Campus Safety Info

2026 Annual Campus Safety Report

Information on Campus Safety

This publication describes the policies and programs Saint Mary’s College has developed to foster a safe and secure environment, conducive to the pursuit of education and personal growth. Please review this information carefully. If you have any questions concerning safety, contact the Director of Campus Safety at 574-284-5000 or bambenek@saintmarys.edu.

Hate Crimes

Saint Mary's College had NO reported incidents in Hate Crime categories for 2023

Saint Mary's College had NO reported incidents in Hate Crime categories for 2024

Saint Mary's College had NO reported incidents in Hate Crime categories for 2025

Hazing Activities

Saint Mary's College had NO reported incidents in Hazing categories for 2025

Fire Safety Report

Saint Mary’s College reports annually on campus fire safety information, including fire occurrences, fire safety training activities and injuries from fires.  There were NO reported fires in campus buildings including residential facilities for calendar year 2025.  

Further Fire Safety information is available at:

https://www.saintmarys.edu/campus-safety/annual-campus-fire-safety-report

https://www.saintmarys.edu/campus-safety/fire-equipment-fire-drill-matrix

Access to Facilities and Residence Halls

Saint Mary’s College provides on-campus housing for approximately 1,400 students. The Director of Residence Life & Community Standards oversees the Residence Life and Community Standards programs, supported by an Assistant Director, Residence Hall Directors, Resident Assistants, and Student Desk Workers.

Full-time professional staff and student employees work together to support the safety, security, and well-being of students residing in campus housing. A card access system restricts entry to residential areas, providing an additional layer of security for students and their living spaces. Campus Safety Officers also conduct regular checks of residence halls, as well as administrative and academic facilities, to promote a safe and secure campus environment.

Each year, Residence Life staff receive comprehensive training and instruction during staff orientation on campus safety and security, institutional policies, and applicable procedures. Resident Assistants also receive specialized training from the Coordinator of the Belles Against Violence Office (BAVO) and the Title IX Officer on topics related to violence prevention, response, and Title IX requirements.

Environmental and lighting concerns are continuously monitored by the Campus Safety Department. The Facilities Department and Building Services staff respond to safety and security concerns related to structural, mechanical, and facility conditions. 

Additional Residence Life policies can be found in the Guide to Residence Hall Living or by contacting the Director of Residence Life & Community Standards at reslife@saintmarys.edu.

Crime/Emergency Reporting Procedure/Campus Security Authority

As part of annual Title IX Training, every community member receives information about mandatory reporter status and the requirements and sources for reporting campus crimes.  Every Community member is expected to report emergency situations to protect the health and safety of all community members.  Confidential sources, such as Health and Counseling Staff, CFAM and Title IX staff, are afforded the right to maintain confidentiality of identities but are required to divulge the occurrence of crimes to protect public safety.  

To report a crime or a medical emergency, dial 911 for Emergency Services Operator or Saint Mary’s Campus Safety Department  (574-284-5000) . If outside you may use a campus (blue light) phone, by simply pushing the emergency button or dialing 9-1-1 to ring directly into the Saint Joseph County 911 center. For non-emergencies dial 5000 to contact Campus Safety.

Emergency telephones, signified by blue lights, are available at various locations on campus. These phones are equipped with a 911 emergency button along with a keypad to dial non-emergency numbers (most locations). If calling from another source (cell phone or non campus phone) dial 574-284-5000.

The Campus Safety Department also maintains the SMC SAFE app, which provides direct access to Campus Safety for emergency assistance or information. The app also allows users to submit incident reports, initiate an emergency call, and automatically provide their location to Campus Safety. 

The Campus Safety Department encourages students, faculty, staff, and guests to report criminal activity, suspicious behavior, or other safety concerns immediately to Campus Safety at 574-284-5000. A Campus Safety Officer will be dispatched to your location to investigate, complete a report, and follow up on the incident.

All Clery reportable crimes are included in the Saint Mary’s College’s Annual Campus Safety Report. Crimes and suspicious activity may also be reported anonymously online by following the highlighted link on the Portal https://my.saintmarys.edu/pages/incident-reporting or by contacting the Saint Mary’s Campus Safety Department at 574-284-5000 or security@saintmarys.edu.

If an incident occurs off campus, a report should be filed to the appropriate law enforcement agency with jurisdiction. Saint Mary’s College Campus Safety can assist individuals in contacting the appropriate law enforcement agency when needed. 

Campus Law Enforcement Authority and Relationship with Local Agencies

The Campus Safety Department, under the administration of the Dean of Students and the Vice President for Student Enrollment and Engagement, is responsible for promoting and maintaining safety on the Saint Mary’s College campus.

