No person in the United States shall, on the ground of race, color, or national origin, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance...” — 42 U.S.C. § 2000d
What Is Title VI?
Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 is a federal law that prohibits discrimination based on race, color, or national origin in any program or activity receiving federal financial assistance. While often associated with classrooms, Title VI broadly applies to all SUNY Old Westbury operations, including admissions, academics, financial aid, employment, and campus life.
Our Commitment to Equity
The University is committed to providing equal access to all educational and employment opportunities. We proactively promote Title VI compliance by ensuring equitable access, addressing reported concerns, and eliminating discriminatory practices or barriers. In addition to Title VI protections, the University prohibits discrimination based on sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, religion, veteran status, or genetic information in accordance with federal, state, and local laws.
Resolution and Protection
SUNY Old Westbury will respond to all complaints of discrimination, harassment, or retaliation based on race, color, or national origin. The University strictly prohibits retaliation against any individual who reports a concern or participates in an investigation. Your feedback—whether through a formal complaint or an informal report—is vital to improving our policies and campus climate.
How to File a Complaint
Any student, employee, applicant, or visitor may file a report. To begin the process, you may contact the Title VI Coordinator directly or submit a written complaint to any appropriate University official.
To ensure a thorough review by the Office for Institutional Excellence, please include the following details in your report whenever possible:
- Contact Information: Your name and how to reach you.
- Incident Details: A description of the conduct, including the date, time, and location.
- Involved Parties: Names of individuals involved and any potential witnesses.
Title VI Review and Investigation
Upon receipt of a complaint, SUNY Old Westbury will take steps consistent with applicable laws and University policy.
The Office for Institutional Excellence, particularly the Title VI Coordinator, will conduct an initial assessment to determine whether the complaint falls within the scope of Title VI and whether supportive or interim measures are appropriate.
Do you believe you have experienced discrimination, harassment, or retaliation based on race, color, or national origin? SUNY Old Westbury encouarges all members of the campus community to report concerns. Whether or not you choose to submit a formal complaint, your feedback helps SUNY Old Westbury improve policies, procedures, and campus climate.
SUNY Old Westbury prohibits retaliation against any individual who reports discrimination, files a complaint, participates in an investigation, or otherwise exercises rights protected by Title VI.
Contact
Title VI Coordinator
Elliott Dawes, J.D., LL.M., Vice President for Institutional Excellence
Office: Campus Center, H-418C
Email: dawese@oldwestbury.edu