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 in the higher education setting, Title VI broadly applies to all Tompkins Cortland Community College operations, including academics, admissions, financial aid, employment, community living, and campus life.
Civil Rights Act of 1964
“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
In August 2025, New York State mandated that all public and private colleges in New York provide Title VI training. This training educates students, faculty, and staff on Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits discrimination based on race, color, or national origin in federally funded programs.
Tompkins Cortland Community College’s mandatory training for compliance with Title VI will be available annually. TC3 requires all faculty, staff, and students to complete Title VI Training once each year. Students have (30) days to complete the module once notification is sent.
Commitment to Access and Equity
Tompkins Cortland Community College is committed to providing equal access to all educational and employment opportunities. The College proactively promotes Title VI compliance by ensuring equitable access, addressing reported concerns, and eliminating discriminatory practices or barriers. In addition to Title VI protections, the College prohibits discrimination based on sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, religion, or veteran status, in accordance with federal, New York State, and local laws.
Core Values
Our College values, as well as our mission and vision, also support Title VI legislation.
- Excellence: We cultivate excellent outcomes in teaching, learning, community partnerships, and student success.
- Community: We provide a caring, connected campus community and opportunities for our students, faculty, and staff to thrive.
- Integrity and Accountability: We proactively evaluate and innovate using data-informed decision-making, honest communication, and resource stewardship.
- Inclusion: We foster engagement and belonging for all through our commitment to respectful dialogue and a diversity of ideas and people.
- Connection: We value collaboration and the deep interconnectedness of our local, regional, and global communities in an ever-changing, diverse world.
- Equity: We seek equity and social mobility for our students and community in all endeavors.
Commitment to Protection and Resolution
Tompkins Cortland Community College will respond to all complaints of discrimination, harassment, or retaliation based on race, color, or national origin. The College prohibits retaliation against any individual who reports a concern or participates in an investigation. Reporting wrongdoing or potential violations of standards or laws, whether through a formal complaint or informal procedure, is vital to improving our policies and campus climate.
Title VI Contact Information
Michelle Nightingale
Dean of Organizational Development & Institutional Effectiveness/Chief Diversity Officer
Title VI Coordinator
MRN@TC3.edu
607.844.8222 ext. 4441
Tompkins Cortland Community College
Office: Main Building, room 241
170 North Street
Dryden, New York 13053