In accordance with Indiana law and action by the Board of Trustees, the department may employ sworn safety officers; however, it primarily relies on state and local law enforcement agencies for police services. Campus Safety officers provide services 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.  Campus Safety Officers and staff are not sworn law enforcement officers and do not have the power of arrest, although they enjoy the right to detain individuals for certain criminal offenses in keeping with Indiana Citizen Arrest rules.

The department maintains collaborative working relationships with the Saint Joseph County Police Department, which serves as the primary police responder and authority have jurisdiction, as well as the Indiana State Police, South Bend Police Department, Roseland Police Department, Mishawaka Police Department, and University of Notre Dame Police Department.

The following local and state law enforcement agencies may be called upon, as needed, to assist Saint Mary’s College with investigations related to reported crimes:

Local and State Law Enforcement

• Saint Joseph County Police Department: 574-284-9611
• Indiana State Police: 574-546-9611
• Notre Dame Security Police: 574-631-5555
• South Bend Police Department: 574-235-9201
• Mishawaka Police Department: 574-258-1683
• Saint Joseph County Prosecutor’s Office: 574-235-9544
• Roseland Police Department: 574-272-6485

Notification to the Saint Mary’s Community about an Immediate Threat

Campus Safety, under the direction of the Dean of Students and Vice President of Student Enrollment and Engagement, serves as the first responding agency for campus emergencies.

Emergency Notification

Incidents requiring widespread emergency notification, such as tornado warnings or other situations requiring immediate action, are communicated by Campus Safety through the SMC ALERT mass notification system. Notifications may be issued through email, text message, push notifications, social media, and voice messaging to registered members of the campus community. All campus community members are encouraged to ensure that their emergency contact information is current and up to date.

Other emergency situations are assessed by Campus Safety, and the Director of Campus Safety is notified as appropriate. When an incident is determined to present an immediate or continuing threat to the health or safety of some or all members of the Saint Mary’s College community, an emergency alert will be issued by the Director of Campus Safety, the Vice President for Student Enrollment and Engagement, or the Crisis Communications Team, as outlined in the Emergency Incident Response Plan.

Depending on the nature and severity of the incident, additional local, state, or federal agencies may be contacted to assist with the emergency response.

Timely Warning Procedure

To provide timely notification to the Saint Mary’s College community regarding serious incidents or events that may pose an ongoing threat to the health or safety of the campus community, a Crime Alert is distributed to all members of the Saint Mary’s community via email.

Crime Alerts are generally prepared by the Director of Campus Safety or their designee and approved by the Vice President for Student Enrollment and Engagement. When appropriate, Crime Alerts may also be posted on the Campus Safety website and/or on flyers in residence halls and other common areas across campus. Posted notices will be clearly identified as Crime Alerts and may be printed on brightly colored paper to ensure visibility.

Crime Awareness and Campus Security

The College, in compliance with the Clery Act, annually  publishes an overview of campus safety, fire safety, emergency response data and notifications (both timely warnings and immediate danger) procedures, as well as other available services and resources. The Campus Safety department uses the FBI Uniform Crime Report (UCR) designations, Hate Crime Data Collection, and the National Incident-Based Reporting System guidelines and queries local law enforcement agencies to gather statistical information on crime occurring on and immediately adjacent to the campus.

The statistical information is included in this crime awareness site. Additional information pertaining to campus safety and programs can be obtained by contacting the Director of Campus Safety, the Director of Residence Life and Community Standards, or the Director of Human Resources. 

Disclosure of information regarding registered sex offenders can be obtained from the Indiana Sex and Violent Crime Registry or to gain access to information about registered sex offenders in St. Joseph County, visit: http://www.sheriffalerts.com/cap_main.php?office=54872

Emergency Response

The condensed version of the Saint Mary’s College Emergency Incident Response Plan is available on the Campus Safety Website. The full Emergency Incident Response Plan, which includes emergency action plans, evacuation procedures, and shelter-in-place procedures, is available through the Saint Mary’s College portal. The full plan can be accessed as a downloadable PDF by selecting the Emergency Incident Response Procedures link.

The College conducts numerous emergency response exercises throughout the year, which may include tabletop exercises, emergency notification system tests, drills, and live training exercises. These exercises are designed to assess and evaluate the College’s emergency plans, response procedures, and overall emergency preparedness and capabilities.

Saint Mary’s Community Member Education Activities

Campus safety and fire safety procedures are discussed as part of New Student and New Employee Orientation programs. Throughout the year, Campus Safety, the Health & Counseling Center, Residence Life, Belles Against Violence Office (BAVO), and other campus and community partners coordinate and present programs for students in residence halls and across campus. Topics may include campus safety, crime prevention, fire safety, bystander intervention, health and wellness, alcohol and drug awareness, and dating and relationship safety.

