The parties involved may agree upon such resolution, or failing voluntary resolution, may involve mediation, formal investigation and a range of disciplinary measures. Copies of this policy shall be made available to all parties directly affected. Persons against whom allegations of sexual harassment have been made shall also be advised, in accordance with the provisions of this policy, of the essence of the allegations against them and, in accordance with this policy, shall be accorded the opportunity to provide response. The following definition applies to all University activities, regardless of time or location, including, but not limited to, student-tutor telephone calls, seminar and teleconference sessions and all work and instruction related activities at regional and central offices. Sexual harassment includes comments or conduct of a sexual nature, including sexual advances, sexual remarks, requests for sexual favours, suggestive comments or gestures, or physical contact when the conduct is engaged in or the comment is made by a person who knows or who ought reasonably to know that the comment is unwanted or unwelcome.
Sexual harassment is unwelcome sexual conduct.
It is not flirtation, chit chat or good natured jesting that are sometimes part of office life when both parties find the conduct acceptable. A staff member of Athabasca University who has been accused of sexual harassment. In the case where the respondent is a Vice President of the University, the Investigative Officer shall be the President. In the case where the respondent is the University President, the Investigative Officer shall be the Chair of the Athabasca University Governing Council. The person so designated by the University or a person authorized or delegated to act in that capacity.