The University’s sexual harassment policy will be expanded to include students, faculty and staff, “campus guests” and “contractors” for the University, according to a memo sent by Dean of Students Robert Hradsky to the AU community March 21.
The new sexual assault policy now specifies what kind of behavior will qualify as sexual harassment. This behavior incorporates sexual violence, suggestive behavior and any other activity that could create an uncomfortable learning environment.
The updated policy also clarifies the protocol for reporting instances of sexual harassment:
• Charges against students should be filed with the Dean of Students
• Charges against faculty should be filed with the Dean of Academic Affairs
• Charges against members of the president’s cabinet should be filed with the president.
• Charges against the president should be filed with the Board of Trustees
• Charges against staff or University guests should be filed with the Assistant Vice President of Human Resources
The updates were created by the Harassment Prevention Project Team, which includes faculty, staff and students, according to Hradsky’s memo. The new policy states the team’s mission is to not only offer suggestions to the University on such policies, but also to educate the AU community on these issues.
This new policy is also accordance with Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, which prohibits sexual discrimination in education institutions, Hradsky said in the email.
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