Students may also request additional programs on topics of interest through their Hall Directors.

Students, faculty, and staff are encouraged to become familiar with the policies, procedures, crime prevention information, fire safety guidance, health and safety resources, and incident-specific protocols outlined in the Emergency Incident Response Plan. All members of the Saint Mary’s community are encouraged to be active partners in maintaining a safe campus by taking responsibility for their own personal safety and contributing to the safety and well-being of others.

Student and Staff Safety Responsibilities

• Saint Mary’s College maintains a "Together for a Safe Campus" program. To make our campus as safe as possible, the entire campus community's cooperation and involvement in this program is absolutely necessary. Students, faculty, and staff are expected to assume responsibility for their own safety and for the security of their personal property:
• Valuable items should be marked and the description and serial number recorded on the property inventory form contained in the safety department's "Protect Your Property" brochure.
• Students should always lock their room door when the room is not occupied and always after dark and throughout the night.
• Bicycles must be registered with the safety and security department and secured with a sturdy lock.
• Those students with cars must register them with the Campus Safety Department and park them in student parking areas. Students should also keep their vehicles locked with valuables out of sight.
• Students and College employees should immediately report to the Campus Safety Department any unusual incidents or suspicious individuals who do not seem to belong in campus buildings or on-campus grounds.
• Students should attend all education programs designed to help protect each community member from being victimized.
• Individuals are strongly encouraged to use the Campus Safety Department's escort service on-campus and the inter-campus shuttle bus service after dark. The stranded student program is also available if a student fears for her safety off-campus and does not have the means to get back to campus safely.
• Emergency responders nationally are trained to search for emergency contact information on victims of crime or accidents. It is recommended that you enter contact information, on your cell phone, under the name of I.C.E. or carry documentation, at all times, indicating who you would like to be contacted in an emergency.

As part of daily routines, keep the following safety practices in mind.

• Always remain aware of your surroundings.
• Avoid traveling alone, particularly at night, whenever possible.
• Be cautious when approached by individuals you do not know and maintain a safe distance.
• Avoid going somewhere alone with someone you do not know well.
• If you plan to meet someone you do not know well, choose a public location, arrive separately, and let a friend, family member, or trusted individual know where you will be.
• Do not share personal information, such as your address or where you live, with someone you do not know well.

Missing Student Policy and Procedures

Saint Mary’s College is committed to providing a safe and supportive environment for all members of the campus community. The College encourages informed decision-making and personal safety awareness and recognizes the importance of responding promptly when a student is reported missing.

Important: We encourage students to let a friend, family member, or hall staff member know when they are leaving campus and, when appropriate, where they are going. Sharing this information can help others know when to be concerned and provide important information to assist in locating you if necessary.

Missing Student Protocol:

In the event a student is reported missing, Campus Safety should be notified immediately at 574-284-5000. Campus Safety will respond to collect needed information, such as when, where and what time the missing student was last seen and a description of her clothing at that time. The Director of Campus Safety will be contacted and an attempt to locate the missing student will begin.

The Director of Campus Safety will contact the Dean or Students and Vice President of Student Enrollment and Engagement. Emergency Contact Information, on file with Student Engagement and Residence Life, for the missing student will be given to the Director of Campus Safety.

 Steps Taken by Campus Safety and Administration:

1.   Local attempts to locate the missing student will be conducted through information gained from her/his friends.

2.   Emergency notification contact of the missing student’s family in a further attempt to locate the student will be done by the Dean of Students or Vice President of Student Enrollment and Engagement or his/her designee

3.   Contact with Saint Joseph County Police at 574-235-9611 will be made and a police missing persons report will be filed.

4.   Media Relations for the College will be advised of the missing student and all releases of information will be conducted through them.

5.  The Saint Mary’s College community will be informed of the missing student and requested to be on the lookout for him/her and to inform authorities if they found or believed spotted.

6.  The Director of Campus Safety will continue to exhaust all means possible to locate the missing student while continually communicating and coordinating efforts with the investigating agency. Updates will be given to Media Relations as they become available.

Sexual Assault

Rape and sexual assault occur on college campuses across the country. The highest rate of victimization occurs within the 16 to 24 age group. Rape or sexual assault may involve a stranger as the assailant, but more frequently, the assailant is an acquaintance. This acquaintance may be a date, a friend or someone you have just met in a class, through a mutual friend or at a party. Rape and sexual assault are unacceptable behaviors on campus, off campus or anywhere in the community.

