Ms. Lerner is very committed and passionate about her work and her students. She is one of the few women to make it in the physics field and who inspires her students. The issue of whether Lerner followed the formal procedures to report harassment is not known. In general, those closest to the scene are in the strongest position to judge who can best meet the department's needs in this area. The university has a written statement on sexual harassment.
Sexual harassment is an aspect of sex discrimination.
Perkins refused to say whether Lerner followed this procedure. If the matter is not resolved within the time frame, the grievant has the option of notifying the director of the Affirmative Action Office of the matter. Alcock would not comment on whether a settlement is being negotiated between Lerner and the university.