Steven Bachelor v. Holyoke Community College (SPR 20253200)

The Commonwealth of Massachusetts William Francis Galvin, Secretary of the Commonwealth Public Records Division Manza Arthur Supervisor of Records November 13, 2025 SPR25/3200 Narayan Sampath Records Access Officer Holyoke Community College 303 Homestead Avenue Holyoke, MA 01040 Dear Mr. Sampath: I have received the petition of Steven Bachelor appealing the response of Holyoke Community College (College) to a request for public records. See G. L. c. 66, § 10A; see also 950 C.M.R. 32.08(1). On September 12, 2025, Mr. Bachelor requested “all public records maintained by Holyoke Community College relating to [an identified individual’s] NUP and Title IX complaints against [an identified individual], including all evidence of retaliation, communications, policies, and administrative actions.” Specifically, Mr. Bachelor sought: [1] Respondent Records - Emails, memos, text messages, notes, or any communications directly or indirectly related to the complaints or protected activity. - Work assignments, schedules, directives, or instructions showing differential treatment, harassment, or retaliation. - Performance evaluations, disciplinary documents, or other administrative records issued by or involving the respondent. - Meeting notes, summaries, or records where the complainant or protected activity was discussed. [2] Administrative and Investigative Materials - Names of all witnesses identified by the respondent or institution. - Witness statements or reports relevant to the complaint (as permitted by law). - Investigators’ reports, evidence summaries, or supporting documentation used in both NUP and Title IX investigations. - Meeting agendas, minutes, or notes from HR, VP Cabinet, or other administrative bodies discussing the complaints or related issues. One Ashburton Place, Room 1719, Boston, Massachusetts 02108 • (617) 727-2832 • Fax: (617) 727-5914 sec.state.ma.us/pre • pre@sec.state.ma.us

Narayan Sampath SPR25/3200 Page 2 November 13, 2025 [4] [sic] Outcomes and Corrective Actions - Documentation of any disciplinary actions (including all emails), corrective measures, or policy enforcement taken against the respondent. - Written communications reflecting final decisions or institutional responses regarding the complaints. - Any reports or records submitted to state or federal agencies related to these complaints. Previous Appeal This request was the subject of a previous appeal. See SPR25/2844 Determination of the Supervisor of Records (October 6, 2025). In my October 6th determination, I found the College had not met its burden to withhold the responsive records under Exemption (c) of the Public Records Law. Additionally, I ordered the College to identify the records it intends to withhold. The College responded on October 21, 2025 and provided a fee estimate. Unsatisfied with the College’s response, Mr. Bachelor petitioned this office and this appeal, SPR25/3200, was opened as a result. On October 31, the college provided further explanation of its fee estimate and previous response. Subsequent to the opening of this appeal, I learned that the College provided a further response on November 13, 2025. Where this appeal was opened based on the College’s October 21, 2025 response, I will now consider this administrative appeal closed. If unresolved issues remain, Mr. Bachelor may appeal the substantive nature of the College’s November 13th response within ninety (90) days. See 950 C.M.R. 32.08(1). Sincerely, Manza Arthur Supervisor of Records cc: Steven Bachelor