• A danger for all college women is the availability of "date rape" drugs. When added to alcohol or soft drinks, these drugs cannot be detected as they are colorless, odorless and tasteless. These drugs impair their victims and leave them vulnerable. If you feel any of the following, tell someone and get to a safe place immediately: 
  • disproportionately intoxicated to the amount of alcohol consumed;
  • inability to stay awake/sudden drowsiness; 
  • confusion/impaired judgment; 
  • dizziness/poor motor coordination;
  • slowed heart rate. 
  • Some individuals have experienced coma or seizures. 

Death can occur from these drugs. Do not leave your drink unattended and do not accept a drink from another person. 

The best defenses against rape and sexual assault are planning, alertness and awareness. At all times, including dating situations, you should:

• Let a friend or roommate know with whom you will be, where you will be, and when you expect to return. Leave an address and phone number.
• Do not let peer pressure influence the amount of alcohol you consume. A study at a Big Ten university showed that 80 percent of men and 70 percent of women involved in sexual assaults had been drinking.
• Trust your feelings and instincts. If you feel threatened, there is probably a good reason. Get away fast.
• Report any assault or threat of assault to the Campus Security, the Saint Joseph County Police, or the appropriate law enforcement agency. 

 In selecting dating partners, be aware of a person who:

• Ignores your wishes.
• Becomes angry and hostile when you say “no”.
• Tries to make you feel guilty when you say “no”.
• Ignores your personal space boundaries.
• Is quick to show anger or aggression.
• Is excessively jealous or possessive.
• Doesn’t listen to what you say.
• Forces you to constantly ward off advances.
• Expresses hostile feelings.

Your first few dates with any individual should be in public places. Always have an alternate way home.

Saint Mary's College is committed to maintaining an environment that provides education, support and timely information related to rape and sexual assault for all students, faculty and staff. The following is information on reporting procedures and support services.

What Can I Expect From the Saint Mary’s Campus Safety Department When I Report A Sexual Assault Or Rape?

• When you report a sexual assault or rape to the Saint Mary's College Campus Safety, you will be cared for in a personal and private manner.
• The officer will need some basic information about the incident, but you will not need to give details at this time. In an effort to protect you, we want to avoid having you repeat the incident unnecessarily.
• The officer or the dispatcher will contact the Director of Campus Safety, Vice President of Student Enrollment and Engagement, and Title IX Coordinator who will determine how to respond.
• If you are injured and need medical attention, you will be transported to the hospital of your choice for immediate care.
• You will be asked if you would like to contact anyone (friend, family, counselor, SOS., etc.) or, if you prefer, we could contact someone for you.
• The Campus Safety Officer will stay with you until the appropriate person arrives on campus to assist you.
• The investigator or the Director of Campus Safety or Campus Safety Officer will take your report in confidence and explain your legal and medical options.
• If you choose to prosecute, the Saint Joseph County Police will be contacted and the Title IX coordinator or Director of Campus Safety will assist the police department in the investigation.
• Whether you choose to prosecute or not, it will be recommended that you complete a rape kit at the hospital, for future evidentiary use. This may be done under a "Jane Doe" alias, if you so wish, and should be completed as soon as possible after the assault. Never bathe or rinse your mouth out following an incident of this nature even though it will be the first thing you will want to do. Do not change or remove any clothing that you wore during or dressed in following the assault. This clothing may contain valuable evidence and will be collected at the hospital by trained staff. Any bedding or blankets that may contain evidence should be left in place to be collected by trained police investigators. If you are concerned about bedding evidence being lost or destroyed, you may collect it by folding it toward the center and placing the items in a paper bag or cardboard box.
• The College is obligated by the Clery Act to post a timely warning for the College community should it be determined that there is a continuing threat to the college community. The warning will never mention your name and is necessary to alert the community (students, faculty and staff of Saint Mary's college) that a crime has occurred and to exercise extra caution at all times. This process of providing a timely warning as directed by the Clery Act is not in any way meant to humiliate or revictimize the victim. We sincerely commit to being factual and sensitive with your information.

Sexual Assault: 

Attempting or making sexual contact, including but not limited to inappropriate touching or fondling, with another against the person's will or in circumstances where the person is physically, mentally or legally unable to give consent.

Rape: 

Penetration, no matter how slight of the vagina or anus with any body part or object, or oral penetration by a sex organ of another person without the consent of the victim. This definition includes any gender of victim or offender.  Sexual penetration means the penetration no matter how slight, of the vagina or anus with any body part or object, or oral penetration by a sex organ of another person, or by a sex-related object.  This definition also includes instances in which the victim is incapable of giving consent because of temporary or permanent mental or physical incapacity (including due to the influence of drugs or alcohol) or because of age.  Physical resistance is not required on the part of the victim to demonstrate lack of consent.

