflicting information in any other university policy with respect to the definitions or procedures relating to Sexual Harassment within the scope of this Policy and provides the exclusive university remedy for alleged Sexual Harassment within the scope of this Policy.

Response to Sexual Harassment and Related Conduct

All forms of Sexual Harassment are violations of GW’s Title IX Sexual Harassment and Related Conduct Policy. Prohibited conduct includes sexual harassment, sexual assault, domestic and dating violence, and stalking. The Policy also reinforces GW’s prohibition against retaliation.

If any form of sexual harassment should occur on campus, staff on the scene, including GWPD, will offer the survivor a wide variety of services. Additional resources and information are available through the Title IX Office (titleix.gwu.edu), the Office of Advocacy and Support (safety.gwu.edu/oas) and the Student Health Center (healthcenter.gwu.edu). The Title IX Office and the Office of Advocacy and Support (OAS) also run the Sexual Assault and Intimate Violence (SAIV) Helpline that has mental health professionals on-call and available to assist a survivor of sexual assault 24 hours a day. University personnel will assist the survivor in notifying appropriate law enforcement authorities, if the survivor requests their assistance. Members of the university community who believe their safety or the safety of others is threatened or who have experienced or witnessed such prohibited conduct should immediately report the incident to GWPD.

Timeframe for Reporting

Complainants and witnesses are encouraged to report Sexual Harassment as soon as possible in order to maximize the university’s ability to respond promptly and effectively. The university does not, however, limit the timeframe for reporting.

Amnesty

The university encourages reports of Sexual Harassment and participation in any ensuing process. It is the policy of the university to seek to remove barriers to reports and participation by providing amnesty for potential violations of alcohol and/or drug use policies occurring at or near the time of the incident for student parties and witnesses who report or otherwise participate in the university’s Sexual Harassment process. In general, the university will not pursue disciplinary action for personal consumption of alcohol or other drugs that would otherwise be a violation of the Code of Student Conduct against a student who makes a good faith report to the university, or participates as a party or witness to Sexual Harassment, provided the misconduct did not endanger the health or safety of others. The university may engage in an assessment or educational discussion or pursue other non-disciplinary options regarding alcohol or other drug use.

Requests for Anonymity

Once a report has been shared with the Title IX Coordinator, a Complainant may request that their identity not be shared with the Respondent (request for anonymity), that no investigation occur, or that no resolution process be pursued. The university will carefully balance this request in the context of the university’s commitment to provide a safe and non-discriminatory environment for all university community members. The university will make all reasonable efforts to respond to the report consistent with a Complainant’s request, but in order to pursue a resolution against a Respondent under this Policy, the Respondent must be provided with sufficient notice of the reported conduct, including the Complainant’s identity if known. In some cases, including where the university determines that the failure to pursue a resolution process would be inconsistent with its legal obligations, the university may choose to pursue a resolution even if a Complainant requests that no resolution be pursued.

Campus and Community Resources

After receiving notice of alleged Sexual Harassment, and regardless of the outcome of the investigation, the university will offer resources and/or assistance to impacted members of the university community. The university may also assist those individuals in identifying and contacting external law enforcement agencies and community resources.

Some of these resources are designated as confidential (see “Confidential Resources” below); other resources provide support but may be staffed by designated reporters who need to make a report to the Title IX Coordinator (see “Designated Reporters” below).

Members of the university community may obtain information about campus and community resources relating to Sexual Harassment by reviewing Appendix C or visiting titleix.gwu.edu.

Confidential Resources

Students and employees who wish to discuss Sexual Harassment in a confidential setting may consult with the list of Confidential Resources identified in Appendix C. Confidential Resources will not disclose personally identifying information about you to the Title IX Coordinator without your permission.

Speaking with a Confidential Resource about Sexual Harassment will not constitute a report to the university or law enforcement. When an individual who otherwise is a Confidential Resource receives information outside of their professional role in the provision of services, the individual may be a Designated Reporter that is required to share that information with the Title IX Coordinator (see below). For example, a licensed psychologist in the Student Health Center who receives a disclosure in the context of speaking at a prevention program would be required to share the information with the Title IX Coordinator.

Counseling and Emotional Support Resources

On Campus

Counseling and Psychological Services

Counseling and Psychological Services at the Student Health Center are located at 801 21st Street, NW, Ground Floor. Counselors can provide confidential support for you during this difficult period. They can inform you of common emotional reactions and discuss coping methods that may assist you immediately following the assault and later. Talking about your concerns with a counselor in a safe and supportive environment may help you sort through your feelings and decide what to do. You do not need to disclose your name if you call the Student Health Center for information. Counselors will not reveal your identity to anyone without your permission. Students may be seen on an emergency walk-in basis or by appointment (202-994-5300).

The Office of Advocacy and Support

The Office of Advocacy and Support provides confidential, trauma-informed, and healing-centered support to GW students impacted by sexual violence, relationship violence, and/or stalking. OAS plays a crucial role in fostering a community that values and promotes healthy relationships through support and prevention programming. OAS is committed to cultivating and strengthening a culture of care that empathetically supports and empowers GW community members. In service of this mission, OAS is proud to work with campus partners to create a safer, healthier, and more informed campus community. OAS is located at 520 22nd St NW, Washington, DC 20052, and can be reached by email at oasgwu [dot] edu.

Off Campus

The DC Rape Crisis Center

The DC Rape Crisis Center, (202) 232-0789, provides a confidential hotline, (202) 333-RAPE, and advocacy services 24 hours a day, seven days a week, as well as free short-term individual and group counseling.

RAINN (Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network)

RAINN operates the National Sexual Assault Hotline (800- 656-HOPE and online.rainn.org) in partnership with more than 1,000 local sexual assault service providers across the country. RAINN also carries out programs to prevent sexual violence, help victims, and ensure that rapists are brought to justice.

Volare

Volare (formerly the Network for Victim Recovery DC) is a victim service provider seeking to empower crime victims by providing comprehensive services through community- based education, therapeutic and pro bono legal support. Contact Volare at (202) 742-1727 or nvrdc.org for more information.

LAWS

LAWS provide access free crisis counseling, emergency housing, and additional services for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. The Shelter can be reached at (703) 777-6552 and lcsj.org.

Ayuda (Washington DC Office)

Ayuda provides immigration legal services to low-income immigrants in humanitarian visa applications (victims of crime, domestic violence, human trafficking) and Violence Against Women Act petitions.

Contact Ayuda at (202) 387-4848 or ayuda.com for more information.

Medical Resources

Volare notes that the first few moments after a sexual assault can be a very difficult and confusing time. Survivors may have questions and be faced with multiple decisions. During this time survivors may not want, or be ready, to make many of these decisions. This is common and okay.

