06-01.01 鈥� Policy on Non-Discrimination in University-Supported Programs

  1. Policy Statement

    It is the policy of Towson University (鈥淭U鈥� or 鈥淯niversity鈥�) that all programs, events, and organizations that receive University support must be open to all eligible individuals in compliance with applicable civil rights laws.

  2. Responsible Executive and Office

    Responsible Executive: Vice President and General Counsel

    Responsible Office: Office of General Counsel

  3. Definitions

    1. 鈥淧rotected Class鈥� is defined as a group of people that federal or Maryland law shields from discrimination based on a shared characteristic, such as race, color,' national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, marital status, and veteran status.

    2. 鈥淯niversity-Supported Program鈥� is defined as (i) any organization (including but not limited to external non-profit and for-profit entities, external and internal informal membership organizations that lack legal incorporation, and TU-recognized student groups) that receives University Support, or (ii) any program, activity, or event hosted, held, run, or operated by University faculty and staff or under the auspices of the University.

    3. 鈥淯niversity Support鈥� is defined as financial or in-kind contribution from the University, including but not limited to access to University space and resources.

  4. Policy

    All University-Supported Programs must be open to individuals without regard to Protected Class status in compliance with applicable civil rights laws. University颅 Supported Programs may institute non-discriminatory criteria for participation in programs and events to support academic, educational, programmatic, or operational needs and objectives.

    The University鈥檚 intercollegiate athletic programs shall comply with all applicable National Collegiate Athletic Association (鈥淣CAA鈥�) and athletic conference rules and regulations. NCAA and conference rules and regulations shall take preference in the event of conflict with this Policy.

  5. Policy

    A violation of this Policy may result in disciplinary action, including prohibition on future receipt of University Support and claw back of prior University Support.

  6. Contact

    Contact the Office of General Counsel for more information.

Related Policies: TU Policy 06-01.00, Policy Prohibiting Discrimination.

Authorization: President鈥榮 Cabinet

Approval Date: September 16, 2025

Effective Date: September 16, 2025

How to Request the Policy PDF

This online version of the policy may include updated links and names of departments. To request a PDF of the original, signed version of this policy, email the Office of the General Counsel, .