Explicit Consent:

Voluntary non coerced and clear communication indicating a willingness to engage in a particular act.  "Explicit consent" includes an affirmative verbal response or voluntary acts unmistakable in their meaning.

 Most rapes and sexual assaults are committed by someone the victim knows!

 Reporting these crimes will not only help the victim in the healing process, but provide society with the ability to prosecute the offender, prevent further occurrences, and develop accurate statistics of this unfortunate reality.

You can expect to be treated with respect,  provided with options, and to be supported during this difficult time by all college staff.

Domestic Violence, Dating Violence and Stalking

Saint Mary's College has a zero tolerance policy for sexual misconduct, relationship violence and stalking.  Saint Mary's College has developed the Sexual Misconduct Policy that reaffirms its commitment to maintain a campus environment emphasizing the dignity and worth of all members of the College community.  Violence and abuse threaten the survivor's safety, well-being, and educational experience and affect every aspect of his/her life.  Furthermore, they are harmful to both the learning environment and the sense of community the College fosters among students, faculty, staff and administrators. 

Saint Mary's College will not tolerate sexual misconduct, relationship violence and stalking.

As part of an ongoing effort to prevent sexual misconduct, relationship violence and stalking on the Saint Mary's College campus, the College provides education and prevention programs for the Saint Mary's community.  

Educational programming consists of primary prevention and awareness programs for all incoming students and new employees and ongoing awareness and prevention campaigns for students and employees that:

• Identifies domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault and stalking as prohibited conduct.
• Uses clear language, provided both by the Department of Education as well as state law, as to what behavior constitutes domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking;
• Defines what behavior and actions constitute consent to sexual activity;
• Provides a description of safe and positive options for bystander intervention. Bystander intervention explains actions that may be carried out by an individual or individuals to prevent harm or intervene when there is a risk of dating violence, domestic violence, sexual assault or stalking. Bystander intervention includes recognizing situations of potential harm, understanding institutional structures and cultural conditions that facilitate violence, overcoming barriers to intervening, identifying safe and effective intervention options, and taking action to intervene;
• Information on risk reduction. Risk reduction means options designed to decrease perpetration and bystander inaction, and to increase empowerment for victims in order to promote safety and to help individuals and communities address conditions that facilitate violence.
• Provides an overview of information contained in the Annual Security Report in compliance with the Clery Act. 

The College is committed to fostering a community that promotes prompt report of violations of this policy as well as timely and fair adjudication of reported cases.

Saint Mary's provides support and advocacy services to survivors of violence and abuses.

Additional information concerning residence life policies and procedure is available online or from the Director of Residence Life and Community Standards.

What can I expect from Saint Mary’s Campus Safety when I report Domestic Violence, Dating Violence or Stalking:

• When you report an incident of Domestic Violence, Dating Violence or Stalking to the Saint Mary's College Campus Safety Department, you will be cared for in a personal and private manner.
• The officer will need some basic information about the incident, but you will not need to give details at this time. In an effort to protect you, we want to avoid having you repeat the incident unnecessarily.
• The officer or the dispatcher will contact the Director of Campus Safety who will contact the Vice President of Student Enrollment and Engagement and the Title IX Coordinator to determine how to respond.
• If you are injured and need medical attention, you will be transported to the hospital of your choice for immediate care.
• You will be asked if you would like to contact anyone (friend, family, counselor, S.O.S. representative, etc.) or, if you prefer, we could contact someone for you.
• The Campus Safety officer will stay with you until the appropriate person arrives.
• The Director of Campus Safety and Title IX Coordinator will take your report in confidence and explain your legal and medical options.
• If you choose to prosecute, the Saint Joseph County Police will be contacted and the Director of Campus Safety will assist the police department in the investigation.

The College is obligated by the Clery Act to post a timely warning for the College community should it be determined that there is a continuing threat to the college community. The warning will never mention your name and is necessary to alert the community (students, faculty and staff of Saint Mary's college) that a crime has occurred and to exercise extra caution at all times. This process of providing a timely warning as directed by the Clery Act is not in any way meant to humiliate or revictimize the victim. We sincerely commit to being factual and sensitive with your information.