In addition to the Office of Advocacy and Support on campus, the DC Victim Hotline at 1-844HELPDC (844-443-5732) is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year and will connect you to an advocate, who can talk through options.

One option is a complete head-to-toe examination following a physical or sexual assault, called a medical forensic exam. The exam is done by a forensic nurse, who is a registered nurse and specially trained to care for people who have experienced violence.

In DC, the forensic nurse can collect specimens which may be used as physical evidence for DNA and other testing, called a Physical Evidence Recovery Kit (PERK). If you were sexually assaulted, and you consent to having specimens collected, a forensic nurse may collect a PERK. Survivors who are not interested in specimen collection can still choose to see a forensic nurse for a free exam to address any immediate health concerns following an assault.

If applicable, advocates at the DC Victim Hotline can provide free transportation to the hospital and stay throughout the exam if the survivor wants them to. EMeRG and GWPD can also provide free transportation to MedStar Washington Hospital Center, the only hospital in DC that provides medical forensic exams, which are free. In Northern Virginia, INOVA Fairfax Hospital, (703) 776-3199 offers free medical forensic exams. Additionally, survivors may seek screening and treatment, if necessary, on a non-emergency basis, with one’s primary care physician or with the Student Health Center (801 21st Street, NW, Ground Floor, 202-994-6827).

University Community Members Reporting Obligations

It is important to understand the different reporting responsibilities of university community members. Some community members are designated as Confidential Resources, meaning that they will not report personally identifying information shared with them about Sexual Harassment to the Title IX Coordinator, as described above. Some individuals are Designated Reporters and are required by the university to promptly share all information about Sexual Harassment with the Title IX Coordinator. If a reporting party is uncertain about whether someone with whom they want to discuss a report is a Designated Reporter or serving as a Confidential Resource, the reporting party is encouraged to ask directly before disclosing.

“Designated Reporters” are university community members who are required by the Title IX Policy to promptly report any information they learn about suspected or alleged Sexual Harassment or potential violations of the Policy to the university’s Title IX Coordinator. Unless identified and acting as a Confidential Resource (see above), Designated Reporters include:

• President, Provost, Vice Presidents, Deans, and Department Chairs
• Deputy, Vice, Assistant and Associate Provosts, Deans, and individuals who directly report to any of these roles
• Faculty
• Athletic Director, Coaches, Assistant Coaches, Graduate Assistants, and other Athletics Department employees
• All Residence Directors, Resident Advisors, and Area Coordinators
• Anyone who directly supervises students, student workers, faculty, or other staff
• Managers, coordinators, program heads, directors (including deputy, vice, assistant, or associate positions)
• All staff in Enrollment Management and Student Affairs
• Academic Advisors
• All staff in the Office for Diversity, Equity and Community Engagement
• All staff in the Division of Human Resources
• GW Police Department staff and Division of Safety and Operations staff, with the exception of the Office of Advocacy and Support
• Individuals designated as Campus Security Authorities under the Jeanne Clery Campus Safety Act

Designated Reporters must report all known information, including the identities of the parties, the date, time, and location, and any details about the reported incident to the Title IX Coordinator.

Designated Reporters may provide support and assistance to a Complainant, witness, or Respondent, but they cannot promise confidentiality or withhold information about Sexual Harassment. Failure by a Designated Reporter to report suspected or alleged Sexual Harassment in a timely manner may subject them to appropriate discipline, including removal from a position or termination of employment.

Designated Reporters may be required to report information disclosed at public awareness events (e.g., “Take Back the Night,” candlelight vigils, protests, “survivor speak-outs” or other public forums in which students may disclose Sexual Harassment); or during an individual’s participation as a subject in an Institutional Review Board-approved human subjects research protocol (IRB research). Designated Reporters who learn, or anticipate learning, of conduct prohibited by this Policy during a public awareness event or through IRB-approved human subject research must consult with the Title IX Coordinator regarding their obligation to disclose such information.

In addition, a Designated Reporter may choose not to make a report concerning a matter in which only they themselves would be a Complainant, even though the matter would otherwise fall within their reporting obligations.

All Other Employees not designated as Confidential Resources or Designated Reporters are encouraged to report any suspected violation of this Policy to the university’s Title IX Coordinator.

 

Prohibited Conduct

GW prohibits the crimes of dating violence, domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking as those terms are defined for the purposes of the Clery Act.

Examples of Prohibited Conduct

For instance, sexual harassment, sexual assault, dating and domestic violence, and stalking are defined and prohibited per GW’s Title IX Sexual Harassment and Related Conduct Policy :

Sexual Harassment

Conduct on the basis of sex that satisfies one or more of the following:

1. A university employee conditions the provision of an aid, benefit, or service on an individual’s participation in unwelcome sexual conduct;
2. Unwelcome conduct determined by a reasonable person to be so severe, pervasive, and objectively offensive that it effectively denies a person equal access to the university’s Programs or Activities;

Sexual Assault

Formally defined in 20 U.S.C. § 1092(f)(6)(A)(v), means any sexual act directed against another person, without the consent of the victim, including instances where the victim is incapable of giving consent (such as incapacitation, age, family relation to the other party, or intellectual or other disability).

Sexual Assault can be committed by or against individuals of any sex or gender and can occur between individuals of the same or different sexes/genders. The university will rely on the definition of sexual assault provided in the federal Uniform Crime Reporting system, which includes:

1. Sexual intercourse with another person, including oral or anal sexual intercourse, or the use of an object or instrument to unlawfully penetrate, however slightly, without consent;
2. Touching of the private body parts of another person for the purpose of sexual gratification, without consent;
3. Sexual intercourse between persons related within degrees where marriage is prohibited by law;
4. Sexual intercourse with a person under the statutory age of consent;

Note (as of September 25, 2025):

1. Intentional or forced touching of the genitals, buttocks, groin, breasts, or other body parts, clothed or unclothed, without consent, for purposes of sexual degradation, gratification, or humiliation (Criminal Sexual Contact);

Dating Violence

Formally defined in 34 U.S.C. § 12291(a)(1), means any act of violence committed by a person who is or has been in a romantic or intimate social relationship with the victim, based on the length, type, and frequency of interactions.

Domestic Violence

Formally defined in 34 U.S.C. § 12291(a)(8), means a felony or misdemeanor crime of violence committed by a current or former spouse or intimate partner, a co-parent, a cohabitant, or another person protected under domestic or family violence laws.

Stalking

Formally defined in 34 U.S.C. § 12291(a)(30), means engaging in a course of conduct directed at a specific person that would cause a reasonable person to fear for their safety or suffer substantial emotional distress.

