By Maryland law, members of our community - faculty, staff and students - who suspect an individual is or has been the victim of child abuse or neglect, must report their suspicions both internally to the appropriate College official as well as to certain external law enforcement and child protective agencies. The purpose of this policy is to provide guidance to staff, faculty, and students of the St. Mary's College of Maryland community regarding the mandatory requirements in Maryland law that govern the reporting of suspected cases of child abuse and child neglect; and to affirm the commitment of St. Mary's College to the protection of the safety and welfare of children who come into contact with the St. Mary's College community.