Domestic Violence means a felony or misdemeanor crime of violence committed by:

• a current or former spouse or intimate partner of the victim,
• a person with whom the victim shares a child in common,
• a person who is cohabitating with or has cohabitated with the victim as a spouse or intimate partner,
• a person similarly situated to a spouse of the victim under the domestic or family violence laws of the jurisdiction receiving grant monies (under VAWA), or
• any other person against an adult or youth victim who is protected from that person's acts under the domestic or family violence laws of the jurisdiction

Dating Violence means violence committed by a person: 

• who is or has been in a social relationship of a romantic or intimate nature with the victim; and where the existence of such a relationship shall be determined based on consideration of the following factors:
• the length of the relationship
• the type of relationship and
• the frequency of interaction between the person involved in the relationship

Stalking means engaging in a course of conduct directed at a specific person that would cause a reasonable person to;

• fear for his or her safety or the safety of others/ or
• suffer substantial emotional distress

Options for Discipline and Legal Recourse if Alleged Assailant is a Member of the Saint Mary's College Community

If a student (complainant) has been the victim of an act of violence (including sexual offenses) allegedly committed by a Saint Mary's student, the complainant has two options. The report filed internally with the Campus Safety department will be investigated by the Title IX Coordinator or deputy.  The Title IX Coordinator or deputy will ask the complainant if she/he wishes to have internal disciplinary proceedings brought.

The disciplinary sanctions available, should a student be found to have engaged in an act of violence, are the same as those available for any other violation of college policies, up to and including dismissal from school.

A victim may also seek to file criminal charges through the local police and the St. Joseph County Prosecutor's Office. This process is initiated by contacting Saint Mary's College Campus Safety Department. If necessary, the appropriate police agency will be contacted. The safety  department will provide transportation and assistance to any student wishing to file criminal charges.

Victim's Rights with Respect to Saint Mary's College Internal Disciplinary Procedures and Criminal Prosecution

A victim of an act of violence can expect the following rights to be honored with respect to internal disciplinary procedures at Saint Mary's College and criminal prosecution:

• The right to have the allegation treated seriously and with care.
• The right to be treated with dignity and respect.
• The right to have the allegation investigated by the appropriate agency.
• The right to pursue any and all avenues of redress.
• The same right as the accused to have an advisor present at the disciplinary hearing. The advisor may not be a party to the case and must be a member of the Saint Mary's College community.
• The right to be notified of the outcome of the disciplinary hearing, both for the accuser and the accused.
• The right to be informed of all of the College's resources.
• The right to reasonable action by the College to prevent unnecessary contact with the accused.
•  A student who has been the victim of an alleged sexual assault has the option to request a change in academic and living situations. These requests will be communicated to the vice president for student affairs and will be accommodated whenever possible within the scope of the College's policy and resources.

College Response Measures

Saint Mary's College reserves the right to take whatever measures it deems necessary in response to an allegation of sexual misconduct, relationship violence, and stalking in order to protect students' rights and personal safety and the safety of the community.  Such measures include, but are not limited to, modification of living arrangements, interim suspension from campus pending a hearing, and reporting to the local authorities.  Not all forms of sexual misconduct, relationship violence, and stalking will be deemed to be equally serious offenses, and the College reserves the right to impose differing sanctions, ranging from verbal warning to suspension or expulsion, depending on the severity of the offense.  The College will consider the concerns and rights of both the complainant and the respondent.  The use of alcohol or other drugs will never function to excuse violations of this policy.

Options for Discipline and Legal Recourse if Alleged Assailant is a Member of the Notre Dame Community

Should the alleged assailant be a student at the University of Notre Dame, the victim may file a complaint with the University of Notre Dame Police Department. The Department of Residence Life and Housing at the University of Notre Dame will be notified and will pursue on-campus disciplinary charges through Notre Dame's internal disciplinary process.

To pursue criminal charges, contact should first be made with the Saint Mary's College safety department. The department will assist the student to contact the St. Joseph County Prosecutor's Office and the appropriate police agency (the St. Joseph County Sheriff's Department, South Bend City Police Department, Roseland Police Department, Mishawaka Police Department, Notre Dame Police Department or the Indiana State Police).

No one should be forced, coerced or manipulated into unwanted sexual activity. Sometimes acquaintance rape is a pattern for the assailant. Victims are always encouraged to report information. In this way, appropriate steps can be taken to determine whether a pattern exists and to deter future assaults. However, the decision to report an incident rests with the victim. No member of administration or faculty can or will force a student into any specific course of action.

If a Saint Mary's student is the victim of a sexual assault and is pursuing disciplinary action through the University of Notre Dame, she may contact the Saint Mary's Title IX Coordinator or deputy for assistance. The coordinator will provide the student with information and assistance in following steps involved in the University of Notre Dame judicial process. In addition, a student may also receive assistance from a resource person for victims of sexual assault at the University of Notre Dame. The resource person can be contacted through the Office of Residence Life and Housing at the University of Notre Dame, 631-5551.