Consent

Consent requires voluntary and freely given agreement, through words and/or actions, to engage in mutually agreed upon sexual activity. It cannot be obtained through force, threat of force, or when a person is incapable of providing consent. The university considers force, coercion, capacity, and whether a reasonable person would interpret communication as willingness to engage.

Furthermore, GW’s Threats and Acts of Violence Policy prohibits threats and addresses non-sex-based stalking. Prohibited conduct includes:

Violence

The use of physical force with intent, effect, or reasonable likelihood of causing pain, harm, injury, or damage to any person or property.

Threats

Words or actions intended, causing, or reasonably likely to cause fear, pain, harm, injury, or damage to any person or property, including stalking.

Stalking (Non-Sex-Based)

A course of conduct directed at a specific person that would cause a reasonable person to experience fear or substantial emotional distress, including repeated acts such as following, monitoring, threatening, or interfering with a person’s movement or property.

Procedures and Options Available for Students Impacted by Sexual Harassment, Sexual Assault, Dating and Domestic Violence, and Stalking

The George Washington University’s (GW) mandatory and optional training programs, GW’s Title IX Office website, outreach materials, and prevention and awareness materials highlight procedures and options that are available to GW students and community members when incidents involving sexual harassment, sexual assault, dating and domestic violence, and stalking incidents occur.

Reporting Options

GW community members have a number of options available following an incident, and the university recognizes that choosing among these options is a deeply personal decision. Regardless of the path chosen, university staff members are able to assist. For example, GW community members may:

• Report to law enforcement;
• Access medical treatment;
• Obtain a forensic exam;
• Seek help from a confidential resource; and
• Report to the university and obtain supportive measures;
• Access additional support from off-campus resources.

Report to Law Enforcement

GW community members may choose to report to GWPD, MPD, or their local police, or may decline to report. Those choosing to report to GWPD may call the emergency line at (202) 994-6111 or the non-emergency line at (202) 994-6110. University staff members, including those in the Office of Equal Opportunity (OEO) and the Office of Advocacy and Support (OAS), are available to accompany community members when filing a report.

Preserve Evidence

Community members are encouraged to preserve available evidence whenever an incident occurs. This may include saving messages, emails, social media communications, photos, videos, and other documentation, and avoiding alteration of physical evidence. Preserving evidence may be especially important in cases involving ongoing patterns of behavior.

Access Medical Treatment and/or Obtain a Forensic Exam

The university encourages seeking medical care following sexual assault or dating or domestic violence. Evidence collection and certain treatments are time-sensitive. Forensic Nurse Examiners can provide specialized care, and some services may be available up to 30 days after an incident. Community members are encouraged to contact the DC Victim Hotline at (844) 443-5732 for guidance. Exams are provided at no cost and do not require insurance, a police report, or proof of citizenship.

In Washington, DC, exams are available at Washington Hospital Center, 110 Irving Street NW, Washington, DC 20010. In Northern Virginia, exams are available at Inova Fairfax Hospital, 3300 Gallows Road, Falls Church, VA 22042.

For additional information, visit the Title IX Office’s website.

Seek Help from a Confidential Resource

Students and employees may consult confidential resources for support. Speaking with these resources does not constitute a report to the university or law enforcement.

For students:

• Student Health Center and Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS): (202) 994-5300 — healthcenter.gwu.edu
• Office of Advocacy and Support: (202) 994-0443 — oasgwu [dot] edu

For employees:

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): (866) 522-8509 — benefits.gwu.edu/wellbeing-hotline

For students and employees:

• Sexual Assault and Intimate Violence Helpline: (202) 994-7222

Report to the University

Community members may report incidents to the university. Cases involving sex-based misconduct should be reported to the Title IX Office.

GW Title IX Office
Assistant Provost and Title IX Coordinator: Asha Reynolds
812 20th Street NW, Washington, DC 20052
Drop-in Hours: Mondays 10am–1pm; Wednesdays 12–3pm
Online Reporting Form
Email: titleixgwu [dot] edu (titleix[at]gwu[dot]edu)
Website: titleix.gwu.edu
Phone: (202) 994-7434

Reports of non sex-based stalking or violence involving students should be directed to the Conflict Education and Student Accountability Office (CESA).

Conflict Education and Student Accountability
University Student Center, 800 21st Street NW, Suite 204, Washington, DC 20052
Online Reporting Form
Email: cesagwu [dot] edu (cesa[at]gwu[dot]edu)
Website: students.gwu.edu/cesa
Phone: (202) 994-6555

Reports involving faculty should be directed to the Office of Faculty Affairs.

Office of Faculty Affairs
1918 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20052
Email: facultyaffairsgwu [dot] edu (facultyaffairs[at]gwu[dot]edu)
Website: facultyaffairs.gwu.edu
Phone: (202) 994-6783

Reports involving staff should be directed to Human Resource Management and Development.

Human Resource Management and Development
2013 H Street NW, 3rd Floor, Washington, DC 20006
Email: askhrmdgwu [dot] edu (askhrmd[at]gwu[dot]edu)
Website: hr.gwu.edu
Phone: (202) 994-8500

Procedures Following a Report to the University

When an incident is reported to GW staff who are not designated as a confidential resource, it is likely that staff are Campus Security Authorities (CSAs). Please note that all Office of Equal Opportunity staff members are CSAs. This means that staff are required to complete publicly available recordkeeping, including Clery Act reporting and disclosures, without including a Complainant’s personally identifying information.

What happens after the university receives a report?

After receiving a report, Office of Equal Opportunity (OEO) staff will attempt to identify a Complainant, the individual who is alleged to have experienced sexual harassment. If the Complainant’s identity is known, OEO will send them an outreach email which is a written notice of available options, rights and services, regardless of whether the offense occurred on or off campus. This information includes:

• An invitation to schedule an intake meeting with OEO Office staff;
• Options about the involvement of law enforcement (including the right to notify or decline to notify law enforcement) and to be assisted by campus staff members in filing a report to law enforcement;
• Information about the importance of preserving evidence that may assist in proving that a criminal offense or policy violation occurred or may be helpful in obtaining a protective order;
• Availability of free supportive measures such as academic adjustments, mutual no contact orders, changes to work schedules and living arrangements, regardless of whether a report is made to law enforcement or a formal Title IX complaint is pursued;
• Availability of on- and off-campus resources such as counseling, health, mental health, advocacy, legal assistance, visa and immigration assistance, and financial resources such as the Crime Victim’s Compensation Program;
• Information regarding the Title IX Sexual Harassment and Related Conduct Policy’s procedures governing the investigative and negotiated resolution of complaints;
• Information regarding the confidentiality of most supportive measures (unless maintaining confidentiality would impair the university’s ability to provide the measure; e.g., mutual no contact orders are not confidential);
• Information about the privacy of reports, and that pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Campus Safety Act the institution must maintain publicly available records without personally identifying information.

