Title IX and Equal Opportunity
Our office responds to reports of sexual misconduct, discrimination and harassment. We are here to ensure all community members have equal access to educational and employment opportunities.
We are committed to neutrality, and treat everyone fairly and equally. You can count on our staff to communicate an individual’s rights, options and available resources with kindness and respect.
At Holy Cross, we believe in upholding the dignity of every person and creating an environment where all members of our community feel safe and valued. Rooted in our Jesuit tradition, we are dedicated to addressing harm, preventing further incidents and promoting a culture of respect and accountability. No matter what you’re facing, we are committed to helping you find a path forward with compassion and integrity.
What is Title IX?
Congress passed Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, transforming the landscape of higher education and K-12 by prohibiting sex-based discrimination in any federally funded program or activity. More than 50 years later, the public often links Title IX to athletics, which is partially why it started, but today, it’s evolved into much more. Its purpose at Holy Cross and every college campus is to address sexual harassment and violence.
Support and Resources
We’re here to help you and guide you in the right direction.
Do you need immediate medical care?
Sexual Assault Nurse Examiners (SANE) provide emergency support at nearby hospitals. Contact the St. Vincent Medical Center Emergency Room at 508-363-6025. Contact the University of Massachusetts Memorial Hospital Emergency Room at 508-334-6481. Public Safety can assist in providing or arranging transportation.
Policies and Reports
Sexual Misconduct Policy
The Sex-Based Discrimination and Harassment Policy is designed to comply with Title IX of the Educational Amendments Act of 1972 and the regulations thereunder. The policy prohibits sexual harassment, sexual violence, sexual exploitation, relationship violence, gender-based discrimination and stalking. The process the College uses to address such conduct, including the investigation process, is detailed in the policy.
Equal Opportunity and Discriminatory Harassment Policy
The College of the Holy Cross rejects and condemns all forms of harassment, unlawful, discrimination and retaliation and is committed to sustaining a welcoming environment for all. The College adheres to all applicable federal and state laws prohibiting discrimination and discriminatory harassment.
Sexual Misconduct Climate Survey - Executive Summary 2022
A community-wide effort toward building a welcoming, inclusive and respectful environment at Holy Cross, the Campus Climate Initiative focuses on diversity, inclusion and sexual respect.
Annual Security and Fire Safety Report
In accordance with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act (more commonly known as The Clery Act), Holy Cross publishes an annual security and fire safety report that includes statistics for the previous three calendar years concerning crimes that occurred on college property and on public property immediately adjacent to, and accessible from, the campus.
Archived Sexual Misconduct Policies
Office of Title IX & Equal Opportunity
Our Staff
Derek DeBobes, J.D.
Associate Vice President of Title IX and Equal Opportunity/Title IX Coordinator
Phone: 508-793-3336
Office: Hogan 506
Email: ddebobes@holycross.edu
Abigail Avoryie
Senior Associate Director of Investigations/Deputy Title IX Coordinator
Phone: 508-793-3373
Office: Hogan 506B
Email: aavoryie@holycross.edu
Christine Wanjiru
Administrative Associate
Jill Kelley
Associate Director of Prevention and Education
Phone: 508-793-3338
Office: Hogan 522
Email: jckelley@holycross.edu
Gregory Dass
Investigator
Phone: 508-793-3535
Office: Hogan 511
Email: gdass@holycross.edu