Professionalism is fostered by an atmosphere of mutual trust and respect which is diminished when those in positions of authority abuse or appear to abuse their power. While not expressly forbidden, such relationships between supervisors and employees are deemed very unwise and can lead to charges of sexual harassment. In the performance of that responsibility, the AAO serves the University in the following manner. Justice requires that the rights and concerns of both the complainant and respondent be fully assured. The AAO makes every effort to protect these rights, and to assure that no action is undertaken that threatens or compromises them.
Prevention is the best tool for the elimination of sexual harassment.
It is the obligation of each faculty, staff, or student member of the University to adhere to this policy. Following are some illustrations of the range of behaviors characteristic of sexual harassment. Unnecessary touching, patting, hugging, or brushing against a person's body Patterns of conduct causing the person to whom it is directed to feel humiliated, demeaned or uncomfortable, including remarks of a sexual nature about a person's clothing or body, remarks about sexual activity, or speculations about previous sexual experience. Complaints received by administrators or supervisors should be forwarded to the Affirmative Action Office for investigation and resolution. Within fourteen days of receipt of a formal written complaint, the Affirmative Action Officer shall proceed with conducting an investigation of the complaint for the purpose of effecting a resolution.