Additionally, OEO staff members and other university employees provide information on obtaining civil protection orders and refer individuals to local, no-cost legal services for representation in such proceedings.

All parties to a Title IX matter are presented with the option to receive supportive measures and to pursue a formal complaint. Supportive measures are non-disciplinary, non-punitive individualized services, accommodations, and other assistance that the university may put into place after receiving notice of sexual harassment. They are based on an individualized assessment of the unique facts and circumstances of each report and may include, but are not limited to:

• Facilitating access to counseling and medical services;
• Guidance on obtaining a sexual assault forensic examination;
• Academic support;
• Assistance in requesting long-term academic accommodations through Disability Support Services (DSS), if applicable;
• Changes to on-campus housing;
• Changes to university work schedules and/or job assignments;
• Mutual no contact orders.

Supportive measures may also include referrals across the university, such as connecting with the Office of Advocacy and Support (OAS) for escort services and/or using GW Safe Ride for free transportation support seven days a week (Sunday–Saturday) between 7 p.m.–4 a.m.

Supportive measures are not shared outside of the Office of Equal Opportunity unless maintaining confidentiality would impair GW’s ability to provide the support. Please refer to the Title IX Sexual Harassment and Related Conduct Policy for a more complete list of supportive measures offered by GW’s Office of Equal Opportunity. Parties requesting supportive measures are encouraged to contact the Office of Equal Opportunity at oeogwu [dot] edu (oeo[at]gwu[dot]edu).

 

Resolution Processes Under Title IX Policy

Where a Complainant seeks to use the university’s procedures for resolving a report of sexual harassment, sexual assault, dating or domestic violence or stalking, a Complainant may file a formal complaint with the Title IX Office. A Complainant may submit a formal complaint in person or by mail at 2001 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, Suite 250, Washington DC 20006. A Complainant may also submit a formal complaint via email to the Office of Equal Opportunity at oeogwu [dot] edu.

What must the formal complaint contain and what are the next steps?

The formal complaint must contain the Complainant’s physical or digital signature or otherwise indicate that the Complainant is the person filing. The Title IX Coordinator also has discretion to file a formal complaint even if the Complainant chooses not to participate in the process and/or does not wish to file a report. When making this decision, the Title IX Coordinator will balance the wishes of the Complainant with the university’s responsibility to address the concern. Upon the filing of a formal complaint, whether by a Complainant or the Title IX Coordinator, the Complainant may choose to proceed with one of the following options:

1. Proceed with an investigation under the Investigative Resolution process.
2. Proceed with Negotiated resolution. Negotiated Resolution always requires the filing of a Formal Complaint and the consent of the Complainant and Respondent. The university must also consent to the use of negotiated resolution and the terms agreed to resolve a complaint. Negotiated Resolution is not available where the Respondent is a university employee and the Complainant is a student.
3. If the Title IX Coordinator determines that a formal complaint filed by a Complainant is outside the scope and jurisdiction of the Title IX Policy, as appropriate, the matter will be referred to another university office for resolution.

All proceedings conducted pursuant to the Title IX Sexual Harassment and Related Conduct Policy are prompt, fair, and impartial from receipt of the report through final resolution

Notice of Allegations

If the Title IX Coordinator determines that a formal complaint falls within the scope and jurisdiction of the Title IX Policy, a Notice of Allegations letter will be sent to the Complainant(s) and Respondent(s) containing the following information:

• Notice and information about the formal resolution and alternative resolution processes used by the university;
• Notice of the allegations potentially constituting Sexual Harassment, including identities (if known), conduct, date, location, and relevant policy provisions;
• A statement that the Respondent is presumed not responsible until a determination is made;
• Notice that each party may have an advisor of their choice;
• Notice prohibiting knowingly false statements or information; and
• The university’s prohibition against retaliation.

Negotiated Resolution

Negotiated Resolution is a voluntary, remedies-based resolution process requiring the mutual informed written consent of all parties and the university. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

This process is grounded in restorative justice principles and allows the parties to acknowledge harm, identify actions to repair it, prevent recurrence, and address its effects.

• Used only when all parties agree and the Title IX Office approves;
• Not available when the Respondent is a university employee and the Complainant is a student;
• May include terms such as no contact orders, training, counseling, impact statements, and housing or academic adjustments;
• Does not involve an investigation or determination of responsibility;
• Either party may withdraw before a final agreement is reached;
• Final agreements are binding, and violations may result in disciplinary action.

Investigative Resolution

The Investigative Resolution process involves a prompt, fair, and impartial investigation followed by a virtual hearing.

• A neutral investigator gathers evidence, including interviews and documentation;
• A preliminary report is shared, with time for party review and response;
• A final report is issued and provided to both parties and the Hearing Officer;
• A hearing is scheduled where parties and advisors may ask relevant questions;
• The Hearing Officer determines responsibility using the preponderance of the evidence standard.

Sanctions and Corrective Actions

• Students: warning, probation, suspension, expulsion, housing changes, educational requirements, and related measures;
• Staff: warning, probation, suspension, termination, training, or reassignment;
• Faculty: reprimand, suspension, dismissal, or tenure-related actions.

Annual Training

All officials involved in resolving cases receive annual training on sexual harassment, sexual assault, dating and domestic violence, and stalking, as well as on conducting investigations and hearings impartially.

Appeals

Parties may appeal a dismissal or outcome within five business days based on:

• Procedural error affecting the outcome;
• New relevant information not previously available;
• Inappropriate or disproportionate sanctions; or
• Bias or conflict of interest.

The Appeals Officer may affirm the outcome, order a new hearing, return the matter for further investigation, or modify sanctions.

Extending Timeframes

The university may extend timeframes for good cause, including ensuring a thorough investigation, accommodating availability, or addressing complex cases. Both parties will be notified of any extensions.

Advisor of Choice

Each party may be accompanied by an advisor of their choice, including an attorney, during meetings and proceedings. Advisors may provide support but may not participate directly except during cross-examination at hearings.

Emergency Removal

The university may remove a Respondent from its programs or activities on an emergency basis if an immediate threat to health or safety is identified. The Respondent will receive notice and an opportunity to challenge the decision.

 

Definitions of Dating Violence, Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault, and Stalking in the Applicable Jurisdictions

Dating and Domestic Violence

• Washington, DC (§ 4–551):

  “Domestic violence” means a pattern of abusive behavior in any relationship that is used by one partner to gain or maintain power and control over another intimate partner, dating partner, or family member.