Options for Discipline and Legal Recourse if Alleged Assailant is a Member of the Holy Cross College Community

Should the alleged assailant be a student at the Holy Cross College, the victim may file a complaint with the Saint Joseph County Police. The Department of Residence Life and Housing at Holy Cross College will be notified and will pursue on-campus disciplinary charges through their internal disciplinary process.

To pursue criminal charges, contact should first be made with the Saint Mary's College Campus Safety department. The department will assist the student to contact the St. Joseph County Prosecutor's Office and the appropriate police agency (the St. Joseph County Sheriff's Department, South Bend City Police Department, Roseland Police Department, Mishawaka Police Department, Notre Dame Police Department or the Indiana State Police).

No one should be forced, coerced or manipulated into unwanted sexual activity. Sometimes acquaintance rape is a pattern for the assailant. Victims are always encouraged to report information. In this way, appropriate steps can be taken to determine whether a pattern exists and to deter future assaults. However, the decision to report an incident rests with the victim. No member of administration or faculty can or will force a student into any specific course of action.

If a Saint Mary's student is the victim of a sexual assault and is pursuing disciplinary action through the University of Notre Dame or Holy Cross College, she may contact the Saint Mary's Title IX Coordinator or deputy for assistance. The coordinator will provide the student with information and assistance in following steps involved in either the University of Notre Dame or Holy Cross College judicial process. In addition, a student may also receive assistance from a resource person for victims of sexual assault at the University of Notre Dame or Holy Cross College. The resource person can be contacted through the Office of Residence Life and Housing at the University of Notre Dame, 631-5551 or Holy Cross College Title IX Coordinator (call 574-239-8349).  In addition, all members of the College community may report actual or threatened retaliation to Holy Cross Campus Safety by calling 239-8312.

Support Services

Should a Saint Mary's student be the victim of rape or sexual assault, the following several steps are important in beginning the process of recovery:

B.A.V.O. (Belles Against Violence Office) -

At Saint Mary's College, the Belles Against Violence Office provides programming for students on sexual assault, intimate partner violence, and stalking.  The BAVO office also provides confidential support, advocacy, and resources to survivors of sexual violence, helping student navigate their options and access the services they need. 

Center for Faith, Action and Ministry (CFAM)

The trauma of rape or sexual assault often causes a student to doubt herself/himself, others, and God. Rape or assault calls into question issues of trust and heightens her/his feelings of fear. Dedicated members of CFAM are available to provide a safe place to listen and discuss the incident, to offer referrals and accompany the survivor if she/he wishes, and to provide the opportunity for spiritual healing during this very difficult time. The Campus Ministry staff respects confidentiality.

Health and Counseling Center

Licensed professional counselors provide survivors of rape and sexual assault with a safe, supportive, and confidential environment in which to process their experiences at their own pace. Counselors listen without judgment, provide reassurance that the assault was not the survivor’s fault, and offer ongoing support regardless of when the assault occurred. Counselors also discuss the importance of medical care and assist survivors in accessing appropriate medical services and transportation, including arranging for a friend or counseling staff member to accompany them if desired. Survivors are supported in regaining a sense of control by making their own decisions regarding medical care, reporting, and notification. Since decision-making and recovery are individual processes, continued counseling and support are available, and students are encouraged to draw upon trusted friends, family members, and other Saint Mary’s resources, including Campus Ministry and Residence Life. Students are encouraged to report incidents to the Saint Mary’s Campus Safety Department, and counselors can assist with the reporting process and accompany students if requested. The Health and Counseling Center staff does not file a formal, detailed report with the College on behalf of the student; rather, counselors maintain the student’s communications as confidential, as required by Indiana law, and encourage students to report incidents directly if they choose to do so.

Residence Life

A Hall Director is always on call, and Resident Advisors and front desk staff in each residence hall are informed of the Hall Director who is serving in the on-call role. If a Resident Advisor or front desk staff member is informed of or becomes aware of an act of violence, they will contact Campus Safety immediately.

In the event of a sexual assault or other emergency situation, the Hall Director will contact emergency medical services and request an ambulance, if needed. It is the policy of Saint Mary’s College to dispatch an ambulance whenever one is requested.

At the student’s request, the Hall Director is available to accompany the student to the hospital. Students may also access 24-hour assistance through the Saint Joseph County Family Justice Center.

 SUPPORT RESOURCES

Substance Abuse

The Higher Education Act 120(A) - (D) requires that institutions of higher education adopt and implement programs to prevent the use of illicit drugs and the abuse of alcohol by students and employees.

