Filing a complaint of discrimination, harassment, sexual misconduct or retaliation
Any member of the Washburn community who experiences or witnesses discrimination, harassment, sexual misconduct or retaliation has the right to file a complaint. This page explains the step-by-step process for submitting a Title IX or Equal Opportunity complaint.
If a crime or other emergency is in progress, or if there is an imminent or a continuing threat of harm to persons or property call 911 or Washburn University Police at 785.670.1300.
A note about confidential reporting
If you're not ready to file a formal complaint, you can still talk with someone confidentially about what happened and explore your options for support. Visit our confidential reporting page to learn more about on-campus and off-campus confidential resources.
File a complaint with Washburn
You have two ways to submit a complaint to initiate a University (non-criminal) investigation:
- Online: Use the online complaint form to submit your report electronically.
- By Mail or In Person: Print and complete the PDF complaint form. Write CONFIDENTIAL on the envelope and return it by mail or hand delivery to:
Equal Opportunity Director
Morgan Hall, Room 200K
Washburn University
1700 SW College Ave.
Topeka, KS 66621
Filing a complaint to initiate a criminal investigation
WUPD can provide you with on campus resources and help you contact off-campus resources like the YWCA Center for Safety & Empowerment or the Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner.
- Washburn University Police Department: 785.670.1300; police@washburn.edu; Morgan Hall 135
- Topeka Police Department: 785.368.9551
You can file a complaint with the University and the Police at the same time, or only file a complaint with one or the other. Information may be shared between the University and the Police as appropriate.
You also have the option NOT to notify law enforcement.
Preserve evidence (to help prove the incident occurred or to obtain a protection order)
Saving evidence of these crimes (sexual violence, dating violence, stalking and domestic violence) can help in getting a protection order or in prosecution. Over time, evidence or memories may fade, so it's important to keep as much as possible. Save evidence like letters, notes, emails, voicemails, call records, videos, photos, texts, social media postings, screenshots.
In Rape or Sexual Assault, physical evidence is crucial in helping prosecute these crimes. It must be collected in a timely manner by a medical professional. Before an exam, individuals should not bathe, change clothes, use the toilet (if possible), smoke, or clean the area where assaulted.
Resources:
- What is a Rape Kit: Getting a Sexual Assault Forensic Exam (SAFE) - RAINN
- Stormont Vail Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner, 1500 SW 10th Ave, Topeka, 785.354.6107
What happens after you file a complaint with Washburn?
After a complaint is submitted, the University follows a defined process to ensure fairness, support, and a prompt resolution.
Supportive measure
GET IN TOUCH WITH Equal Opportunity
Equal Opportunity
Morgan Hall, Room 200K
1700 SW College Ave
Topeka, Kansas 66621
Phone & Email
785.670.1509
eodirector@washburn.edu