  The term includes physical, sexual, emotional, economic, or psychological actions or threats of actions that influence another person. This consists of behaviors that intimidate, manipulate, humiliate, isolate, frighten, terrorize, coerce, threaten, blame, hurt, injure, or wound someone.

• Maryland (§ 4–701):

  “Domestic violence” means abuse occurring between:

  • Current or former spouses or cohabitants;
  • Persons who have a child in common; or
  • Persons currently or formerly involved in a dating relationship.

• Virginia (§ 16.1-228):

  “Family abuse” means any act involving violence, force, or threat that results in bodily injury or places a person in reasonable apprehension of death, sexual assault, or bodily injury, and that is committed by a person against their family or household member.

  This includes, but is not limited to, forceful detention, stalking, criminal sexual assault, or any criminal offense resulting in bodily injury or reasonable fear of death, sexual assault, or bodily injury.

Sexual Assault

• Washington, DC (§ 22–30(8) and (9)):

  “Sexual act” means:

  • The penetration, however slight, of the anus or vulva of another by a penis;
  • Contact between the mouth and the penis, the mouth and the vulva, or the mouth and the anus;
  • The penetration, however slight, of the anus or vulva by a hand, finger, or any object, with intent to abuse, humiliate, harass, degrade, or arouse or gratify sexual desire;
  • The emission of semen is not required for the purposes of the above.

  “Sexual contact” means the touching, with any clothed or unclothed body part or object, either directly or through clothing, of the genitalia, anus, groin, breast, inner thigh, or buttocks of any person, with intent to abuse, humiliate, harass, degrade, or arouse or gratify sexual desire.

• Maryland (§ 11–922):

  “Sexual assault” means rape or a sexual offense in any degree as specified in §§ 3-303 through 3-310, § 3-314, or § 3-315 of the Criminal Law Article.

• Virginia (§ 18.2 c.4(7); § 18.2-61):

  Criminal Sexual Assault (Rape):

  A person is guilty of rape if they engage in sexual intercourse with a complaining witness, or cause a complaining witness to engage in sexual intercourse with another person, under any of the following conditions:

  • Against the will of the complaining witness, by force, threat, or intimidation;
  • Through the use of the complaining witness’s mental incapacity or physical helplessness; or
  • With a child under the age of 13.

**These articles provide additional statutory definitions that fall under the primary definition.

Stalking

• Washington, DC (§ 22–3133): It is unlawful for a person to purposefully engage in a course of conduct directed at a specific individual:

  1. With the intent to cause that individual to:
     • Fear for their safety or the safety of another person;
     • Feel seriously alarmed, disturbed, or frightened; or
     • Suffer emotional distress;
  2. That the person knows would reasonably cause that individual to:
     • Fear for their safety or the safety of another person;
     • Feel seriously alarmed, disturbed, or frightened; or
     • Suffer emotional distress;
  3. That the person should have known would cause a reasonable person in the individual’s circumstances to:
     • Fear for their safety or the safety of another person;
     • Feel seriously alarmed, disturbed, or frightened; or
     • Suffer emotional distress.

  This section does not apply to constitutionally protected activity. Where a single act is of a continuing nature, each 24-hour period constitutes a separate occasion, and the conduct on each occasion need not be the same.

• Maryland (§ 3–802): “Stalking” means a malicious course of conduct that includes approaching or pursuing another where:

  1. The person intends to place, or knows or reasonably should have known the conduct would place, another in reasonable fear of:
     • Serious bodily injury;
     • Assault in any degree;
     • Rape or sexual offense (or attempt);
     • False imprisonment; or
     • Death;
     • Or that a third person will likely suffer any of the above;
  2. The person intends to cause, or knows or reasonably should have known the conduct would cause, serious emotional distress to another.

  “Stalking” includes conduct occurring in person, by electronic communication, or through devices used to track a person’s location without their knowledge or consent.

  This section does not apply to conduct performed to comply with a court order, for lawful commercial purposes, or otherwise authorized by law. A person may not engage in stalking.

• Virginia (§ 18.2-60.3): Any person (with limited exceptions for law enforcement and licensed investigators acting in official duties) who on more than one occasion engages in conduct directed at another person, either in person or through any means (including mail, telephone, or electronic communication), with the intent to place, or when they know or reasonably should know the conduct places, that person in reasonable fear of:

  • Death;
  • Criminal sexual assault; or
  • Bodily injury to themselves or a family or household member;

  Such conduct constitutes a Class 1 misdemeanor. Continued contact or attempts to contact a person after being told not to do so serves as prima facie evidence of intent.

Consent

• Washington, DC (§ 22–3001): “Consent” means words or overt actions indicating a freely given agreement to the sexual act or contact in question. Lack of verbal or physical resistance or submission by the victim, resulting from the use of force, threats, or coercion by the defendant, shall not constitute consent.
   

   

• Maryland (§ 3–301.1): In this subtitle, “consent” means the clear and voluntary agreement by an individual to engage in vaginal intercourse, a sexual act, or sexual contact.
  • The existence, lack, or withdrawal of consent is determined based on the totality of the circumstances, including words and conduct of all parties;
  • Consent may be withdrawn before or during the act;
  • Lack of consent may be communicated through words or conduct;
  • A current or previous relationship does not by itself constitute consent;
  • Submission resulting from fear, threat, or coercion does not constitute consent when it is known or reasonably should be known;
  • The manner of dress does not constitute consent;
  • This section does not require documentation of consent.

 

• Virginia: Virginia law does not provide a specific statutory definition of consent.

 

Notice of Non-Discrimiation and the Role of the Title IX Coordinator

Consistent with the university’s Policy on Equal Opportunity Nondiscrimination, Anti-Harassment and Non-Retaliation, the university does not unlawfully discriminate against any person in any of its education or employment programs and activities, including admissions, on any basis prohibited by federal law, the District of Columbia Human Rights Act, or other applicable law, including on the basis of sex or gender. The university does not tolerate discrimination or harassment on the basis of sex or gender.

University compliance with Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972

The university complies with Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 (“Title IX”), which prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex in the university’s programs and activities; the Jeanne Clery Campus Safety Act (Clery Act), as amended by the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act of 2013 (VAWA), which, together with Title IX, governs this Policy related to the university’s response to sexual assault, dating violence, domestic violence, and stalking; Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (“Title VII”), which prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex in employment; the District of Columbia Human Rights Act; and other applicable law.

Concerns about the university’s application of Title IX may be addressed to the university’s Title IX Coordinator (titleixgwu [dot] edu (titleix[at]gwu[dot]edu)); the United States Department of Education, Clery Act Compliance Division (cleryed [dot] gov (clery[at]ed[dot]gov)); the United States Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights (OCRed [dot] gov (OCR[at]ed[dot]gov) or 800-421-3481); and/or the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (infoeeoc [dot] gov (info[at]eeoc[dot]gov) or 800-669-4000).

