Pregnancy
Western Michigan University (WMU) is committed to creating an accessible, inclusive and supportive environment for our pregnant campus community members.
WMU's Non-Discrimination Policy prohibits discrimination based on sex, including pregnancy or related conditions, as mandated by Title IX. WMU does not discriminate in its programs or activities against applicants, students, or employees due to current, potential, or past pregnancy. This applies to extracurricular, internship, athletic, and other academic activities. The Policy also ensures equal treatment regardless of parental, family, or marital status. Pregnancy-related protections apply to all individuals, regardless of gender identity or expression.
Pregnancy and related conditions are defined as:
Currently pregnant
Recently delivered a child
Experiencing or recently experienced complications during pregnancy or birthing process
Loss or terminated a recent pregnancy
Lactation
Medical conditions and recovery from any of the above
Recently adopted a child
Student Rights
A student who is pregnant or experiencing pregnancy-related conditions may:
Continue to participate in classes and activities
Be absent from class due to pregnancy, childbirth or related conditions for the period of time deemed medically necessary by the student's licensed health care provider.
Return to the same academic and activity status as before the leave of absence. This should include the opportunity to make up for missed assignments.
Receive reasonable modifications due to pregnancy to ensure equitable participation in classes and activities.
Lactation
Medical conditions and recovery from any of the above
Recently adopted a child
Reasonable Modifications
Students who disclose a pregnancy or related condition are entitled to reasonable modifications that will ensure equal access to the University’s education programs and activities. The Title IX coordinator or their designee will work collaboratively with the student and other University officials to identify reasonable modifications that are individualized to the student’s needs and circumstances.
For students requesting modifications, please use the Pregnancy Reasonable Modification Request Form.
Please note: Faculty and staff with questions about leave provisions and modifications for their own pregnancy may contact Human Resources, 269-387-3620, or view information online at wmich.edu/hr.
Title IX Coordinator Responsibilities
The Title IX Coordinator oversees the University’s compliance with Title IX regulations. The Title IX Coordinator is responsible for responding to complaints of sex and gender-based discrimination (including pregnancy and related conditions), sexual misconduct, as well as retaliation for reporting prohibited behavior or participating in Title IX investigation or adjudication processes covered under Title IX.
Title IX Coordinator
Felicia Crawford
269-387-6316
Deputy Title IX Coordinator/Pregnancy Modifications Coordinator
Valaree Kyser
269-387-0033
Institutional Equity Office Location
1220 Adrian Trimpe Building
Frequently Asked Questions
Must I inform the University about my pregnancy or pregnancy-related condition?
No, you do not have to inform the University about your pregnancy or pregnancy related condition, however there are resources and support available to you. By informing the University we can help connect you to those resources.
What is the process for a student to receive modifications?
A student initiates the process by making a request for reasonable modifications through the Pregnancy Reasonable Modification Form. Once the form is submitted, a representative from the Institutional Equity office will reach out to the student with the next steps.
What types of modifications can a student receive?
A non-exhaustive listing of possible modifications that is determined on a case by case basis. This may include excused absences, extensions, alternative assignments, and lactation breaks.
What documentation is needed for a student to request pregnancy-related modifications?
As pregnancy and related conditions vary from person to person, Institutional Equity will meet with the student to discuss their needs. If documentation is needed, IE will communicate that with the student during the registration process. The documentation provided to IE is kept separate from the student's academic record and is only accessible by IE.
How will an instructor know what modifications they need to follow?
Institutional Equity will contact the instructors, with permission from the student. The student will be copied on all communication to instructors.
How will privacy be managed and maintained?
Institutional Equity is committed to maintaining the confidentiality and privacy of all individuals seeking support and modifications for pregnancy-related conditions. Information shared with our office will be kept confidential and only disclosed to necessary personnel. The student will be informed about who will have access to their information.
Where can I go for breastfeeding and lactation spaces on campus?
While it is the student’s choice on where they would like express milk, a list of available lactation spaces can be found here.
Where can a student go if they have concerns about modifications or discrimination related to pregnancy?
Students who feel they are being discriminated against due to pregnancy or related conditions or have concerns about the modification process can report their concerns to IE at pregnancysupport@wmich.edu or by completing the incident reporting form Institutional Equity Incident Reporting Form.