Complaints of sexual harassment may be brought by any University community member on his or her own behalf or as a third party complainant, or by the University itself when the University is on notice of allegations of sexual harassment.

A person who wishes to bring a complaint has two options: an informal complaint or a formal complaint. An informal complaint is initiated by requesting assistance from any academic or administrative officer which includes any supervisor, human resources representative, academic advisor, or DEO. That person will consult with the Office of Equal Opportunity and Diversity to determine how best to address the situation. The goal of the informal complaint process is to stop any inappropriate behavior and restore a respectful, harassment-free environment.

A formal complaint is brought to the Office of Equal Opportunity and Diversity for investigation. Written notice of the complaint is provided to the respondent (the person accused), the parties and witnesses are interviewed, and relevant documentation is reviewed. Written findings are provided to the parties and to the administrative official(s) who have authority for the respondent. If the evidence indicates that the Policy on Sexual Harassment has been violated, sanctions and/or remedial measures are imposed as appropriate by the administrative official(s) who have authority for the respondent. If the respondent is a student, then the administrative official is the Vice President for Student Services and Dean of Students; if the respondent is a faculty member, then it is the Provost; and if the respondent is a staff member, then it is the Vice President or Dean overseeing the staff member’s unit.

The complaint process is confidential. For more information about confidentiality, please refer to "Sexual Harassment: Confidentiality Considerations."

Back to Sexual Harassment: A Comprehensive Guide

Link to Sexual Harassment Policy