Indiana state law prohibits those who are under 21 years of age from buying, consuming or possessing alcoholic beverages. Only those students who are 21 years of age or older are permitted to possess or consume alcohol on the campus.

The College prohibits the unlawful manufacture, distribution, possession, sale or use of illegal drugs or controlled substances on campus without a prescription. Violation of this policy is handled according to guidelines set forth in the student code of conduct or employee handbooks and will result in disciplinary action as well as possible legal consequences.

Students or employees seeking information or assistance with alcohol or drug-related problems may consult staff members of the Health and Counseling Center, Residence Life, or Campus Ministry. College employees can receive assistance through the College's Employee Assistance Program with complete assurance of confidentiality and concern.

Weapons (Firearms)

The possession, carrying, or use of firearms, ammunition, other dangerous weapons, or explosives is prohibited on College-owned or College-controlled property. The only exception is for Campus Safety Department officers authorized by the College or on duty law enforcement personnel. Failure to comply with the College's policy will result in disciplinary action up to expulsion and termination as set forth in the student and employee handbook, as well as possible legal consequences.

Hazing

As part of Saint Mary’s commitment to promoting a safe and healthy campus environment, members of the community have the right to be free from all forms of hazing. Saint Mary’s College has zero tolerance for hazing in any form and all members of the community must conduct themselves in a manner that supports an environment free from hazing. 

Stop Campus Hazing Act (SCHA) Information  

Signed into law on December 23, 2024, mandates that colleges receiving federal funding report hazing incidents, publish bi-annual transparency reports, and implement prevention programs. The act requires reporting of incidents by campus security to local police and, starting July 1, 2025, publicizing violation reports without personal information. 

Key Aspects of the Stop Campus Hazing Act:

• Transparency Reports: Institutions must publish reports detailing student organization violations, including the nature of the act, on their public websites.
• Definition of Hazing: Includes any intentional, knowing, or reckless act committed for initiation or affiliation that causes or creates a risk of physical or psychological injury.
• Prevention Requirements: Schools must establish comprehensive, research-informed anti-hazing prevention and awareness programs for students, staff, and faculty.
• Reporting Requirements: Hazing incidents must be reported to campus security or local police and included in the institution's annual security report

What is Hazing?

The Code of Student Conduct further defines hazing: Doing, requiring or encouraging any act, whether or not the act is voluntarily agreed upon, in conjunction with initiation, continued membership, or participation in any group, that causes or creates a substantial risk of causing mental or physical harm or humiliation. Such acts may include, but are not limited to, use of alcohol, creation of excessive fatigue, paddling, punching or kicking in any form. Failure to intervene, prevent or report acts of hazing may constitute a violation of this section. 

What kind of activities might be considered hazing?

• forced cleaning
• running errands/menial tasks
• forced interviews
• scavenger hunts
• mental and/or psychological abuse
• public or private displays of humiliation
• forced use of alcohol or drugs
• providing alcohol to minors
• use of alcohol or drugs during the new member education/intake process or  other membership events
• line-ups
• forced eating or drinking of items
• being yelled at or cursed at by other members of the team or group
• sleep deprivation
• public nudity
• forced wearing of embarrassing clothing
• depriving you of regular hygiene practices (brushing teeth, bathing)
• making you steal or destroy property
• "drop-offs" or "dumps" in unfamiliar locations
• lockups or being confined to small spaces
• being duct-taped or some other physical restraints
• violence
• sexual assault
• beating
• kicking
• calisthenics
• creation of excessive fatigue
• any activity which seriously endangers the health or safety of another individual.

To help you identify whether something is hazing or not, ask yourself the following questions: 

• Would active, current members of the group, refuse to take part in this activity with the new members and do the same activity?
• Does the activity risk emotional or physical harm/abuse?
• Would I object to this activity being photographed for the school newspaper or filmed by the local TV news crew?
• Would I feel comfortable participating in this activity if my parents, professor, coach or university official were watching?
• Would we get in trouble if the director of Student Conduct walked by?
• Am I being asked to keep these activities a secret?
• Am I doing anything illegal?
• Does participation violate my values or those of my organization?
• Is this activity causing emotional distress or stress of any kind to myself or others?
• If someone were injured, would I feel comfortable being investigated by the police or insurance carrier?

If you answer “yes” to any of these questions, the activity is probably hazing. 

Hazing Education

Saint Mary’s College conducts annual education activities for faculty, staff, and students through electronic learning, in-person sessions, and orientation activities with groups such as First Year Orientation, Student Organizations, athletic teams, summer camps