4.2 Rationale for Policy
Members of the university community have the right to be free from all forms of sexual harassment and sexual misconduct, which subvert the university’s mission and threaten the careers, educational experience, and the well-being of students, faculty, staff, and visitors. All members of the university community are expected to conduct themselves in a manner that maintains an environment free from sexual harassment and sexual misconduct.
The university community seeks to eliminate sexual harassment and sexual misconduct through education and accountability. Everyone is encouraged to report concerns or make complaints, including third parties, when the respondent is a member of the university community or a visitor. The university is committed to stopping sexual harassment and sexual misconduct, preventing its recurrence, eliminating any hostile environment, and remedying its discriminatory effects. In accordance with regulatory requirements and institutional values, this policy defines expectations for the university community and establishes mechanisms for determining when those expectations have been violated.