To request disability accommodations in connection with this Policy and accompanying procedures, students should contact the Office of Disability Support Services at (202) 994-8250 or dssgwu [dot] edu (dss[at]gwu[dot]edu). Employees and other members of the university community should contact the Office of Equal Employment Opportunity and Human Resources Policy Compliance at (202) 994-9656 or eeogwu [dot] edu (eeo[at]gwu[dot]edu).

 

The Role of the Title IX Coordinator

The university has designated a Title IX Coordinator to oversee the implementation of this Policy, to ensure compliance with Title IX and relevant portions of VAWA and Title VII, and to work with the Division of Safety and Facilities on compliance with the Jeanne Clery Campus Safety Act and other applicable laws. The university’s Title IX Coordinator is:

Asha Reynolds 
Associate Vice President of Equal Opportunity 
EO, Title IX, and Title VI Coordinator
Office of Equal Opportunity
2001 Pennsylvania Avenue, Suite 250
Washington, DC 20006
(202) 994-7434; oeogwu [dot] edu (oeo[at]gwu[dot]edu)

The university’s Title IX Coordinator oversees the university’s centralized response to all reports of Sexual Harassment to ensure implementation of this Policy and compliance with applicable federal, state, and local law. The Title IX Coordinator and designated staff will:

• Communicate with all members of the university community regarding applicable law and policy and provide information about how individuals may access resources and reporting options;
• Maintain and implement applicable university policies to ensure institutional compliance with applicable law;
• Ensure that all students and employees have access to education and training regarding Title IX, related provisions of the Jeanne Clery Campus Safety Act, and Sexual Harassment as defined in this Policy;
• Respond to any report regarding conduct that may violate this Policy. In this capacity, the Title IX Coordinator shall:
  • Direct the provision of any Supportive Measures;
  • Oversee the prompt and equitable investigation and resolution of a report of Sexual Harassment;
  • Take appropriate action to respond to reports of Sexual Harassment, prevent its recurrence, and remedy its effects;
  • Maintain centralized records of all reports, investigations, and resolutions.
• The Title IX Coordinator maintains broad oversight responsibility but may delegate responsibilities under this Policy to designated administrators or external professionals with appropriate training and/or experience. When used in this Policy, the term Title IX Coordinator may include an appropriate designee.

Sex Offender Registry

In Section 121 The Campus Sex Crimes Prevention Act of 2006 is a federal law that requires institutions of higher education to advise the campus community where information concerning registered sex offenders may be obtained. It also requires sex offenders, already required by state law to register in a state, to provide notice to each institution of higher education in that state, at which the person is employed, carries on a vocation, or is a student.

In DC, convicted sex offenders must register with the Metropolitan Police Department. You can view this information, which appears on MPD’s website, by accessing sexoffender.dc.gov.

In Virginia, convicted sex offenders must register with the Department of State Police. You can view this information, which appears on the Virginia State Police website, by accessing https://www.vspsor.com.

Alcohol and Drug Policies

GW is committed to promoting the health and safety of its campus community through a program of alcohol education and the implementation of relevant policies. The university enforces all local DC laws regarding the possession, use, and sale of alcoholic beverages, including those prohibiting the consumption of alcoholic beverages by persons under the age of 21 on campus and at university-sponsored activities. GW’s Alcoholic Beverage Consumption and Distribution Policy and Procedures, as well as the university’s penalties for possession or distribution of controlled substances by students on university premises or at institutionally-sponsored activities off campus, are contained online at studentconduct.gwu.edu/abcd-policy.

GW is in compliance with the federal Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act of 1989. Each year GW renews its commitment to the letter and spirit of that law with an informational letter to students and employees; this is available online at go.gwu.edu/DFSCA2025.

While certain aspects of marijuana possession have been decriminalized in DC, the possession of marijuana by someone under 21 years of age, the selling or distributing of marijuana, and the smoking of marijuana in public are still illegal. DC law also allows institutions to prohibit the possession and use of marijuana on their property. In compliance with federal law, GW prohibits the possession and use of marijuana and other illegal drugs on campus.

The university does not condone violations of laws proscribing the possession, use, or sale of alcoholic beverages and possession, use, sale, manufacture, or distribution of illegal drugs. All members of the GW community should know that violation of the laws concerning illegal drugs may lead to disciplinary action, which may include removal from the residence halls, revocation of other privileges, or suspension or expulsion from the university in order to protect the interests of the university and the rights and safety of others.

Alcohol and Drug Policies for Faculty and Staff

GW’s Employee Drug and Alcohol Policy prohibits the illegal manufacture, possession, distribution, or use of alcohol or illegal controlled substances at work, reporting to or being at work (whether on-campus/in-person or remotely), or representing GW at events while under their influence. This includes use or possession during work time of recreational or prescription mushrooms, cannabis and THC-containing substances, or other drugs which may be legal under D.C. or state law but are still prohibited under federal law.

The university cooperates fully with law enforcement authorities. Violations of university policy that are also violations of federal or local law will be referred to the appropriate agency. In such situations, action to address the infraction may proceed concurrently in the university and in the criminal justice system.

Noncompliance with this policy may result in disciplinary action up to and including termination or dismissal. Additionally, individuals may be referred to the university's Employee Assistance Program, the Well-being Hotline, and through that program, to a treatment and counseling program for alcohol or drug abuse, and continued or reinstatement of employment may be contingent on participation and/or completion of the program.

Alcohol and Drug Policies for Students

The Code of Student Conduct specifies the prohibitions and the possible penalties for violations by students, and is available at https://students.gwu.edu/code-student-conduct Specifically, violations leading to disciplinary action include:

Alcohol/Other Drug Violations

Alcohol Violations

• Possession or use of alcohol by persons under 21;
• Possession or use of alcohol in a housing unit (including common areas) is strictly prohibited when all residents of a housing unit are under 21;
• When someone 21 or older is living with someone under 21 in a university housing unit, only persons 21 or older may possess and consume alcoholic beverages within the shared space. If alcohol is found in a shared space, the university assumes that the alcohol is shared by all residents unless the residents provide evidence that the alcohol was not shared with all residents;
• Regardless of age, possession or use of alcohol that is prohibited by other university policies, including open containers, alcohol-free locations, kegs or open source containers, and drinking games;
• Offering, providing, or otherwise making available any alcoholic beverage to any person under the age of 21;
• Intoxication on university premises or public property.

