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The Office of Civil Rights & Community Support (CRCS) is here to help. If you’ve experienced or witnessed discrimination, harassment, or sexual misconduct, we want to hear from you. The Policy Against Discrimination, Harassment, and Sexual Misconduct covers everyone in the Smith community and explains what conduct is prohibited, what your rights are, and how to share information with our office. The Complaint Resolution Process and the Title IX Hearing Process guide what happens after a report is made. You can reach us at titleixcoordinator@smith.edu, call us at 413-585-2245, or report online through EthicsPoint. A conversation with our office does not automatically start a formal process—it’s a chance to learn your options and decide what feels right for you.

Informal Resolution Process

Informal resolution is a voluntary way to address concerns without a formal investigation. Options may include facilitated conversations, mediation, restorative practices, or targeted education. Either party can step back and pursue a formal process at any time, and supportive measures are available throughout.

1. Share Information

You can report online, by email, by phone, in person, or through a third party like a Smith employee, who is required to share relevant information with our office.

2. Meet with CRCS

Amy Condon or Justin MacDowell will explain your options, answer questions, and discuss supportive measures. No commitment required.

3. Choose Your Path

You can request supportive measures only, pursue informal resolution, consider a formal resolution, or take no action right now.

4. Informal Resolution

Tailor your path forward:

Facilitated dialogue: Direct, guided conversations
Mediation: Structured agreements between parties
Restorative practices: Focus on repair and accountability
Targeted education: Customized coaching or training

Formal Resolution Process

1. Submission of Formal Complaint

Submission can be completed via online form, email, or phone.

2. Notifications Sent

Notification of investigation and allegation(s) are sent to all parties. Parties are also notified of their rights.

3. Investigation

All parties are interviewed and evidence is gathered.

4. Review Period

Parties are given access to a draft of the investigation report for 10 days and are encouraged to provide feedback.

5. Panel Review or Title IX Hearing

A 1–3 person decision-making panel reviews the final report and all evidence. If the respondent is alleged to have violated Title IX, a 3-person decision-making panel holds a live hearing via Zoom.

6. Outcome Sent

A notice of outcome is sent to all parties. If the respondent is found responsible, a notice is also sent to appropriate office for sanctions.

7. Appeal

Either party may appeal for limited reasons, and they have 10 days to submit an appeal after being notified of the outcome.

8. Appeal Decision

A notice of the appeal decision is issued within 10 days of receipt of the notice of appeal.

9. Sanctions

If decisions against the respondent is upheld on appeal, sanctions are issued by the appropriate office.

Contact the Office of Civil Rights & Community Support

College Hall 302
Smith College
10 Elm Street
Northampton, MA 01063

Phone: 413-585-2245 Email: titleixcoordinator@smith.edu

Amy Condon, Director and Title IX Coordinator
acondon@smith.edu
413-585-2245

Justin MacDowell, Deputy Title IX Coordinator & Civil Rights Investigator
jmacdowell@smith.edu
413-585-3547

Hours by appointment only.

Not sure if your concern falls under our office? Reach out anyway—we’re happy to point you in the right direction.