Confidential means that the information disclosed by a student, verbally or in writing, will be maintained in a confidential manner to the extent allowable by law and will not be disclosed to anyone outside the office to which it is reported without the student's consent. Consent may not be required, however, in situations involving suspected child or adult abuse or neglect, court orders or subpoena, or danger to self or others.

Private/Non-Confidential means that information disclosed by the student will be considered private but not confidential. For example, information may be shared between CURA partners in order for us to determine the most comprehensive assistance for your student. Additionally, information may be shared with administrators so that the University can take necessary action to ensure the safety and well-being of the university community (e.g., Office of the Dean of Students, Campus Safety, Student Accessibility Center). To the best of our ability, all information shared will be with the student's consent.

Generally, information shared by or about your student with any of the CURA partners becomes part of your student’s educational record.  The Federal Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) of 1974 identifies certain rights students have with respect to their educational records. To review in detail Loyola University Chicago’s policy on FERPA requirements, visit the following link (FERPA).

FERPA prohibits the sharing of educational record information but it does allow for exceptions when there is an established legitimate educational interest by CURA partners and other university employees and more importantly, when there is a significant risk to the safety or well-being of any university community member. In other words, CURA partners may at times share information with each other if it is determined necessary to assist your student.  Additionally, we may decide to take action if we become aware of information that poses a significant risk to the safety or well-being of any member of the University community even if your student requests that the information not be shared or that the university not take action. We will of course work with your student by keeping them informed and taking reasonable measures to address their safety and well-being.   

If your student is needing to speak to someone in a confidential setting, they should consider contacting the Wellness Center.  Information shared by a student in session with a counselor or gender-based violence survivor Advocate at the Wellness Center is confidential. This means nothing will go on your student’s education record and information is NOT shared with CURA partners without the student’s consent.  This also means that parents or loved ones do not have access to mental health records without the student’s consent. The only exceptions to this include information about child or elder abuse, serious risk to human life, and court orders.