Drug Violations

• Possession or use of illegal drugs. This includes use/possession of marijuana, use/possession of another person’s prescription medication, use/possession of prescription medication without a valid prescription, etc.
• Abuse of controlled substances or intoxicating substances;
• Possession or use of paraphernalia containing residue from illegally used/possessed drugs, controlled substances, or intoxicating substances;
• Manufacture or distribution of illegal drugs or controlled substances.

Alcohol and Other Drug Related Harms

• Use or possession of alcohol or other drugs with the intent of causing harm to another. With respect to alcohol and other drug violations, the university considers circumstances related to the Alcohol and Other Drug Medical Amnesty Program and the Good Samaritan Statement for those who report an incident of sexual misconduct and/or for those seeking medical help during the same timeframe as an alcohol/other drug violation.

Alcohol and Drug Related Resources

Student Health Center

(202) 994-5300

The Student Health Center provides high quality, affordable care and resources to students. It offers a range of confidential health services to support medical and mental health needs, as well as promotion and prevention services to guide students in maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Medical Care

healthcenter.gwu.edu/medical-care

The Student Health Center offers a wide range of medical services, including primary care, sexual health, LGBTQ+ health, psychiatric services, counseling services, and more. Appointments can be made online or by phone, and, for urgent medical needs, walk-ins are accepted during business hours. The Student Health Center provides 24/7 medical advice to students at GW with an after-hours hotlinr 202-994-5300.

Counseling and Psychological Services

healthcenter.gwu.edu/counseling-and-psychological-services 

The Student Health Center offers counseling and psychological services to students in a safe, nonjudgmental, and confidential environment. Mental health professionals support students’ psychological and emotional development and well-being by collaborating with students to overcome challenges and difficulties.

Health Promotion and Education

healthcenter.gwu.edu/health-promotion-education 

The Student Health Center’s health promotion and education services help educate students, so that they can make informed and responsible decisions regarding substance-related behavior and other wellness issues. Through collaboration with other service areas and departments on campus, the Student Health Center provides programs, services, and resources that encourage students to recognize that their decisions impact not only themselves, but also the greater GW and District of Columbia communities.

GW’s Wellbeing Hotline

866-522-8509

All university employees and faculty members, as well as their dependents and household members, are eligible to use the services provided by GW’s Wellbeing Hotline. This no-cost counseling service helps you address stress, relationship, and other personal issues you and your family may face. For more information, please visit benefits.gwu.edu/wellbeing-hotline or call (866) 522-8509.

GW’s Wellbeing Resource Webpage

GW students may also utilize the Wellbeing Resources page to identify substance use supportive services through the Division for Student Affairs and other campus partners by using the “Substance Use Support” filter. GW students may access this page by navigating to students.gwu.edu/wellbeing-resources on any device or mobile browser.

Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences

202-741-2888

The Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences treats the entire spectrum of psychiatric, emotional, and chemical dependency disorders. For more information, please visit gwdocs.com/specialties/psychiatry/program-overview or call (202) 741-2888 to schedule an appointment.

Firearms and Weapons Policies

GW is committed to maintaining a safe and secure environment that supports the academic mission of the university. According to the GW Firearms and Weapons Policy, members of the GW community, including students, faculty, staff, as well as visitors to any GW campus location, are prohibited from possessing firearms, explosives, weapons, or any item that may be construed as such, on the premises of the university or in any building under university control. There are some limited exceptions to this policy; for example, certified and licensed law enforcement personnel who are authorized to carry a firearm in performance of their duties are permitted to do so while on GW property. This prohibition applies regardless of whether a federal or state license to possess the same has been issued to the possessor.

All members of the GW community should refer to the Firearms and Weapons Policy, which is available on the university’s Compliance Office website at compliance.gwu.edu/alphabetical-policy-listing.

Additionally, students should refer to the Code of Student Conduct to identify other policies regarding firearms and weapons that may apply to them. For information regarding proper procedure for active shooter situations, we urge community members to visit https://safety.gwu.edu/active-threat-preparedness to view our video on the matter, titled “Active Shooter Preparedness” The video is used in trainings with new faculty, staff, and appropriate student staff members.

Hazing Policies

GW is committed to promoting an educational and workplace environment where community members may participate in activities and organizations without compromising their health, safety, or welfare. It is therefore the university's policy that hazing is prohibited. The impact of hazing activities can result in irrevocable harm to their victims, victims' families, and the university community.

Hazing Definition

GW defines hazing as: Any act, whether or not the reported victims voluntarily participated in the act if the act:

• is committed in the course of an initiation into, an affiliation with, or the maintenance of membership in, a student organization or group and
• creates more risk of physical or psychological injury than students would typically/reasonably encounter in the course of participation in the university and student organizations. (For example, physical exercise to prepare for an athletic team is usually associated with reasonable and typical risks.)

Reporting Hazing

Community members are encouraged to report incidents of hazing.

• Student respondent(s) should be reported to Conflict Education & Student Accountability.
• Staff respondent(s) should be reported to Human Resource Management and Development.
• Faculty respondent(s) should be reported to the Office of the Provost, Faculty Affairs.
• EthicsPoint, the university’s anonymous hotline, can be utilized as an anonymous reporting avenue regardless of the role of the respondent.

The Campus Hazing Transparency Report (CHTR) and the disclosure of crime statistics in the annual security report (ASR) both disclose data pertaining to hazing incidents. However the requirements between these two reports are distinct and therefore the data reported will be different. The CHTR discloses Incidents in which a recognized or established student organization is found responsible for violating an institution’s hazing policy. The hazing numbers disclosed in the ASR include any allegations of hazing occurring in Clery geography involving student organizations, whether recognized or unrecognized.

Hazing Investigation Procedures

Hazing investigations follow the procedures set forth by the adjudicating body for which they apply.

For students or student organization respondents

An investigator will be assigned to the case. The investigator may be the original case manager or a newly assigned individual. The case manager will notify the respondent of the allegations of prohibited conduct, provide sufficient details about the behavioral allegations, and indicate that an investigation has been initiated. In a case involving an impacted person, the impacted person will also be notified that an investigation has been initiated. During the investigation, the respondent and impacted person will have an opportunity to be heard, identify witnesses, and submit information, including any available evidence. The investigator will gather other relevant and reasonably available information, including, without limitation, photographs, written documentation, records of communications between involved individuals, and any other relevant information, such as evidence and impact statements from impacted persons. Upon completion of the investigation, the investigator will send the respondent a copy of the completed investigation report. The report will outline the factual behavioral findings and include all the evidence relied upon in reaching those findings. The investigator does not determine if the behavior is a policy violation. The investigator will hold a Student Conduct Conference with the respondent to review the investigation report. After reviewing the investigation report, the respondent and investigator may agree to resolve the case through a Student Conduct Agreement, as described above. If the case cannot be resolved through a Student Conduct Agreement or if the respondent fails to participate in the student conduct process, the case will be referred to a decision-maker, who shall be different from the case manager and investigator for that case. If there is an impacted person who is a victim of an act of violence or a non-forcible sex offense (as defined by relevant law), the impacted person may be notified of the final results of the student conduct proceeding with respect to the alleged offense, as allowed by FERPA, 34 CFR 99.31(a)(13).

