Whether you need immediate help, ongoing support or simply time to explore your options, we are here to assist. In addition to the confidential resources listed below, this page provides information about academic accommodations, housing adjustments and external support services. Use the buttons below to navigate directly to the resources and services you need.
Confidential Resources
If you need more information or want to talk confidentially while considering your options, you can reach out to any of the University’s designated confidential resources. These individuals will not share your personal information with the Title IX Coordinator or Deputy Coordinator but can provide support and connect you with relevant services and referrals.
- Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS): Offers mental health support, counseling, and referrals to help you navigate your options.
- Campus Victim Advocate: The Office of Social Justice and Diversity provides confidential guidance, emotional support, and assistance in accessing resources.
- Student Health Center: Offers medical care and support, including sexual health services and treatment for injuries.
- Support Groups: Explore programs within the Office of Student Belonging.
Need Time to Think About Options?
Although at this time you may choose not to pursue nor participate in an investigation, it is important you know you may request further action at any future time, consistent with the University’s policy on Title IX Sexual Harassment/Sexual Assault Policy and Procedures.
Academic, Housing & Support
- Title IX Coordinators: Assist with accessing services and resources.
- No Contact Orders: You can request a University No Contact Order (UNCO) between students through the Office of Student Conduct.
- Safety: For immediate threats, contact University Police at 973-655-5222 (on-campus) or 911 (off-campus).
- Academic Accommodations: A letter can be sent to faculty requesting extensions on assignments, exams or projects.
- Housing Adjustments: Alternative housing options are available for on-campus residents.
- Additional Support: Referrals to the Disability Resource Center, Financial Aid, International Services or other relevant offices can be provided.
Options for Recourse
If you have experienced sexual harassment, sexual violence, or gender-based misconduct, you have multiple options for reporting and seeking support. Below are the available paths for filing a report or formal complaint. You can choose one, all, or none of these options—each process is independent, meaning filing with one office does not automatically initiate action with another.
Filing a Report and/or Formal Complaint
- Police Report and Criminal Investigation
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- File a police report to initiate a criminal investigation.
- University Police are available 24/7 and are trained in trauma-informed care.
- Contact: 973-655-5222 (located adjacent to the Red Hawk Deck)
- Civil Court – Temporary Restraining Order
- You may pursue a restraining order through civil court.
- This option provides legal protection outside of the university system.
- University Complaint – Title IX Process
- File a formal complaint with the Deputy Title IX Coordinator to initiate an on-campus investigation and conduct process.
- An independent investigation will be conducted once a signed complaint is received.
Please Note: These options are independent. You can report to one office, multiple offices, or none at all. The choice is yours, and you may file a report at any time in the future.
What to Expect During the University Investigation
- You can participate in both the University’s Title IX process and external legal processes (criminal or civil) simultaneously.
- Participation may include in-person or virtual meetings, as well as scheduled phone calls.
- Bring an Advisor: You may have an advisor of your choice (e.g., a friend, faculty member, attorney or parent) present during meetings.
Our Team Is Here To Support You
Cases involving only students, report to:
Yolanda Alvarez, Ed.D.
Associate Dean of Students, Deputy Title IX Coordinator
Student Center, Suite 400, 4th Floor
Phone: 973-655-4118
Email: alvarezyo@montclair.edu
Dr. Chinasa Eke-McClean
Bloomfield College of Montclair State University
Dean of Students, Student Development and Campus Life
Phone: 973-655-2873
Email: ekemccleanc@montclair.edu
Margaret Adams
Bloomfield College of Montclair State University
Associate Director, Disability Resource Center
Phone: 973-655-2964
Email: adamsmar@montclair.edu
Cases involving staff, faculty and others, report to:
Paul Apicella, JD
Director of Institutional Compliance and Title IX Coordinator
Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action Officer
Phone: 973-655-2041
Email: apicellap@montclair.edu.edu
Michelle Affinito
Executive Assistant, Office of University Counsel
Phone: 973-655-5225
Email: affinitom@montclair.edu
Additional Resources
- RAINN National Sexual Assault Hotline: Provides nationwide support and virtual chat options for survivors. Phone: 1-800-656-HOPE (4673)
- National Domestic Violence Hotline: Offers 24/7 support for domestic violence victims. Phone: 1-800-799-7233
- Essex County Family Justice Center: Provides counseling, legal assistance, and other services for domestic violence survivors. Phone: 973-230-7229
- Essex County SAVE (Women’s Center): Offers counseling, legal help, and other services. Eligibility determined through intake. 24-Hour Hotline: 1-877-733-2273
- NJ CASA: Statewide resource to connect with a Confidential Sexual Violence Advocate. 24-Hour Hotline: 1-800-601-7200
- New Jersey 24-Hour Hotlines and Resources: Domestic and sexual violence hotlines available statewide. Phone: 1-800-572-SAFE (7233)
- New Jersey Coalition to End Domestic Violence: Offers support services for domestic violence victims. Phone: 1-800-572-7233
- Partners for Women and Justice: Provides legal assistance to women facing domestic violence. Phone: 973-233-0111 Address: 60 South Fullerton Ave. #106, Montclair, NJ
- Passaic County Women’s Center: Offers counseling and legal assistance. Phone: 973-881-1450
- WAFA House Passaic: Provides counseling, legal services, and more. Eligibility determined through intake. Phone: 1-800-930-WAFA (9232) or 862-295-3525
- RAVE Guardian App: Stay connected with University Police while on campus. If you don’t check in, police will follow up.
For Employees
Montclair State University is committed to the emotional well-being of our employees. CONCERN Behavioral and Management Solutions is the University’s Employee Assistance Program.