Applicable State, Local, and Tribal Laws

The following state laws are applicable to hazing incidents that occur in the state of Virginia:

• Virginia § 18.2-56
• Virginia Title 23.1. Institutions of Higher Education; Other Educational and Cultural Institutions, Chapter 8. Health and Campus Safety » Article 4. Campus Safety; Hazing
• There are not any DC specific hazing laws, nor any tribal laws applicable to this section.

Hazing Prevention

GW HALT Hazing

GW HALT Hazing is a comprehensive safety and leadership initiative designed to empower GW students through education on Harm Reduction, Alcohol Safety, Life-saving Interventions, and Tradition Building. HALT adopts a dual-focus approach to hazing prevention: psychological and physical dangers of hazing while equipping students with the medical literacy to prevent alcohol-related tragedies and the skills to transform their organizations with healthy, values-based new member programs.

Current members, potential new members, and advisors of fraternities, sororities, and other student organizations with new members must complete GW HALT training annually.

In line with Virginia’s Adam’s Law and in the spirit of promoting a shared vocabulary of safety and respect across campus, the program is mandatory for all potential new members, current members, and advisors of select student organizations. The program leverages award-winning curriculum from University of Virginia’s Gordie Center, which focuses on preventing hazing and substance misuse through peer education and bystander intervention.

GW HALT seeks to ensure that every Revolutionary has the knowledge to protect themselves and the courage to protect each other. Information regarding GW specific hazing policies, including the definition of hazing, how to report incidents of hazing, and applicable state, local, and tribal laws are shared in this training.

Additional Training

Faculty and Staff seeking hazing prevention training are able to register and attend a GW HALT session. Additionally, GW contracts with United Educators to make available Higher Ed Hazing Prevention and Response training. Interested faculty and staff may gain access to the United Educators platform by contacting the Office of Risk Management at riskgwu [dot] edu.

Emergency Evacuation Policies and Procedures 

At The George Washington University (GW), the safety and well-being of our community are our highest priorities. Our Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) is designed to protect students, faculty, staff, and visitors in the event of an emergency. The EOP is a comprehensive framework designed to ensure the safety and well-being of the GW community during emergencies. This all-hazards plan outlines clear policies, procedures, and responsibilities for responding to various types of emergencies, including natural disasters, medical crises, and security threats.

Emergency Procedures Action Steps

GW’s Emergency Procedures offer detailed action steps for community members in various situations, ensuring a swift and organized response. GW maintains Emergency Procedures that are posted in all classrooms and available on safety.gwu.edu. GWPD and Campus Safety conduct tests of the university’s emergency plans and capabilities on an annual basis. The tests and simulations include but are not limited to drills, tabletops, functional exercises, and full-scale exercises. These tests are designed to assess and evaluate the emergency plans and capabilities of the institution.

GW Protective Actions are standardized protocols that guide our community during emergencies. These actions include:

Shelter: Providing protection from environmental hazards such as tornadoes or hazardous material spills.

• Evacuate: Moving individuals from one location to another in response to threats.
• Secure: Enhancing situational awareness and securing building perimeters during external threats.
• Lockdown: Implementing room-based protocols to protect individuals from internal threats.

Additionally, GW uses GWorld Emergency Modes to manage campus access during emergencies:

• GWorld Safety Mode: Restricts access to buildings, allowing entry only to GWorld cardholders with authorized tap access.
• GWorld Emergency Mode: Limits access to authorized emergency responders only.

GW is committed to maintaining a safe environment and continuously improving our emergency response capabilities. We encourage all community members to familiarize themselves with these procedures and participate in safety drills to ensure preparedness. Mandatory training is provided to all students, staff, and faculty during orientations.

GW police officers and supervisors are trained in the Incident Command System (ICS), which is utilized when responding to incidents involving the GWPD, Campus Safety, other GW departments, and local public safety agencies to manage, mitigate, and recover from incidents.

General information about the emergency response and evacuation procedures for GW is publicized each year as part of the university’s Jeanne Clery Campus Safety Act compliance efforts and is available on the GWPD and OEM websites. These tests are designed to assess and evaluate the emergency plans and capabilities of the institution.

Emergency Response and Evacuation Testing Procedures

Campus Safety works with DC Fire and EMS to conduct emergency evacuation drills four times each year. Students learn the locations of the emergency exits in the buildings and are provided guidance about the direction they should travel when exiting each facility for a building evacuation.

Educational information is posted on each floor of the residence halls and referenced during drills. In addition to educating the occupants of each building about the evacuation procedures during the drills, the process also provides the university an opportunity to test the operation of fire alarm system components.

Evacuation drills are monitored by Environmental Health and Safety, GWPD, and GW Campus Living staff to evaluate egress and behavioral patterns. Reports of all emergency tests are prepared by participating departments that identify deficient equipment so that repairs can be made immediately. Recommendations for improvements are also submitted to the appropriate departments/offices for consideration. Drills are documented by Environmental Health and Safety.

Students receive information about evacuation and shelter-in-place procedures during their first-floor meetings and during other educational sessions that they can participate in throughout the year. The residence hall staff members are trained in these procedures as well and act as an on-going resource for the students living in residential facilities. GW will publish a summary of its emergency response and evacuation procedures in conjunction with at least one drill or exercise each calendar year. The Emergency Procedures are available on safety.gwu.edu. These are also included in new student orientation and new employee orientation and hyperlinked on all GW Alert emails.

Emergency Medical Response Procedures

Foggy Bottom and Mount Vernon Campuses

Students, faculty, staff, and visitors should report any emergency medical situations to GW Emergency Services immediately at extension 4-6111 (2-6111 at MVC) or, from outside the university phone system, at 202-994-6111. The emergency services dispatcher will send GWPD officers and, if on duty, on-call members of the Emergency Medical Response Group (EMeRG) to the scene. EMeRG at GW is a recognized basic life support (BLS) agency within the District of Columbia. EMeRG’s certified personnel operate BLS ambulances and provide quality emergency medical services in a variety of settings, including campus coverage and special events. If EMeRG is not in service, GWPD will notify the DC Fire and EMS of an incident.

VSTC, Academic Centers, and Off-Campus Locations

Students, faculty, staff, and visitors at VSTC and off-campus locations should call 911 to report a medical emergency.

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